December 31, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Today was a very busy way to finish 2015!

Bill and I walked with Todd and Lexie.  It was one of the best walks I have had in a long time.  I was walking at a regular pace and didn’t have to stop and sit down to rest after every block or so of walking. 

We stopped when we got to Todd’s motorhome so we could visit with Bonnie and Maggie.  That little dog was so excited to see us she couldn’t decided which lap to sit on.  I think Bill finally won the popularity contest and remains her boyfriend.  It certainly is a good thing I am not the jealous type!  Both of those little dogs are absolutely adorable.  I am so glad Bonnie and Todd don’t mind us spoiling their mutts.

When we got back to our house, we decided we would go to lunch at KFC.  We had planned to get a few groceries before going back home.  However, when we finished eating, instead of feeling rejuvenated, we were both very tired.  I took a shower and got ready to go to a New Year’s gathering.  There was never time for a nap and I really did need one.

We had several Mexican dishes at the gathering.  They were all very good.  Bonnie brought a chocolate cake that was delicious.  As usual, the visiting among the group was our entertainment. 

So, Happy New Year’s Eve!  Tomorrow we go to a brand new year with hopes for a healthier year filled with safe travels to many interesting places.

December 30, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We walked with Todd and Lexie this morning.  It was kind of cold and rather windy, so it wasn’t as pleasant on the walk as it usually is.  More and more, we are meeting other walkers.  So we have new “friends,” we don’t have any idea where most of them live, but we do know what kind of dogs they have, and which route we might see them on.  It is just another interesting aspect of Yuma.

I worked really hard for the rest of the morning and well past noon getting “Christmas things” ready to mail to the kids.  I finished “this year’s ornament,” which was different than most years…that is always my goal. 

I also sent checks instead of gift cards.  I have found out how expensive it is to ship things, and not very reliable at that, so I may take the easy route from now on.  The fact that I am a week late for the 25th isn’t really too surprising, considering the way my year has gone.

Of course, going to Winter Haven, California, put us in In-N-Out territory, so guess where we went for a late lunch?  Right!  And a great big “Yum, yum!”

Two weeks from today, I will be at Brent’s.  I have lots to do between now and then and I am getting very excited about going to see those guys.

December 29, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We went for a walk with Todd and one of his pups...the feisty one.  She loves to be the leader and pulls on her leash as hard as she can.  Lexie looks like Maddie.  They both have just about the same amount of energy.  Mario and Maddie live in the Sacramento area.  This morning, they woke up to snow on the ground.  They are so lucky, eh?

We went to Taco Bell for lunch before starting on our errands.  We haven't eaten there for a while.  Unfortunately, they don't have Diet Dr. Pepper in their soda machine, so we made a quick stop at McDonald's a block earlier so I could get my "fix" before getting the tacos.

Our next stop was at the Yuma Regional Airport.  It shares the flight lines with the Marine Base, so we were treated to several fighter jets (F16s, I think) taking off while we were.  They were very loud.  The "locals" call that the "sound of freedom."

I needed to get information about checking luggage and things like that when I fly to Mississippi in a couple of weeks.  It is a small airport.  I haven't used an airport so small since flying out of Casper, Wyoming in the mid 1970s.  It should be interesting.

We started watching Baylor in a bowl game, but only made it to halftime, when "Zorro" took over.

December 28, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

This was not too good a day for me.  I had a tender tummy most of the night and off and on today.  I took a morning nap while Bill and Todd went for a walk.  Afterwards, Bill went on a couple of errands.  When he came into the motorhome, I didn’t wake up.  I was really out.

The rest of the day was just about worthless, as far as I was concerned.

We watched the Bronco game against Cincinnati.  Most to the first half belonged to the Bengals, but Denver had a better second half and the game was tied at the end of regulation play.  In overtime, Denver went into the lead and managed to hang on to win.  Yippy, Skippy!

December 27, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

The weather was better today.  We had some wind, but nothing like yesterday.  However, it was colder today.  I told Bill I thought it might snow and the look he gave me was anything but nice!

We went to Cowboy Country Church this morning.  The music was wonderful, as usual.  Jack, the preacher, shared some good  thoughts.  He was a bit wordy, though.  The music is more inspirational than anything, but that is the way I’ve always felt about it.

After going out to lunch with Todd, Bonnie, Bill, and Ardeen, we went home for naps.  In case you are confused, there are several “Bills” in the group.  We sometimes feel like we are calling roll.

The rest of the day was spent watching football and some old TV programs.  We are enjoying the tapes of “Scarecrow and Mrs. King,” which we got for Christmas.  Thanks, Meredith and Michelle. 

We also watched some Zorro episodes.  I talked to JP tonight and completely forgot to tell him something very important.  The “hand” showed.  Zorro’s horse had to stay secure and still be immediately ready for action.  Someone behind the wall would hold Toronado’s rein.  Several times the “holder” would not move fast enough to get out of the way.  When JP and Natalia watched Zorro with us in the MH, we always watched for the “hand.”  I remember it caused much laughter and cheering.  Jo, one of our favorite “desert rat friends,” watched Zorro with us many times and knew about the “hand.”  We certainly are easy to entertain.

December 26, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We were having a terrible windstorm when we got up this morning.  The casita which is across the street and is under construction, had some wind damage.  The tar paper on the roof was ripped off in several places and will probably have to be completely replaced before the tile roof can be put on.

At one point, some of the insulation board blew off the side of the structure and a couple of minutes later was blown over the back wall into a neighbor’s yard.  The front door, which hadn’t been installed and was propped up against the wall, now appears to be lying on the ground.  We don’t know if the glass is broken and didn’t want to go over in the wind to check it out.  There is a limit as to what “spies” are required to do.

At noon, we needed to go to Walmart for some Rxs and, since In-N-Out is just a little ways further on, it made sense to go there for lunch.  It was very busy, but we were able to get a booth.  No one was eating outside at the tables because the wind was so terrible.

The wind continued to blow all afternoon and only got worse as night came on.  Our motorhome was rocking.  We have seen it worse before, but not often.

December 25, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Merry Christmas everyone!  We hope you had a blessed day.  This is our first Christmas to be away from all of our family.  Although we will miss them all so-o-o-o much, we are handling it well.  We have lots of Christmas memories wrapped around all of them.

We went to have Christmas dinner with 15 other friends, most of whom we knew, some for a long time.  Todd and Bonnie were friends back in the days when we were Volkswalking.  We can’t remember how long ago we met them…perhaps about 30 years ago.  Most of the other people at dinner we met through Todd and Bonnie.  All are full-timers, so there is always lots to talk about.

We grilled steak and shrimp, had salad, bread, green beans, and Jello salad.  There were several kinds of pie…way too many choices, and all good.  At least the things I sampled.  There were lots of munchies, but I stayed away from them.  Surprise, surprise!

We had a gift exchange and did more chatting.  Most of the people live at least part of the year in Yuma.

As it got dark, some people in the neighborhood began to walk toward the desert, about two blocks away.  Keeping in mind there was a full moon and this is Yuma, they were going to howl at the moon, like coyotes.  Normally (if you can call any of this normal) people stay for several hours, have picnics, and listen to local bands who might come out to the desert for the occasion.  Perhaps, because it was Christmas, the “howlers” were fewer in numbers and didn’t stay as long.  When we got home well after dark the desert had calmed down!  Yes, Yuma is different!

December 24, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We left the motorhome at 8:00 to take care of some last minute errands.  We also went to McDonald’s to share a Big Breakfast.  While we were there, we saw something we hadn’t seen before. 

A woman was going through the trash in the restaurant looking for food.  She had a tall stack of biscuits, some whole ones and some partially eaten.  She had lots of butter and jelly packets and one hand was full of pieces of potato cakes.  She was collecting everything in a heavy cloth bag.  I told Bill she might be collecting all of her food for the day in her bag, or she might be feeding her family.  We said it was time for a blessings check…we sometimes forget how lucky we are, in so many ways!

I didn’t sleep very well last night, so when we got home, I took a nap.  I guess that was my Christmas Eve present to myself.  Of course, I didn’t accomplish much else for the rest of the day.

Just after dark, two ATVs, decorated with strings of lights, drove into our driveway.  The RV lot owners weren’t home at the time, so the visitors knocked on our door and sang “We wish you a Merry Christmas!”  I think it was the first time we have ever had carolers, Willie Nelson style, on the road.  Yes, things are different in Yuma!

After I get this blog posted for today, I am going to stay up and make two desserts to take to Christmas dinner tomorrow.  I have made so few things in the last few years that I hope I don’t make a mess of things.  I wouldn’t want to be on the evening news for making guests sick like Chipolte did!

December 23, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Two more days until Christmas, and Bill and I just found out that we needed gifts for a gathering that we have been invited to on Christmas Day.

We went for a walk with Todd and the dogs.  The weather was much better than yesterday.  We had very little wind and only needed a light jacket…not like yesterday at all.  After our walk, we went shopping.

One of the places we were going to shop was Sam’s Club.  Our first order of business was to have a hotdog lunch.  While Bill was ordering our food, I sat at a table because I was feeling like I was “melting”…in other words, my legs weren’t going to hold me up much longer. 

The table I sat at was occupied by a couple who had just finished eating.  They stayed at the table until Bill got there.  We had lots and lots in common with them and had much to talk about.  Jim and Margie were from Knoxville, Tennessee, before they went full-timing not too long after we did.  We had many travel experiences to talk about.  It was a delightful way to spend our lunch time.  Hopefully, we will see them again.

We had gift shopping to do.  Bill went through the checkout line while I was in the restroom.  While he was waiting for me, someone came up and said, “Are you Bill Dane?”  It was Frank and Margaret that we knew for years and years while we all living in Seaside.  We knew they had a place here in the Foothills area of Yuma, but we hadn’t been able to locate them.  We were lucky to all be at the right place at the right time.  Now that we have their address and phone number, we will be able contact them for more visiting after things settle down after the holidays.

We had one more shopping stop to make, but weren’t able to get the item we wanted.  We’ll try again tomorrow.  This has turned into a last minute frenzy!  

December 22, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We went to Walmart at 8:00 this morning to avoid the rush.  Even at that early hour, the place was already busy.

When we started our morning walk at 10:00, Bonnie told me I needed a warmer coat.  She was correct.  The wind was blowing, and it was an overcast day.  This is the first day with no sunshine since we arrived.    But no snow, either, Bill!  He says that’s a four letter word!  And he is right.

We have heard reports that Michelle and Meredith may have snow on Christmas day!  I say, “Lucky them.”  Bill says he is glad we are in Southwestern Arizona!

I had a mission for today.  It was to go to In-N-Out, and not necessarily for lunch.  Bill said as long as we are there, we should eat!  That was fine with me.  I can’t tell you why I needed to go there, because it was a Christmas secret.  I can tell you my mission was accomplished and we had a good lunch, too.

We stayed home the rest of the day.  Naps were the first priority, which we accomplished.  My second job for the day was to shovel off my desk.  That didn’t get done.  There’s always tomorrow, right?

December 21, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We went for a walk with Todd and his pups.  Bonnie was at a beading class.  One of the little dogs,Maggie, has a crush on Bill.  So, of course, she was happy he was holding her leash.  When we got back to our RV lot, I went up to the steps to rest while the two guys and two dogs went on toward Todd’s house. 

Maggie was quite concerned that Bill might be stopping with me.  Every step or two, she would look around to make sure he was still holding her leash.  I can tell you for a fact she has a special place in his “sometimes gruff Grandpa” heart.

Bill and I went to Winter Haven to get stamps. At least that was our excuse.  In-N-Out is on the way back home, so of course, you know where we had lunch!  We had meant to stop at Walmart on the way home, but the parking lot was completely crammed, so we decided to get up early in the morning and “beat the rush.”

Ugh!  That means I have to get up “early.”  That’s not a nice word!

December 20, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We lolled around the house for part of the morning, before going to Cowboy Country Church.  Afterwards, we went to dinner at the Foothills Eatery.  That’s the place that has chicken fried steak and country fried chicken.  I find that rather amusing, but didn’t order either. 

I had a biscuit with gravy.  My tummy has been kind of unsettled lately, and my choice agreed with me.  Bill has shrimp.  It looked good, but I didn’t ask him for a bite so I don’t know for sure.  There were eight of us around the table, so there was a lot going on.

We weren’t able to get the Bronco game on DISH, so I took a long nap.  I’m sad to report that Denver lost.  Sniff, sniff!  But I enjoyed my nap!

We went to a Christmas music program.  Some of the songs we sang along with, but most of it we just listened to.  Jack played the guitar and his sidekick played the fiddle.  They are both extremely talented.

December 19, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

December 19, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

I got a very good night’s rest, ate half my breakfast, and went back to bed for another two hours of sleep.  I felt much better this afternoon.

We went for a short walk to get some fresh air.  When we got home I took a nap.  I think I am trying to “out do” Rip Van Winkle.  I should’ve started earlier.  I am not sure I have 20 more years to catch up with Rip.

Several years ago, Lori took me for a special treat at Christmastime.  She had friends who lived at the water’s edge on the Delta.  After eating and enjoying the lights on the Christmas tree, we went out to sit on the deck and watch a parade of boats decorated with colored lights, streamers, etc.  It was most impressive.

In Yuma, not very many people have boats and the Colorado River is miles to the West.  People do have dune buggies and ATVs.  Last night, we were treated to a “desert” light parade.

We went for a potluck dinner at friends’ houses who live on the parade route.  As it began to get dark, it got colder.  We sat in a circle around a “desert fireplace,” made from a tub of a washing machine.  They are very popular in this part of the country, although we have seen them elsewhere.

A fire truck, with lights blaring and sirens going, signaled the beginning of the parade.  There were about 40 “floats” decorated with lights, and other decorations.  And lots of Santas driving them.  Not one single boat in the parade, but the desert folks used what was available.  It was a lot of fun.  A military Hum-V was the last vehicle in the parade.  An emergency light was flashing, but no Christmas lights hung from its fenders.  It was “official.”

And now, as I promised, you know the “rest of the story.”

December 18, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Today was a very busy day for us.  I am tired and have an upset stomach, so I will promise to catch up tomorrow.  I need rest and sleep very badly.  Please be patient with this LOL…Little Old Lady!

December 17, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

At 10:30, Bill and I went to the Market Place…aka Flea Market…on Avenue 4E.  We go every year, at least once.  Because we plan to be in the Yuma area longer this year, we might go more often.

Bill was able to get a special kind of cleaner that he uses on the outside of the motorhome.  He was also able to get a special LED bulb for the porch/step light on our outside light by the door.  That is about as clear as mud, isn’t it?  But since we only have one outside door, you should be able to figure out where I am talking about.

I was looking for a fanny pack.  The only one I have is years and years old and is getting kind of raggedy.  There are times it would be more convenient to use a fanny pack than to carry a purse.  I will just have to keep looking.  I didn’t have any luck today finding what I need and want.

When we left the Market Place it was time for lunch.  Bill wanted to go elsewhere for lunch so we continued on 32nd Street until it turns into 4th Avenue.  Bill was looking for a fish place that he really likes.  When we got to 16th Street we knew we must of missed it.  He made a U-turn and we searched on 4th Avenue again.  No luck.  We drove back down to 16th Street to turn east and got in a traffic jam.  We thought there was an accident, but found out differently.  It was being treated like a crime scene.  Policeman were taking license plates off a car and the driver was definitely being detained.  Hm-m-m!

We decided to head for home and stop at Arby’s on the way.  When lunch was finished and we were back at the MH, I made a big pot of White Bean with Chicken Chili.  I had invited Todd, Bonnie, and Donald to eat with us.  The dogs came, too, and were disappointed that none of the food was for them.  We enjoyed our visit.  It is nice to have friends close by to share our celebration time with.

December 16, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

I had a very sleepless night so Bill let me sleep as late as I could.  I woke up at 9:00.  The extra sleep was good for me.  I felt much better than I had for several days.  It was cool today and that was nice.

After breakfast, we went to Verizon.  We had some questions about our Internet usage.  I think we understand it better now.  Sometimes, it is beyond the scope of understanding for these two old gray haired people.

We went to Sam’s Club for gasoline, and lo and behold, there across the street was In-N-Out.  As luck would have it, it was time for lunch.  Yum, yum!

On Friday night, we have been invited to a Potluck and to watch a parade.  We will take chairs, blankets, and dress warmly.  When the sun goes down on the desert, it can get quite chilly. 

I am to take dessert to the Potluck, so after lunch, we went to Sam’s to see if we could get any ideas of something to take.  There were several good choices that we can go back on Friday and get.

We went to Walmart for a few groceries, which took longer than it should have taken.  That is usually the case.  While Bill checked out, I sat on a bench and waited.  I was tuckered out!  I give a whole new meaning to “shop till you drop.”  It doesn’t take long.

December 15, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

It was cold this morning, but our weather was better than in Loveland…zero visibility, and by noon they had 10” of snow.  Tippy was delighted.  He played Hide the Ball In the Snow.  I think it is his favorite winter game.  School was closed for Matthew.  I am really certain he was very upset about that!!!

Bill and Todd went for a walk this morning.  I chose to stay home.  Late this afternoon, Bill and I went for a very short walk.  It felt good to get out in the fresh air.  When we got back home, Bill went across the street to “check out” the house being built over there.  I sat in the sunshine by the MH until he came back to give me “full report” on the progress. 

It seems as if the progress on the little house…actually a casita…has been very slow.  Bill said there is a small room for a washer/dryer, and a bathroom on the opposite side.  There is one large room with cooking facilities and plenty of seating area.  I will go check it out in a week of two.  Many of the lots here have casitas and room for the RV on the same lot.  That provides sleeping places.  It is a clever use of the space.

I had an upset stomach during the night, so I watched what I ate today.  Breakfast was a piece of toast, some cheese for lunch, and 1/2 chocolate shake for supper.  I checked my blood and everything seemed fine.  I will check again in the morning and see how it is.  I consumed lots of water.

December 14, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

The wind blew all night.  This morning it was still blowing and it was cold.  It wasn’t good walking weather, so we went to Todd and Bonnie’s to see if Bill could fix the dishwasher.  They worked for over two hours, but weren’t successful.  He will go back tomorrow and see what they plan to do about it.

We went to Taco Bell for lunch before coming back home for naps.  I am afraid I didn’t accomplish much the rest of the day.  I may have to start limiting my nap times.

Today a package came from Michelle and Meredith.  There is a story that goes back many years.  My aunt, Laura, loved to bake cookies and make other holiday treats.  Every year, she would send us a big box of goodies.  The day the box arrived was a big celebration in our household.

We opened it, and checked out each kind of cookie.  There were usually about ten kinds.  I can remember the names of some of them…Whiskey Cookies, Potato Chip Cookies, and Chocolate Chip Cookies.  She also made Texas Cow Chip Cookies, but being the proper spinster that she was, suggested a nicer name for those cookies might be Meadow Muffins.  She also made very good Pralines and included those, as well.  She would include a bag of “Scrabble” made with Chex cereal, nuts, etc.  I often wondered where my Aunt Laura, being very straight laced and living in a “dry state,” which Texas was at that time, got the whiskey.  Texas is a big state and she didn’t live in a part that might be home to Moonshiners.  Hm-m-m!  It remains a mystery!

When Aunt Laura moved into a nursing home, I took over her job as cookie maker.  The girls and I would include Christmas plates and napkins so if she had company, she could serve them.  When she died, the tradition didn’t die also.  The box of goodies came from Michelle and Meredith today.  The ones I sampled were delicious.  I sent a text of thanks for the goodies, not for the five pounds I will probably gain. 

I know that Lori sent cookies to Brent last year, because she traced them from California to Kansas City to some little town in Kansas, back to KC, etc. etc. etc.  Finally, about six weeks later, they arrived at Brent’s house in Mississippi.  Lori said they were stale and must of been basically crumbs, but it was the thought that counted and Lori was sure they were the best traveled cookies that Christmas.

December 13, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

December 13, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

This morning we went to the Yuma Holiday Inn for a monthly breakfast meeting of Yuma area Geocachers.  We saw a lot of people we had met while caching in this area for several years.  Last year, we didn’t make it to Yuma because of my fun “vacation time” in Mississippi.  So it was extra special to see a lot of familiar faces.

The breakfast was a buffet, with bacon, sausage, potatoes, two kinds of scrambled eggs, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and a platter of fresh fruit.  The things I chose to eat were very good, but my plate wasn’t very full.  That’s the way it is most times lately.

Todd and Bonnie were going to Sunday School before Cowboy Country Church, but we chose to look for a couple of caches.  We weren’t very successful.  I wonder if there is a message in there somewhere.

We met them at Cowboy Church.  The service was short, with lots of country music throughout.  Afterwards, we went to the Claim Digger.  I had a small cup of chicken and noodle soup and Bill had chili.  That was enough to get me through the ride home for a nap.

The Broncos played the Oakland Raiders in Denver.  It looked very cold there, but I didn’t see any sign of snow.  I am very sad to report Denver’s first loss in quite a few weeks…and to the Raiders, no less.  Ugh!  It was humiliating, to say the least.

I was so disappointed I didn’t even call Brent and sniff.  I didn’t want to hear about the Seahawks win.  Actually, Denver made such a pathetic showing they didn’t deserve to win!

December 12, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Bill and I walked to Todd and Bonnie’s this morning.  They weren’t going to walk with us, so we finished going around their block and went back home.  Todd said he needed a day off and Bonnie was going to an Indian Festival with Donnie.  We walked 3/4 of a mile.  We had planned on an afternoon walk, but the wind had come back up again so we stayed indoors.

I had hoped there would be a football game on to watch, but Bill couldn’t find one.  I may suffer football withdrawal sooner than most years.  Tomorrow afternoon, the Broncos play the Oakland Raiders.  They have such a long standing rivalry, so it may be a good game.

Michelle said it was snowing in Loveland today.  That inspired her to get her Christmas decorations out and get the place looking ready for the holidays.

I ask if Tippy was excited about the snow and the decorations.  She said he has been sick for a few days and is kind of draggy.  Bill is glad he wasn’t there for the snow.  I am sad!

December 11, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We woke up to wind and some clouds.  At 11:00, we walked with Todd, Bonnie, and their two little dogs.  The wind was the only problem.  As we headed east around our block, it was breezy, but manageable.  After going north and turning west we knew how the motorhome feels in a head wind.  The wind out of the west was terrific.  And there was some sand off the desert involved.  We were able to make it back to the MH without any major mishaps.  And there was more good news…neither Todd nor I required any rest stops along the way.  We must be getting stronger.

Bill had three errands he wanted to go on.  I wanted to go out to lunch.  So off we went.  We had our route planned out, ending at KFC.  In actuality, we ended up doing the errands in reverse order.  Everywhere we went first wasn’t doable at the time.

We ate lunch first, then made a U-turn and started the errands.  Dollar Tree, which we had completely missed before, was just where it was suppose to be, so as we headed south we parked and went in.
It was a smaller store than we normally go to so we didn’t spend much time there…shopped, checked out, and left.

Several days ago, we had located a cache at a coffee kiosk, but couldn’t open the container.  This morning, they were so busy we just drove on by.  When we went by after lunch, the place was closed, probably because of the wind.  We found that the cache container needed maintenance so we will have to try another day.

Our last stop was at a water kiosk for two 5 gallon bottles of water.  Yuma water is dreadful and Bill won’t put it in the MH tank, so we get big bottles of good water and Bill pours it in.  We could take the motorhome to the kiosk, but that would involve moving the MH.  Bill has figured out a system that works for him, and that’s good!

We stayed in for the rest of the day while the wind blew.  At suppertime, we had sprinkles.  Bill would say a 12 inch Arizona rain…12 inches between drops, but it was nice to hear raindrops on the roof.  And the wind storm had passed through!

December 10, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

To give us a little change of pace, we drove a few blocks to a different neighborhood to walk.  We went south a little ways and parked in front of an empty lot.  We saw some unusual landscaping and very nice houses.  We enjoyed the change of scenery.

We got home in time for a nap before lunch.  I seemed more tired than I have in the last few days.  Don’t know the reason.  Fatigue just sets in.  Same old, same old!

We planned to walk again at 3:00 this afternoon.  Todd called just before “walk time” to say they were stuck in traffic.  A motorhome and its tow vehicle had caught fire on I-8.  We haven’t talked to Todd and it wasn’t on the news tonight so we don’t have any particulars.

Connor is out of school for Christmas Break.  He rode the train from Grand Junction to Denver.  That seems to work really well for them.

A storm is forecast to be coming this way.  Cooler weather and high winds, with a slight chance of a little bit of rain.

December 9, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

While Bill went to do the laundry this morning, I stayed home and did some odd jobs around the “house.”  I had bean soup in the crockpot.  It had been cooking since 4:00 this morning so it was ready when lunch time rolled around.

When the “little old laundry man” got back, we made fairly quick work of getting everything folded and put away.  Sometimes that is a challenge, but today it went smoothly.  It is always good to have that out of the way for another week.

Another job I have been putting off was updating our list of prescriptions.  Unfortunately, I am on a lot of medicine, but can’t see a way to trim it down at this time.  Some of it I don’t take until I need it.  But if I get stung by a bee, I can’t send Bill to a drugstore for medicine.  My epi pen goes where I go.  So does my nitro in case my “ticker” acts up.  Those two things are around for emergencies, but I haven’t had to use them for a long time.  It is nice when things go along smoothly. 

Bill’s Rx list is short, but necessary!  Thank goodness, he hasn’t had as many medical adventures as I have had.  He said he sometimes thinks I am trying to self destruct.  I can assure you, it just happens.  I am not trying to get into the record books.

At about 1:00, we were to go to Todd and Bonnie’s to let the pups have some outside time.  They had dental appointments in Mexico and you never know long that kind of thing is going to take.  It was nearly 2:00 when we got to their house and they had just arrived back home.  I felt like we had let them down.  I know the dogs will not hold it against us, but Todd and Bonnie may not trust us again!

We made a trip to Walmart, but were soon back home for naps.

We had some high thin clouds today and that usually makes for a beautiful sunset.  And tonight we were treated to a beauty!

December 8, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

This turned into one of our busiest days in a long time.  We even “covered” two states.  Of course, that involved several outbursts of uncontrolled honking and yahooing.  Don’t worry, though!  We didn’t break any noise ordinances.  The CRV has a rather wimpy horn.

We had two items that needed to be taken to the Post Office.  The PO here in the foothills was very busy.  At least 25 people were in line to be waited on.  We decided to take the things to the small Post Office in Winterhaven, California.  It was closer than the main one in downtown Yuma, with no line to wait in.  We learned to do that from Dwight and Sheila several years ago.

As we drove back into Yuma, we stopped at Sam’s Club for a couple of items, and filled the Honda with gasoline…$1.95 a gallon.  Of course, being so near In-N-Out we just had to go there for lunch.  We met some very nice people who live in the part of town we are staying in.  We visited with them for quite some time, making it a longer than usual lunch break.  Retirement certainly has its advantages!

Our next stop was at Walmart.  I went in search of flower pots for my new cacti.  It took quite a bit of time to locate them in among all the Christmas decorations.  Bill and I had a mix up as to where we were to meet.  And since he had my purse with my cell phone in it, we had no way to search each other out.  Finally, I had him paged by Coustomer Services.  When he found me, I am nearly positive I saw steam coming out of his ears.  Have you ever seen steam coming from of a pressure cooker?  Well, you get the picture!

We went home for much needed naps.  I had some geocaching questions to ask Todd, so we went to their house for a few minutes.  Of course, the dogs announced our arrival before we got halfway to the door.

Back at home, we watched Zorro, which we had started last night.  We will continue watching a segment or two a night until we finish the entire series.  It is one of our favorite things to do, and usually make an annual event of it!

December 7, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

This was a great day for our Dane Family nine years ago.  Brent had his brain tumor surgery.  He continues to thrive, and as far as the rest of us can tell, he’s happy.  Courtney is an important part of his life and we love her for it.  Coleson and Sara are growing up way to fast.  That’s life!

We all think of Brent often and send positive thoughts his way.  And we don’t care how big and tall he gets, he’s still the baby of the family!

Todd and his Florida/Maine motorhoming friend, Neal, came to walk this morning.  I was a bit draggy and stopped to rest two or three times.  I’ll try to push harder tomorrow.

After lunch, Bill and I set off for Walmart.  On the way, we stopped to find a cache.  It was an easy one to locate.  We went after one more, but had trouble with the directions.  We’ll work on it another day.

After shopping, we came back home to rest and enjoy the remainder of the day.  We are enjoying the warmer weather and sunshine.

December 6, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Bill let me sleep a little bit late this morning.  It is a good thing because we had a very busy day today.

At 11:00, we met Todd and Bonnie for Cowboy Country Church, held at one of the large campgrounds north of the freeway.  The preacher played the guitar.  The fiddle player was excellent.  The first 45 minutes was music with about a 20 minute service.  It was very uplifting. 

Afterwards, we went to brunch.  There were nine of us in our group.  I ordered a short stack of pancakes.  I was served two of the biggest pancakes I have ever seen.  They completely filled the plate.  One of them completely filled me.  I couldn’t even finish the one.  I needed Connor there to help me.  He was my pancake eater when we were moving/traveling to Colorado in 2010.  Lillie, their dog, was with us also, but she didn’t get any pancakes.

I was tired when we got back to the motorhome.  I took a two hour nap.  That’s the longest nap I have had lately. 

We went to Todd and Bonnie’s at 5:30.  They had company from Florida.  They met years ago at an RV park in Daytona, I think.  Bonnie fixed spaghetti and salad for dinner.  Bill and Nancy, friends from Oregon were there also.  Don was there, too.  The table for four seated nine tonight.  We had a good time around the table when the meal was over.

When Bill and I got back to the MH we watched the recording of the Bronco’s game against San Diego.  Denver won.  Yea!  It was the backup quarterback’s third win since he took over for the injured Payton Manning.  It has been exciting to see Osweiler do so well.

December 5, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Bill and I got off to an early start this morning, going in different directions, to different types of activities.  Bill went to a geocache event…CITO (Cache In Trash Out) where members of local clubs clean parks, roadsides, trails, etc.  It is a volunteer service, where, as Sheila says…”cachers giving back to the community.”  Todd went with Bill to represent our “families”…wanderdanes and tobomca1.

While the guys went on that adventure, Bonnie and I went to a Craft Sale at the Yuma Fair Grounds.  There were many beautiful items for sale, as well as books by local authors, and a big plant sale, mostly cacti and other desert plants like that.  It was a big event with lots of people looking around.  Bonnie spent most of her time looking at handmade jewelry items.  I spent most of my time in the plant section, making two purchases, both of them small cacti.

Don, Bonnie’s son from the Bend area, arrived yesterday.  He was our chauffeur.  After the sale, we went to lunch at Sonic.  Bonnie knows how much I like going there.  I don’t think Don shared our enthusiasm, but he didn’t complain.

We were to meet Dwight and Sheila at Cracker Barrel for dinner.  They plan to go up to the Needles, California area for some serious Geocaching.  They are very good at finding long runs of caches.  We introduced them to the sport a month after we started.  They now have over 38,000 caches found.  Wow!  We have just over 6,300.

All in all, it was a very good day for me.  I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and I felt better than I have in a long time!

December 4, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Our walk this morning took us the long way around two blocks to the RV lot where Todd and Bonnie’s motorhome is parked.  I sat on the porch and talked to them while Bill walked home so he could wash the outside of our MH.  I needed the time to rest and he needed the time to be “Mr. Clean.”

He came back to walk me home about 45 minutes later.  The walk today was not quite as comfortable as yesterday’s walk was, but it was an improvement over the week before.  Bill keeps reminding me that I have to keep at it.  Not to give up!  He is not only my cheerleader, but my Task Master!

On our walk home, two neighboring Golden Retrievers came bounding out to see us.  It was fun to spend time with them.  Just like Willie, they loved the attention.  And I loved giving it.

We ate a quick lunch when we got home and went with Dwight, Sheila, and Todd to find a cache.  It was a very different kind that Dwight and Sheila wanted to find with us.  We were successful!  Yippy, Skippy!  We all met back at Todd and Bonnie’s MH to visit.  Tomorrow, there is a special geocaching event that four of our group of cachers plan to attend.  Bonnie and I are going to a craft sale instead.

My headache returned with a vengeance.  I had computer work needing to be done, but guess what?  It didn’t get done!

December 3, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Todd was coming to walk with us at 10:00.  I was well hydrated and ready to go.  I had decided to wear my hiking boots because my feet have been hurting when I wear my worn out tennis shoes.  It was a good choice because my feet felt fine when we got back home.

We went around the block where our motorhome is parked.  I didn’t have to take any breaks to sit down on my walker and rest.  I did stop long enough to take a drink of water several times.  It was my best walk yet, although not as long as some of the other ones.  And I wasn’t dragging my feet at all.  I thought it was a successful walk.

We bought a roasted chicken several days ago.  I have been using it for sandwiches.  This afternoon, after finishing lunch, I took the rest of the meat off the bones.  We drove to a wash…aka stream bed…a few blocks away and put the scraps under a bush.  It was an early Christmas present for the coyotes and the tag said “from Hapa.”  She looks so much like a coyote that people have stopped Meredith to ask about her!  She isn’t as scrappy looking as most coyotes we have seen out on the desert.  She has a beautiful coat of fur, but nevertheless, the resemblance is amazing.

We went to Sam’s Club for gasoline, and of course, that required eating at In-N-Out.  That was our excuse, as if we needed one.  We don’t!

December 2, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

I woke up this morning feeling really crummy.  It was how I feel when I am dehydrated.  So today I have really been pushing the water and it seems to have helped.

I have also backed off on the walking.  Today my total was .25 of a mile.  I have also rested as much as possible.  And my body seems to appreciate all I have done for it today.

Tomorrow I will try to get back to my walking regimin and drink lots of water.  Maybe I will float instead of walk.  At least I will slosh, probably.

Bill met some of our neighbors today.  The ones in the house west of us have two golden retrievers.  Bill doesn’t know their dogs’ names, but I intend to find out.  Their next door neighbors have a golden named Willie.  How about that?  I plan to make some social calls soon.  I miss our Willie so much so maybe I can get a “Willie fix” right here in the neighborhood.  It won’t be the same, though!

This afternoon, we went to the Marine Base to get our passes for the Barry Goldwater Bombing Range.  It was a quick process and they were very nice.  When we actually want to go out onto the Range we have to call at 8:00 in the morning to see if there is official activity planned for the day. 

Tonight, planes were flying over.  (I think they were F16s.  Brent, is that right?)

December 1, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Another month has flown by.  That seems to be the story of our lives.  And we just keep on keeping on.  That’s our motto, I guess!

This morning, we went for a longer walk than usual.  I was really tired when we got back to the motorhome.  After lunch and some rest time, Dwight and Shiela came back with several sheets of cache names and numbers.  They also brought several sets of maps.  Dwight put all the coordinates in our Nuvi and in the Garmin Oregon T.  All these things will be extremely helpful to us in getting us back in the Geocaching routine.  Thanks, Dwight and Sheila!

Bill and Dwight drove our cars to Todd and Bonnie’s house.  Sheila and I walked.  It brought our total walking distance for today up to 1.10 miles.  That’s my furtherest to walk in a long, long time.  As I walked onto their driveway, I doubted I would make it.  Fatigue set in quickly and I was stumbling and staggering the last few feet.  But I made it without having to call 911.  Yippy, Skippy!

After Dwight gave Todd his list of Geocaching information, we went out to dinner.  The place we use to like to go for Mexican food is now called the Copper Miner’s.  The food was good and certainly plentiful.

When we got back home, the sun had just gone down!

November 30, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

After Bill went to a laundromat, and we got all the clean duds put away, Bill took a long nap.  He was tuckered out!

We ate lunch and then went for a walk.  It wasn’t a very long walk, just around our own block.  I was, however, dragging my feet from the very first step.

My only excuse was that I didn’t get very much sleep last night.  No special reason…I just couldn’t go to sleep!  Just like back in my old school teaching days!

Walmart was on our list today.  We mainly needed groceries.  Our cupboard was bare.  It took us quite a bit of time to get most of what we needed.  Although most Walmarts are arranged very much alike, it always seems to take longer at a different store.  I drove an electric cart, which is always a nerve wrecking experience.

I had planned to take a nap when we got home, but it just didn’t turn out that way.  Other chores kept getting in the way of some snooze time.

We haven’t located very many geocaches recently, but I was getting behind in my record keeping.  Today, I managed to get caught up.  That means it is time to go out on the hunt again.

November 29, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

When Dwight and Sheila came to walk this morning, they had a cache they wanted to take us to first.  It was out on the desert and required tromping across the sand.  I made it just fine until I came upon a rattlesnake, coiled and ready to strike!  Yikes!  Not to worry though.  It was a rubber snake guarding the site.  A very clever place to hide a cache!

When we got back to where our motorhome is parked, we set out on a walk.  I felt much better as we walked.  Better than I have felt in a long time.  That was encouraging!  But, alas!  After lunch and naps we went out to walk again and my left leg was really tight.  I was discouraged after such a good morning, but Bill tried to cheer me up. 

Todd told me I was walking too much.  Now that’s “the Pot calling the Kettle black.”  He may be able to walk further and faster than I can, but he’s been at his recovery routine longer and more seriously than I have.  But the gauntlet has been thrown.  The challenged put to me.  So watch out, Todd.  Here comes a determined Raymonda!

We took two RXs to Walmart on our way to eat dinner at In-N-Out.  When we got back home, we watched the Bronco game being played in the snow…in Denver.  They were playing New England.  The snow was coming down harder in the second half.

(I called Michelle to see if they were having snow.  She said not yet, but they were expecting the white, fluffy stuff to come their way before long.)

Denver pulled the game out in overtime.  It was a great way to finish the day!

November 28, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Happy Birthday, Matthew.  17 years old.  Wow!  I was there when you were born.  From the time you first started to talk, you have had a unique way of expressing yourself.  Example…when your family moved to Colorado and you experienced your first snow, it was just barely covering the ground, but no accumulation.  You called it a “skinny snow.”  There was never any doubt what you were talking about.  We called that the world according to Matthew!

We heard that Loveland had snow on Thanksgiving Day, but it didn’t sound like a “skinny snow.”  It sounded like a real, honest to goodness snow!

This morning, the “group” (Todd and Bonnie, their two little dogs, Dwight and Sheila, and Bill and I) gathered at 10:00 for a walk.  We went around a different block.  This afternoon, Todd and one of the pups came at 3:00 for a walk.  Our block was the chosen route.  Today, we walked a total of 1.20 miles.  We are trying to make each trek just a little bit further.

After the morning walk, Dwight and Sheila took Bill and me to find a cache.  Todd had found it yesterday and thought we would enjoy it.  We drove a short way out onto the desert south of Yuma.  There under a bush was a wooden box.  Under the box was a large evil looking black rubber rat.  Yuck!  Actually, it was a very clever geocache.

At Todd and Bonnie’s, we finished the leftovers from Thursday’s dinner.  It was as good as before, and tonight I didn’t feel stuffed.  Just right!

November 27, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Todd and Bonnie came at 12:00 today to go for a walk.  Dwight and Sheila came, too.  Bill and Dwight stayed at the motorhome to work some more on our electrical problem.  The rest of us “hit the pavement.”  We walked around our block, which is 1/2 mile.

The guys were able to get the lights working.  I’m not sure what the final diagnosis was, but everything now works as it should.  It has been several months since all our ceiling lights have worked.  Now they do!  Yippy, Skippy!

After eating a quick lunch and taking a short nap, we met back here at 3:00 and all six of us walked the block again.  That made a total of a mile for me for today.  It certainly is nice to have friends to walk along with, and to have beautiful scenery to enjoy along the way.

Bill and I started watching the Oregon Ducks game when we got back.  At 5:45, we went to Todd and Bonnie’s house for leftovers.  The food was good, but the fellowship was the best part.

When we got back to the MH, we watched the last two minutes of the “Civil War” between the Ducks and the Beavers from Oregon State.  The Ducks won, 52-42.  Yea!!!!!!

November 26, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Happy Thanksgiving!  We’ve had lots to be thankful for all these past years, but this one is just about one of the best.  Bill has been an absolute blessing for me.  I have required a lot of help since my heart attack.  He has been wonderful!  And the love of our kids and grandkids continue to help us in so many ways.

Dwight and Sheila came back to help Bill with his problem wiring.  Actually Sheila came back to walk with me.  That way we weren’t around to offer suggestions to the guys.  For some reason, they didn’t seem to want or need our help.  We walked in our neighborhood.  There are some beautiful desert houses in this part of Yuma.  We walked just a little over a half mile, which was a long way for me.

When we got back home, Sheila realized how tired I was and sent me to take a nap.  When I woke up an hour or so later, they had gone to Todd and Bonnie’s house where we were all meeting for Thanksgiving dinner.  We were last to arrive, but the turkey needed to cook longer, so we just sat around and talked and laughed.  Of course, Bill had a new routine of jokes, so he was our main entertainment.  I didn’t have much to add to the fun.

We had a wide variety of the usual Thanksgiving dishes, most of which tasted a bit different from our usual “Dane” fare, but was very good, nevertheless.  We didn’t leave the table hungry.  Of course, there were lots of leftovers that should taste extra good tomorrow.  That is one of the best things about “turkey day.”

It got dark and cool outside, so some of the people built a fire in the fire ring and sat around outside and listened to the coyotes howl.  I stayed in the warm house and visited.  When I get chilled it is very hard for me to get warm again.

It was a fun, pleasant day, for which I am thankful!

November 25, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

We got up early this morning to go to Walmart before the crowds hit.  It crowds weren’t too bad, but we weren’t able to get everything we wanted.  We decided to go back home, eat breakfast, and go to Sam’s Club.

While I was eating, I watched Good Morning America.  I was so comfy I covered with a blanket, got nice and warm, and went to sleep.  An hour and a half later, I woke up.  Bill was doing all sorts of odd jobs around the house while I was asleep.  I must’ve really been out, because I didn’t hear a thing.

We went on to Sam’s Club, took care of our shopping, filled the CRV with gas, and since it was nearly lunch time, we went to In-N-Out!  That all worked out honky dory, don’t you think?  As we went home, we chose to go on the “lower” road which took us past fields of lettuce, broccoli, and good things like that.  We are always amazed at the amount of farming in this area.

Dwight and Shiela pulled into the driveway just after we did.  It is always nice to get to visit with them.  I would say that they are our oldest friends, but I’m not sure exactly how old they are!  Anyway, we’ve been friends for a lot of years.  Bill and Dwight talked electrical stuff, and Sheila and I talked family.  They know all our grandkids, especially JP and Natalia.  I had a lot of stories to tell about all the kids.

They plan to come back tomorrow so Dwight can help Bill.  I hope I can talk Sheila into going for a walk around our neighborhood.  Then we are all going to Todd and Bonnie’s for Thanksgiving dinner.

November 24, 2015—An RV lot in Yuma, Arizona

Happy Birthday, Coleson.  Seventeen years old, already.  It seems like only yesterday you were asking us all sorts of questions…like…”Pa, when you were in the Army, did you have hair?”

Tonight when I called Coleson to tell him Happy Birthday, I couldn’t believe how mature he sounded on the phone.  When did my geocaching grandson grow up?  I have tears of joy and pride in my eyes just telling you about it.

Bill and I had one main goal for today…to find a place to park the motorhome for the next three or four months.  Bonnie had been scoping out places in their neighborhood.  We drove around looking at the ones she thought might be good possibilities.  It was confusing for me because I couldn’t remember what we had looked at earlier.  There were plus and minus things about each one. 

I saw a sign about a block further on, and when we drove down to look at it, we were both impressed.  I can’t quite explain about it, but it just felt right to both of us.  We talked to the owner and were comfortable with him.  Imagine our surprise when we discovered he was wearing a Seaside, Oregon t-shirt.  His parents owned a beach house in Seaside when he was a little boy.  He still likes to go there when he can.  That’s a “small world story,” eh?

We went back to the campground, took the MH for propane and diesel, and then drove to our new parking spot for the winter.  Bonnie called to invite us for dinner.  We had yummy food, as usual, and lots of talking and laughing.  Todd and I have some of the same health issues and we were comparing notes.

We came home in time to watch the last night of Dancing With The Stars.  Our favorites, Derek and Bendi won!  They were extra special every week.

November 23, 2015—Tucson to Yuma, Arizona

Yesterday, I sent you a copy of Lori’s e-mail, so you know her concerns.  Michelle always says, “Don’t get arrested.”  Meredith usually rolls her eyes, throws up her hands, and says, “MOTHER!”  Brent, when he hears we are going out onto the Barry Goldwater Bombing Range, says “Please don’t start WW3.”  So far, I think they have about covered all the bases!

We had an appointment with Premier Motor Coach Services at 8:00 this morning.  We were there on time, but it was after 8:30 before
they took the coach into the workshop.  If we’d known that, I could’ve had more sleep.  Oh, well!  When they had finished putting the new front air bags on, they cooked us a hamburger to take with us, and that kind of made up for the tardiness, though not as good as if it had been In-N-Out.  But as my grandmother use to say, “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth!”

As we traveled north on I-10, we got to see how much Tucson has grown that direction.  We turned west on I-8 and headed for Yuma.  After checking into a campground, Bill spent three hours trying to get our DISH programs set up.  It was very frustrating.  I was completely stressed about the entire thing.  I was really wanting to watch the final dances on Dancing With The Stars.  The program was into the second hour when Bill and “someone from somewhere” were able to get our problems solved.  What a fiasco?

Tomorrow we will try to find a place to park the motorhome for the next three or four months.  There are lots of possibilities in this area.  We want to see what it will be like if we have to stop running around the country and perhaps become snowbirds…half the year in Loveland and half in Yuma or wherever we choose.  It will be an interesting year.

November 22, 2015—Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

November 22, 2015—Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

Every year, as we get nearer and nearer to the desert of Arizona, our children begin to fret.  Hm-m-m!  I wonder why?  Today, this e-mail came.  It will give you just a sample of the tight rein they try to keep on the six of us.  It usually doesn’t work, but they just keep trying.

    Dear Bill, Raymonda, Dwight, Sheila, Todd and Bonnie,

    I have been elected to represent the children of the Danes, Meeks and McAllister's.  OK,  I      actually  drew the short straw. Anyway....it is time for our annual talk.  Not the talk that         you parents had with us as children at the age of 12,  but equally as necessary.

    That being said,  here goes......   When the six of you get together, common sense has a     way of conveniently vanishing.  Yes, we know that it is fun to go off roading and tearing         through the Arizona countryside without abandon, but please do so at a rate of speed         that doesn't strip the trees of their leaves.  Please, please, please use caution when         poking around for a particularity hard to locate geocache.  Let's be more clear.              Raymonda, that means you.  As for you other five, you've all done it and been lucky.          Let's not push that luck, ok?  To avoid choking while eating due to excessive laughter,         especially if Dwight is wearing sunglasses, please cut your food  into small pieces and         chew thoroughly.  Better yet, maybe you should stick to yogurt and applesauce when         more than three of you are gathered together.

    We love you dearly, but good grief, you might be the death of us.

    Stay safe, have fun (within reason) and enjoy your friends.

    Love,

    Lorri

So we have been warned.  We’ll see if any of us listened!

November 21, 2015—Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

There was a small county fair at the Fairgrounds this morning.  We walked about a block to the first building of display booths.  Quite a few of the booths were concerning local health services.  We met a lot of nice people, but because we don’t live here, most of it wasn’t available to us.

We came home at noon to rest and eat lunch…and to watch the Oregon Ducks play USC…and win, 28-48.  It was a good game, from Oregon’s point of view.  The Ducks started the first half a little slowly, but soon took control of the situation.  The second half was pretty much the same as the first…starting with both teams playing well, but the Ducks took off again and just about ruled the game to the end.

Bill ask what I wanted to do about supper…translate that to mean “Where do you want to go eat?”  I was still helping the Oregon fans cheer and when I threw my hands in the air, Bill said, “Ok!” 

We were soon on our way to In-N-Out!  And it is still a good place to eat!  At the rate we are going, we will be eligible for the Guinness Book of World Records!

November 20, 2015—Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

Fabulous Friday weather here in Tucson today.  We enjoyed the warm weather and the sunshine.

There were several errands needing to be taken care of in Tucson.  We had planned to go by the place that will install our front air bags, but by the time we got there, it was noon and people were at lunch.  We decided to follow suit, and go to In-N-Out for lunch.  It was still very good, and very busy.  They are quick with orders so we were soon on our way to Costco, another place on our list.

It was a large store and I got very tired after walking around nearly the entire store.  It was a lot of walking and I still tire out very easily.  I sat on a cement bench and waited for Bill to load the car and come to get me.  A lady saw me sitting and ask if I needed help.  I thought it was kind of her, but I told her my chariot was on its way.

We went back to Priemer Motor Coach to ask some questions.  As I got out of the Honda I had a fight with a tree…and the tree won!  Since I wasn’t bleeding I didn’t get any sympathy, but the top of my head still hurts.  I told Bill since I have injured my head so many times, the branch probably couldn’t penetrate the scar tissue!

Tomorrow, a community is having a small fair here at Pina County Fairgrounds.  If we can gate crash, we might be well entertained.

November 19, 2015—Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

We woke up on our first day back in Arizona to blue skies and wind!  We were so glad to be off the road today.  We have had enough of driving in the wind to last us a long time.

A Walmart has been built about a mile north of the Fairgrounds.  It is the smallest new Walmart we have ever seen.  The grocery section was so limited.  The city of Tucson didn’t want a “big box” store in this part of town.  It was really limited.  Tomorrow, we will go into Tucson to a larger store to finish our grocery shopping.

After our naps, I worked for some time on our IRA distributions for 2015.  Ever year Bank of America causes problems.  There was a B of A branch about two miles from here.  We went to try to get the problem solved.  The worker was very helpful and we were soon on our way back home with the money in hand.

We finished the day by watching a Tennessee Titans football game.  Bill wanted to see Marcos Mariota play.  He did OK I guess, but they lost the game anyway.  He was one of our favorite Oregon Ducks players.                                                                                                                                                                  

November 18, 2015—Deming, New Mexico to Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona

We left Deming at 7:00 this morning…cold, but calm.  I can deal with cold. I’m wrapped in a blanket, with a heating pad on my back.  I don’t know what the pioneers had to complain about.  This is a “not so bad” way to travel.  (Insert smile!)

Normally, when we cross the Continental Divide we are in mountainous terrain.  Not in this part of New Mexico, which is very flat.  There are mountain ranges in the distance, so maybe the “divide marker guy” (er, make that “person”) just drew a line from the mountains to the North to the mountains to the South and called it “close enough for government work.”

When we crossed into Arizona, our State Line Celebration was a good one.  Bill had been practicing honking the air horns for the last several miles, and I added some arm motions to my “yahooing.”  I’d guess that means we are glad to be back in Arizona.  We didn’t get here last year because of my health shenanigans and my love for Mississippi grits!  (Insert shudder!)

We stopped at Texas Canyon Rest Area for naps and lunch.  The rock formations are so interesting.  Big horn sheep live in the rocks. Sometimes we see them, but not today.  Maybe it was nap time for them, too.  If they have trouble going to sleep, do they count people?  Hm-m-m-m?

Just before getting to the main part of Tucson, we went to the Pima County Fairgrounds Campground.  After checking in and parking the MH, Bill gave the Honda a good scrubbing.  It was really dirty after being drug through three days of miserable weather.   I helped by staying out of his way and taking a nap!

When I got up from my nap, Bill ask me if I wanted to go to In-N-Out for dinner.  Now, you who know me, know that he had asked me the most unnecessary question he could have asked me.  Well, of course, my answer was “yes.”  And it didn’t take me but a split second to answer.  Now, we were both surprised that the burgers tasted as good as we remembered.  Yum, yum!  I feel sure it won’t be our last visit!





                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

November 17, 2015—Dream Catcher RV Park, Deming, New Mexico

Before dawn this morning, strong winds rocked the motorhome.  After we got out of bed and the sun came up, the wind continued to blow, about 30 miles an hour.

We decided we should stay off the Interstate for the day and hope things calmed down.  The Escapee RV Club we belong to has an RV Park, the Dream Catcher, at the east edge of Deming.  After breakfast, we checked in to a spot with full hooks.  If the really cold  temperature predicted makes its way here tonight, we would like to be able to use our electric blanket.

The high winds continued to blow all day long so we were glad to have a safe place for the night.  Bill made a trip back to Walmart to shop for a few items.  I stayed home and took a mid morning nap, followed by a long hot shower at the campground shower facilities.  I certainly felt better after those two luxuries.

We didn’t accomplish much for the rest of the day.

November 16, 2015—Socorro to Deming, New Mexico

We left Socorro at 9:15 this morning.  Rain had begun to fall and the clouds above us were very dark and low.  We had a prediction of wind, but haven’t had much yet.  There was a beautiful rainbow to the west at the base of the mountains. 

Not long after we left Socorro and got onto I-25, we began to encounter some wind.  By the time we got to Truth or Consequences…locally know as T or C…we were hit by strong cross winds. 

We left the Interstate at Hatch, Chili Pepper Capital of the World, and took Hwy. 26.  We have taken this cutoff to Deming before and found it an enjoyable shortcut.  Not so today!  The wind got stronger and stronger.  We were soon driving through a terrible dust storm.  And then, guess what?  Rain started to fall.  We were driving in “mud balls.”  We’ve never been in anything like it.  There was no place on this little road to pull off and wait for the wind to calm down.

Bill was absolutely exhausted.  Just after getting into Deming, we stopped for fuel.  When Bill got back into the motorhome after pumping the diesel, he was so cold from the wind, I thought he was going to be sick.

We parked at Walmart.  Although it was just after noon, the lot was beginning to fill up.  And RVs and trucks just kept pouring in.  Make that “blowing in.”  We were glad to be off the road.  Bill said it wasn’t a fun day of driving at all!

Our plans for tomorrow will be determined by the weather when we wake up!

November 15, 2015—Santa Fe to Walmart, Socorro, New Mexico

I was really tired last night when I wrote my blog.  I forgot to mention the fact that the Oregon Ducks beat Stanford in a very good game.  It was exciting, from start to finish.  I was late getting the blog posted because I kept going to sleep with my hands still on the computer keys.  I really had to watch for words spelled incorrectly.  I had some very funny spellings of my “nap” words. 

We left Jim and Peggy at 9:15 this morning.  I usually have a lump in my throat when we part, because I never know when I’ll see them again.  Today was no different!

When we were about half way to Albuquerque, rain started to fall.  It lasted on our trip south on I-25 almost to Socorro, where we pulled into the Walmart parking lot.

Our plan was to put the DISH up as quickly as possible and watch the NASCAR race from Phoenix.  Well, it was raining in the Arizona desert as well as in this area, and the race was over six hours late starting.  The track had to be dried, which took a long time.

While we were waiting for the race to start, we switched over to the football game from Denver.  The Kansas City Chiefs came to Mile High Stadium to play, but someone forgot to invite the Broncos.  They were able to score two touchdowns late in the game, but before that things were pathetic, to say the least.

Meanwhile, back in Arizona, the racetrack was able to dry sufficiently enough to allow the green flag to wave, but after a few laps past halfway, the sky opened up and the rain came down in buckets.  An attempt was made to dry the track again, but there was just too much water falling.  The race was called…ended… by NASCAR and everyone was walking around looking like “drowned rats.”

November 14, 2015—Jim’s house in Santa Fe, New Mexico

At noon, Jim and I went on some errands.  Our first stop was at Burger King to get energy for the rest of afternoon.  We stayed longer than we should have because we were just visiting and having a good time. 

Our next stop was at Home Depot. I stayed in the truck and spent my time people watching while Jim went in to shop.  Santa Fe certainly has some interesting looking people… just like anywhere else. 

Jim had one more stop he wanted to make before we went back home.  He has started doing a new process I'm his photographs.  It is a process using melted wax.  His teacher, Angel, was teaching a class when we went in.  We were able to watch.  It was a very interesting.  He has been using this method for about four months.  He has already gotten quite good it.

We got back home in time for to rest before going out to dinner.  The best part of the meal was the sopapillas.  Yum, yum!

November 13, 2015—Jim’s house in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Today is Friday the 13th.  It is the day that many people around the world will not forget, especially in France.

Yesterday, my blog was written on the dictation program that came with my new MAC Computer.  It was much faster, but will take some getting used to.  I will need to learn to think in sentences rather than in phrases.  I used to have an eight track mind, but no more.  I told my brother, Jim, that I now have a one and a half track mind, so I have to work on that.  I also need an off/on switch for Bill.  I am amazed at how much noise there is in this little tiny house of ours.

It looks as if are visit here in Santa Fe may be shorter than we had anticipated. There is a snow storm headed this way, followed by several days of wind.  Both of those kind of weather are not what Bill thinks of a good driving situation.  We will decide when we get weather reports after tomorrow!

Jim gave me some good information on diabetes.  He also gave me some good websites.  I appreciate any help I can get.  At this point I continue to be confused about what it is okay and what isn’t. 

We spent sometime this evening watching reports from France. What a fiasco!  All the bombs and shootings sound like something out of a movie.  Perhaps that is part of the problem.  So many movies and TV programs, as well as video games, have desensitized much of the population. 

November 12, 2015—Jim and Peggy’s house in Santa Fe, New Mexico

I slept late this morning because I was still tired from our trip.  It was nice to not have to get up and head down the highway. The trip here to Santa Fe laws about 450 miles.  In the “good old days” that would have been a one-day trip for us.  No more!  Neither one of us have as much stamina as we used to.

Bill and Jim had an errand to do at noon.  I went in the house and spent time visiting with Peggy.  We never seem to run out of things to talk about.  She is working on a quilt, so that took a lot of conversation time.  She has a fancy new sewing machine and showed me some things she could do with it.

Jim and Peggy had a community meeting to go to tonight. They are wanting to extend the bike trail into Santa Fe.  Peggy would like that because she would like to be able to ride her bike to town, but she doesn't like to ride out on the highway.  I don't think anything was decided, but it sounded like a typical town hall meeting anywhere.

The weather has been cold all day. Peggy made a big crock pot full of soup that cooked all day long. It really hit the spot. This is perfect soup weather.

November 11, 2015—Trinidad, Colorado to Jim’s house in Santa Fe, New Mexico

It was 36° when we left Trinidad at 6:50 this morning.  Cold, but no snow or wind.  The climb over Raton Pass was easy, with very little traffic.  Bill and I can remember when the Pass was a two lane road and we were in our Porsche with the top down.  I think that is called the “good old days,” but these are the “good new days” for us!

By the time we got to the Rest Area where we planned to stop to eat breakfast, a really strong cross wind was blowing.  When the road veered west we had a full head wind, reported at 70 mph.  That sucks the diesel out of the MH in a hurry.

We got to Jim and Peggy’s house at about 12:00.  It didn’t take long to get the Motorhome parked and set up with electricity, etc.  Bill had to call DISH to have our major network service transferred from Denver to Albuquerque.  That always takes time.

Peggy had a meeting to attend.  Jim and I spent the time catching up on the events of the past year.  I had a lot to ask him about how he handles his diabetes treatment, which he has been aware of for 10 years.  I got some good hints and suggestions.

I was able to take a short nap, so I was somewhat rested by dinnertime.  We had lasagna, salad, and French bread…one of my favorite meals.   

November 10, 2015—Loveland to Walmart, Trinidad, Colorado

We left Michelle’s driveway at 9:30.  It was cold with clear skies.  We hope to be able to beat the snow storm that’s headed this way.  Oh, yes!  We are singing along with Willie Nelson as we go “on the road again.”  That’s probably one of our favorite songs.

We stopped at Cabela’s north of Denver to use their dump station.  While Bill was taking care of that chore, I put away the dishes he had washed earlier this morning.  With those things out of the way, we got back on the Interstate going south.  Bill was really dreading the drive through Denver.  Although he had white knuckles most of the way across the city, traffic wasn’t as bad as we have seen it.  No stop and go, or construction to deal with.

South on I-25 was Pueblo where we planned to stop for fuel, to eat some lunch, and take naps.  Each thing was a welcome event.  I was really hungry by the time we got to the lunch part of the schedule.  I am trying to eat snacks more often, but sometimes it doesn’t work out that way.

Trinidad was about as far as Bill thought he could drive, and by the time we got there, he was feeling his 80 years. In past years, I would have done part of the driving, but now, in my present health condition, when I volunteer to take my turn, he turns pale and breaks out in a cold sweat.  Hm-m-m-m-m!  Do you think that translates to “NO?”

250 miles traveled today.  And we were fighting the wind most of the day.  No wonder the driver and co-pilot are so tired tonight.

November 9, 2015---Parked in the driveway, in front of Michelle's house.

Both Bill and I accomplished quite a lot today.  Mainly, I was “uncluttering.”  When we stay at one location for any length of time, we tend to kind of spread out with our possessions.  As our departure time draws closer, we start putting things where they belong when we are in travel mode.

Bill put some of the finishing touches on the running parts of the motorhome.  Oil changed, new filters, water tank filled, etc.  He actually worked too hard today and was so tired by dinnertime I thought he might go to sleep and fall in his mashed potatoes and gravy.

Meredith and the pups came this afternoon and stayed for dinner.  Sadly, we said goodbye to them tonight.  Weather permitting, we will head south midmorning tomorrow.

November 8, 2015---Parked in the driveway, in front of Michelle's house.

After staying up past midnight watching the Ducks win their game last night, we slept late this morning.  It was 9:00 before we turned off the electric blanket and crawled out of our nice warm bed.  Bill fixed French toast for breakfast and it certainly did taste good.  He is a very good cook.

Lori came at noon and she and Michelle went on a couple of errands.  They went grocery shopping at Walmart and King Soopers.  Wow!  What an adventure!  Actually, Lori, being a great Bronco fan, wanted to check out specialty foods for “tail gate parties.”  She thought there would be lots of things, like desserts…cakes, cookies, donuts, etc. decorated in Bronco colors and logos.  She was very disappointed to find virtually no items.  I guess the next time she comes during football season, she’ll need to set up a roadside stand and start up a business.

At 2:30, Michelle, Lori, and I went to Origins where Meredith was working today.  She had arranged to get off work when we came to watch the football game between the Broncos and the Colts on their big screen TV.  It wasn’t a Jumbotron or anything like that, but it is several times larger than what we have in the motorhome.

Natalia and her boyfriend, Garrett, joined us.  We ordered a variety of things to eat during the game.  The food there is really good.  They serve different items and we sampled several of them.  It was a fun place to spend an afternoon.  The girls all had matching Bronco shirts and took a picture to send to Brent.  As you know, he is a Seahawk fan.  His comment was, “Can you return those to the thrift store or does the homeless shelter allow that?”  He doesn’t let them get away with much!  By the way, Denver lost by three points.

Brent called me tonight and we talked for a long time.  We also laughed a lot.  That kind of phone call really makes me happy.  Michelle had been to the MH earlier and asked what we wanted her to cook for our last dinner here.  We chose chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, and biscuits.  Brent said I should have ask for liver and onions.  I was certainly disappointed that my sense of humor has slowed down so much that I didn’t think of it.  I missed my chance!

Harolene called today to ask some things about my diabetes problems.  I think you can tell I really need help with my diet.  She suggested I see a nutritionist, and I think she is right.  We’ll see about that when we get to Yuma.

November 7, 2015---Parked in the driveway, in front of Michelle's house.

At 9:00, Lori, Michelle, and I left for Denver and IKEA.  The weather was cold, but dry.  Traffic was terrible.  Stop and go heading south (us) and two hours later, stop and go heading north (us, again)!  We shopped as quickly as possible, considering I was one of the shoppers.  I’m slower than I should be…not my choice.

Our only stop on the way back to Loveland was at the Costco just north of Denver.  We ate lunch and then I sat at the table while Michelle and Lori shopped.  Just before we got to the exit for Loveland, we all had to slow down to look at a wreck on the opposite side of I-25.

Not much else was accomplished the rest of the day.   Soon it was time to watch the Oregon Ducks play against the Cal Bears.  It was a late game, not starting until 8:30.  The Ducks won, 44 to 28, finishing after midnight.  Quack, quack!

November 6, 2015---Parked in the driveway, in front of Michelle's house.

It was cold this morning when Bill and I set out to do a few errands.  We had several things to take care of at US Bank.  Bill had a deposit to make while I talked to our personal banker, Kim.  As usual, she was very helpful.

From the bank, we went by the Library to return some books.  Since we are planning to leave Loveland on Tuesday, we are trying to get some of the things that are cluttering up the MH taken care of.

Our last stop for the morning was at Walmart to get one of my prescriptions refilled.  We also bought several items that weren’t on the list when we last shopped at Wally World.  It really is a chore getting into “go mode.”  We are grateful for so many Walmart stores along the way, because we invariably forget things.

Not long after we got back to the motorhome, snow started to fall.  At first it was very light, but as it continued to snow the next couple of hours, the flakes got bigger and increased in volume.  But alas, it was melting just about as fast as it fell.  I lay down for a short nap and when I got up, the snow had stopped falling and the sun was trying to peek out.  Rats!

David came for my last PT session.  He will be missed, but I promised to keep trying to gain strength.  He has been a tremendous help to me.

November 5, 2015—-Parked in the driveway at Michelle’s house

We had rain most of the night.  It got really cold, but not enough to produce snow.  Maybe a few flakes, but if so, they didn’t last long.

Lori sent a text message saying she had landed in Denver.  The next message said she had rented a car and was headed for Loveland.  Soon, she pulled into the driveway.  Since Natalia was working today, Lori spent most of the day with us.

After visiting in the motorhome for a couple of hours, we left Bill at home to eat a PBJ sandwich and take a much needed nap.  Lori and I went to Panera Bread for soup.  It was a great day to spend eating hot soup while by a fireplace, catching up on each others lives.

We have three friends whose mothers are very sick.  Karen’s mother is here from Flordia to recuperate from cancer, David’s mother died after a lengthy illness, and Candie’s mother continues to fight with cancer.  It seems strange that everyone has old mothers in need of extra help.

Lori left at about 5:00 to meet Natalia for dinner.  She will spend the night with her and go some places tomorrow since Natalia doesn’t work tomorrow.  Lori will call if they have time to get together with us.


We had rain most of the night.  It got really cold, but not enough to produce snow.  Maybe a few flakes, but if so, they didn’t last long.

Lori sent a text message saying she had landed in Denver.  The next message said she had rented a car and was headed for Loveland.  Soon, she pulled into the driveway.  Since Natalia was working today, Lori spent most of the day with us.

After visiting in the motorhome for a couple of hours, we left Bill at home to eat a PBJ sandwich and take a much needed nap.  Lori and I went to Panera Bread for soup.  It was a great day to spend eating hot soup while by a fireplace, catching up on each others lives.

We have three friends whose mothers are very sick.  Karen’s mother is here from Flordia to recuperate from cancer, David’s mother died after a lengthy illness, and Candie’s mother continues to fight with cancer.  It seems strange that everyone has old mothers in need of extra help.

Lori left at about 5:00 to meet Natalia for dinner.  She will spend the night with her and go some places tomorrow since Natalia doesn’t work tomorrow.  Lori will call if they have time to get together with us.

November 4, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

Off and on today, I worked on my “winter clothes/summer clothes” project.  It certainly is tiring.  Part of the problem was that I had to stand up a lot.  That is something I don’t do very well these days.  My legs get very tired and weak.

I spent quite a lot of time resting.  Rain was falling and it sounded so nice on the roof.  I think several times it put me to sleep.  That’s my excuse, anyway.

We got an e-mail from Dwight and Sheila.  They are still in the insanity of the LA and San Diego area.  And still geocaching like crazy people.  They will have lots of adventures to tell about.

This was kind of a “throw away day” for us.  I don’t have anything interesting to write about.  So I will just say “good night.”

November 3, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

The weather hasn’t changed much in the last few days, but there is still a chance we might have snow while Lori is here.  Some of us are hoping we have at least a few flakes, but one of us is hoping we don’t!  Guess who that is…right…Grandpa!

Bill got my containers of winter clothes out of the cabinets above the bed.  I went through the smallest one, but that is as far as I got.  I will get an earlier start tomorrow and try really hard to get the job finished.  I think quite a lot of stuff will be going to the Habitat Thrift Store. 

Bill and I went for a walk this afternoon.  I got very tired.  I think I need to try to remember to have a snack before I set out to do a little exercise.  I still don’t have a good grasp of how all this fits into the diabetes food deal.  David comes tomorrow, so maybe he can give me some pointers.  If it is nice weather, we plan to go for a walk.  It most likely will be my last time to work with him on PT before Bill and I head south.

After dinner, Bill and Ron got on the subject race cars.  Michelle was loading the dishwasher, so when I had had my fill of RPMs and gear ratios, and a lot of nonsense like that, I went to talk to her.  It is getting dark so early now that I didn’t want to walk to the MH by myself for fear of falling.  But soon, Bill came to my rescue and we went home!

November 2, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

The Great Mouse Hunter reported that there is one less Mickey around today.  He also thinks there aren’t any other little critters hiding anywhere.  I hope that isn’t just wishful thinking on the part of the Hunter.

I felt really good this morning so I worked on “clutter control.”  Well, apparently, I over did it.  I was so tired I could barely walk.  While I rested, Bill went to do errands.

Lindsay came at noon.  She answered most of my questions about diabetes.  I am most concerned about what I can eat and what I should avoid.  Of course, I know sugar is a no-no, but I’m not up on carbohydrates.  She was really a big help.

About two hours later she came back for Show and Tell.  She brought her little boy, Owen.  He is nearly 14 months old.  He’s absolutely adorable, with big blue eyes and a smile on his face.  I had ask her several times to bring him to see me and she had promised me she would.  Well, we hope to depart in a week, so when she finished all her home visits, she picked him up from the babysitter and brought him to see me.  My goodness, he’s so cute…and such a happy little fellow.  She will come next Monday for her last visit.

David came about an hour later.  I was really tired when he left.  Some of my exercises are difficult to do.  I will see him on Wednesday.  Then I’m on my own.

November 1, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

November already!  Yikes!  Where did October go?

The temperature was predicted to be 72° today.  I don’t think it made it, which was fine with me.  I haven’t had the time or energy to get any of my cold weather clothes out yet.

Bill and I went to Walmart this morning.  I used one of their power carts and went to several different parts of the store.  That resulted in shopping longer than we had anticipated.  We also had several  prescriptions to be picked up. 

When we got back to the MH the NASCAR had already started.  It was a good race.  Jeff won!

Meredith  invited us for a cookout…hamburgers and all the trimmings.  We also watched the first half of the Bronco game against Green Bay.  We came home in time for me to peck out my blog before going to bed. 

October 31, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

Happy Halloween!

It was very cool and crisp this morning.  But the sun was shining and the sky was clear blue.  A perfect Fall day. 

Michelle, Matthew, and I went to Target.  He needed a jacket and I was looking for pajamas for Bill, a purse for me and Bill…too, and sheets for our bed in the MH.  Our next stop was at the Nike store at the Loveland Outlet Mall.  I stayed in the car while Matthew and Michelle went in to shop.  They were soon finished and back to the Honda.  That was quick.  The first pair of shoes fit and were comfortable.  Wow!  That was a first!

Matthew suggested Arby’s for lunch.  That’s always a good choice to our way of thinking.  Today was no different.  When we left with happy tummies, we decided to go back home for naps before finishing the things on our list.

I wasn’t able to sleep, but I rested and that was what I needed.  We went to Walmart to get some of my meds and candy for Trick or Treaters.  It took us a long time to check out.  By the time we got back to the car, I was really tired.

Our last stop for the afternoon was at the Library.  We each checked out several books before heading back “to the old corral.”

Bill and I didn’t have any kids in costumes, probably because we had the lights out while we watched Maverick and the Lazy Ace series.  I think Michelle’s doorbell only rang a few times, which was good.  With every chime of the bell, Tippy went into orbit!  He had a big job tonight keeping everyone in the house safe from all the ghosts and goblins!

October 30, 2015—-Parked in the driveway, Michelle’s house

Two day ago, I thought I saw a mouse.  I had been napping on the sofa. Sometimes, in situations like this, I don’t always see things correctly.  Later, Bill discovered pecans carried from our pecan basket and stored under the dash behind our map drawer.

Early yesterday morning, Bill saw the “criminal” in action, transferring his stash we had removed yesterday. The Mighty Mouse Hunter threw a Kleenex box at “Mickey.”  Although it wasn’t the most effective of weapons, it was certainly preferable to the remote control or his Mac computer, the only other options available at the time.

The Hunter set a trap in Mickey’s hiding place.  Guess what!  That little furry thief ate the Snicker piece on the trap without springing it.  He must be a smart little critter.  Bill will set more traps tonight.  Stay tuned for further developments.

This morning, I had an appointment with Dr. Huneycutt.  I have been having problems with diarrhea.  Of course, there are still concerns with my lack of balance, my fatigue, and now intestinal problems.  And today, I added diabetes .  It has been a concern for sometime, but It came on faster now.  I will have some lifestyle changes to make.

David came this afternoon.  We went for a walk.  We walked more than twice as far as we usually do.  That was encouraging to me.

October 29, 2015—-Parked in the driveway at Michelle’s house, Loveland, Colorado.

Ron and Joshua came out to watch the Oregon Duck play Arizona State University.  It didn’t start until 8:30 p.m.  It was an exciting game with the lead going back and forth.  In the third Overtime, Oregon intercepted in the end zone to win the game.  Yea!  It was 12:40 a.m.

I called Brent to cheer.  He didn’t think his heart could have taken another OT.  It was 1:40 a.m. at his house!

October 28, 2015—-In the driveway, Michelle’s house

When we got up at 7:00 this morning, the temperature was 32°. Ice was on the car, but no snowflakes were falling.  Br-r-r-r-r!

We had meant to do some more errands, but I just didn’t want to leave our nice warm motorhome and go out into the cold.  We have a catalytic heater which Natalia calls our fireplace.  Bill got it out of one of our basement storage compartments and hooked it up.  We rely on it a lot during the winter, especially when we are dry camping.  Otherwise, we have a gas furnace, two heat pumps, and a small electric heater.  And an electric blanket on the bed.  We usually keep mighty toasty. 

David came just after lunch.  We worked on exercises to help me with my balance.  Although I seem to be doing better in most areas, my balance is still a problem.  Bill has always said I was half a bubble off level, but I don’t think that applies to my current balance problems.

Meredith came for dinner and to get the pups.  After we finished eating, we sat around the table with Joshua and Matthew and remembered funny stories about all of our dogs, both past and present.  It was a fun time!