Sitting down to do our blog this morning when Rob told me to come outside. There is a large group, pod, herd or whatever you call a bunch of seals out on a sandbar below us!
We are still coming up highway 101 along the coast. It is just how I expected Oregon to be. Craigy rocky shoreline with fabulous views of the ocean when you round the corners. The surprise has been the area of giant sand dunes! I would like to come back in 10 years to see where they have drifted. You can see where whole trees have been covered. In one spot they are starting to encroach on the village and highway!
The towns have either been/are harbours or logging centres. Did see some awful clearcutting, just like B.C.. The villages/towns are quaint and picturesque. Very charming. Rob even detoured when I spied a quilt shop so I could see what they had.
We stayed in a KOA last night sitting high on a sand cliff overlooking a lagoon. When the tide goes out there is quite the sandbar that shows up and hence the seals or they could be sea lions as there is a place called Sea Lion Caves that you can go to see them. This KOA is very quiet right now. We must be travelling on the shoulder season. A lot quieter than the previous day!
Tuesday 3 May 2011
May 1/Brookings Oregon
Having been told by our friend, Flo, to watch for the local herd of Humbolt Elk as we headed north towards the Oregon border we were really keeping an eye out. She had told us that they usually hung out around this old red schoolhouse. We passed what we were sure was it but no elk. However, there is a place north of there where there is a sign posted telling you that there are elk in the area. So we stopped at the park, coaxed Daisy into the camper and went off in search of these elk. We did a 2.5 mile hike through towering redwoods, ferns and lots of climbing. Even saw a waterfall. It really was quite the hike. Those trees are HUGE and to get so up close and personal... it was quite something! But, alas, no elk. So we freed Daisy from the camper and started heading back out to the highway when what to our wondering eyes should appear but a small herd of elk grazing in the field. There was probably about 20. It was hard to get pictures as they were so focussed on eating! But did manage to get a couple.
The scenery is full ohs and aws as we twisted and turned catching sight of the ocean or huge trees.
Stayed at what we think is a municipal campground. It's right on the ocean at the port with great views. A little busy with the cars and trucks circling. We had the feeling of deja vu of another campground we had stayed at in Saskatchewan ( but that's another story for another time). It is a lovley park with lots of grass and long beach. The harbour even sprts to immense lazy seals. i take them to be harbour seals (haa haa)The weather was great, meaning no wind and lots of warm sun. Although, I've still had to but the flannel sheets back on. Really not liking this cooler weather! I like my shorts and sandals! Even my lovely tan is starting to fade.
The scenery is full ohs and aws as we twisted and turned catching sight of the ocean or huge trees.
Stayed at what we think is a municipal campground. It's right on the ocean at the port with great views. A little busy with the cars and trucks circling. We had the feeling of deja vu of another campground we had stayed at in Saskatchewan ( but that's another story for another time). It is a lovley park with lots of grass and long beach. The harbour even sprts to immense lazy seals. i take them to be harbour seals (haa haa)The weather was great, meaning no wind and lots of warm sun. Although, I've still had to but the flannel sheets back on. Really not liking this cooler weather! I like my shorts and sandals! Even my lovely tan is starting to fade.
Saturday 30 April 2011
April 30/Eurika
Left the campsite heading for the Avenue of the Giants. They are not kidding! it is another winding , twisty secondary road but those Redwoods are breath taking. Tall and majestic. One thing about the Americans... they knew a good thing and were smart enough to preserve it. We travelled about 60 miles of these awesome giants following the Eel River. Now, there were some kitchy, touristy displays. Such as the 1 log house, the tree house, another drive through tree, and the miracle tree (it's survived, fire, flood and logging). It took about 2 hours of very scenic viewing.
The only thing that is bothering me is that we have gone from shorts and sandals to jeans and jackets. Not too sure I'm liken this! The sun is still shining but the wind is still blowing. Can't seem to get away from it.
Our friend, Flo, from the Kingman KOA had recommended diferent sights around this area. One of the many suggestions was to have a meal at the Samoa Cookhouse. We did just that tonight for supper. We were not disappointed! It is a surviving logging camp cookhouse that is now a restaurant. They serve everything family style at long tables. There is no menu. You get what ever they are serving. Tonight it was homemade soup, salad, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, roast pork and gravy, corn and spice cake.
They rolled us out of there and we are now laying out here at the KOA just north of Eurika moaning and groaning.
It looks like we are heading for Oregon tomorrow. Can't believe we've been on the road for a month!
The only thing that is bothering me is that we have gone from shorts and sandals to jeans and jackets. Not too sure I'm liken this! The sun is still shining but the wind is still blowing. Can't seem to get away from it.
Our friend, Flo, from the Kingman KOA had recommended diferent sights around this area. One of the many suggestions was to have a meal at the Samoa Cookhouse. We did just that tonight for supper. We were not disappointed! It is a surviving logging camp cookhouse that is now a restaurant. They serve everything family style at long tables. There is no menu. You get what ever they are serving. Tonight it was homemade soup, salad, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, roast pork and gravy, corn and spice cake.
They rolled us out of there and we are now laying out here at the KOA just north of Eurika moaning and groaning.
It looks like we are heading for Oregon tomorrow. Can't believe we've been on the road for a month!
April 29th
Highway 1 is everything they promised. Windy, twisty, scenic up and down. I think of you, Nancy, and Cheryl! Wow! They can sure make hairpin corners down here! But the scenery.... bluffs overlooking the Pacific with small villages. Still can't figure out where the people are or where they shop.
Did stop in a couple of spots to get some shots of the ocean and even saw a mother seal with 2 pups.
Then we turned inland to Highway 101. Still windy but huge redwoods. We even saw for ourselves the tree that you can drive through!! Our truck wouldn't fit but we saw cars that went through. It doesn't look that big until you see it for yourself!
Stayed in a campsite along the Eel River. Nice sites but the bathrooms were a little sketchy!
Did stop in a couple of spots to get some shots of the ocean and even saw a mother seal with 2 pups.
Then we turned inland to Highway 101. Still windy but huge redwoods. We even saw for ourselves the tree that you can drive through!! Our truck wouldn't fit but we saw cars that went through. It doesn't look that big until you see it for yourself!
Stayed in a campsite along the Eel River. Nice sites but the bathrooms were a little sketchy!
Friday 29 April 2011
April 28/Highway 1
Said good-bye to the peacocks and goats ready to see the Pacific Ocean. It started with great promise. Saw what we thought would be the first picturesque ocean village complete with the seaside restaurant. Little did we know that would be our last! It is a very scenic drive with lots of coastal cliffs and great twists and turns on the 2 lane road. We did have to go through some road work where they were fixing the road. Not sure if that was were it had gone into the ocean or were making sure it doesn't. The winds don't want to leave us! Very gusty! There are small villages that we went through but it looks like fine dining and wine tasting not to mention the inns with spas seem to be only places to eat. Not a fish and chip stand in view! It isn't what we thought it was going to be.
We have camped out at a small, crowded campground on a little bay called Caspar Cove.
We have camped out at a small, crowded campground on a little bay called Caspar Cove.
Thursday 28 April 2011
April 27/San Franscico
It felt great spending a day just camping out. The two previous days were long and grueling with lots of miles covered. We did see lots of country though! The only beef about the campground was that they didn't have their pool open yet!! What the....! I had to lay out in my chair but that was okay.... got some quilting done and worked on my tan at the same time.
Met a nice couple that had been from the Toronto area originally but had lived in MapleRidge for a while and still use it as their mailing address. But they are really full time RVers. They go from campground to campground working. They gave us some tips on Highway 1, such as the best place to pick it up to get to the coast and how to get trhough San Franscico.
Well we made it through San Franscico and over the Golden Gate!!! It was the Billy Bob Economy Tour (no stopping, pictures taken from moving vechicle). We did stop long enough for a pee break (thank goodness for that) and get our picture taken with the bridge in the background. Was surprised at how cool it was. Still accustomed to that desert weather.
This KOA is the nicest we've stayed in so far! Also, the most expensive! They even have us wearing wrist bands. Rob figures they only do it to us old people so if we wander off they know where to return us! It does have lots of green grass and big trees. I guess we didn't realize how starved for greenery we were after being out in the desert for so long (almost 2 weeks).
Guess what Sofia? There are peacocks here! I feel like we are camping out in Beacon Hill Park! They have a petting zoo with lot s of animals and the peacocks roam free. Daisy isn't sure of what to make of them! There is even a playground almost the same. This is a great spot for families.
So we're off to the Pacific Ocean and the state parks. They are forcasting sunny (I don't think they have any othe kind of weather) but with wind gusts (what else is new). but the temperatures are supposed to rise to the mid 80's by the middle of next week. It get quite cool at night!
Met a nice couple that had been from the Toronto area originally but had lived in MapleRidge for a while and still use it as their mailing address. But they are really full time RVers. They go from campground to campground working. They gave us some tips on Highway 1, such as the best place to pick it up to get to the coast and how to get trhough San Franscico.
Well we made it through San Franscico and over the Golden Gate!!! It was the Billy Bob Economy Tour (no stopping, pictures taken from moving vechicle). We did stop long enough for a pee break (thank goodness for that) and get our picture taken with the bridge in the background. Was surprised at how cool it was. Still accustomed to that desert weather.
This KOA is the nicest we've stayed in so far! Also, the most expensive! They even have us wearing wrist bands. Rob figures they only do it to us old people so if we wander off they know where to return us! It does have lots of green grass and big trees. I guess we didn't realize how starved for greenery we were after being out in the desert for so long (almost 2 weeks).
Guess what Sofia? There are peacocks here! I feel like we are camping out in Beacon Hill Park! They have a petting zoo with lot s of animals and the peacocks roam free. Daisy isn't sure of what to make of them! There is even a playground almost the same. This is a great spot for families.
So we're off to the Pacific Ocean and the state parks. They are forcasting sunny (I don't think they have any othe kind of weather) but with wind gusts (what else is new). but the temperatures are supposed to rise to the mid 80's by the middle of next week. It get quite cool at night!
Tuesday 26 April 2011
April 25/ Sequioa National Park
Left Visalia around 10:00 am to see the giant Sequoias. We went from the lush orchards and started climbing. The start elevation was under 1,000 ft and by the time we hit the sumit it was around 7,000 ft.! And lots of snow... don't know what we were thinking... we should know there would be snow in the mountains in April!! Rob had socks and underwear flying to dig out his longjohns! But I had hidden them well. The twists and turns to get to the top (not to mention the construction) had Daisy looking at the back of the seat! We were literally up in the clouds! And the trees!!!! They are astounding! What those loggers must have thought! There's one sequoia that took 2 men 13 days to cut down. Imagine that! So what goes up must come down. So down we came and started looking for a campsite... how hard can that be? Where are they when you want one? So we drove and we drove and we drove! We finally hit one at Los Banos, just off of Highway 5 at about 8:00 pm. Boy were we glad... that was too long of a day! So tomorrow, if the wind dies down we are going to plant ourselves here for an extra day just to unwind.
April 24/Visalia
What a long day! Rob and I were tired of the desert and the wind so we went over the mountains to see what we could see... and saw an amazing change in the geography. From barren desolate desert to huge orchards of oranges and olives. The sweet aroma from the organge groves is devine. To me it almost smelled like clover but Rob described it as almost like wintergreen. There are little fruit stands along the way selling everything from oranges, tangerines to olives and almonds and honey. We stopped at one and picked up a huge bag of navel oranges and some jars of olives. The oranges are as big as grapefruits and so succulent you have to have a napkin to catch the juice.
But it was a long trip... we didn't reach the campground until almost 7:00 pm. Too Long a day!
But it was a long trip... we didn't reach the campground until almost 7:00 pm. Too Long a day!
Sunday 24 April 2011
April 23/ Barstow California
We had quite a chat with one of the residents of the campsite. Flo was her name and she seems like quite the character. She originally came from northern California and was a fountain of information on the area. She even gave us maps that she had and told us of the interesting places to visit. Sounds interesting!
So we put the camper back on the truck, packed up again and headed west. It really was gusty and dusty. Can see why no one lives out there. Very barren and arid with mountains off in the distance. At one point we thought there had been a huge grass fire but apparently it is cooled volcanic lava from about 20,000 years ago. Not even much cacti or even scrub bushes.
California's rest stops leave alot to be desired! There was only 1 open in all the miles we travelled. I guess because they are so out in the middle of nowhere that they are hard to keep an eye on. The only one that was open had the doors taken off all the stalls except one and the hand driers were all broken.
When we finally made it it to Barstow the wind and dust was awful. We had to sit behind our camper and finally with the plastic bags and garbage flying around we retreated to the inside.
Supper was fun though! We went to a 50's diner called Peggy Sue's. The place looked like something out of the 50's with the waitresses dressed in costume of the old uniforms, right down to the caps on their heads! Quite the place... filled with memorabilia of Elvis, Betty Boop, Lucy and even the Wizard of Oz. It sure was a lot bigger than it looked from the outside.
So we put the camper back on the truck, packed up again and headed west. It really was gusty and dusty. Can see why no one lives out there. Very barren and arid with mountains off in the distance. At one point we thought there had been a huge grass fire but apparently it is cooled volcanic lava from about 20,000 years ago. Not even much cacti or even scrub bushes.
California's rest stops leave alot to be desired! There was only 1 open in all the miles we travelled. I guess because they are so out in the middle of nowhere that they are hard to keep an eye on. The only one that was open had the doors taken off all the stalls except one and the hand driers were all broken.
When we finally made it it to Barstow the wind and dust was awful. We had to sit behind our camper and finally with the plastic bags and garbage flying around we retreated to the inside.
Supper was fun though! We went to a 50's diner called Peggy Sue's. The place looked like something out of the 50's with the waitresses dressed in costume of the old uniforms, right down to the caps on their heads! Quite the place... filled with memorabilia of Elvis, Betty Boop, Lucy and even the Wizard of Oz. It sure was a lot bigger than it looked from the outside.
Saturday 23 April 2011
April 21/Las Vegas
Beautiful sunny morning, bit windy though. Left nice and early for the 11/2 hour drive to Las Vegas. Spent at least 1/2 hour trying to find a parking spot. Didn't realize Vegas was so big! Did a walk up 'The Strip" with Daisy, used the bathroom at the Venetian, turned around and drove back! All and all I figured out it was at least 4 hours to use the potty! This is what I call the "Billy Bob Economy Tour".
But it wasn't a total loss... we stopped at the Hoover Dam.... were told that Daisy wasn't allowed out of the truck and couldn't be left alone so we drove over the dam got lots of pictures from the truck! I don't think I would have been comfortable anyway, way too HIGH for me! The winds were really gusty too, so it was a good thing we didn't have the camper on! They even had wind warnings posted on the highway!
So wer're going to spend tomorrow hangin' at the campsite. Catch some sun and do some quilting (sorry Amy still haven't got the new one's quilt finished yet).
But it wasn't a total loss... we stopped at the Hoover Dam.... were told that Daisy wasn't allowed out of the truck and couldn't be left alone so we drove over the dam got lots of pictures from the truck! I don't think I would have been comfortable anyway, way too HIGH for me! The winds were really gusty too, so it was a good thing we didn't have the camper on! They even had wind warnings posted on the highway!
So wer're going to spend tomorrow hangin' at the campsite. Catch some sun and do some quilting (sorry Amy still haven't got the new one's quilt finished yet).
Wednesday 20 April 2011
April 20/ Lake Havasu and London Bridge
After freeing the truck from the camper we decided to head south about 60 miles to see Lake Havasu and the world famous London Bridge.
The weather is still unbelieveable with sunshine, no rain but the odd gust of wind. Very much the desert climate.... dry, dry and hardly any grass.
Lake Havasu was just a small spot until this very wealthy man decided to buy London Bridge, disasemble it, ship it over here and reassemble it. It took about 3 years and 7 million dollars! Lake Havasu is now a vacation destination especially for Californians.
London Bridge was smaller than we anticipated and connects an island with the mainland. When you see it you think that it's a canal or a short river with sand beach shores and walkways all along. Lots of condos and resorts but they have kept 2 public waterfront parks for the common folk. There is even a doggy park but being over proctective 'parents' we wouldn't let Daisy loose.
It was very busy today with lots of families, college age kids and boats, boats, boats. All shapes and sizes! both in bodies and boats.
We walked the waterfront walkways enjoying the sights. Daisy of course making friends all round. What is it about beagles that everyone like. All in all it was relaxing day.
The weather is still unbelieveable with sunshine, no rain but the odd gust of wind. Very much the desert climate.... dry, dry and hardly any grass.
Lake Havasu was just a small spot until this very wealthy man decided to buy London Bridge, disasemble it, ship it over here and reassemble it. It took about 3 years and 7 million dollars! Lake Havasu is now a vacation destination especially for Californians.
London Bridge was smaller than we anticipated and connects an island with the mainland. When you see it you think that it's a canal or a short river with sand beach shores and walkways all along. Lots of condos and resorts but they have kept 2 public waterfront parks for the common folk. There is even a doggy park but being over proctective 'parents' we wouldn't let Daisy loose.
It was very busy today with lots of families, college age kids and boats, boats, boats. All shapes and sizes! both in bodies and boats.
We walked the waterfront walkways enjoying the sights. Daisy of course making friends all round. What is it about beagles that everyone like. All in all it was relaxing day.
April 19 Getting our Kicks on Route 66
Going from Williams to Kingman we decided to take the historic route of Route 66. Seligman is near the beginning, just off of Interstate 40. My, it's quite the spot! From the old gas station to the dairy bar and several other businesses in between. What a riot! Thank goodness, for I fear that the town would really have died. There were 2 or 3 buses of sightseers that stopped at the same time as us. Rob stopped at a hot dog stand, chatted up the woman working it and found out she had worked at Red Lake for a summer. You just never know! Got lots of pictures then hopped in the truck and continued on to Hackberry which consisted of many, many old relics of vehicles plus one hot looking corvette!
All in all it was quite the road trip!
Now we have set camp up in Kingman, even taking off the camper!
All in all it was quite the road trip!
Now we have set camp up in Kingman, even taking off the camper!
Monday 18 April 2011
April 18th Grand Canyon
When we left Phoenix yesterday, it was a sunny 85+. Then we headed west and started climbing. By the time we arrived in Flagstaff we had hit an altitude of 7,000 ft. What a change in scenery and climate. Still sunny but cooler. Surprised though, that there was still cacti out there. Now it's pines and thin pastureland.
We ended up at a KOA just outside Williams yesterday. They have an indoor pool but so far haven't tried it out.
Today we headed to the Grand Canyon.... we've seen pictures, movies, T.V., ... even watched an IMAX movie at the National Geographic visitor's centre today... but nothing prepared us for the real thing!!!!
It is mind blowing!! It is so overwelming you just want to cry! I've never seen anything that compares to it! And we only saw a small part of it!! TOTALLY AWESOME!!
It was very busy there but it's National Parks Week so it was free admission and also a lot of the kids are on Easter break. So parking at some of the look outs was next to impossible for us but we still managed a few stops. Have the pictures to prove it!
Tomorrow we are heading along Route 66 to Kingman. We are looking at camping out there for a few days to take day trips to see more of the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, London Bridge and the Hoover Dam!
We ended up at a KOA just outside Williams yesterday. They have an indoor pool but so far haven't tried it out.
Today we headed to the Grand Canyon.... we've seen pictures, movies, T.V., ... even watched an IMAX movie at the National Geographic visitor's centre today... but nothing prepared us for the real thing!!!!
It is mind blowing!! It is so overwelming you just want to cry! I've never seen anything that compares to it! And we only saw a small part of it!! TOTALLY AWESOME!!
It was very busy there but it's National Parks Week so it was free admission and also a lot of the kids are on Easter break. So parking at some of the look outs was next to impossible for us but we still managed a few stops. Have the pictures to prove it!
Tomorrow we are heading along Route 66 to Kingman. We are looking at camping out there for a few days to take day trips to see more of the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, London Bridge and the Hoover Dam!
Saturday 16 April 2011
April 16
Can't believe we've been on the road 3 weeks already! It seems at times that we've been travelling for months. It's hard to think that it's still cold and snowy at home. Right now it's about 75 but will keep dropping to about 56 by morning. It was in the 90's here in Phoenix today. This is one of the most different camp grounds we've stayed at. There are so many different varieties of cacti. Some of them are even flowering. I guess this really is desert country!
Yesterday we left Benson to visit Tombstone and surrounding area. The wind had quit blowing and was very pleasant. As you can see by the pictures it is quite the place to visit. Daisy was quite the hit with everyone including the cowboys!
In the morning we had chatted with a lovely couple visiting from Australia. They had camped next to us. They told us about a place south of Tombstone called Bisbee that had a special campground for Air Stream trailers with an authentic '50's diner. This town is down close to the Mexican border and has a huge copper mine. So we decided to check it out and see if there was a campground that we could stay overnight at. After a missed turn or 2 we found the little campground of Air Streams. They have redone several of the models and rent them out as units. Unfortunately the diner was closed and so was the little campground. The town of Bisbee is really quaint. It is literally built into the sides of the hills. We did a little tour through but the streets were very narrow and made parking impossible for us. The houses were painted different colours and were quite colourful. I'm sorry I didn't get any pictures. I would like to visit again and get a better view of it. I did manage to get a couple of pictures of the mine..... it's HUGE and still operating!
So long story short we ended back at the campground in Benson.
Oh yeah.... we were stopped by the Border Patrol... they even had a canine unit! We had to show our passports and the young lady made a fuss over Daisy!
So today we headed to Tuson and then on a scenic route north to Phoenix. We are camped at a KOA 40 miles east of Phoenix called Apache Junction.
Tomorrow we are heading north to Flagstaff. It's supposed to be a little cooler, so today we soaked the sun up and even went for a dip in the pool.
Yesterday we left Benson to visit Tombstone and surrounding area. The wind had quit blowing and was very pleasant. As you can see by the pictures it is quite the place to visit. Daisy was quite the hit with everyone including the cowboys!
In the morning we had chatted with a lovely couple visiting from Australia. They had camped next to us. They told us about a place south of Tombstone called Bisbee that had a special campground for Air Stream trailers with an authentic '50's diner. This town is down close to the Mexican border and has a huge copper mine. So we decided to check it out and see if there was a campground that we could stay overnight at. After a missed turn or 2 we found the little campground of Air Streams. They have redone several of the models and rent them out as units. Unfortunately the diner was closed and so was the little campground. The town of Bisbee is really quaint. It is literally built into the sides of the hills. We did a little tour through but the streets were very narrow and made parking impossible for us. The houses were painted different colours and were quite colourful. I'm sorry I didn't get any pictures. I would like to visit again and get a better view of it. I did manage to get a couple of pictures of the mine..... it's HUGE and still operating!
So long story short we ended back at the campground in Benson.
Oh yeah.... we were stopped by the Border Patrol... they even had a canine unit! We had to show our passports and the young lady made a fuss over Daisy!
So today we headed to Tuson and then on a scenic route north to Phoenix. We are camped at a KOA 40 miles east of Phoenix called Apache Junction.
Tomorrow we are heading north to Flagstaff. It's supposed to be a little cooler, so today we soaked the sun up and even went for a dip in the pool.
Thursday 14 April 2011
April 14th
Here we are camped out in Benson, Arizona just outside of Tuson. We really enjoyed Las Cruces. We went to the downtown to their farmer's market. I was a little disappointed... I thought there would be more. Apparently Saturdays are bigger and busier. However, I did find a great quilter's shop. unfortunately I couldn't find what I wanted. In the afternoon we went to the old part of the city that was a square with shops and resaurants. I even got to do some shopping but I missed my girl buds!
We left earlier than usual.... I think it's the time changes we've gone through. The terrain started off flat with mountains in the distance but as we got closer to Arizona it started to get rockier and steeper.
We did get to see an unusual sight... about 70 hot cameros pulled into a rest stop! What a sight! All colours and all decked out. They were heading for a car rally outside of Tuson.
It has been quite windy the last couple of days. Today so much that we ended up in the camper. it was even starting to bother Daisy! But the sun keeps shining and the temperature is in the low to mid 80's! One thing we did see that we couldn't figure out though .... were all these dead palm trees! We were talking to one of the shop owners (they even let Daisy in their shop) and they told us of that cold snap in Febuary that went through the southern states. The frost killed thousands of them they told us even a lot of the cacti.
Tomorrow we are going to check out Tombstone and some other sights around here. So we may be here for a couple of days or so.
We left earlier than usual.... I think it's the time changes we've gone through. The terrain started off flat with mountains in the distance but as we got closer to Arizona it started to get rockier and steeper.
We did get to see an unusual sight... about 70 hot cameros pulled into a rest stop! What a sight! All colours and all decked out. They were heading for a car rally outside of Tuson.
It has been quite windy the last couple of days. Today so much that we ended up in the camper. it was even starting to bother Daisy! But the sun keeps shining and the temperature is in the low to mid 80's! One thing we did see that we couldn't figure out though .... were all these dead palm trees! We were talking to one of the shop owners (they even let Daisy in their shop) and they told us of that cold snap in Febuary that went through the southern states. The frost killed thousands of them they told us even a lot of the cacti.
Tomorrow we are going to check out Tombstone and some other sights around here. So we may be here for a couple of days or so.
Tuesday 12 April 2011
La Cruces, New Mexico
We left San Antonio yesterday mid morning. We are definately going to come back! Really impressed with the city and the campground. Also, we can't say enough about the friendly, helpful people that we have met on the road. Take yesterday, for example, we had stopped at a gas station to refuel and got talking to a gentleman that was heading in the opposite direction. He just happened to mention to us about a great little campground in Fort Stockton, Texas. What a find! It's really in the middle of nowhere and surrounded by dry scrub and cacti but was a pleasant surprise. It had a little cafe that only serves breakfast and supper with only about 5 selections on the menu. We each had the dinner special of mesquite ribs with mashed potaoes, beans, brown gravy (the other choice was white) and a slice of lemon loaf for dessert all for the sum of $7.95 each! And it was REALLY good! Then the bathrooms..... you opened the door thinkingyou are going to find a normal bathroom but it opened to a hallway with private baths on each side.... with tubs even!! Really cool!
The scenery has really changed... from lots of green around San Antonio to drier, flatter then to rolling and drier still.
Unfortunately it is very dry..... the cook at the cafe told us it hasn't rained there in about a year! We did see the smoke from some grass fires just south of us and then there were warning signs on the highway about smoke danger from the huge fires around Fort Davis which is also south of us. There is an observatory there that they were concerned about. So there was lots of haze and the odd time we could actually smell the smoke.
We drove through El Paso .... didn't realize how big it is! Saw lots of Border Patrol Police. We thought of you ,Amy, when you were on the Green Tortoise tour and tried to remember if you had followed the same route. It's very green there but we could see lots of irrigation being used. Lots of pecan orchards and it looked like lots of dairy also.
We are now in La Cruces, New Mexico enjoying another KOA campground for the next 2 days. We are situated on the top of a hill overlooking the city. What a view, especially after dark! I've tried to take some pictures but i know they won't do it justice.
They have a fenced "doggy playground" here. We turned Daisy loose with 2 other dogs. My oh my! the dust flew and everyone got along just ripping and tearing around! Daisy is now laid out in her bed with hardly enough energy to keep an eye on what we're doing!
Tomorrow we are going to venture into the city to visit the farmer's market that is every Wed. and Sat. Really looking forward to that!
It's really staring to look deserty now with mountains and lots of varieties of cacti!
The scenery has really changed... from lots of green around San Antonio to drier, flatter then to rolling and drier still.
Unfortunately it is very dry..... the cook at the cafe told us it hasn't rained there in about a year! We did see the smoke from some grass fires just south of us and then there were warning signs on the highway about smoke danger from the huge fires around Fort Davis which is also south of us. There is an observatory there that they were concerned about. So there was lots of haze and the odd time we could actually smell the smoke.
We drove through El Paso .... didn't realize how big it is! Saw lots of Border Patrol Police. We thought of you ,Amy, when you were on the Green Tortoise tour and tried to remember if you had followed the same route. It's very green there but we could see lots of irrigation being used. Lots of pecan orchards and it looked like lots of dairy also.
We are now in La Cruces, New Mexico enjoying another KOA campground for the next 2 days. We are situated on the top of a hill overlooking the city. What a view, especially after dark! I've tried to take some pictures but i know they won't do it justice.
They have a fenced "doggy playground" here. We turned Daisy loose with 2 other dogs. My oh my! the dust flew and everyone got along just ripping and tearing around! Daisy is now laid out in her bed with hardly enough energy to keep an eye on what we're doing!
Tomorrow we are going to venture into the city to visit the farmer's market that is every Wed. and Sat. Really looking forward to that!
It's really staring to look deserty now with mountains and lots of varieties of cacti!
Sunday 10 April 2011
San Antonio, Texas
Have we been pleasantly surprised by this city! We were expecting cacti and cowboys and got gobsmacked! This is a city of over 2 million in population!
We arrived Sat. afternoon with temps in the mid 80's at a terrific KOA campground with pool and a great brand new walking trail that goes by and is supposed to eventually be 27 miles. It was VERY hot last night , even poor Daisy spent the night panting. Was cooler this morning and had a great morning walk with her. Rob and I found out that you can pick up the city bus that takes you right downtown. Thanks to wonderful older couple that we met at the bus stop who gave us advice and directions on what to see and do it was great. The downtown is amazing! They have really worked at it and it shows! There's a river that goes through the city core and they have built small bridges and have large to huge trees growing with any kind of eatery you can imagine. We had our first taste of Mexican cuisine and yummy is all I can say. And to top it all off we actually saw the Alamo! Have to download the pictures .... can hardly wait to see how they turn out!
To top the day off had 2 swims in the pool! And tonight the air conditioner is staying on! Daisy and I have out voted Rob!
So tomorrow we are heading west on Highway 10 towards El Paso. Lots to look forward to!
We arrived Sat. afternoon with temps in the mid 80's at a terrific KOA campground with pool and a great brand new walking trail that goes by and is supposed to eventually be 27 miles. It was VERY hot last night , even poor Daisy spent the night panting. Was cooler this morning and had a great morning walk with her. Rob and I found out that you can pick up the city bus that takes you right downtown. Thanks to wonderful older couple that we met at the bus stop who gave us advice and directions on what to see and do it was great. The downtown is amazing! They have really worked at it and it shows! There's a river that goes through the city core and they have built small bridges and have large to huge trees growing with any kind of eatery you can imagine. We had our first taste of Mexican cuisine and yummy is all I can say. And to top it all off we actually saw the Alamo! Have to download the pictures .... can hardly wait to see how they turn out!
To top the day off had 2 swims in the pool! And tonight the air conditioner is staying on! Daisy and I have out voted Rob!
So tomorrow we are heading west on Highway 10 towards El Paso. Lots to look forward to!
Saturday 9 April 2011
April 9th
Sorry to have been out of touch! Unfortunately not every campsite has wi fi or even bathrooms for that matter!
We are now in a very cute touristy town called Rockport, Texas. Not far from the ocean, no beach but apparently there's lots of fishing here!
The Texas info centre has tons of info and the girl there drew Rob a map showing the scenic off the trail route to Corpus Christi. We even had a creepy moment there when a young man approached Rob for change saying him and his wife had just come from New Orleans, ran out of gas and his debit card wouldn't work. Rob gave him some change and when I joined them he quickly left! Then he totally disappeared! I had Rob check the camper, even the biffy, just in case! Too many murder mysteries! I even looked for him around the parking lot to see if he had approached anyone else but he had totally vanished.... creeepy!
So we headed onto a place called Crystal Beach and acccording to the brochure a great camp ground "within walking distance" to the beach. Well! They should be reported to the Better Business Bureau.... I should have taken pictures! We felt like were were in a parking lot and there were no bathrooms! We could walk to the ocean.... about a km.. The woman in charge told us we could eat across the road at this bar. Lots of vehicles... no windows....people smoking inside... dark.... no food!
Needless to say we left at the crack of dawn! Crossed onto Galveston Island via a free ferry and within and hour or so were sitting on this gorgeous sand beach at a state park! It was just lovely! unfortunately didn't realize how powerful the sun was.... got a little lobstery! But it was worth it! Miles and miles of sand beaches and the ocean.Daisy is a little intiminated by the waves but enjoyed chasing these black brazen birds that are a lot like our crows only have a better call. You can't leave anything that might be edible. The homes all along the shoreline are up on stilts but very colourful. I will post some pictures of them later. They reminded me of Victoria. I wished we could have stayed longer but the park was booked solid for this weekend as there is going to be a bike race. One thing about Texas, so far, it's flatter than piss on a platter! Wow!
So I'm doing laundry and then I think we are going as far as Corpus Christi then start heading north towards San Antonio to pick up Hwy 10. We still have so much to see! Can't believe we've been on the road for 2 weeks already and the sights we've already seen!
We are now in a very cute touristy town called Rockport, Texas. Not far from the ocean, no beach but apparently there's lots of fishing here!
The Texas info centre has tons of info and the girl there drew Rob a map showing the scenic off the trail route to Corpus Christi. We even had a creepy moment there when a young man approached Rob for change saying him and his wife had just come from New Orleans, ran out of gas and his debit card wouldn't work. Rob gave him some change and when I joined them he quickly left! Then he totally disappeared! I had Rob check the camper, even the biffy, just in case! Too many murder mysteries! I even looked for him around the parking lot to see if he had approached anyone else but he had totally vanished.... creeepy!
So we headed onto a place called Crystal Beach and acccording to the brochure a great camp ground "within walking distance" to the beach. Well! They should be reported to the Better Business Bureau.... I should have taken pictures! We felt like were were in a parking lot and there were no bathrooms! We could walk to the ocean.... about a km.. The woman in charge told us we could eat across the road at this bar. Lots of vehicles... no windows....people smoking inside... dark.... no food!
Needless to say we left at the crack of dawn! Crossed onto Galveston Island via a free ferry and within and hour or so were sitting on this gorgeous sand beach at a state park! It was just lovely! unfortunately didn't realize how powerful the sun was.... got a little lobstery! But it was worth it! Miles and miles of sand beaches and the ocean.Daisy is a little intiminated by the waves but enjoyed chasing these black brazen birds that are a lot like our crows only have a better call. You can't leave anything that might be edible. The homes all along the shoreline are up on stilts but very colourful. I will post some pictures of them later. They reminded me of Victoria. I wished we could have stayed longer but the park was booked solid for this weekend as there is going to be a bike race. One thing about Texas, so far, it's flatter than piss on a platter! Wow!
So I'm doing laundry and then I think we are going as far as Corpus Christi then start heading north towards San Antonio to pick up Hwy 10. We still have so much to see! Can't believe we've been on the road for 2 weeks already and the sights we've already seen!
Tuesday 5 April 2011
April 5th
Today we dragged ourselves from the shores of the Mississippi River. The campsite was great with the marvelous walking trail along the bank ( you can't even call it that as it is a lovely wide sidewalk just over a mile one way), going under the double bridge that joins Natchez with Vidalia. Natchez is the money side as is shown in the old mansions that abound there. Near where we stayed is quite run done but don't worry Amy the police station was just down the road and they patrolled quite often. It was quite warm when we got there but today it was only about 60-65. The sun was shining and the birds trilling away as we left.
Then it was onto Frogmore which has been farming cotton since the 1800's on about 1900 acres. The owner and especially his wife has done an amazing job of recreating the workings of a cotton plantion from then to now. She is a very knowledgeable woman and has gone to great lengths to accomplish this. We spent over an hour going on the tour. It's too bad that we couldn't see then actually harvesting as this is done in the fall.
Tonight we are camped on the banks of a pond/lake at a KOA campground just outside of Lafayette Louisiana. When I went into the office to register the woman there admired the purse I had made. One thing led to another and I'm going to meet up with the quilter's guild that meets every Wed. in the rec room. Can hardly wait!
Then it was onto Frogmore which has been farming cotton since the 1800's on about 1900 acres. The owner and especially his wife has done an amazing job of recreating the workings of a cotton plantion from then to now. She is a very knowledgeable woman and has gone to great lengths to accomplish this. We spent over an hour going on the tour. It's too bad that we couldn't see then actually harvesting as this is done in the fall.
Tonight we are camped on the banks of a pond/lake at a KOA campground just outside of Lafayette Louisiana. When I went into the office to register the woman there admired the purse I had made. One thing led to another and I'm going to meet up with the quilter's guild that meets every Wed. in the rec room. Can hardly wait!
Monday 4 April 2011
April 4th
Have now spent 2 nights in Vidalia, Louisiana. It's just across the Mississippi from Natchez, Miss.. Not a bad campground with a great walkway along the banks of the Mississippi River watching the huge barges going up and down the river.
We are avid readers of Greg Iles so it's been pretty cool to see some of the spots that he has featured in some of his novels. Such as the Devil's Punch Bowl, the cemetary and the paddleboat casino.
Today we toured a one of a kind octagon sided plantation home called Longwood done in the Oriental Villa style. It was supposed be 4 floors high but never got completed because of the Civil War. The family ended up living in the basement which is only 10,000 sq. ft.. We then went to the Natchez City Cemetary but it started thunder and lightening shortly after our arrival so we wern't able to see much. Talk about rain!!
Tomorrow we are heading south again edging towards Texas. We had talked about meeting Stu and Ginny in North Carolina but it would mean backtracking back east. So sorry guys.... maybe next year?
A fellow RVer introduced himself yesterday and had some great info for us. Him and his partner have been doing this for about 3 years! They are originally from Lake Tahoe area in California. He suggested Hwy 10 down close to the Gulf but did say that we should give ourselves lots of time to go up the Oregon coast as it is supposed to be in full bloom in April/May. I've never seen someone so happy with this gypsy life but I can sure appreciate it!
We are avid readers of Greg Iles so it's been pretty cool to see some of the spots that he has featured in some of his novels. Such as the Devil's Punch Bowl, the cemetary and the paddleboat casino.
Today we toured a one of a kind octagon sided plantation home called Longwood done in the Oriental Villa style. It was supposed be 4 floors high but never got completed because of the Civil War. The family ended up living in the basement which is only 10,000 sq. ft.. We then went to the Natchez City Cemetary but it started thunder and lightening shortly after our arrival so we wern't able to see much. Talk about rain!!
Tomorrow we are heading south again edging towards Texas. We had talked about meeting Stu and Ginny in North Carolina but it would mean backtracking back east. So sorry guys.... maybe next year?
A fellow RVer introduced himself yesterday and had some great info for us. Him and his partner have been doing this for about 3 years! They are originally from Lake Tahoe area in California. He suggested Hwy 10 down close to the Gulf but did say that we should give ourselves lots of time to go up the Oregon coast as it is supposed to be in full bloom in April/May. I've never seen someone so happy with this gypsy life but I can sure appreciate it!
Friday 1 April 2011
April 1
Well... here we are sitting in our camp chairs having a cold one, in Tupelo Mississippi.....and it's finally warm enough to be outside with out jackets!!
The Natchez Trace is the most amazing route.... lots of history. It's a 2laner with very little traffic (commercial traffic isn't allowed on it) and great scenery.... it's almost like home but with those amazing flowering trees that I have now found out to be called red bud.
We spent our last night in Tennesee... imagine that 3 nights in Tennessee! We found this little out of the way campsite that has it's own family run restaurant and B& B. One of the other campers, who also happens to be from Ontario, reccomended the restaurant. So we dined on our first catfish and hushpuppies with chocolate cobbler for desert! It was delicious but not as great as the friendly service. I see where our service area can pick up some pointers! They were so friendly and bent over backwards for us. The accent was a little thick I will admit and I think some things were lost in translation. But they sure push tourism in their area.
Tomorrow it will be on to Natchez and from there not quite sure yet.
But as Tupelo (or as Billie Bob says... 2 below) is the birthplace of Elvis we are going to see if we can find the museum here.... might not be the same as Graceland but....
The Natchez Trace is the most amazing route.... lots of history. It's a 2laner with very little traffic (commercial traffic isn't allowed on it) and great scenery.... it's almost like home but with those amazing flowering trees that I have now found out to be called red bud.
We spent our last night in Tennesee... imagine that 3 nights in Tennessee! We found this little out of the way campsite that has it's own family run restaurant and B& B. One of the other campers, who also happens to be from Ontario, reccomended the restaurant. So we dined on our first catfish and hushpuppies with chocolate cobbler for desert! It was delicious but not as great as the friendly service. I see where our service area can pick up some pointers! They were so friendly and bent over backwards for us. The accent was a little thick I will admit and I think some things were lost in translation. But they sure push tourism in their area.
Tomorrow it will be on to Natchez and from there not quite sure yet.
But as Tupelo (or as Billie Bob says... 2 below) is the birthplace of Elvis we are going to see if we can find the museum here.... might not be the same as Graceland but....
Thursday 31 March 2011
March 31
Cool and rainy this morning. This is a beautiful large and lovely campground but.... THE WEATHER SUCKS!
Talked to a lovely couple from Oregon last night. They are doing the reverse of what we are. They told us about a route called the "Natchez Trace Parkway". It follows the trail of the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi via Alabama and Louisianna. It's about 400 or so miles and heads almost directly south.
So it looks like we won't be going to Graceland but seems like a great adventure. The only thing is we may have to dry camp for a night or so. I didn't want anyone to worry anyone (Amy) so I thought I would post this before we go.
Amy your dad says nothing can happen to us in Lousianna!
Talk to you soon!
Talked to a lovely couple from Oregon last night. They are doing the reverse of what we are. They told us about a route called the "Natchez Trace Parkway". It follows the trail of the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi via Alabama and Louisianna. It's about 400 or so miles and heads almost directly south.
So it looks like we won't be going to Graceland but seems like a great adventure. The only thing is we may have to dry camp for a night or so. I didn't want anyone to worry anyone (Amy) so I thought I would post this before we go.
Amy your dad says nothing can happen to us in Lousianna!
Talk to you soon!
Wednesday 30 March 2011
March 30th
Sorry to be off line for the last couple of days...had a little technical trouble with the lap top but after pressing keys and going places I've never been in the workings I think I have finally solved the problem...here's hoping!
The day before last we made it to Renfro Valley, Kentucky. The birds were really singing and so many different kinds. The daffadils, cherry blossoms and even dandelions were flowering ... plus a jaunty purple plumage on trees... not sure but it sure looks lovely going down the highway. Rob still wouldn't part with his longjohns. It was nice and sunny but still a little "fresh".
Last night we spent in a sketchy trailer park east of Rockwood, Tenn. on Hwy 40. It had been a really nice KOA but that must have been a few years back. It was raining but quite mild.
We spent yesterday doing a scenic drive off the main highway on a 2 laner going through scenic hills of the Daniel Boone National Forest, taking in the countryside. Very nice!
Daisy is getting better... she is starting to tolerate the camper and will get up herself without us having to force her!
We have just arrived at a KOA in Nashville.....HOW-DEE! It is quite cool right now and sort of rainy. I had talked Rob out of the longjohns this morning but I suspect he has snuck them back on!
The day before last we made it to Renfro Valley, Kentucky. The birds were really singing and so many different kinds. The daffadils, cherry blossoms and even dandelions were flowering ... plus a jaunty purple plumage on trees... not sure but it sure looks lovely going down the highway. Rob still wouldn't part with his longjohns. It was nice and sunny but still a little "fresh".
Last night we spent in a sketchy trailer park east of Rockwood, Tenn. on Hwy 40. It had been a really nice KOA but that must have been a few years back. It was raining but quite mild.
We spent yesterday doing a scenic drive off the main highway on a 2 laner going through scenic hills of the Daniel Boone National Forest, taking in the countryside. Very nice!
Daisy is getting better... she is starting to tolerate the camper and will get up herself without us having to force her!
We have just arrived at a KOA in Nashville.....HOW-DEE! It is quite cool right now and sort of rainy. I had talked Rob out of the longjohns this morning but I suspect he has snuck them back on!
Sunday 27 March 2011
into the states
Here we are all tucked in at a KOA campground outside of Wapaloneta Ohio. The robins are singing, the grass is green and there's no snow.
Had the best visit last night with Deb & Laverne, who have the cutest cottage in Port Stanley. Needless to say it wasn't early to bed! So we dragged our feet leaving them this morning but had the added bonus of having Joc, Ian, Keiren and Luke drop by for a short visit.
It's been great weather so far, sunshine all the way.... but Rob still hasn't parted company with the longjohns!
Had the best visit last night with Deb & Laverne, who have the cutest cottage in Port Stanley. Needless to say it wasn't early to bed! So we dragged our feet leaving them this morning but had the added bonus of having Joc, Ian, Keiren and Luke drop by for a short visit.
It's been great weather so far, sunshine all the way.... but Rob still hasn't parted company with the longjohns!
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