Every Monday at 9 AM is for the weekly meeting. After 30 years in the Military and all the B.S. meetings I attended has made me shy away from meeting that do not make me money. However, Carroll attends these meeting which usually last 1 hour and all the "section heads" give a short dissertation on what is happening during the week. The people in charge of entertainment , suppers, and games provide their info/updates and sometime there is a rebuttal or what I call a complaint.
Every Monday evening a meal is severed , from 4:30 to 5:30 for 5.00 a plate and tonight was Stew or Chili. Carroll and I arrived at the Rec Hall at 5:10 and the Stew was gone so it was Chili or go home. We took the Chili, which was OK but we sat with a couple from Sask who have 3 children in Okotoks and Calgary so we had a good chat with them.
Monday night is also games night as they host a Bingo, Texas Holdem , Crib and Euchre. I have been playing Euchre but I am surprised that we only have 12 people attending. I would have thought that it was an old folks game. One lady either can't shuffle the deck or is too dam slow so when she is at my table I shuffle for her as I don't want to be there all night. Then she sits there and says ; oh I don't know what to do and I always say play Trump. One guy says , don't tell her that. Hey , it's a game; not the world Series. Cheers
Tuesday, 31 January 2017
Sunday...29 Jan 17
Sunday is usual a slow day but we managed to "while "it away. Of course the first item was breakfast with our friends at the Keno restaurant and it is always packed on Sundays with church goers. I think the churches have a schedule so that they don't all have there Sermons at the same time as this would overload this restaurant.
Carroll and I arrived at 10 AM and there was one table available. At 10 minutes later when our friends arrived there was 6 or 7 tables empty. By 10:30 it was packed with a dozen people waiting. It seems amazing.
This business is owned and operated by people of Hispanic heritage but they are all Americans including all the waitresses. In fact I don't think we have been in a restaurant since we have been here that has a Gringo worker. However, you have to remember that this area of TX is of mainly Hispanic heritage probably because it belong to MX many years ago.
After breakfast we headed to McAllen to a store called "Harbor Freight" as we had a Flyer which had a sale on a couple of items that I could not live without. I call this store " Princess Auto Light " because the quality of "some " of there products are of lesser quality but the price is right. As an example they had a 40 piece 3/8 socket set for 9.99 and a Multi-meter for 3.99. If you buy anything at all , the flyer has a 20 % coupon and they throw in a mini flashlite that sells for a dollar. When Carroll was cashing out with her 15.00 worth of essential items she noticed that the guy ahead of her had a couple of hundred dollars worth but no 20 % coupon so she gave the coupon to him .
Our next move to kill the afternoon was to go to a Flea market in a small town 10 minutes away. Again it was what I call a "Mexican " flea market because all the food Booths sell MX food and many items are of lesser quality. But our reason for going was to buy a few DVD's that would be of interest to us, one of which was " The Big Short" as it has been in the local theaters and will not be back.
They did not have that DVD but it does not take a genesis to see that is is a contraband business. You pick out the DVD cover of the movie that you want, pay the 2.00 charge and the clerk passes the cover thru a small window in the wall and 5 minutes later you get your DVD. I'm sure there is a bunch of computer operators behind the wall running off DVD and I'm sure the Authorities know this is going on.
They use to sell contraband DVDs in MX but the Customs stopped they coming into the US so now they do it right here.
We returned home to watch curling; aw damit; Jennifer Jones did not make it to the Scotties. Oh well, I'll get over it... eh eh eh. cheers
Monday, 30 January 2017
Love a Rainy Day...28 Jan 17
The weather man said that Saturday and Sunday would be overcast and rainy because we have a cold front coming in from the north causing the overcast and his forecast was correct. The temp dropped considerably as it was 6 C at 7 AM on Saturday and was
damp and cool all day.
Since we couldn't do much outdoors , Carroll scanned the computer for a Cineplex theater that had a show. She found one with the show "Fences " which was on her list of must see. So we called our friends the " Nahas " and they were no busier than us, so the 4 of us went to the Show. However, as usual, Carroll got the wrong theater. As we were standing in the theater wondering were another was located a young lady heard us talking and ask if she could help. We said we were looking for the show "Fences" so she looked it up on her cell ( Neither of us had our cell with us ) and said it was 5 minutes away. Larry and Holly knew where it was so off we go and since everyone knows that the first 15 minutes of any show is only commercials so we got there in lots of time.
That help to kill most of the day and the rest of the time was spent at home watching Curling on TSN since there was no "real " hockey on TV. Cheers
damp and cool all day.
Since we couldn't do much outdoors , Carroll scanned the computer for a Cineplex theater that had a show. She found one with the show "Fences " which was on her list of must see. So we called our friends the " Nahas " and they were no busier than us, so the 4 of us went to the Show. However, as usual, Carroll got the wrong theater. As we were standing in the theater wondering were another was located a young lady heard us talking and ask if she could help. We said we were looking for the show "Fences" so she looked it up on her cell ( Neither of us had our cell with us ) and said it was 5 minutes away. Larry and Holly knew where it was so off we go and since everyone knows that the first 15 minutes of any show is only commercials so we got there in lots of time.
That help to kill most of the day and the rest of the time was spent at home watching Curling on TSN since there was no "real " hockey on TV. Cheers
Saturday, 28 January 2017
Shopping/Dinner...27 Jan 17
Today is an overcast day ( 10 C at 7 AM ) and we have been advised that a cold (cool ) front is coming in for the weekend which will include some rain but Tuesday will bring the return of sunny weather.
Today being Friday means the Veggie Wagon ( actually 2 wagons ) arrived on schedule at 9 AM and people , including us, flock around the wagons as if they will run out of the "good stuff". I tried to include a picture but apparently I'm not smart enough to figure it out. Carroll needed a couple of items, which is a term she uses loosely and the cost was 13.00. Since most items are a dollar, we ended up with 2 bags full.
We have an outlet Maul about 5 miles away so we thought we could kill a few hours by checking out the stores. We needed something from the " Kitchen Connection " but as it turns out it closed 3 weeks ago. Things must be slow in the RGV because every store we canvassed had sales on up to 70 % and an extra 10 % on Tuesday. We found some nice golf shirts and sweaters so we will return on Tuesday to get our "Seniors " discount.
One Canadian couple of East Indian origin had several items such as a suite jacket, pants, shorts and a sweater or two and found out that there was an extra 10% off on Tuesday so "wife" ask the clerk to hold the items until Tuesday and he agreed. That tells me that he really wanted to make a sale. There wasn't many people shopping because we went into a dozen stores and I could count the customers on one hand.
Our friends called to say that they were going to dinner at a nice restaurant that had a shrimp dinner for 10.00 with a coupon in the local paper and ask if we cared to join them which gladly accepted. The dinner came with an Brochette appetizer and a salad, so how could we turn it down. The most expensive item was my 5.00 beer. After dinner we returned to our friends home to play cards. By that time, the promised rain started to come down and I'm sure it will last all weekend. cheers
Today being Friday means the Veggie Wagon ( actually 2 wagons ) arrived on schedule at 9 AM and people , including us, flock around the wagons as if they will run out of the "good stuff". I tried to include a picture but apparently I'm not smart enough to figure it out. Carroll needed a couple of items, which is a term she uses loosely and the cost was 13.00. Since most items are a dollar, we ended up with 2 bags full.
We have an outlet Maul about 5 miles away so we thought we could kill a few hours by checking out the stores. We needed something from the " Kitchen Connection " but as it turns out it closed 3 weeks ago. Things must be slow in the RGV because every store we canvassed had sales on up to 70 % and an extra 10 % on Tuesday. We found some nice golf shirts and sweaters so we will return on Tuesday to get our "Seniors " discount.
One Canadian couple of East Indian origin had several items such as a suite jacket, pants, shorts and a sweater or two and found out that there was an extra 10% off on Tuesday so "wife" ask the clerk to hold the items until Tuesday and he agreed. That tells me that he really wanted to make a sale. There wasn't many people shopping because we went into a dozen stores and I could count the customers on one hand.
Our friends called to say that they were going to dinner at a nice restaurant that had a shrimp dinner for 10.00 with a coupon in the local paper and ask if we cared to join them which gladly accepted. The dinner came with an Brochette appetizer and a salad, so how could we turn it down. The most expensive item was my 5.00 beer. After dinner we returned to our friends home to play cards. By that time, the promised rain started to come down and I'm sure it will last all weekend. cheers
Friday, 27 January 2017
Motown Magic....26 Jan 17
Motown Magic is a band from Las Vegas that is travelling thru Az and TX treating us Senior to Music from the 60's, 70's and 80's. They have a drummer, a man on keyboard and 4 singers with great voices, and the word Motown can tell you their color.
The sang song from Commodores, Platers and other like troupes. Several songs were written by Smoky Robinson who apparently was the creme de creme of the song writer for the Motown singers. With my musical background I barely recalled any songs but the music was great and the ticket price was only 14.00 which was cheap for a group that sings in Vegas.
We also went to MX yesterday as I was looking for Drambuie at the Duty Free as Feldman's in McAllen wanted 40.00. However the price at the Duty Free was 33.00 and with a TX tax of 3.75 it wasn't much of a bargain. We also wanted other items such as Honey, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Peaunuts and Carroll want to check out a clothing store.
After an hour of pushing our way around MX bumping into other winter Texans we stopped for lunch and a beer for me. Beer is 2.00 so why drink water when beer is that cheap. We will probably have one more trip to MX in March so Carroll can get a pedicure and I will get a 5.00 hair cut and a shoe shine. cherrs
The sang song from Commodores, Platers and other like troupes. Several songs were written by Smoky Robinson who apparently was the creme de creme of the song writer for the Motown singers. With my musical background I barely recalled any songs but the music was great and the ticket price was only 14.00 which was cheap for a group that sings in Vegas.
We also went to MX yesterday as I was looking for Drambuie at the Duty Free as Feldman's in McAllen wanted 40.00. However the price at the Duty Free was 33.00 and with a TX tax of 3.75 it wasn't much of a bargain. We also wanted other items such as Honey, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Peaunuts and Carroll want to check out a clothing store.
After an hour of pushing our way around MX bumping into other winter Texans we stopped for lunch and a beer for me. Beer is 2.00 so why drink water when beer is that cheap. We will probably have one more trip to MX in March so Carroll can get a pedicure and I will get a 5.00 hair cut and a shoe shine. cherrs
Thursday, 26 January 2017
Running more Errands... 25 Jan 17
The temperature reached 31 C by high noon but luckily we have a breeze and we have A/C in the house.
We had to run some errands today but we had to go to McAllen ( pop. 100, 000) and it is about 15 minute drive on the Weslaco "500 " better known as the Expressway. The speed limit is 70 MPH and I coast around 65 to 70 but I am mostly in the way of the "Indy drivers". I think most young Hispanic are apprenticing for the Indy 500.
We had 5 places to go to run the errands. Our camera is not working and we wanted that solved ,also I want to check the price of "booze " at Feldman's ( a super store for booze). If they don't stock, they don't make it. Then I was having a problem with the iPhone accepting a charge and then we needed a couple of items ( Carroll's definition ) at Costco. Finally a quick stop at the veggie market for a couple of items and then to the H.E.B. store ( Wal-Mart competitor ) for Riblets on sale for 1.27.
First things first was a camera repair shop. I explained to the lady that it would not read my 8 GB SD card and with one look at our camera she said it was too old to read the 8 GB but she tried it anyway. Then she tried a 5 GB, no luck so she went into the shop and "resurrected" a 2 GB and it worked. I said I'll buy the 2 Gb how much and she said 15.00. I replied that you have got to be Kidding me, I can but an 8 Gb at Walgreens drug store for 12.00. So she says I'll trade you straight up for your 8 Gb for my 2 Gb and I said that;s a deal. Problem solved.
Now , to the Feldman's and believe me this a shopping experience because they sell food items that go with booze and they have a coffee shop / lunch counter. I just like to walk around looking at all the different products and they usually have sales but never on Drambuie (36.00 USD for 1 litre ) which I was looking for. I will go to MX to morrow and check out the duty free store.
Next we had to find an iPhone store which Carroll had spotted earlier. I ask the tech to check my iPhone because the charging cable would not go in far enough. He plugged into the wall then the other end into the phone and as soon as I heard it "snap " I realized I was not pushing the cable in far enough. The tech just laughed and said that it is working. "Operator Error... Lesson Learned ".
Next we are off to Costco and when I queried Carroll what we needed at Costco she said , bread, butter and possibly eggs. By time we got to the checkout those items cost 85.00 and to think that the eggs were only 1.17 for 1 1/2 dozen of large.
Now we are heading home and I need a beer. But since we are passing the veggie market we shoul pickup onions and some tomatoes. Then one more stop at H.E.B. to pick up the Riblets and believe it or not that is all we bought. We left home at 11 AM and got home at 4 PM. So that is how to kill a day in TX. cheers
We had to run some errands today but we had to go to McAllen ( pop. 100, 000) and it is about 15 minute drive on the Weslaco "500 " better known as the Expressway. The speed limit is 70 MPH and I coast around 65 to 70 but I am mostly in the way of the "Indy drivers". I think most young Hispanic are apprenticing for the Indy 500.
We had 5 places to go to run the errands. Our camera is not working and we wanted that solved ,also I want to check the price of "booze " at Feldman's ( a super store for booze). If they don't stock, they don't make it. Then I was having a problem with the iPhone accepting a charge and then we needed a couple of items ( Carroll's definition ) at Costco. Finally a quick stop at the veggie market for a couple of items and then to the H.E.B. store ( Wal-Mart competitor ) for Riblets on sale for 1.27.
First things first was a camera repair shop. I explained to the lady that it would not read my 8 GB SD card and with one look at our camera she said it was too old to read the 8 GB but she tried it anyway. Then she tried a 5 GB, no luck so she went into the shop and "resurrected" a 2 GB and it worked. I said I'll buy the 2 Gb how much and she said 15.00. I replied that you have got to be Kidding me, I can but an 8 Gb at Walgreens drug store for 12.00. So she says I'll trade you straight up for your 8 Gb for my 2 Gb and I said that;s a deal. Problem solved.
Now , to the Feldman's and believe me this a shopping experience because they sell food items that go with booze and they have a coffee shop / lunch counter. I just like to walk around looking at all the different products and they usually have sales but never on Drambuie (36.00 USD for 1 litre ) which I was looking for. I will go to MX to morrow and check out the duty free store.
Next we had to find an iPhone store which Carroll had spotted earlier. I ask the tech to check my iPhone because the charging cable would not go in far enough. He plugged into the wall then the other end into the phone and as soon as I heard it "snap " I realized I was not pushing the cable in far enough. The tech just laughed and said that it is working. "Operator Error... Lesson Learned ".
Next we are off to Costco and when I queried Carroll what we needed at Costco she said , bread, butter and possibly eggs. By time we got to the checkout those items cost 85.00 and to think that the eggs were only 1.17 for 1 1/2 dozen of large.
Now we are heading home and I need a beer. But since we are passing the veggie market we shoul pickup onions and some tomatoes. Then one more stop at H.E.B. to pick up the Riblets and believe it or not that is all we bought. We left home at 11 AM and got home at 4 PM. So that is how to kill a day in TX. cheers
Wednesday, 25 January 2017
A Slow Day... 23 Jan 17
I couldn't find much to do today so in the afternoon I went to the pool, did a couple of laps and then swapped non-essential stories with a guy from Sask. Then I soaked up some Sun while reading my book " The Battle of Alberta " which depicts the Blood and Guts battle in the mid 80's between the Flames and the Oilers.
Once I had enough Sun I jumped into the Hot Tub ( I know: why a Hot Tub on a hot day ??? ( I don't know the answer ) where 5 Canadians were solving all the political problems in Canada mostly bad mouthing Trudeau about his " mis-step " about getting rid of fossil fuel , meaning the Oil Sands. One can only stand so much BS so I went home.
Every Monday evening the Park has a supper for 5.00 and tonight was all you can eat Soup and a Bun. We were not that hunger since we spent most of the day holding down a chair so we meandered over and had soup. They had 3 different kinds on the menu but one bowl was enough for me.
Monday night is also Euchre night and I also noted that they also had 2 tables of Texas Holdem. I didn't plan on playing every Sunday evening but some of the guys basically insisted that I was needed to ensure they have enough players.
There is a quarter entry fee and 10 cents if you get euchred and the high score gets the quarters. After the game was over I started to walk out since my total score was low when someone said "pick up you 30 cents". I said I had a low score and he said all the dimes are divided up between all the players so my share was 30 cents.
Since this is Gambling I ask if I would be getting a T-4 but nobody knew for sure. cheers
Once I had enough Sun I jumped into the Hot Tub ( I know: why a Hot Tub on a hot day ??? ( I don't know the answer ) where 5 Canadians were solving all the political problems in Canada mostly bad mouthing Trudeau about his " mis-step " about getting rid of fossil fuel , meaning the Oil Sands. One can only stand so much BS so I went home.
Every Monday evening the Park has a supper for 5.00 and tonight was all you can eat Soup and a Bun. We were not that hunger since we spent most of the day holding down a chair so we meandered over and had soup. They had 3 different kinds on the menu but one bowl was enough for me.
Monday night is also Euchre night and I also noted that they also had 2 tables of Texas Holdem. I didn't plan on playing every Sunday evening but some of the guys basically insisted that I was needed to ensure they have enough players.
There is a quarter entry fee and 10 cents if you get euchred and the high score gets the quarters. After the game was over I started to walk out since my total score was low when someone said "pick up you 30 cents". I said I had a low score and he said all the dimes are divided up between all the players so my share was 30 cents.
Since this is Gambling I ask if I would be getting a T-4 but nobody knew for sure. cheers
Football Sunday....22 Jan 17
Football is a religion in the US and it is never more prevalent than the run up to the Super Bowl. As we went to Sunday breakfast the Packer fans where wearing the Packer Tee shirts. The Packers beat the Dallas Cowboys last week so they were pretty cocky since the Cowboys have often been called " Americans Team " which obviously rubs the opposite fans the wrong way. There is a joke from some Cowboy fans which says " If there is a Tornado heading for Dallas go the Cowboys stadium because there is no chance of a Touchdown there".
I am also a Packer fan and a Pittsburg Steelers fan and I tried to watch the games but since they both got "blown" off the field today I will be cheering for Atlanta in the Super Bowl.
We invited the Nahachewskis' ( Holly and Larry) over for supper. After pontificating over the football games while digested a few beers and or glasses of wine, we then we had supper.
As usual we followed supper with a game of cards until either the girls or the men win the "rubber" match, then we call it a day. cheers
I am also a Packer fan and a Pittsburg Steelers fan and I tried to watch the games but since they both got "blown" off the field today I will be cheering for Atlanta in the Super Bowl.
We invited the Nahachewskis' ( Holly and Larry) over for supper. After pontificating over the football games while digested a few beers and or glasses of wine, we then we had supper.
As usual we followed supper with a game of cards until either the girls or the men win the "rubber" match, then we call it a day. cheers
Vacuum / Fridge... 21 Jan 17
On Friday afternoon Carroll mentioned that the fridge light was not working so I removed it with the intention of getting a new one the next time we got to Wal-Mart. Problem solve.... I thought, so I put it out of my mind. Today, Saturday morning I opened the fridge freezer and quickly realize that it wasn't cold enough.
Then I thought maybe the breaker tripped so I checked all the breakers and nothing had tripped.
Damit , I thought , now I will have to call the landlord and I will probably have to purchase a new fridge for him and he will surely what the cheapest fridge since he will be selling the unit in the near future.
Then I started to think ( not my strong suite ); this fridge was working perfectly, until I pulled the plug out of the top duplex receptacle and plugged it into the bottom one because Carroll needed power for the vacuum cleaner and it would only fit in the top one. Once the vacuuming was done I did not move the fridge plug back to the top, "why would I".
Then the "light " when on, as I then recalled that all fridges have a dedicated circuit and the bottom receptacle was not connected. I plugged the fridge into the top receptacle and the fridge started. Nothing had thawed so:
Another crisis averted.....Cheers
Then I thought maybe the breaker tripped so I checked all the breakers and nothing had tripped.
Damit , I thought , now I will have to call the landlord and I will probably have to purchase a new fridge for him and he will surely what the cheapest fridge since he will be selling the unit in the near future.
Then I started to think ( not my strong suite ); this fridge was working perfectly, until I pulled the plug out of the top duplex receptacle and plugged it into the bottom one because Carroll needed power for the vacuum cleaner and it would only fit in the top one. Once the vacuuming was done I did not move the fridge plug back to the top, "why would I".
Then the "light " when on, as I then recalled that all fridges have a dedicated circuit and the bottom receptacle was not connected. I plugged the fridge into the top receptacle and the fridge started. Nothing had thawed so:
Another crisis averted.....Cheers
Tuesday, 24 January 2017
We had a Vistor... 20 Jan 17
Today is Friday so at 9 AM the Veggie wagon arrives just like clock work. I ask Carroll if she needed any veggies and she "oh , maybe a couple things, but not knowing what the couple of things where. Most items are a dollar or less such as 5 cukes for a dollar, squash either 50 cents or a dollar depending on the size and tomatoes a dollar a lb. So Carroll pick out what I thought was a couple items until I paid the bill which cost 13.00. How a couple of item comes to 13.00 is a mystery to me.
Later in the morning a lady Jeanette dropped by as she was from Medicine Hat and just wanted to say hello and welcome. I ask her last name and rather then pronounce it she spelt it. I said your husband ancestor's where short changed about 4 vowels and I when I tried to pronounce it , it sounded like I may have called her a "Whore " so we agreed to call her Jeanette H. Jeanette also lived in Yorkton, SK, before moving to Med Hat as her husband was a Railroader and since we too lived in Yorkton we swapped names and did know some of the same folks.
Not wanting to waste a whole day doing nothing , we decided to clean the windows glass that we had installed in the deck a few days ago. Some of the neighbors think that we are good renters because we are doing a few maintenance jobs around the house.
Our landlord is 82 years old so I think he might appreciate us doing these small jobs because he can not rent his home after this year. This park is a Co-op where the home owners actually own the park by purchasing at least 3 shares when they buy a home here. And one of the rules is that you may only rent for 2 years. Since it is unlikely he will come down next year he must sell or leave it vacant. I was told that there are 40 units for sale in the park and there are another 30 left vacant. cheers
Later in the morning a lady Jeanette dropped by as she was from Medicine Hat and just wanted to say hello and welcome. I ask her last name and rather then pronounce it she spelt it. I said your husband ancestor's where short changed about 4 vowels and I when I tried to pronounce it , it sounded like I may have called her a "Whore " so we agreed to call her Jeanette H. Jeanette also lived in Yorkton, SK, before moving to Med Hat as her husband was a Railroader and since we too lived in Yorkton we swapped names and did know some of the same folks.
Not wanting to waste a whole day doing nothing , we decided to clean the windows glass that we had installed in the deck a few days ago. Some of the neighbors think that we are good renters because we are doing a few maintenance jobs around the house.
Our landlord is 82 years old so I think he might appreciate us doing these small jobs because he can not rent his home after this year. This park is a Co-op where the home owners actually own the park by purchasing at least 3 shares when they buy a home here. And one of the rules is that you may only rent for 2 years. Since it is unlikely he will come down next year he must sell or leave it vacant. I was told that there are 40 units for sale in the park and there are another 30 left vacant. cheers
Monday, 23 January 2017
Run some Errors...19 Jan 17
Before I start we had small but quick cold front come thru today so our temp was a low of 16 C and high of 19 C. You don't have to feel sorry for us, I'm just mentioning it.
Today we went to Harligen , 10 miles away to find a few kitchen items for the house. While there I went to store that said Furniture , Appliances and Cameras.
We purchased a 32 Gb, SD card for our camera before we left home. Of course we bought a 32 Gb because it was basic the same price of a 16 Gb. However, when we insert it in the camera it says we have to format it. And the camera will not format it as I thought it should do. A friend advised me that I could do it in the computer; great I can handle that . So like every smart Scholar I went to Mr. Goggle. It said to insert the SD card into the computer , go to My Computer and follow the prompt. There was no dam prompt hence the reason we went to Harligen and found a Camera store. The camera clerk looked at my camera and, said how old is your camera. I replied that I did not know for sure but it is at least 8 or maybe 10 years old. He say your problem is that you camera will not accept a 32 Gb SD card as it is too old. In fact you may have to go to a 2 Gb card.
As it turns out , this store sold security cameras not photo camera. Now I have to shop for a 2 Gb SD card.
It is now Lunch time so we stopped at Mr. Gaetti's which is an all you can eat, ( buffet ) fast food pizza joint with a salad bar. Yes it is a hangout for Seniors because the price is usually 7.00 however, today was Seniors day so the discount price is 5.00. Beside a large variety of pizza and a salad bar there is also a baked potato, spaghetti and any drink. They also make a dessert pizza which is basic apple pie mix on a pizza shell.
Just as we were walking out a Senior couple was coming in. He was 80 plus and looked every bit his age. He looks at the clerk and say ; two Seniors please. I looked at Carroll and said 'No Shit " do think he is a Senior?
When we arrived home it was too cool for the pool so I decided to replace the right brake light bulb. Of course , nobody , including yours truly , every checks to see if all the lights work... do we? However, on Sunday as I pulled up to a stop light a cabbie pulled up beside us and said our right brake light was out, which I appreciated.
So today is the day I change the bulb. Rather than trying to figure out the procedure I went directly to Mr. Goggle as I thought this would save time. The directions were: get a Phillips screw driver and remove two screws and then remove the tail light Lens. Yes, I felt a little foolish because if I had just looked at the light I would have seen the screws. Cheers
Today we went to Harligen , 10 miles away to find a few kitchen items for the house. While there I went to store that said Furniture , Appliances and Cameras.
We purchased a 32 Gb, SD card for our camera before we left home. Of course we bought a 32 Gb because it was basic the same price of a 16 Gb. However, when we insert it in the camera it says we have to format it. And the camera will not format it as I thought it should do. A friend advised me that I could do it in the computer; great I can handle that . So like every smart Scholar I went to Mr. Goggle. It said to insert the SD card into the computer , go to My Computer and follow the prompt. There was no dam prompt hence the reason we went to Harligen and found a Camera store. The camera clerk looked at my camera and, said how old is your camera. I replied that I did not know for sure but it is at least 8 or maybe 10 years old. He say your problem is that you camera will not accept a 32 Gb SD card as it is too old. In fact you may have to go to a 2 Gb card.
As it turns out , this store sold security cameras not photo camera. Now I have to shop for a 2 Gb SD card.
It is now Lunch time so we stopped at Mr. Gaetti's which is an all you can eat, ( buffet ) fast food pizza joint with a salad bar. Yes it is a hangout for Seniors because the price is usually 7.00 however, today was Seniors day so the discount price is 5.00. Beside a large variety of pizza and a salad bar there is also a baked potato, spaghetti and any drink. They also make a dessert pizza which is basic apple pie mix on a pizza shell.
Just as we were walking out a Senior couple was coming in. He was 80 plus and looked every bit his age. He looks at the clerk and say ; two Seniors please. I looked at Carroll and said 'No Shit " do think he is a Senior?
When we arrived home it was too cool for the pool so I decided to replace the right brake light bulb. Of course , nobody , including yours truly , every checks to see if all the lights work... do we? However, on Sunday as I pulled up to a stop light a cabbie pulled up beside us and said our right brake light was out, which I appreciated.
So today is the day I change the bulb. Rather than trying to figure out the procedure I went directly to Mr. Goggle as I thought this would save time. The directions were: get a Phillips screw driver and remove two screws and then remove the tail light Lens. Yes, I felt a little foolish because if I had just looked at the light I would have seen the screws. Cheers
Car Wash Day...18 Jan 17
After driving here thru the snow and slush on our trip down here , our car badly need a wash and in fact it needed a complete inside and outside cleaning. I tried several time to do a wand wash just to get the outside dirt off, but each time the change machines had no change and these businesses do not have anyone on site.
There are several entrepreneurs in this area who have a 1 or 2 stall wash rack that do a hand wash and I decided that I must get the car wash right now. Therefore I drove down the street and pulled into the first one I seen and it was a 2 man show. I said how much and how quick for inside and outside job. There was one vehicle ahead of me but it looked like it was done. The Boss couldn't speak English or at least couldn't understand me but his buddy translated and they seem to agree that the price was 25.00. I looked at my watch and it was 11 AM ; I said great, I'll be back at noon to pick it up. I also said if you need me I will be across the street at the Burger King. I knew it would be an hour so I brought my book " The Battle of Alberta " to read with a coffee to help kill the hour.
They must have taken my directions seriously because at 11:55 one of the guys came to the Burger King to tell me is was just about ready. They always like you to watch them finish the job, as they go around the car making those last minute touch up. I suspect it is so you are impressed and will enhance their tip. I gave then 27.00 but I was impressed as it shines like it never shined before.
This wash/cleaning would have cost me 225.00 at the Shine Shop in Med Hat.
In the afternoon we went to another park about 2 miles away to visit some friends ( Jerry and Marlene Hicks ) from Corunna , ON. We met them in 1999 on our first trip to the RGV and have kept in touch since then. We also talk on Skype occasionally. They own a home here but they are get a little older as Jerry is "north " of 80 so they are thinking of selling. However, it is hard to sell right now as there are many homes in the RV parks for sale. As an example our park has 400 homes and there are 40 for sale and 30 that the owner have not returned this year, probably due to health reasons. Most park have 10 % for sale each year. cheers
There are several entrepreneurs in this area who have a 1 or 2 stall wash rack that do a hand wash and I decided that I must get the car wash right now. Therefore I drove down the street and pulled into the first one I seen and it was a 2 man show. I said how much and how quick for inside and outside job. There was one vehicle ahead of me but it looked like it was done. The Boss couldn't speak English or at least couldn't understand me but his buddy translated and they seem to agree that the price was 25.00. I looked at my watch and it was 11 AM ; I said great, I'll be back at noon to pick it up. I also said if you need me I will be across the street at the Burger King. I knew it would be an hour so I brought my book " The Battle of Alberta " to read with a coffee to help kill the hour.
They must have taken my directions seriously because at 11:55 one of the guys came to the Burger King to tell me is was just about ready. They always like you to watch them finish the job, as they go around the car making those last minute touch up. I suspect it is so you are impressed and will enhance their tip. I gave then 27.00 but I was impressed as it shines like it never shined before.
This wash/cleaning would have cost me 225.00 at the Shine Shop in Med Hat.
In the afternoon we went to another park about 2 miles away to visit some friends ( Jerry and Marlene Hicks ) from Corunna , ON. We met them in 1999 on our first trip to the RGV and have kept in touch since then. We also talk on Skype occasionally. They own a home here but they are get a little older as Jerry is "north " of 80 so they are thinking of selling. However, it is hard to sell right now as there are many homes in the RV parks for sale. As an example our park has 400 homes and there are 40 for sale and 30 that the owner have not returned this year, probably due to health reasons. Most park have 10 % for sale each year. cheers
Sunday, 22 January 2017
Medical Trade show.. 17 Jan 17
Our friends from Brandon ( who I will ref to as Naha's) ask us if we were interested in going to a Medical/ Travel show and since we had a void in our schedule we accepted. This is an annual trade show for the Medical businesses in the RGV to demonstrate what Medical devices or Services they can provide. These services are not really related to us because we have insurance and we can get any or most test if requested by our doctor. In most cases the US person goes to the services that provides it for the cheapest.
A small sample of services is , Hostpitals, , Xray, Ultrasound, Handicap items , Chriopractor and Blood test.
The show also incorporates Travel companies and States trying to convince you to visit their State. Some companies will give away a coupon but I can not fathom why a sane person would line for 20 or 30 minutes to get a 1.00 coupon for a Banana Split from the DQ.
Carroll won a large vinyl shopping bag because she was carrying a plastic bag that was advertising for a particular company. Someone from the company walks around the show and if the spot you , you win the bag. That is all we needed, was another GD shopping bag.
After 2 hours of walking around this "mass of humanity" we threw in the towel and went for lunch and then home for a beer.
We have tickets for the Oakridge Boys tonight so we attended their 1 1/2 hour show which was very good, especially since it only cost 30.00. Cheers
A small sample of services is , Hostpitals, , Xray, Ultrasound, Handicap items , Chriopractor and Blood test.
The show also incorporates Travel companies and States trying to convince you to visit their State. Some companies will give away a coupon but I can not fathom why a sane person would line for 20 or 30 minutes to get a 1.00 coupon for a Banana Split from the DQ.
Carroll won a large vinyl shopping bag because she was carrying a plastic bag that was advertising for a particular company. Someone from the company walks around the show and if the spot you , you win the bag. That is all we needed, was another GD shopping bag.
After 2 hours of walking around this "mass of humanity" we threw in the towel and went for lunch and then home for a beer.
We have tickets for the Oakridge Boys tonight so we attended their 1 1/2 hour show which was very good, especially since it only cost 30.00. Cheers
Deck Repairs...16 Jan 17
The owner , who is 82 years old , purchased 5 panes of 1/4 inch thick shatterproof glass 20" by 40" which I assumed was to be installed on the Deck railing whenever or if ever he returns to this home. He is or was a cabinet maker and as I was checking out the shed I noticed some bracket that were made to hold the glass. I figured with my limited Carpenter skills , I could install the glass besides the glass was sitting in the driveway in a crate in front of my car.
As a matter of fact , one day I drove a little too close to the glass and broke one pane. That was when I decided to install them so I did not break any more.
So today is the day that Carroll and I would install the 4 panes of glass in the deck railing which would make the deck more complete. Several people walking by stopped to see what we were doing and thought we were the new owners since we were working on the deck. That's what Seniors do: they are nosey.
Today , being Monday there is a supper at the Rec Centre / Kitchen so for 5.00 you get a Hamburger meal with a Salad and in our case we get to meet new people. As soon as you sit down the people know that you are new so they "inquire" about you. They think they are going to tell us all about the Rio Grande Valley until I say that we came to the RGV in 1999 and have returned 6 times since. That sort of breaks their bubble as some folks have only been here a few years and have not covered the valley as much as we have.
Tonight is Euchre Night and Poker Night and some other type of games. I chose to play Euchre and I could also meet some new folks. On this night we only had 12 people but apparently are they do have up to 24 players. cheers
As a matter of fact , one day I drove a little too close to the glass and broke one pane. That was when I decided to install them so I did not break any more.
So today is the day that Carroll and I would install the 4 panes of glass in the deck railing which would make the deck more complete. Several people walking by stopped to see what we were doing and thought we were the new owners since we were working on the deck. That's what Seniors do: they are nosey.
Today , being Monday there is a supper at the Rec Centre / Kitchen so for 5.00 you get a Hamburger meal with a Salad and in our case we get to meet new people. As soon as you sit down the people know that you are new so they "inquire" about you. They think they are going to tell us all about the Rio Grande Valley until I say that we came to the RGV in 1999 and have returned 6 times since. That sort of breaks their bubble as some folks have only been here a few years and have not covered the valley as much as we have.
Tonight is Euchre Night and Poker Night and some other type of games. I chose to play Euchre and I could also meet some new folks. On this night we only had 12 people but apparently are they do have up to 24 players. cheers
Breakfast at Tiffany's ... 15 Jan 17
Well, maybe not Tiffany's but this local "haut" called Keno's has an excellent breakfast at Senior's prices hence the reason we go there. Our friends from Brandon go to church from 9 to 10 AM and then we meet at Keno's for breakfast . I believe they have been going to this restaurant for around 20 years. Can I say, Creatures of habit!!! We also take this opportunity to make plans with our friends for the next week. However, if they are busy doing something else or if we something schedule then we will meet at Keno's the following Sunday.
We somehow forgot ( I'm blaming Carroll ) to pack the charging cord for our GPS so after breakfast we toured a few of the Automotive stores like NAPA, Pep Boys, and Auto Zone looking for a cord but to no avail. Yes , they are all open on Sunday and in fact is one of there busies days. I assume one reason is that most ( and I hate to use this definition ) of the Mexican type garages are open so they need parts because I doubt that they stock many parts.
I did try Wal-Mart one other day but I found out that Wal-Mart do not have three things: they don't have my GPS charging cord, they don't stock Tea Pots and they don't prove any Service.
No, I could not find the charging cord but I still had a few more stores but I run out of patience and decided to go home and do nothing. Besides I have 2 books to read.
Cheers
We somehow forgot ( I'm blaming Carroll ) to pack the charging cord for our GPS so after breakfast we toured a few of the Automotive stores like NAPA, Pep Boys, and Auto Zone looking for a cord but to no avail. Yes , they are all open on Sunday and in fact is one of there busies days. I assume one reason is that most ( and I hate to use this definition ) of the Mexican type garages are open so they need parts because I doubt that they stock many parts.
I did try Wal-Mart one other day but I found out that Wal-Mart do not have three things: they don't have my GPS charging cord, they don't stock Tea Pots and they don't prove any Service.
No, I could not find the charging cord but I still had a few more stores but I run out of patience and decided to go home and do nothing. Besides I have 2 books to read.
Cheers
Friday, 20 January 2017
Visit to the Flea market...14 Jan 17
We have a huge semi-outdoor Flea Market close to our park, however about a 1/3 of it is mainly junk so we don't even look in the area. Some of the market is fruits and vegetables, others areas has a restaurant, an area set aside for music and beer for seniors who have nothing else to do. Actually you can find anything you don't need at this market.
So why did we go to the Flea market; well I needed a 12 oz plastic container that measures out a 1 1/2 oz drink to take to Happy Hour parties and to take to the Legion. This market also sells clothes and Carroll found a bathing which she needed. We mostly wandered around and picked up a pineapple ( 3.00 ) and a 10 bag of pineapple oranges for 2.00.
As I was driving into the parking area which is a large grass covered field I pulled up between a long row of vehicles and there was a lady in front of me. I could see that she was looking for a parking space so I laid back to give room and besides we are dealing with senior so I don't trust then. I notice a gentleman jumping into his vehicles and his back up lights on came immediately so I gave him space as I anticipated taking his spot. At the same time that lady who was ahead of me started to backup as another vehicle was backing out of a spot and she wanted it. I could see an accident happen and I said to Carroll, watch this , that lady is not look and she is going to hit the guy back out. Sure enough " Bang " she nailed him. I just got the hell out of there as I wanted nothing to do with the accident. Yes : the lady driver was at fault !!!!
It was an overcast day, temp around 22C, 20 MPH wind and it did look like it could rain. Well, we just go into the house when the "Sky fell in". It came down in Buckets for 1/2 an hour and then it stopped . The grass and the Cactus benefitted from this rain as the cactus seem to perk up after a rain.
Later in the afternoon, the Welcome Wagon lady dropped in to say hello. Once we told her that we had been coming to the RGV since 1999 she said that she probably could be of an help to us. We probably know more about the RGV then she does. She also invited us to a " Block " party next week and we will definitely attend it. cheers
So why did we go to the Flea market; well I needed a 12 oz plastic container that measures out a 1 1/2 oz drink to take to Happy Hour parties and to take to the Legion. This market also sells clothes and Carroll found a bathing which she needed. We mostly wandered around and picked up a pineapple ( 3.00 ) and a 10 bag of pineapple oranges for 2.00.
As I was driving into the parking area which is a large grass covered field I pulled up between a long row of vehicles and there was a lady in front of me. I could see that she was looking for a parking space so I laid back to give room and besides we are dealing with senior so I don't trust then. I notice a gentleman jumping into his vehicles and his back up lights on came immediately so I gave him space as I anticipated taking his spot. At the same time that lady who was ahead of me started to backup as another vehicle was backing out of a spot and she wanted it. I could see an accident happen and I said to Carroll, watch this , that lady is not look and she is going to hit the guy back out. Sure enough " Bang " she nailed him. I just got the hell out of there as I wanted nothing to do with the accident. Yes : the lady driver was at fault !!!!
It was an overcast day, temp around 22C, 20 MPH wind and it did look like it could rain. Well, we just go into the house when the "Sky fell in". It came down in Buckets for 1/2 an hour and then it stopped . The grass and the Cactus benefitted from this rain as the cactus seem to perk up after a rain.
Later in the afternoon, the Welcome Wagon lady dropped in to say hello. Once we told her that we had been coming to the RGV since 1999 she said that she probably could be of an help to us. We probably know more about the RGV then she does. She also invited us to a " Block " party next week and we will definitely attend it. cheers
Veggie Wagon / Fish Fry..13 Friday 17
Every Friday morning from 9 AM to 11 AM a local vegetable market brings two wagons loaded with every vegetable grown in the valley right to our park and in fact it parks across from our house. This is great for the park occupants as we can just pick out what we need for the week and we don't have to leave home. The prices are great, much like a dollar store , many things cost a dollar ie 3 cukes for a dollar, tomatoes are 1.00 a lb, most squash are a dollar unless they are small and then you get 2 for a dollar.
This wagon also visits other parks in the area on different days and different times so it is a great business for them and a good idea for us.
These are also busy days watching sports as we have curling twice or 3 times during the day and then the Flames or the Oilers on playing in the evening. I'm glad that I brought an extra TV.
The local Legion in Mercedes, a town 4 miles away has a Fish supper every Friday evening from Dec to the end of March and is mainly for the Winter Texans. The Legion is actually operated by Canadians during this period. Most Legions only serve Beer and Wine so if your "poison " is Rye, Vodka etc you are allowed to BYOB and many people, including "yours truly " do just that. You are also allowed to wear a hat in the Legions ( not allowed in Canada ) but most Canadians remove there hat as they enter. The Legions also sell pop and provides , for free, glasses and ice but it is Bar Service only.
When you enter the Legion you pay for your Fish dinner but put a hold on it until you are ready to eat. When you feel like eating you give your ticket to the waitress/waiter and they bring your meal. We went to the Legion at 5:30 and it was jam packed, however as we walked in 6 people just stood up to leave so we grab that table.
There is also a DJ doing Karaoke and the music is a little loud. I have to snicker at the choice of Music as we came to this Legion at least 10 years ago and the DJ is still playing the same old songs. Since it is Karaoke some of crowd does get up to sign and they are pretty good.
By 7:30 we had completed our supper and had the limit t of two beers and since we went with the Nahachewskis ( our friends from Brandon ) we decided that we would retire to their home and play some cards while keeping an eye on the Jets hockey game. Cheers
This wagon also visits other parks in the area on different days and different times so it is a great business for them and a good idea for us.
These are also busy days watching sports as we have curling twice or 3 times during the day and then the Flames or the Oilers on playing in the evening. I'm glad that I brought an extra TV.
The local Legion in Mercedes, a town 4 miles away has a Fish supper every Friday evening from Dec to the end of March and is mainly for the Winter Texans. The Legion is actually operated by Canadians during this period. Most Legions only serve Beer and Wine so if your "poison " is Rye, Vodka etc you are allowed to BYOB and many people, including "yours truly " do just that. You are also allowed to wear a hat in the Legions ( not allowed in Canada ) but most Canadians remove there hat as they enter. The Legions also sell pop and provides , for free, glasses and ice but it is Bar Service only.
When you enter the Legion you pay for your Fish dinner but put a hold on it until you are ready to eat. When you feel like eating you give your ticket to the waitress/waiter and they bring your meal. We went to the Legion at 5:30 and it was jam packed, however as we walked in 6 people just stood up to leave so we grab that table.
There is also a DJ doing Karaoke and the music is a little loud. I have to snicker at the choice of Music as we came to this Legion at least 10 years ago and the DJ is still playing the same old songs. Since it is Karaoke some of crowd does get up to sign and they are pretty good.
By 7:30 we had completed our supper and had the limit t of two beers and since we went with the Nahachewskis ( our friends from Brandon ) we decided that we would retire to their home and play some cards while keeping an eye on the Jets hockey game. Cheers
Thursday, 19 January 2017
Mexico and Roy Orbison 12 Jan 17
This is our first trip to MX ( this year ) which is only 7 miles from our Park. We went with our friends from Brandon ( Holly and Larry ) and our reason to go, was for Carroll and Holly to get a Pedicure and for me to get a hair cut and for Both Larry and I to get a shoe shine. The Pedicure is 12.00, a haircut 5.00 and the shoeshine is 2.00. You have got to wonder how they can make enough money to feed themselves, never mind a family. The shoe shine guys said that he lives in Monterrey but comes to Progresso from Dec to April because he can make more money from us Grigos.
We did walk around and the ladies did some "unnecessary " shopping but that goes with the territory . We stopped at a local restaurant for lunch and it was full Winter Texans. The food was great, plentiful and very reasonable Beer is 1.50. Our lunch cost 25.00 for both of us.
This evening we had tickets for a Roy Orbison ( pretender ) but he did come with a 4 piece band so the music was worth the 14.00 we paid for the tickets. There are lots of wantabe singer that pass thru all the parks during the winter months. I kind of snicker when there bio says "played at Mickey Gilley's concert hall " in Branson, MI and then you find out that they open for the professional. However, for 5 or 10 dollars , most are worth the money.
I have been to some shows when the price was "by collect" and most folks, us include are gone by intermission. cheers
We did walk around and the ladies did some "unnecessary " shopping but that goes with the territory . We stopped at a local restaurant for lunch and it was full Winter Texans. The food was great, plentiful and very reasonable Beer is 1.50. Our lunch cost 25.00 for both of us.
This evening we had tickets for a Roy Orbison ( pretender ) but he did come with a 4 piece band so the music was worth the 14.00 we paid for the tickets. There are lots of wantabe singer that pass thru all the parks during the winter months. I kind of snicker when there bio says "played at Mickey Gilley's concert hall " in Branson, MI and then you find out that they open for the professional. However, for 5 or 10 dollars , most are worth the money.
I have been to some shows when the price was "by collect" and most folks, us include are gone by intermission. cheers
Tea Pot / Flowers... 11 Jan 17
Today we solved the Tea Pot problem. We drove to the Mexican Ceramic store down by the Border where they have 1000's of flower pots , animal figurines, glassware and tea pots. The downside is it cost 18.00 USD and we already have 8 tea pots at home. I can believe a household without a tea pot.
We then visited the Green house on the way home and picked up enough flowers to fill our pots. The selection was not that great but as I mentioned it to another Winter Texan who was also browsing for some flowers, she reminded me that it is winter down here. I guess I forgot that winter in the Rio Grande Valley is 22 C while summer is 35 C
We planted the flowers in the 3 pots that we found around the house. One pot had a Cactus plant in it but it had seen better days so I put it out of its' misery. If I can find or borrow a shovel I may dig up the small flower garden an plant a few more flowers. cheers
We then visited the Green house on the way home and picked up enough flowers to fill our pots. The selection was not that great but as I mentioned it to another Winter Texan who was also browsing for some flowers, she reminded me that it is winter down here. I guess I forgot that winter in the Rio Grande Valley is 22 C while summer is 35 C
We planted the flowers in the 3 pots that we found around the house. One pot had a Cactus plant in it but it had seen better days so I put it out of its' misery. If I can find or borrow a shovel I may dig up the small flower garden an plant a few more flowers. cheers
Wednesday, 18 January 2017
Bought some Flowers... 10 Jan 17
Another nice day and as we awoke the temp was 19 C and with a 30 MPH south wind the temp reached 26 C.
We went to Wal-Mart to try to find a Tea pot as there wasn't one in the house and I need a tea pot as I don't like making tea in a cup. As we drove by the Wal-Mart Garden centre Carroll decided that she wanted some flowers to spruce up the front of the house. We already have two huge Cactus plants and a rose bush but there was 3 empty pots so the "must" have some flowers in them. As it turns out Wal-Mart had very few plants but Carroll did find 2 Geraniums.
Now for the Tea Pot. Neither Wal-Mart nor Target stock Tea Pots. How crazy is that. So tomorrow we will go to the Ceramic stores down by the MX border as we are sure they stock tea pots.
We found some planting soil in the garden shed so we planted the Geraniums. Then we ask our friends where to get flowers so they send as to a garden shop nearby. cheers
We went to Wal-Mart to try to find a Tea pot as there wasn't one in the house and I need a tea pot as I don't like making tea in a cup. As we drove by the Wal-Mart Garden centre Carroll decided that she wanted some flowers to spruce up the front of the house. We already have two huge Cactus plants and a rose bush but there was 3 empty pots so the "must" have some flowers in them. As it turns out Wal-Mart had very few plants but Carroll did find 2 Geraniums.
Now for the Tea Pot. Neither Wal-Mart nor Target stock Tea Pots. How crazy is that. So tomorrow we will go to the Ceramic stores down by the MX border as we are sure they stock tea pots.
We found some planting soil in the garden shed so we planted the Geraniums. Then we ask our friends where to get flowers so they send as to a garden shop nearby. cheers
Bad news Cops...9 Jan 17
Temp 8 C and windy. We went to the town of Mercedes ( 5 miles away ) to get another house key cut as I like to leave one outside, just in case I lock myself out. They have a very good True hardware store and I'm sure the Key Cutter must be better light then the 3 stooges at Lowes.
All the small towns in this area of Texas have their own Police force but why they have to sit and hide at the stop , waiting for me to break the law is beyond me. The hardware store is on a corner and I pulled into the left ( turning only ) lane with intention of turning. But when the light turned Red I noticed that there was nobody in the oncoming turning lane so I went straight ahead before illegally making a left turn . Just as I pulled ahead Carroll said there is policeman sitting on the corner so you are in trouble. I blamed Carroll because she should have warned me that the police was sitting there.
Anyhow , I quickly parked the car and jumped out as if nothing happen , however the cop car pulled up and block my path. As soon as the cop got out of his car I play stupid ( which comes natural to me ) and I said, what happen, was I speeding. You don't what you did wrong and of course I said no. He say , take a look at that intersection; you where in a turning lane but you drove thru which could have caused an accident. I agree that I should have paid more attention. He says I'm not going to ticket you but I want you pay more attention and he continued to lecture me. He then shook my hand and said to more attentive and I promised I would. Kissing Ass when I'm in trouble with the Police is my strong suite.
After I got the Key cut I was very careful entering the street and stopping at the light. As I was getting up speed Carroll ask if I was looking to get a ticket. I said what do you mean by that and she says you are doing 40 MPH in a 30 zone. I quickly hit the brakes. Incidentally I got home safely.
Carroll decided that we were ready for a visit to Willie B's for a loaded potato for supper. I did not thing you could grow potatoes as big as the ones at Willie. Anyhow Carroll foolishly ordered one each but we then realize we could not possibly eat one each so we shared one and took the other one home for tomorrow's supper. cheers
All the small towns in this area of Texas have their own Police force but why they have to sit and hide at the stop , waiting for me to break the law is beyond me. The hardware store is on a corner and I pulled into the left ( turning only ) lane with intention of turning. But when the light turned Red I noticed that there was nobody in the oncoming turning lane so I went straight ahead before illegally making a left turn . Just as I pulled ahead Carroll said there is policeman sitting on the corner so you are in trouble. I blamed Carroll because she should have warned me that the police was sitting there.
Anyhow , I quickly parked the car and jumped out as if nothing happen , however the cop car pulled up and block my path. As soon as the cop got out of his car I play stupid ( which comes natural to me ) and I said, what happen, was I speeding. You don't what you did wrong and of course I said no. He say , take a look at that intersection; you where in a turning lane but you drove thru which could have caused an accident. I agree that I should have paid more attention. He says I'm not going to ticket you but I want you pay more attention and he continued to lecture me. He then shook my hand and said to more attentive and I promised I would. Kissing Ass when I'm in trouble with the Police is my strong suite.
After I got the Key cut I was very careful entering the street and stopping at the light. As I was getting up speed Carroll ask if I was looking to get a ticket. I said what do you mean by that and she says you are doing 40 MPH in a 30 zone. I quickly hit the brakes. Incidentally I got home safely.
Carroll decided that we were ready for a visit to Willie B's for a loaded potato for supper. I did not thing you could grow potatoes as big as the ones at Willie. Anyhow Carroll foolishly ordered one each but we then realize we could not possibly eat one each so we shared one and took the other one home for tomorrow's supper. cheers
Tuesday, 17 January 2017
Sunday Activities.. 8 Jan 17
The past week was fairly busy just getting organized but I think we have solved most, if not all problems needed to settle in. It is like the old saying " Come day, Go day ; God send Sunday ".
On Sunday , our friends the Naha's go for breakfast after church to the same restaurant they have been going to for years. Creatures of habit; besides the breakfast is great and the prices are better. We always meet them their and most of time we plan a few function for the upcoming week. This week we are going to MX on Thursday and to the Legion on Friday evening for a Fish Fry which also is accompanied with Karaoke music which is way to loud. In two weeks we are planning to go to a Medical Trade show.
After breakfast I decided to find a car wash ( for the 5 th time ) as I have not washed the car since we arrived and it is filthy. The self wash places can not give change as their machines never work and I never seem to have any quarters. The Hand Wash places are always lined up and I do not "line up " well. Yes they wash cars on Sunday. So since we were out and about we decided to search out a couple of well known "Haunts " that we might try for lunch some day. One place is a hamburger joint that serves one pound hamburgers, hence we have to share. The other place is called Willie B's ( actually Wille's Bar-B-Q ) but the winter Texans refer to it as Willie B's. This place has "zero " ambience but it is magnet for winter Texans. The specialty is a "loaded" potato and it is impossible for one person to eat the whole ting. We have to share as does most Seniors.
As we drove around we actually did remember where it was so we put in on our agenda for next week.
That's how you spend a Sunday. cheers
On Sunday , our friends the Naha's go for breakfast after church to the same restaurant they have been going to for years. Creatures of habit; besides the breakfast is great and the prices are better. We always meet them their and most of time we plan a few function for the upcoming week. This week we are going to MX on Thursday and to the Legion on Friday evening for a Fish Fry which also is accompanied with Karaoke music which is way to loud. In two weeks we are planning to go to a Medical Trade show.
After breakfast I decided to find a car wash ( for the 5 th time ) as I have not washed the car since we arrived and it is filthy. The self wash places can not give change as their machines never work and I never seem to have any quarters. The Hand Wash places are always lined up and I do not "line up " well. Yes they wash cars on Sunday. So since we were out and about we decided to search out a couple of well known "Haunts " that we might try for lunch some day. One place is a hamburger joint that serves one pound hamburgers, hence we have to share. The other place is called Willie B's ( actually Wille's Bar-B-Q ) but the winter Texans refer to it as Willie B's. This place has "zero " ambience but it is magnet for winter Texans. The specialty is a "loaded" potato and it is impossible for one person to eat the whole ting. We have to share as does most Seniors.
As we drove around we actually did remember where it was so we put in on our agenda for next week.
That's how you spend a Sunday. cheers
WiFi /Phone Day 7 Jan 17
Today is the Day that we finally get our WiFi and our scheduled appointment is between 8 and Noon. Then on Saturday morning TimeWarner phoned from their office in San Antonia, at 7:20 AM to make sure I would be home at 8 AM when the Tech arrived. At 7:40 AM the local office called to say the Tech was on his way and he should arrive in 10 minutes. At 8 AM the Tech called to say he would arrive in 10 minute. It is obvious that this company has no idea what the hell is going on between their office and the tech.
All that to say, the Tech arrived on time and was very efficient. However, it was quite easy for him as the house already has more cable throughout then the local telephone office. I showed the Tech to my office where there are several cables and he says , that one looks like our. He did a test on the cable and says , ' that's the baby I need ". He connect the cable to the Router ( they call it a Modem ) that he brought with him and then connect the phone and I was on line. We made sure all 3 computers where on line before he left. He checked the phones and said that our batteries where dead but the phone was connected. Since he is a contract worker he gets paid for an hour but was out the door in 15 minutes.
The batteries in the phones were dead since they have not been in use for 2 or 3 years and they would not take a charge so we bought a 2 phone package at Wal-Mart for 33.00.
In the afternoon we when to another park to visit friends from Dauphin, MB ( Bya and Roy ). I still have a "nagging cough " and Bya considers herself a "self taught" doctor thru Google. Anyhow she insisted that I try some pills that she uses and they can only be purchased in MX. The drill is to take 3 pills right away , 2 pills tomorrow and one the next day. Since I have tried everything else I figured these pills are worth a try. Before I took the pills I checked the side effects with Doctor Goggle and they were minimal . What I did find our was that these pills are a cure for everything from the common cold to Acid Reflux to Cholesterol so I did not thing they would harm me.
My coughing did slow down somewhat but I'm not sure if it was the Pills ( Zertalin ) or the Maple Rye that I am consuming . Dr Goggle did say to consume lots of liquids.
Now we have to go to MX to replace the Pills. We plan to go MX with our friends next week. cheers
All that to say, the Tech arrived on time and was very efficient. However, it was quite easy for him as the house already has more cable throughout then the local telephone office. I showed the Tech to my office where there are several cables and he says , that one looks like our. He did a test on the cable and says , ' that's the baby I need ". He connect the cable to the Router ( they call it a Modem ) that he brought with him and then connect the phone and I was on line. We made sure all 3 computers where on line before he left. He checked the phones and said that our batteries where dead but the phone was connected. Since he is a contract worker he gets paid for an hour but was out the door in 15 minutes.
The batteries in the phones were dead since they have not been in use for 2 or 3 years and they would not take a charge so we bought a 2 phone package at Wal-Mart for 33.00.
In the afternoon we when to another park to visit friends from Dauphin, MB ( Bya and Roy ). I still have a "nagging cough " and Bya considers herself a "self taught" doctor thru Google. Anyhow she insisted that I try some pills that she uses and they can only be purchased in MX. The drill is to take 3 pills right away , 2 pills tomorrow and one the next day. Since I have tried everything else I figured these pills are worth a try. Before I took the pills I checked the side effects with Doctor Goggle and they were minimal . What I did find our was that these pills are a cure for everything from the common cold to Acid Reflux to Cholesterol so I did not thing they would harm me.
My coughing did slow down somewhat but I'm not sure if it was the Pills ( Zertalin ) or the Maple Rye that I am consuming . Dr Goggle did say to consume lots of liquids.
Now we have to go to MX to replace the Pills. We plan to go MX with our friends next week. cheers
Monday, 16 January 2017
Carroll's Birthday 6 Jan 17
Temperature 4 C at 7 AM. In Texas that is called a cold front and since the wind was coming from the north at 40 MPH everyone is wearing coats. Some folks are overdoing it by wearing a Parkas but gloves and toques where the order of the day.
We went out for Carroll's Birthday supper with our friends ( Nahacheski's ) form Brandon. We did Italian food at a well known family run restaurant near our park. While we were in the restaurant we also met friends from ON so they are now on our list to visit once we get organized.
The cold front is suppose to "bugger " off tomorrow so we will see. Cheers
We went out for Carroll's Birthday supper with our friends ( Nahacheski's ) form Brandon. We did Italian food at a well known family run restaurant near our park. While we were in the restaurant we also met friends from ON so they are now on our list to visit once we get organized.
The cold front is suppose to "bugger " off tomorrow so we will see. Cheers
Sunday, 15 January 2017
Price of Booze: Texas or MX 5 jan 17
I was visiting with a friend who has been coming here for 20 years. I mentioned that I had to pick up a bottle of Crown Royal and he says that the price in MX are not much different then buying it in Tx. He suggested I go to Feldman's which is a Discount Liquor franchise across the USA and check the prices.
The reason that the price of booze in MX is similar to the prices in TX is twofold. First the duty free store in MX has closed so you have to buy it at the duty free in the US before you cross into MX. Then ,if you don't want to carry it while you shop in MX you can have a shop hold it until you are ready to leave MX for 2.00. Then when you cross into the US you have to pay a 3.75 tax per bottle, hence every bottle purchased in MX increases by 5.74.
So I went to Feldman's to check prices and I picked up a 1.75 L bottle of Maple Rye for 50.00. Tax included, so that is about 75 CDN. I thought the price was reasonable until I return a few days later to find out it was on sale for 41.00. I'll check the price when I go to MX next week. Cheers
The reason that the price of booze in MX is similar to the prices in TX is twofold. First the duty free store in MX has closed so you have to buy it at the duty free in the US before you cross into MX. Then ,if you don't want to carry it while you shop in MX you can have a shop hold it until you are ready to leave MX for 2.00. Then when you cross into the US you have to pay a 3.75 tax per bottle, hence every bottle purchased in MX increases by 5.74.
So I went to Feldman's to check prices and I picked up a 1.75 L bottle of Maple Rye for 50.00. Tax included, so that is about 75 CDN. I thought the price was reasonable until I return a few days later to find out it was on sale for 41.00. I'll check the price when I go to MX next week. Cheers
Getting Aquated with the house; 4 Jan 17
I''ll say one thing for this house; it has everything. It has a nice deck and 3 additions; a 10 X 8 office /bedroom, a 10 X 8 dinning area and a 8 X 8 walk in closet / storage area. It also has an exterior 6 X 6 storage shed area. So we have no complaints about room. The house is wired for phones, ample cable for the TV and WiFi. It should be easy for the TimeWarner Tech when he gets here.
I had to get a key cut for the house so I picked up the Office held key and headed for Lowes. I found the Key counter an showed the clerk ( I believe are called associates ) my key. He looked at it and said, I don't think we stock that type. I said , Christ it a house key, not one for Fort Knox. So he called for help and the next guy said, I don't thing we stock that one and walked away. I said come on , this is Lowes is it, so he called for more support. The third guys picks out a key blank and says try that one. I'm beginning to think I'm dealing with the 3 Stooges. He cuts the key and then says, if it doesn't work bring it back and I'm thinking ,what the hell for, so you cut a second one that doesn't work.
When I got home , sure enough the key did not work so I went back and got my 2.15 back. Then I went to a hardware store and got a key cut that worked. What a way to waste 2 hours.
My Satellite dish is set up on a tripod and the wind was blowing from the north at about 40 MPH and I could see that my Satellite was about to take flight so I had to get some cement blocks to anchor it. For some reason everyone has several cement block around their house so I borrowed one from the neighbor. I will try to remember to return it when I leave??? I may have to relocated the Satellite if the wind does not die down. In TX you never know about the wind.
We spent the rest of the day moving things around in the cupboard where they suited Carroll. Although there was very little dust Carroll washed most of the dishes and glasses. Oh, did I mention that we also have a dish washer, other than me. Cheers
I had to get a key cut for the house so I picked up the Office held key and headed for Lowes. I found the Key counter an showed the clerk ( I believe are called associates ) my key. He looked at it and said, I don't think we stock that type. I said , Christ it a house key, not one for Fort Knox. So he called for help and the next guy said, I don't thing we stock that one and walked away. I said come on , this is Lowes is it, so he called for more support. The third guys picks out a key blank and says try that one. I'm beginning to think I'm dealing with the 3 Stooges. He cuts the key and then says, if it doesn't work bring it back and I'm thinking ,what the hell for, so you cut a second one that doesn't work.
When I got home , sure enough the key did not work so I went back and got my 2.15 back. Then I went to a hardware store and got a key cut that worked. What a way to waste 2 hours.
My Satellite dish is set up on a tripod and the wind was blowing from the north at about 40 MPH and I could see that my Satellite was about to take flight so I had to get some cement blocks to anchor it. For some reason everyone has several cement block around their house so I borrowed one from the neighbor. I will try to remember to return it when I leave??? I may have to relocated the Satellite if the wind does not die down. In TX you never know about the wind.
We spent the rest of the day moving things around in the cupboard where they suited Carroll. Although there was very little dust Carroll washed most of the dishes and glasses. Oh, did I mention that we also have a dish washer, other than me. Cheers
Saturday, 14 January 2017
Our Home for 3 months; 3 Jan 17
We know that the office at Pine to Palms ( P to P ), our home until 31 March, does not open until 9 AM and since our Motel is only 2 block away there was no hurry to get the day started. The Motel provided a hot breakfast so we meandered to the restaurant and had a casual breakfast.
We arrived at the P to P office shortly after 9 AM and as expected we were not first in line. Needless to say , we were not the only people arriving today, While waiting in line we swapped salutations with the others and since most occupants own there home, some where sure that we were new occupants. Once you say you are new, they want to know your address and if they don,'t already know the owner , they ask who owns the home. Of course, I'm thinking "give me the GD key " we can swap stories later.
Once I signed for the keys we had to listen to the clerk give us a disorientation about the rules, the garbage and recycle pickup and things that go on in the park. She gave us 4 pages on park activities so I was thinking that I could read it later but I though I better not get "snarky " on my first day. She ask if I had any questions and I said yes: have you got the number for Time Warner so I can get my Wifi connected. This costed me another 10 minutes of my life. First she explained that I could use the computer provide in the Rec Hall and I replied that I need my own connection in my home. Then she explained that I could, for a small price , get connect to the WiFi in the park but it was only good to sent and receive emails, no skype, no downloading and no movie downloads. I said no that,s not for me , I just need the number for TWC. She said I don,t have it. Then another lady in the office recognized us from other years spoke up and said I'll get it for you. As it turns out that Tech no longer works for TWC but at least she was trying to help me.
Finally we got to our house, which is a "stone throw " from the office, pool,Rec Hall and 100 shuffle courts. Our house is a 1960 vintage and is dated ( really dated ) but was clean, lots of room, good size bathroom, which doubles as the laundry room and a walk-in closet which also doubles as a storage area and the bedroom has 3 dressers, one of which found a new home in the storage area. What the bedroom doesn't have is Queen Bed. Nope: it has a Double bed and Carroll has agreed to let me have most of my side. ha ha. We also have a large TV
Anyway , we are happy with the place and we know at least a 1/2 dozen couples in the Park so we feel comfortable. We also know a dozen or more folks in other parks in the area.
I called TWC and was on hold for 1/2 hour but finally got through but could not get an appointment to connect our WiFi until Saturday AM.
After getting settled and checking the cupboards, which of course were bare, we had to shop for the necessities of life so we headed for the "Dollar Store " , where else. We needed Ziplock bags, batteries, toilet paper ,Aluminum foil and you can guess what else and the total was 93.00. How do you spend 93.00 at a Dollar Store.... you send Carroll to do the shopping. In the afternoon went to Wal-Mart for groceries which cost another 100.00.
In the afternoon we tried to setup the Satellite but could not get the TV and the Satellite to work together. In order to have a TV ,I connected the Satellite to a small TV that we brought with us for me to watch in the office. I then ask the neighbor if he had any idea why I could get the TV to accept my Satellite, with no luck. Oh, well I'll just keep working on it.
I checked around the house to try to find the door keys. There was a handful of keys but they did belong to this house. So I had to return the office key today, so I said I would sign it out tomorrow and get some keys cut. That is it for today. Cheers
We arrived at the P to P office shortly after 9 AM and as expected we were not first in line. Needless to say , we were not the only people arriving today, While waiting in line we swapped salutations with the others and since most occupants own there home, some where sure that we were new occupants. Once you say you are new, they want to know your address and if they don,'t already know the owner , they ask who owns the home. Of course, I'm thinking "give me the GD key " we can swap stories later.
Once I signed for the keys we had to listen to the clerk give us a disorientation about the rules, the garbage and recycle pickup and things that go on in the park. She gave us 4 pages on park activities so I was thinking that I could read it later but I though I better not get "snarky " on my first day. She ask if I had any questions and I said yes: have you got the number for Time Warner so I can get my Wifi connected. This costed me another 10 minutes of my life. First she explained that I could use the computer provide in the Rec Hall and I replied that I need my own connection in my home. Then she explained that I could, for a small price , get connect to the WiFi in the park but it was only good to sent and receive emails, no skype, no downloading and no movie downloads. I said no that,s not for me , I just need the number for TWC. She said I don,t have it. Then another lady in the office recognized us from other years spoke up and said I'll get it for you. As it turns out that Tech no longer works for TWC but at least she was trying to help me.
Finally we got to our house, which is a "stone throw " from the office, pool,Rec Hall and 100 shuffle courts. Our house is a 1960 vintage and is dated ( really dated ) but was clean, lots of room, good size bathroom, which doubles as the laundry room and a walk-in closet which also doubles as a storage area and the bedroom has 3 dressers, one of which found a new home in the storage area. What the bedroom doesn't have is Queen Bed. Nope: it has a Double bed and Carroll has agreed to let me have most of my side. ha ha. We also have a large TV
Anyway , we are happy with the place and we know at least a 1/2 dozen couples in the Park so we feel comfortable. We also know a dozen or more folks in other parks in the area.
I called TWC and was on hold for 1/2 hour but finally got through but could not get an appointment to connect our WiFi until Saturday AM.
After getting settled and checking the cupboards, which of course were bare, we had to shop for the necessities of life so we headed for the "Dollar Store " , where else. We needed Ziplock bags, batteries, toilet paper ,Aluminum foil and you can guess what else and the total was 93.00. How do you spend 93.00 at a Dollar Store.... you send Carroll to do the shopping. In the afternoon went to Wal-Mart for groceries which cost another 100.00.
In the afternoon we tried to setup the Satellite but could not get the TV and the Satellite to work together. In order to have a TV ,I connected the Satellite to a small TV that we brought with us for me to watch in the office. I then ask the neighbor if he had any idea why I could get the TV to accept my Satellite, with no luck. Oh, well I'll just keep working on it.
I checked around the house to try to find the door keys. There was a handful of keys but they did belong to this house. So I had to return the office key today, so I said I would sign it out tomorrow and get some keys cut. That is it for today. Cheers
Friday, 13 January 2017
Pine to Palms or Bust. 2 Jan 17
We are about an 8 hour drive from our destination; Pine to Palms Resort in Weslaco , TX. Most of the way from here is on an Interstate or the speed limit on the Highways are at or more than 70 MPH. The only stumbling block is going thru San Antonia. I have, on other years, taken the Beltway but it always fails me because they are either building a new road or fixing one. Nothing burns my Ass more than sitting in traffic when there is another route. So I took a friends advice and decided to drive right thru the city of San Antonia . On the map, it is a piece of cake, in reality it is a disaster.
Incidentally, we do have our GPS with us , unfortunately the charger was left in Med Hat for safe keeping!!!! I'm not saying it was Carroll's fault that it wasn't packed but I'm still blaming her???
After driving around San Antonia for an hour or so, mostly going in a circle I stopped for fuel. After fuelling up I looked around the store to see if I could find someone who looked "intelligent " enough to ask for directions. I spotted a young guy packing shelves so I ask him for directions. I asked him directions to get to a certain Highway and he replied with a question ( which made sense ) where are you going? I said Weslaco, TX. He say, well, you are going the wrong way but if you turn around , then pointing, said ,drive to that stops sign, make a right turn , that road will take you right to Weslaco. Bare in mind that we had wasted a good hour being lost in San Antonia, so this was the best news I heard all day.
So after 4 hours of driving we landed at our at our Resort. By the way, the word "Resort " is way over used. This is a gated community and the gates are closed during the evenings. Since we arrived after 6 PM we had to ask permission to enter. I rang the buzzer and a man , whose voice sound ancient and his hearing was worse, answered the phone. I explained 5 times who I was and that I had rented 127 Orchid st. Finally, the vehicle behind me open the gate so I was in. However, the office was closed because it was a holiday so there was no chance of getting the keys to our home today.
We then decided to grab a nearby motel and get the keys to our home tomorrow. Even though the price of the motel was 59.00, including breakfast ( no hot tub ) I ask for my Veteran's discount. She said the Veteran's price was 65.00 so I'm getting a better deal which I couldn't argue with so I paid the 59.00. Such is life.
After getting settled we went to the Olive Garden for supper. Then back to our motel and settled for the night ; without a Hot Tub. cheers
Incidentally, we do have our GPS with us , unfortunately the charger was left in Med Hat for safe keeping!!!! I'm not saying it was Carroll's fault that it wasn't packed but I'm still blaming her???
After driving around San Antonia for an hour or so, mostly going in a circle I stopped for fuel. After fuelling up I looked around the store to see if I could find someone who looked "intelligent " enough to ask for directions. I spotted a young guy packing shelves so I ask him for directions. I asked him directions to get to a certain Highway and he replied with a question ( which made sense ) where are you going? I said Weslaco, TX. He say, well, you are going the wrong way but if you turn around , then pointing, said ,drive to that stops sign, make a right turn , that road will take you right to Weslaco. Bare in mind that we had wasted a good hour being lost in San Antonia, so this was the best news I heard all day.
So after 4 hours of driving we landed at our at our Resort. By the way, the word "Resort " is way over used. This is a gated community and the gates are closed during the evenings. Since we arrived after 6 PM we had to ask permission to enter. I rang the buzzer and a man , whose voice sound ancient and his hearing was worse, answered the phone. I explained 5 times who I was and that I had rented 127 Orchid st. Finally, the vehicle behind me open the gate so I was in. However, the office was closed because it was a holiday so there was no chance of getting the keys to our home today.
We then decided to grab a nearby motel and get the keys to our home tomorrow. Even though the price of the motel was 59.00, including breakfast ( no hot tub ) I ask for my Veteran's discount. She said the Veteran's price was 65.00 so I'm getting a better deal which I couldn't argue with so I paid the 59.00. Such is life.
After getting settled we went to the Olive Garden for supper. Then back to our motel and settled for the night ; without a Hot Tub. cheers
Travel Day..Happy New Year 1 Jan 17
What a way to start the New Year... we get to travel another 1000 KM today and we really don't know were we will end up. Eslers never plan; it's more exciting that way.
We have been ask what it is like to travel mid western states and it can phases as " Miles and Miles but nothing but Miles ".
Once you hit northern TX you can not believe the large number of cotton fields and the huge bales of cotton. It seem hard to believe that you can 50 years ago you had to pick cotton by hand and now it is done with a combine.
Anyhow this 10 hour day ended in a small town in TX called Lemasa. We thought about going on to Big Spring, 60 miles further south, where we have stopped other years, but it was getting dark and the Best Western Inn had all the amenities such as a Hot tub and WiFi along with a "hot " breakfast.
We don't like to drive long hours for 3 days and then once we reach our destination we would be tired for the next week. Day 3 Ends. cheers
We have been ask what it is like to travel mid western states and it can phases as " Miles and Miles but nothing but Miles ".
Once you hit northern TX you can not believe the large number of cotton fields and the huge bales of cotton. It seem hard to believe that you can 50 years ago you had to pick cotton by hand and now it is done with a combine.
Anyhow this 10 hour day ended in a small town in TX called Lemasa. We thought about going on to Big Spring, 60 miles further south, where we have stopped other years, but it was getting dark and the Best Western Inn had all the amenities such as a Hot tub and WiFi along with a "hot " breakfast.
We don't like to drive long hours for 3 days and then once we reach our destination we would be tired for the next week. Day 3 Ends. cheers
Wednesday, 11 January 2017
On the Road 31 Dec 16
When you are travelling, you don't realize that it is the last day of the year. Anyhow, when we left Sheridan, WY, it had stopped snowing during the night but the roads where still snow covered, in fact the passing lane look a little treacherous. Of course I was in 4 wheel drive but 80 KMH seemed like the safest speed, at least until I got a feel of the road. The snow ploughs were out but they always seem to be on the other side of the road, and of course our side always seems to be the worst.
It was not long before I caught up to several vehicles that were travelling at 50 KMH ( 30 MPH ) and the roads appeared, to me at least, that this was a little too slow. With Carroll's permission I challenged the passing lane even thought it was snow covered . I carefully got by these "slow pokes " and then decided to follow a 18 wheeler who was making good time.
As we were climbing a hill, the Sun was directly in my eyes and the 18 wheeler merged off on the exit lane. Since I lost sight of the road, I followed 18 wheeler. Once he got off the highway, he came to a full stop and appeared to be lost. As it turns out, this area was a very small town and with all the snow I had to find a lane way that was plough so I could turn around. Once I go turned around I thought I would merge right back on the Interstate. Not so fast; you can not enter the Interstate from here so how in Hell do I get back on the highway. I continued across the overpass wondering what to do when Carroll spotted a "snow covered " sign which read " continue 2 1/2 miles to enter I-25. That was the good news; The bad news is that the road was barely a 2 lane road and it was snow covered and had not be plough today. We had doubts about our ability to get thru a 2 1/2 miles of snow covered road but we had no choice but to "plough " on. We actually got back on I-25 at the end of the road but it seemed odd to drive 2 1/2 miles north to get back on the south bound side of the Interstate.
Once back on I-25 the roads were getting much better and we were able to get back to 110 KMH. After driving a couple hour fighting the Sun I decided to let Carroll share the sunshine in her eye since it appeared that she was only sleeping; which she denied. Once in the co-pilots seat, I then fell asleep and Carroll woke me once we reached Casper, WY, where we decided to stop for breakfast. We where surprised to see that the roads where clear with very little snow except for the ditches.
After breakfast it was clear sailing the rest of the day. We arrived in a mid size town called Limon about 6 PM so that was enough travelling for today. We have stopped here before and I recall that the Comfort Inn was reasonable priced and it had a pool, hot tub, Wifi and an excellent hot breakfast.
This motel had been renovated since we were last here. After I ask the price I played the Veteran card again and they again knock off 15.00. When the clerk punched my name into the computer he said it was already in there data bank so there was no required to produce identification.
We when out for supper and then enjoyed the hot tub. So that is how you spend New Years Eve on the road. Cheers
It was not long before I caught up to several vehicles that were travelling at 50 KMH ( 30 MPH ) and the roads appeared, to me at least, that this was a little too slow. With Carroll's permission I challenged the passing lane even thought it was snow covered . I carefully got by these "slow pokes " and then decided to follow a 18 wheeler who was making good time.
As we were climbing a hill, the Sun was directly in my eyes and the 18 wheeler merged off on the exit lane. Since I lost sight of the road, I followed 18 wheeler. Once he got off the highway, he came to a full stop and appeared to be lost. As it turns out, this area was a very small town and with all the snow I had to find a lane way that was plough so I could turn around. Once I go turned around I thought I would merge right back on the Interstate. Not so fast; you can not enter the Interstate from here so how in Hell do I get back on the highway. I continued across the overpass wondering what to do when Carroll spotted a "snow covered " sign which read " continue 2 1/2 miles to enter I-25. That was the good news; The bad news is that the road was barely a 2 lane road and it was snow covered and had not be plough today. We had doubts about our ability to get thru a 2 1/2 miles of snow covered road but we had no choice but to "plough " on. We actually got back on I-25 at the end of the road but it seemed odd to drive 2 1/2 miles north to get back on the south bound side of the Interstate.
Once back on I-25 the roads were getting much better and we were able to get back to 110 KMH. After driving a couple hour fighting the Sun I decided to let Carroll share the sunshine in her eye since it appeared that she was only sleeping; which she denied. Once in the co-pilots seat, I then fell asleep and Carroll woke me once we reached Casper, WY, where we decided to stop for breakfast. We where surprised to see that the roads where clear with very little snow except for the ditches.
After breakfast it was clear sailing the rest of the day. We arrived in a mid size town called Limon about 6 PM so that was enough travelling for today. We have stopped here before and I recall that the Comfort Inn was reasonable priced and it had a pool, hot tub, Wifi and an excellent hot breakfast.
This motel had been renovated since we were last here. After I ask the price I played the Veteran card again and they again knock off 15.00. When the clerk punched my name into the computer he said it was already in there data bank so there was no required to produce identification.
We when out for supper and then enjoyed the hot tub. So that is how you spend New Years Eve on the road. Cheers
Tuesday, 10 January 2017
Our winter trip for 2016/17
Although most of our blog followers know that we did considerable travelling during the calendar year 2016 a sort preamble of how we ended up in Texas might be of interest.
From Jan to early April we spent most of the 2016 winter in Yuma and other areas of AZ. Then in June 8th I had a hernia operation which cut my Ball season short so we travelled to BC, mostly to Vancouver Island where we spent 6 years , in the late 80's, on our posting to Comox BC, hence we have many friends in around the area. This trip chewed up about another two weeks of travel.
Also in July our son, wife and 4 Kids ( 13, 9 and the twins 7 ) planned a trip Eastward across Canada using our 40 ft MH for the month of July and August. Their destination was NFLD and back home by the end of August. I said; Not a chance but give it a shot. I then told Carroll to be prepared for a phone call, text or an email around the end of August for us to fly to the Maritimes to pick up our MH.
On the 23 or 24 of August we got the call , suggesting that if we weren't busy would we like to fly to the Maritimes and pick up the MH and possible visit our friends in the Maritimes and NFLD.
Our son decided that driving from NS to Okotoks by the end of August was a bit of a stretch and they had to be back to work in Sept 1. So on the 29 th we flew to NS to retrieve the MH. We spent 56 days travelling throughout Maritimes, then 10 days in NFLD and returning home thru Ontario where we spent two weeks visiting with our "Outlaws and In-Laws ". This trip took another 56 days.
So when you do the Math we were away from home or on the road for 180 days in the calendar year 2016.
Needless to say we were a little road worthy and even suggested the we might spend the 2017 winter at home. In fact by the end of Nov we did not have any real plans to travel anywhere. When we mentioned it to our boys they both said: Yea, 1 frigging snow fake in Dec and you guys will like you where shot from a cannon.
Nov had beautiful weather so maybe winter would pass us by and if this is winter we kind of like it. Then in Dec the temp drop below zero ( way below zero ) and the snow came and I had to shove snow. I said to Carroll; lets get on the GD computer and find a place without snow and some warm weather.
It did not take long to find an RV resort in Weslaco, TX , 7 miles from the MX border. The weather is usually in the mid 70's. The accommodation was a large semi-mobile home for 1400.00 a month. Bingo; that is our home for Jan to March. On 30 Dec we are GONE!
30 Dec 16
We left home around 7 AM and took the back way on Hwy 41 thru Elkwater and crossing into the US at Wild Horse. The US Customs was fairly casual and they bide us a good winter in TX. Our next stop was Harve , 1 hour south of the border where we filled up with "cheaper " gas than the Canadian version. We had clear sailing to Billings, MT although I dropped the speed to 100 KMH when there was snow on the road.
As we left Billings, MT around 1 PM , it was beginning to snow but he had planned to stop in Sheridan, WY, ( 2 hours from Billings )and if it was still daylight we would carry on to Buffalo, WY . However it started to snow quite heavy and when we got to Sheridan at 4:30 the road were snow covered and the traffic had slowed to about 80 KMH. We said this is enough for us so we headed to the nearest motel with a hot tub and wifi.
We chose a Super 8 ( it won't happen again ). I negotiated a 15.00 discount because I laid the Veteran "card" on him and then I ask for a King bed which he agreed to as they were not full. They did have a Continental Breakfast ; if you are happy with rotten coffee and day old muffins. Otherwise the room was great, the TV worked, they had WiFi, and the hot tub was inviting. Cheers
From Jan to early April we spent most of the 2016 winter in Yuma and other areas of AZ. Then in June 8th I had a hernia operation which cut my Ball season short so we travelled to BC, mostly to Vancouver Island where we spent 6 years , in the late 80's, on our posting to Comox BC, hence we have many friends in around the area. This trip chewed up about another two weeks of travel.
Also in July our son, wife and 4 Kids ( 13, 9 and the twins 7 ) planned a trip Eastward across Canada using our 40 ft MH for the month of July and August. Their destination was NFLD and back home by the end of August. I said; Not a chance but give it a shot. I then told Carroll to be prepared for a phone call, text or an email around the end of August for us to fly to the Maritimes to pick up our MH.
On the 23 or 24 of August we got the call , suggesting that if we weren't busy would we like to fly to the Maritimes and pick up the MH and possible visit our friends in the Maritimes and NFLD.
Our son decided that driving from NS to Okotoks by the end of August was a bit of a stretch and they had to be back to work in Sept 1. So on the 29 th we flew to NS to retrieve the MH. We spent 56 days travelling throughout Maritimes, then 10 days in NFLD and returning home thru Ontario where we spent two weeks visiting with our "Outlaws and In-Laws ". This trip took another 56 days.
So when you do the Math we were away from home or on the road for 180 days in the calendar year 2016.
Needless to say we were a little road worthy and even suggested the we might spend the 2017 winter at home. In fact by the end of Nov we did not have any real plans to travel anywhere. When we mentioned it to our boys they both said: Yea, 1 frigging snow fake in Dec and you guys will like you where shot from a cannon.
Nov had beautiful weather so maybe winter would pass us by and if this is winter we kind of like it. Then in Dec the temp drop below zero ( way below zero ) and the snow came and I had to shove snow. I said to Carroll; lets get on the GD computer and find a place without snow and some warm weather.
It did not take long to find an RV resort in Weslaco, TX , 7 miles from the MX border. The weather is usually in the mid 70's. The accommodation was a large semi-mobile home for 1400.00 a month. Bingo; that is our home for Jan to March. On 30 Dec we are GONE!
30 Dec 16
We left home around 7 AM and took the back way on Hwy 41 thru Elkwater and crossing into the US at Wild Horse. The US Customs was fairly casual and they bide us a good winter in TX. Our next stop was Harve , 1 hour south of the border where we filled up with "cheaper " gas than the Canadian version. We had clear sailing to Billings, MT although I dropped the speed to 100 KMH when there was snow on the road.
As we left Billings, MT around 1 PM , it was beginning to snow but he had planned to stop in Sheridan, WY, ( 2 hours from Billings )and if it was still daylight we would carry on to Buffalo, WY . However it started to snow quite heavy and when we got to Sheridan at 4:30 the road were snow covered and the traffic had slowed to about 80 KMH. We said this is enough for us so we headed to the nearest motel with a hot tub and wifi.
We chose a Super 8 ( it won't happen again ). I negotiated a 15.00 discount because I laid the Veteran "card" on him and then I ask for a King bed which he agreed to as they were not full. They did have a Continental Breakfast ; if you are happy with rotten coffee and day old muffins. Otherwise the room was great, the TV worked, they had WiFi, and the hot tub was inviting. Cheers
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