Traveling with Sunshine

Catching Up

2012-01-17T20:22:00.001-05:00

The Women's gtg at the state park was wonderful. Can't wait to go to another one but I sure hope the squirrels aren't as hungry. The park ranger told us to put bowls of water out to give the squirrels water. I did that but each morning I'd have more little holes in my drinking water hose. By the time the week was over I have a very nice little soaker hose for someone. It sure won't be good for anything else.

On Saturday I left out and headed to the Tampa RV Show. It was the first really big show I've attended and I was amazed. I had free tickets to get in but the parking for an RV was $10 and $15 to stay over night. Saturday I spent the time going through the vendor/supplier sections and then Sunday I went through some of the RVs and there were a lot of RVs. It was a fun exciting day.

I bought some replacement cables for my Blue Ox tow bar. I got a sign personalized for my Lodge in TN. I got a new drinking water hose. I also purchased a Zone Pass from Thousand Trails that will allow me to stay in the SE zone of TT for $199 for 30 days staying and then after that I'll pay $3 a night. Everyone I have talked to who bought at the show last year really used theirs and thought it was a good deal. It regularly sells for $499.

When I returned to Citrus Ridge, I washed the Whim, the Grey Goose and my bike so I'm all cleaned up. Will have to try my hand at waxing in the next couple of days. Margie and I are going to Bartow tomorrow to see a MH one of our forum friends is going to test drive. If Sarah gets it, it will be her first ever MH and we want to be there to celebrate with her.

Even though I was only gone a week, I've had lots of people stop by and tell me how much they missed me. This is a really good place to winter.

Later...

More pictures of the Women's RV Forum, as promised!

2012-01-10T22:38:00.000-05:00

Today was just another beautiful day in paradise. It was time for Alice to try out her Shuttlebike. The way I understand it is that Alice was looking for an alternative to a kayak/canoe to sport with other RV women on GTGs. This seems to fit the bill but I think assembly will still be a physical challenge for her. The good thing, Alice will get it figured out.

Alice rides her bike to pump up the pontoons.

Sedona ignores Paco. He so wants to be friends.

Heading to the springs to try out the Shuttlebike.

A little muscle never hurts.

Pay attention Alice, Pete won't always be around.

Am I cute?

Oh the rudder.

I believe I'm ready.

Checking for Gators.

What a mount!

I believe she's got it!

There she goes.

She even shares as Pete rides off.

This is pretty cool.

And there goes Nan.

Two seconds later Nan is in the springs on her back. The bike collapsed.

Oh it's okay to laugh. I would have had a better picture or more pictures but I put the camera down to go out and rescue my friend. As it turns out she didn't need rescuing but it was sure an exciting day. When we left the launch area the guy who worked there said it was the most exciting day he had had in a very long time and he was looking forward to going home to share his day with his wife. He even took pictures. There was an Asian couple who pulled their canoe in and stayed around to take pictures of the Shuttlebike and a couple from the UK who were quite curious too. They even played a little with Alice and told her that gators were attracted to the bright yellow color.

After such a busy day, it was time to chow down. Irmi and Steve fixed a pulled pork dish, Nan made her Liz coleslaw, Carol brought fresh fruit and wonderful pumpkin bread. Good eating and a great fire.

Gloria is filling her plate.

Nan's chowing down and Soos is computing.

Bob's having a chat and Irmi is trying out her delights.

Can't remember what's so funny but Steve, Carol and Sarah like it.

Isn't this pretty? It was so good too.

Our fire.

Later...

Wekiwa Spings State Park

2012-01-09T23:25:00.000-05:00

This state park is the home of the women RV forum get together (gtg) in FL. This is the first FL gtg we have had in the last three years that we have not frozen to death. We do not have the luxury of a cabin this year so good thing we have good weather.

First day, would you believe there was no one around the campfire who had a camera! Yep, no one so you will have to use your imagination as to what we did for all day and night, tee hee!

Many insisted tonight for me to post pix to my blog so they could see them, so here we go. But the gtg is not over until the weekend, so you may see more posts about the gtg. Also, we have combined this gtg with the Open Road Singles forum so you may see some guys in the pictures.

Boardwalk from parking lot to the springs.

The springs are a constant 74 degrees where it enters.

Soos is checking out the temps.

And there will be no diving for me.

Soos and I in the warm clear springs. Nice day.

Soos, Steve (striving for Asst Sultan), Irmi and Carol

Sarah and Kathleen

WHAT?? Soos used this container to mix the recipe!!

Nan seemed to like it...

...a lot. And Gloria gets tickled behind Nan.


Marion, Carol's sister just arrives. Nan welcomes.

Nan, Sarah, Kathleen

Soos, Carol and Maggie


Bear is in his house.

We've got great things in the works for tomorrow. Hope I'm here to capture the events. Stay tuned.
Later...

Happy New Year Central Time!

2011-12-31T23:05:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say Happy New Year for my friends in Central Time Zone. And to all others whom I will not be awake to send you good wishes.

It's been a great year. I'm happy to report that I have sold Somewhere, bought the Whim and the Lodge. Spent time with family and friends this year.

We had a great Christmas with family at the Smoky Mountains Wyndham. It just looks like it's going to be a wonderful 2012. God bless each of you and I look forward to my new home in Crossville and my extended travels to Alaska.

Happy New Year to everyone.

Later...

Wine & Chocolate

2011-12-16T11:37:00.000-05:00

Yes, you read that right. Lakeridge Winery in Clermont was having one of their events and this one really appealed to me and Margie. So early Saturday morning we headed north and arrived early enough that we didn't have to wait in line for very long to taste our wine and eat the Godiva chocolate. Each wine was pared with a compatible chocolate, such as, very dry wine (which I don't like) was pared with dark chocolate, etc.

It was a good day. There were arts and crafts on the hill too. Excellent day.

We watched a movie on the development of the winery and the Cox family.

Tasting line runs through the vats.

About 10 different wines...

...and five different chocolates were tasted.

Processor for the grapes

The vineyard, or at least part of it.

The picking machine puts the grapes in the grey boxes.

Margie thinks this is a good place for a break.

Now where are we going?

We didn't wait on Santa.

Later...

Chili Party at the Lakeside Resort

2011-12-16T11:29:00.001-05:00

Margie and I decided to throw a party at my place which I have dubbed the Lakeside Resort. That is what I put on the invitation and people got very confused as to where this place was and they didn't want to go outside the park, etc. So when we told them where it was I got the number incorrect on the invite and sent guest on the other side of the lake to 364, thankfully those people are gone for a couple weeks and weren't home. Alas, people began arriving and fun ensued.

Roger fixed the chili, which was delish. Everybody brought a contribution to chili, their chairs and own drinks so there wasn't much else left. I believe a good time was had by all.

The Lemon Drop Express made an appearance and the guys seemed to enjoy her. Only thing is I need to get a back up battery sometime for her. The range of travel for her is great as the pond is a perfect place to drive her around. Someone suggested I get a little sled to put behind the boat & put Sedona on it and ride her around. Don't think that would work though. Sounds fun!

It was nice to see old friends again and to meet new ones. I believe we will have another one in January at Margie & Roger's new place.

The flamingo and parrot say "Welcome Friends!"

Collette is brave enough to start the line.

It just took one to do it, yummy!

Mel seems to have made a friend. Sedona wants some chili too.

Golf Cart junction.

Roger is checking everything out.

Sun's goin down. Hazel, Don, Dave and Patti have a front row seat.

A visitor drops in

Vern and Denise with her light up glass! What a great smile!

L-R Eldon, Roger, Louie, Don, Jean, Tina

Jean and Tina

Don from Ohio is putting away the last of the wine.

Patti is telling what a wonderful time she is having and Dave looks ready to go.

Roger is the puppet master.

Margie has gone to the birds.

I think the parrot is saying "it's time to go home, honey!"

We had a great evening with Jimmy playing on the computer, a little reggae and the Village People serenading us through the night.

Later...

Settled in at Citrus Ridge

2011-11-29T18:20:00.001-05:00

After a strike out day at the Daytona Beach Flea Market, I began my journey to my winter home, Citrus Ridge in Davenport, FL. It was a great drive down and when I hit downtown Orlando on I 4 I just knew I would run into traffic but it was not to be, everyone must have been shopping. I just breezed through to my exit.

I got here and Liz came down to give me a hug. She said she wouldn't get in my way just wanted to welcome me and Sedona back. Next Mel came by and helped me get backed in and set up and to welcome me back. Wow, it sure felt good to be back.

I love my site. It's right on the water and though I won't be here as long as I originally thought, it will be a great place to just chill, have fun and visit friends. I've decided not to pursue working at Disney this year. There has been too much going on and I just want to have fun.

My welcoming committee

There's plenty of room for the Whim.

Here's my new Buffet addition, looks like a perfect location.

Added Santa hats to the mirrors on the Whim.

Here's a pair of Sand Hill Cranes, I understand there are 3 couples this year.

View from my patio

Buffet and the flamingos wonder if this is a relative.

The Whim from the road.

A night scene-fountain gets turned off at 9:39 p.m.

I'll tell you a little funny on myself...see the nativity scene in color? First day here I looked across the lake and saw all these "people" and thought they were having a meeting. Then I saw a couple of men walking around the gazebo and they left. The other folks were still there and I just thought it's a long meeting. I rode my bicycle over there and guess what??? Yep, not people, it was the nativity scene. OMG, how crazy is that, so much for a meeting. It's okay, you can laugh at me, I did.

I'm beginning to get used to the Whim. I'm thinking I should probably have gone to 24' instead of 21' but jury is still out. I love driving it and when I came from Jonathan's to Davenport I got like 16.4 mpg so the more I drive the better I get and yes, that's towing.

I hear it's snowing in Crossville TN so yes, I'm glad I'm here even though its windy and getting a little cooler. No complaints here.

I found a dermatologist locally that I can get in to see on Thursday. I sure hope I can finally get some relief from this itchy rash but most importantly what it is and why it has lasted since middle of September.

Donna (Squawmama) I now stay at my son's house in his driveway, however 1st year out I stayed at A Big Wheel Park in St Mary's and was very pleased. Liked the location and the owners were very good. Across the street from Crooked River State Park.

Later...

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-26T20:31:00.000-05:00

It's been a great few weeks with Taylor and Jonathan at Kingsland Ga. I enjoyed a Camden County High School Swim meet held at the Kings Bay Base pool. For an early Christmas present Jonathan had my windows tinted on the Whim. Great until Jonathan realized they missed one window on the slide. Oh well, Ill have to get it fixed when I go back to Kingsland & Stylin' FX window tinting.

We took the easy way for our Thanksgiving meal. We ordered from Publix and then all I had to make was mashed potatoes and green bean salad. Taylor made the brownies.

Jonathan and I went to the firing range and shot our weapons so that Jonathan could clean mine before heading out. I had forgotten how much fun it was to shoot at a firing range. Taylor says she will go next time.

I'm now at Port Orange FL in a Carefree RV resort and they let me have a pull through site at Passport America price of $23.00 plus they have cable and free wi-fi, however I don't have cable long enough to go from the connection to the front of the Whim. That's the only place I have found for a connection so during daylight hours, I'll look further. I got 14.76 mpg on the way down to Daytona so I guess I'm getting the Whim broken in or I'm driving better.

After the Daytona Beach Flea Market tomorrow I'll head to Citrus Ridge where I'll be spending a couple of months.

Later...

I want my Monopoly back!

2011-11-18T11:01:00.000-05:00

In a song Jimmy Buffet says it all, "I want my Junior Mints. where did the Junior Mints go in the
Movies. I don't want a 12 lb. Nestles Crunch for 25 dollars. I Want Junior Mints."

This is exactly the way it was when I sat down Saturday night to play a simple game of Monopoly.

What no paper money? No, here is your ATM card and it's preloaded with $15 million dollars.
What no Boardwalk, Marvin Gardens, Park Place Ave, Oriental Ave? No Railroads anymore? Replaced with airports. The utilities are now cell and internet service! What? What?
Pass GO...collect $2 million dollars-not $200.
Oh, want to get out of jail? $500,000
And my game piece? A segway! Yep, no shoe, hat or dog.
Oh no, I want my old Monolopy back! I'm mad as heck and I'm not going to take it anymore!

Okay, I'll admit I liked the banker with the ATM machine. I enjoyed the game but I'm sure Jonathan and Ali got tired of me saying, "What?" "This is just wrong!"

Later...

Tybee Island, GA

2011-11-18T10:27:00.000-05:00

We used to meet every October in Pawley's Island, SC. There were about 10 +/- a couple each time. We have lost 6 of our beloved friends and now there are four of us. This was the first time we have gotten together at the beach in several years.

Tybee Island GA

First card pulled of the week. Transformation...

Anne B finds the snake reading.

A penny for your thoughts, Ernie.

Getting ready for a feast at Sundae's Cafe. Sherry joins us.

The beach was shrouded in a thick fog.

Strangely eerie.

Dare & technology?????

Beach Art

Just chillin

My week cards-present is the whale.

And that means what???

From the balcony of our condo

Stained glass all around

Taking a stroll looking for treasures.

Ok, Ernie, a quarter for your thoughts.

Someone had left this message on the beach.

Primordial scream...

The lighthouse

Reflection on the desolate beach just a swanging...

It was such a great renewing time with friends. We laughed, cried, cheered and remembered our loved ones. I had all our pictures on the computer from visits past and we realized we began this trip in 1992. My, my how we have mellowed. We would spend all day and some nights on the beach, this time we would take walks and then hibernate into our cocoon of the condo. We philosophized about what's going on w/the world, w/our lives, where we are supposed to be and where we are. We brainstormed ideas for a new business and calculated retirement for Dare and Anne.

Before going, I wondered how I would feel since I am retired and they are now. Alas, it didn't matter, our friendship supersedes "work" and it was a terrific feeling to know that. Well, I knew it, it was just confirmed. I loved the week and am so grateful for the opportunity to reconnect.

Our other friends were with us and we each said hello to: Theda, Rick, Eddie, Larry, Deano, Wynn. You were each such an important part of our lives and are still doing your thing. Love Ya Mean It!

Later...

Kingsland, GA in November

2011-11-09T14:05:00.000-05:00

Well, I made it to Jonathan's in Kingsland Ga. It was a tough start which consisted of a stop in the Freightliner in Knoxville. My engine light came on as I was going to leave on Saturday morning. Talked to the Sprinter hot line and they advised to wait until it could be checked out.

Freightliner of Knoxville is a nice place and nice people. Their RV lounge area had wonderful recliners and a TV BUT, they are not pet friendly. So Sedona and I had to wait outside in the car for the entire visit. I was able to get checked out and on my way around 2 pm. Everything, including hard to find windshield wipers, was fixed and all I had to pay was for the wipers, the original warranty kicked in. Yippee, good news. Let's see ERG valve (Margie diagnosed), turbo resonator and a couple of other things. Runs like a dream.

We head down I75 and by the time I got to Cartersville GA it was beginning to get heavy traffic on the interstate so I pulled off at the Walmart and checked to make sure I could stay there, bought a few items and settled down for the evening. MY FIRST time staying in Walmart. I had thought about it a couple times before but just never did. I woke up about 3:30 am and decided to hit the road. I wanted to stay out of traffic, however I feel more comfortable in the Whim navigating through traffic.

I'm heading up to Tybee Island for a few days to stay with my friends from TN and will be staying in their condo. Whim will remain in Jonathan's driveway, which fits so much better than Somewhere. Then Jonathan, Taylor and I have decided to enjoy Thanksgiving together and then I'll head on south to Citrus Ridge. Too bad that I have to pay for the month of Nov at Citrus Ridge but that's the deal I made with the owners of the lot and I stick to my word.

Later...

Goings On

2011-10-28T12:17:00.000-04:00

Just have a few things to say today. I'm looking around the Lodge and am wondering if it was my imagination in 2008 that I started selling everything in my stick n bricks and then sold my condo in 2009. Why? Because I still have so much stuff that came out of Somewhere and I'm trying to decide now what goes on the road with me and what stays in the Lodge. Gosh, too many things to ponder. Oh and do I really need that big pot that I used only a couple of times in 2 years? I think not. Instead of a shrimp boil, I'll go out and eat one or borrow. Hey that sounds good, I'll just borrow. Get ready Margie! LOL

Home base, Deer Run RV Resort, had their Halloween celebration last weekend. Right in the throws of getting packed & unpacked, trick or treaters! Yep, 289 kids coming to trick or treat! How do I know that, you may ask? I had 11 pieces of candy left. There were hay rides, scary dessert contests, wiener roasts, monster mash (dance) and a yard decorating contest. It was a lot of fun and it was a beautiful weekend. Here are a few pix of my treaters.

Hay Ride

Smurfs-there were 14 of them, cute.

Single smurf

Just a crew next door

Cute little guy

Cute little girl

1/2 of blues brothers & his sidekick

Sedona as disco dog

Hotdog, tee hee

On delivery day of the Lodge, the vent got torn from the roof. The workers had to go back and get a new one to replace it. In all the hussle and bussle of running in and out and strange people, Sedona goes missing. Off I go in the car looking for her everywhere. Neighbors go in their golf carts and then soon everyone in the neighbor hood is in their golf carts looking for her and yelling her name. It's like a buzz of bumble bees on the roads. My neighbor, Roger and a retired sheriffs deputy, asked if I had looked in the house. He said that was one of the first places police were trained to look. I said I did look at all her new hiding places but I would look again. This time I looked in the toilet area (it has a door) and sure enough, there she was, shaking like a leaf and huddled as far back into the corner as she could get. I thought she had run out while we were so busy. I was so happy when I saw her, I'll have to say, my eyes leaked a little. Another reason for a golf cart.

I have the best neighbors, Linda and Roger, yes I have another Roger in my life. Anyway, they come on the weekends from Knoxville. They had a rough time with the people who lived in my lot and they are just so happy that I'm here. Roger, my 2nd house husband or is it the 3rd (so many I can't keep up), has been so helpful. I think I told you about my mattress in The Whim being terrible, well Roger took it home with him and took it to a mattress factory in Knoxville and had a memory foam cut to go on top of it. He has also said he will underpin and put sun screen on my windows on the Lodge. That will be a spring and summer project. Linda and I have a lot in common and so far, get along very well.

Had a fun time the other day, it was laundry time. Sedona loves to go riding and off she went with me. It was a success until it was drying time. The driers were all not working. I had to call the office, she sent over someone and they fixed it, 40 minutes later. What a waste of a perfectly good day! I see a washer/dryer in my building before long.

That just about catches you up with what's going on. I have Direct TV connected now and I may not want to leave. Ah but alas, I must go and I'll head out in a week or so. The colors are so beautiful up here as is the weather. Going to see Jonathan and Taylor before I get to Citrus Ridge.

Later...

The Lodge

2011-10-24T20:00:00.000-04:00

Here is my new home base in Crossville. It's a Gulfstream Lodge Series Conquest Park Model. This was Friday when they delivered her.

Arriving

Patio Doors

Front with great windows

Sofa w/bed

Jack knife sofa & dinette

Dinette and pantry

Bedroom

Full-size refrigerator

Later...

The Whim

2011-10-22T21:58:00.001-04:00

Here she is in all her glory. Picked her up on Thursday and stayed in her last night. The bed is very uncomfortable which will change soon. It is a tight fit for me and Sedona but I think we will be just fine for a few months at a time. She's a 21' Coachmen Freelander 2100CB, Sprinter chassis, Mercedes engine.

View with Slide out.

Building with everything from Somewhere in it.

The horrible bed, but I'm getting a memory foam topper.

The bathroom door closed.

The kitchen

AC/DC TV w/DVD arm swivels & can be seen from anywhere in the coach.

The dinette/sofa makes a bed and Sedona seems to enjoy it.

The cab over bed that you can't get in, no ladder. Will be good storage.

From the back looking forward.

The slide

Back w/storage door open.

The Whim and Grey Goose

Later...

New Home Base

2011-10-19T23:31:00.000-04:00

I've told everyone about buying my lot at Deer Run RV Resort in Crossville TN. Love it here and this time of year is just the best. Our colors on the Plateau are beautiful and from what I hear better than the Smoky Mountains. But you all just keep going up there and increasing that traffic from the interstate to Pigeon Forge and leave us in peace! LOL

But I digress. I have purchased a park model for my lot and it is going to be delivered tomorrow, Thurs. It is a Gulf Stream Conquest Lodge Series 398DL3. I don't have pictures yet but as soon as she gets home, I'll post many pictures both inside and out. I'm really excited and I love this place so much that I'll be glad to call it my home base.

As if that's weren't enough changes for me, I also downsized Somewhere to The Whim! I saw and fell in love with the 21' Coachman Freedlander 2100CB. We worked such a deal that I'll be traveling in a much, much smaller rolling home. It has one slide and is on a Sprinter chassis and a Mercedes Diesel engine. It will be interesting to see how Sedona and I adjust to such a small home for a few months at a time. Again, pictures of The Whim when I get her home. My BFF, Debbie, suggested the name. She said you bought it on a whim and you can travel on a whim so it just seemed to be the name for her.

Now the fun has begun. Since Sunday I have been taking everything out of Somewhere and putting it in my building. For the next few days/weeks I'll be setting my new home up and trying to decide what to leave and what to take. I am exhausted tonight and I'm not finished and the weather is not cooperating either. The temps are plummeting. Tonight is going to 39 and 35 tomorrow night. Highs in the 50's which wouldn't be bad if the rain and wind stop.

Well that's a quick update on what's going on with me. In addition to all of the above, we are getting ready for our Halloween party in the park Saturday night. From what I hear it's a big deal, the campground is full and all the cabins and trailers are rented for this night. Sure hope I have purchased enough candy. No costume for me this year, just a little too much going on for me. Look out next year.

Later...

Sedona's first kayaking trip

2011-10-05T20:57:00.000-04:00

Today was an absolutely beautiful day on the Cumberland Plateau so off to "my" lake to kayak. I decided Sedona should go too. Her first time in the kayak on the water. She did great!

Shoreline where the cabins are.

Colors are beginning to change.

Sedona started our sitting between my legs.

View of inspiration pointe.

Sedona wanted to get a better view and got a little braver.

Ok, so she decided she wanted to just lie on the boat and be comfortable.

Add caption

She sees something that got her attention.


This is fun!

Until she got restless and decided she could just walk off the boat. Yep, in she goes. Thank goodness I had her leash on her. I have a lifejacket for her but she freezes on the land and in the water with it on. She survived the dip in the water and probably won't try that again. It was a great day.

A story for you that has nothing to do with Sedona or kayaking but it's funny and I have to share it. My nephew, Roy, got a 24' travel trailer to take to Corbin KY while he worked on the railroad up there. So he got everything set up and working. Then he called me to say his hot water was not staying hot. He would take a shower and the water would be warm and then turn cold. What should he do? We went through everything I knew to do and then he called me one day and said. "you know that problem I was having with the hot water?" Yes. "Well, I hate to tell you this but the hot water was from the water hose being out in the sun and as soon as the water ran through it turned cold again." LOL, LOL, LOL Oh my goodness, I got the biggest laugh out of that. As it turned out our friend a spider had built his nest in the tube and gas wasn't getting to the hot water heater. The sun was heating the water hose and that is what he thought was his hot water heating.

A Land Barron-once again!

2011-09-22T19:22:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I signed the papers and registered the deed for my new RV lot in Crossville TN. It is at Deer Run RV Resort which has an owner section, RV campground and cabins for rent.

NO I'm not coming off the road. I just needed a place to call my own and I'll be able to be close to family and friends when I come up maybe in the spring and summer/fall. I'll still be a snow bird and travel with the sun during the winter. It may be FL, or TX or AZ, who knows, that's why I'm not giving up my wheels.


The view from my patio to the woods, nothing will be developed here.


A 10X16 building

And the work begins...

Roy helps out on the power washing.

Left power washed-right not power washed.

Can you say clean concrete?

Yep, sure was dirty.

Getting it clean for my first party.

Almost finished and looking good.

View from the road looking at my lot.

I move Somewhere on tomorrow and will take up residence until sometime in October. I'll get to watch the UT-Vol games and from what I hear it's a riot at the park during the games. Gotta find me a golf cart but not sure if I'll get it now or wait until next spring. The only thing I don't like about the park is that it's not fully paved. Roads are gravel but maybe someday that will be done. It wasn't enough of a negative for me not to buy.

Everyone is welcome to come visit. Oh, & did I say "I'm NOT coming off the road." Catch me if you can.

Later...

Movies, Coons and Knees...

2011-09-04T10:33:00.000-04:00

I'm back in Englewood TN awaiting my cruise next week. What's been going on?

A group of about 9 women went to see The Help in Cleveland the other day. I and some of the others had read the book so we decided to get together and go to see the movie. There were tears and laughter. The scriptwriter seemed to know when to lighten the mood from those tears to interjecting a laughter spot at just the right moment. The movie was true to the book. It was a fun day out with the girls.

And the coons invade...I was awaken early one Sunday morning to the sound of gun fire. Yep, never know what's going to go on up in the holler, aka, hollow. I went outside and Tina was standing under the awning and Roy, well, didn't know where he was but Sedona had run to her thunder/gunfire hiding spot in Somewhere. Tina said there was a family of five coons that had gone up the steps into the attic of the garage. So Roy gets his gun and marches up there and is trying to get rid of them. Now there were five of them supposedly and two scamper down the steps and head out the side door as fast as their little legs could carry them. One ran on the ledge and looked out the garage door at Tina and I and we head in Somewhere thinking he was coming after us. Roy reloaded and began another round. A little one falls out of the attic and tries to hide, down comes Roy and finished him off. So we accounted for four coons living in the attic and apparently had been there for some time.

The excitement was over and we began surveying the damage. A shot came out of the front of the garage and if it had been a little lower it would have hit my car. OMG, what were you thinking. It was funny at the time and later. Like I said, you never know what's going to happen up in the holler.

Oh I didn't tell you this revolver is a .22 and the barrell is about 9" long. So just imagine a 6'2" guy coming down the attic steps carrying this "huge" gun trying to shoot a raccoon. Can you say Clint Eastwood?

The pain in my knee is back and I went last week for another shot of cortisone to get me through the cruise. When I return I'll start a series of shots, Supartz, for five weeks. It's supposed to stimulate the synovial fluid to thicken so it will cushion the knee and hopefully suspend knee surgery for a few years, not a replacement, just surgery to clean it up/out. So I'll be here for a few more weeks and I'll head to FL the middle of Oct.

Haven't heard from Disney yet so let's hope that I'll be working this winter. I had way too much time on my hands last winter.

That's about all I've got to report, more will come...

...Later...

Mountain Pictures

2011-08-23T10:43:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures while I was enjoying the area around Townsend, TN.


A group of tubers coming down the Wye. Even a dog like Sedona	.

A family on the nest.


Relaxing with their electronics, playing bubbles I think.

People used to jump/dive from the rock but the Park has stopped that.


The black dot in the center of the picture is the nest zoomed in the picture above.

I'm back in Englewood at Roy's and will be here until after my cruise in 18 days.
Later...

Little River Float-Townsend

2011-08-08T23:16:00.000-04:00

My nephew, Jerry & his gf, Leah came up to see me this weekend. We went to the Wye also know as the Y to locals in the Smokies. While there we watched everyone come down the river on brightly colored inner tubes. We were swimming around in the icy cold water that felt great.

We came up with the idea of buying our own inner tubes and put a vehicle downstream and we would drive back to the campground. So off we go in search of our inner tubes so where else but Walmart. Yep found one. A cadillac model with a back rest, cup holder and clips to hook us together. All right, we are ready to go. We get all of them pumped up and we have 2 blue and 1 red. Off we go into the Little River.

Leah and Jerry getting ready for the float.

Sitting in the cadillac of inner tubes.

Oh, we were relaxing and enjoying the cool water and warm sunshine. Her comes our first "rapids" and no problem but we have to lift up our butts out of the tube to get over some of the larger rocks. Next comes a calming pool so we can get off and swim and relax.

Watch out, here comes our other rapids and somehow Leah comes loose from us. Over the rapids and oops, what was that??? OMG, my tube hit a jagged rock and down I go quickly. Right smack in the middle of the rapid water, flowing over the rocks. Do you know how hard it is to get up and try to walk? Nearly impossible! So Jerry comes to the rescue and he gives me his tube. He is going to take mine, which has the back rest inflated and hold on and go down the rapids. Ooh, bad idea! Rocks are hard on the knees and the big red tube with a hole in it is gathering all the water to make it hard to hold on to.

I said I can get out, because we had not gone that far and I could walk up the road back to the campground and they could go on. "OH, NO, you are going with us." Leah decided she could hold on between the two tubes. Okay, let's give it another go.

Everything is fine for a few more short rapids and smooth spots and then, POP, I've had another blow out. Yes, you read correctly, it's was mine again, not as big a hole but I'm going down none the less. Jerry keeps saying we are not very far from the car we can make it just body surfing. Well, let me tell you, this body doesn't surf anymore in rocky water. So Leah and I are going to the shore to wait on Jerry to go downstream to get the car and drive up to get us.

In the meantime, Leah and I are trying to get to the side. I'll have to say I'm having more of a struggle than Leah. I decided it would be best to go down butt first in the water than try to get up and walk. We notice that Jerry has stopped at the beach and gotten out and was talking to some guys. Then off he goes with one of the guys. I haven't made it very far and Leah took the almost deflated tube on down to the beach. One of the girls from the beach started bring up a tube to me. Come to find out this is not the first time she has had to do that. They live close to this beach and come there all the time so they are used to it. By the time I get into the tube and ride the rapids down, a guy (spouse of woman rescurer) sent his son out to catch me and bring me to shore. Whew! Exhausted.

Jerry comes back and picks us up. That "we only have a little ways to go" turns out that it was about another 2 miles downstream. Now we are thirsty, hungry and tired. We get back and my bathing suit was full of little gravels and now I'm black and blue on my buttocks! That didn't deter us, after we rested a while, we went down to the river, where it was calm, and got back in the water just to relax.

All in all, it was a great time. Great story! and I hope I painted a funny enough picture because it really was fun. I'll do it again but I'll probably pay the $13 to one of the vendors around here to use their tubes and come pick us up. Another trip to Walmart for a refund!

Later...

Enjoying the Great Smoky Mountains

2011-08-05T11:02:00.000-04:00

That's why they call them the Great Smoky Mountains

Another view from my campsite

Spending a few nights in and around the Smokey's to relax, stay cool in the river and look around. Visiting with friends and family is a plus.
Later...

Youngblood RV Center-Mayfield KY

2011-07-27T18:24:00.000-04:00

When I got to NW TN on Friday, I got set up on a dedicated 30 amp circuit and everything was fine. About 2:30 am Sat morning my power went out. You know how you are sleeping really well and then all of a sudden, complete quiet? Well, that's the way it went. I checked all my breakers inside the rig and then went outside and looked at my surge protector and it was still green. I went over to where the rig was plugged into my 30 amp extension cord and when I picked it up, it sparked and smoked. I went over immediately and unplugged. There was nothing that I could do till morning so I went in and started my generator so I could run my a/c because I don't know if you readers have heard but we are having a huge heat wave in TN.

Anyway, I tried to sleep a few hours (fitfully I might add.) I went to the house at 7:00 am and Mitch was up. I asked her about RV places and explained what the deal was. She said she knew her RV place was closed for service on Saturdays so we called, Youngblood RV Center. Their service center was closed but what did I need? I explained my situation and he said we may have someone who could help, hold. Chase came back on the line and said he had someone who could help. Ask for Steve.

I pack everything up and head off to Mayfield KY. 2 hrs later and $150 less I'm on my way back to Mitch's. After talking with Steve, I have been running too many amps with an extension cord even though my energy management system shows 25 amps. Now I know better and it didn't cost an arm and leg nor cause any damage to Somewhere.

Fast forward 2 days. We have been soaking in the pool and it was time to get out, dry off and get ready for dinner. All of us ladies get in the house and are sitting at the kitchen table. There is a huge bay window and as I sit down, I look out and see the corn bending to the ground. A wind storm has come up quickly. Three of us run out and get Tina's awning down. Imagine this, three "middle-aged" women start off running across the yard to get to my awning. Nope didn't make it and the wind is so strong it takes all of us to get the awning partially rolled up, thank goodness Tina is a tall woman. I knew it had to happen, I lost my awning and the arms were pulled away from Somewhere so I knew I couldn't drive it. Oh, well, nothing can be done in this storm.

Just as quickly as the storm came up, it was gone but the damage was done.

Next morning I get up and go out to investigate. The awning latch had broken, severed the pin that holds it against the rig. I head to the house, let's call my new BFF, Steve, at Youngbloods. He asked a few questions and said he would call me right back. Sure enough, 2 minutes later he called and said he had the part I needed, bring the old one w/me. I asked him if he thought I could get the old one off, he said, "just based on meeting you and our conversation, I have every confidence you can do it." He was right, I got the part off, hopped in the car and off I go to Mayfield KY. I pick up the part, $40, and head back. I fixed the awning and repaired the other arm and I'm good to go. Woohoo! I am woman, hear me roar! LOL

Okay, things come in 3's right? Here is what I'm thinking is my 3rd. I come back to Seven Points COE. Got set up and trying to cool off and Gene, the camp host, pulls into my site. He said I have overbooked for this place for the month. WHAT? Yep, on 14 days per month at a COE. Okay, I pled ignorant because I really didn't know. I should leave on the 28th. I told Gene, "but my babies are going to be born on the 29th. I have to be close to Summit hospital. He was sorry but those were the rules. "Who can I call?" He gave me a name and I called early this morning and begged for three days. She was nice enough to allow me those three days, but don't do it again, etc. This is the only COE I have stayed in except for Cages Bend so now I know. It worked out ok but it could have been bad. I'm still here for my bff, Debbie's grandsons to get into this world. They will be her first and they are twin boys. Boy does she have something to get used to. LOL

My life is good.

Later...

NW TN Women's GTG

2011-07-27T17:51:00.000-04:00


My rig in the lower 40

Carol L and Tina W rigs

Carol, Mitch (our hostess), Me, Tina

Me & Sedona swimming in the pool

Wii frisbee score, I was GeorgieBoy

Yes, bragging rights. I beat Mitchie.

Tina, Sarah and Carol chatting it up on the deck of the pool.

From Gallatin to NW TN (location will not be disclosed) for a women rv forum gtg. A great time was had by us five ladies and Mitch's husband George, of course, I'm not sure what a good time he had with four additional women at his house. Out in the middle of the corn fields were our three motor homes parked and plugged in. One neighbor called to ask if Mitch has a license for opening a KOA. LOL

Mitch is an awesome cook and she outdid herself. She promised us dinner and a snack for lunch, breakfast was on our own. Yeah, right! She always had fresh fruit, snacks consisted on panini sandwiches, and other such things. Her dinners were to die for. There was a pool for us to enjoy and cool down. In the evening we played Wii, which I had never done except for bowling with Taylor my granddaughter.

I was champion of Frisbee, Carol was awesome on the down hill skiing, Tina was the champion of the Lotus Power, and Sarah worked on the knack of throwing the Frisbee. That was so much fun, I think a Wii Fitness Super Plus will go on my Christmas list. It really shows how unbalanced I am and that's something I need to work on. Carol is in her 70's (don't think she will mind my saying that) and she is in such good shape and has terrific balance and she has been working with her Wii for some time. WTG, Carol. You are my heroine.

We had five furbabies in the group. Sedona got along with most of them. She had to show Remi who was boss a few times, or at least she thought she did. Sedona enjoyed swimming in the pool and floating around on the float, or at least I thought she did, however she doesn't look like she is enjoying it in the picture.

Thanks to Mitch and George & Abby for showing us such a great time. We ate, played, ate, talked, ate, swam, ate and rested.

Next posts will cover my mishaps while I was at this gtg.

Later...

Portland TN 5 Chefs

2011-07-27T11:42:00.000-04:00

Last week while at Cages Bend COE in Gallatin, my friend Debbie came up and we went to the 5 Chefs restaurant in Portland TN. She had heard about it from her daughter and since I was so close it seemed to be the girl's day out thing to do.

I thought it was probably a "tea" room and girlie place to go but oh, no, much more. Great restaurant with full menu and the house that has been redone is filled with gift shop and home decor items. The shopping area is called The Occasions House.

The food was terrific and the service was very good. We had chicken, dressing, green beans, sweet potato casserole and roll/cornbread. Best thing: $5.00 for 2 veggies and $5.75 for 3 veggies.

Sitting on the porch eating our lunch!

Almost finished! But at least I remembered the pix!

Later...

It's a Verizon first for me.

2011-07-20T23:05:00.000-04:00

I've used all my GB for this month and it's the first time I've ever come this far. I have 5 GB and due to a Garmin maps update, they are all gone. I called Verizon tonight and I get 1 GB more for $10 additional dollars. I'll never do that again. When I need to get an update, I'll go to wi-fi place. My change over date is on the 4th of the month and I just really don't think I could do w/out service for that long. I changed over to the 4g aircard a few months ago and this is the first place it has picked up. I really can't tell the difference between 3g & 4 g service.

Today has been so hot that I've just stayed inside most of the day. I went swimming, well, actually floating, this morning and then just vegged most of the day. I defrosted the freezer, mopped the floors and cleaned the bathroom so all was not lost.

Thanks Brenda for posting. It's was good to hear from you again. Also to new reader, Carolyn, thanks for posting a comment too. I love reading comments from my readers.

Later...

It's a small blog world!

2011-07-18T17:10:00.000-04:00

On Sunday before we departed Seven Points COE in Nashville, Sedona and I went for a morning walk around the .7 mi loop. As we passed by this one camper, lady camper came to the edge of the road after I had waved at her and she said, "is your name Carolyn." I must have looked a little surprised but said "yes." She said "I read your blog and saw where you were out here and was hoping to meet you!" Wow, there are actually people other than family and friends who are reading my blog. I told her how honored I was that she was reading and we sat and talked a while. Brenda Lewis lives in Donelson and is retired. Her husband is a truck driver who is still in the mad, mad work race. They don't think they could ever full time but plan to extended travel when he retires. It was just so cool that she follows along with me. She said she doesn't post comments and I explained how it was important for us blogger to post comments and get feedback. Maybe I'll hear from her again, one day. Thanks Brenda and it was terrific to meet you.

Sedona and I went back to the campsite to complete our packing up and met wonderful people from California. They were hanging around TN for a while and were heading to Johnson City. Sure hope they find it cooler up in the East TN mtns.

We were in no hurry to leave and it's a good thing. By the time I got to Cages Bend COE in Gallatin, it seems their check out time is 3:00 and my site was still occupied. It didn't take long for those folks to vacate and we got set up in no time but it was so hot and muggy. My friend, Ann Candler, came up for the night and we hit the water to cool off. We had steaks, potatoes and a good salad. In no time I got a phone call from fellow Nashvillian & RVer Vicky and her friend Brenda. They were just returning from a whirlwind NE tour and stopped here for a couple of nights. It was good to hear about their trip. If you are interested in reading her blog, you can click and it will take you there. She really had some experiences while on the road and she is a newbie.


Vicky has a captive audience with Gus & Sedona. Steak is such	an animal attractor.

Like this campground but I think I prefer Seven Points over this one. It has a swim beach while this one doesn't.

Later...

Somewhere is all maintenanced up!

2011-07-14T17:56:00.000-04:00

I took Somewhere to Carl Black today for oil change, tires rotated & balanced and other checks. She is ready to go for another 5-6 K miles. My hydraulic fluid for my jacks were 3.5 qts low. It holds 1.5 gal. I knew there was some leakage but wow! It seems the right rear jack is the culprit. Sean is checking out w/my warranty co to see if they will cover repair or replacement. I'm going to be around Nash for a few more days so hope I can get it taken care of before I get back to FL this winter.

It is terribly hot in TN. I can't believe I'm wishing for rain to cool things off. Seven Points CG has emptied out quite a bit from when I first got here. I'll be moving sites tomorrow and will be here for a few more days. Am enjoying seeing my friends and spending time with them.

Later...

Busy Wednesday in Nashville

2011-07-13T18:40:00.000-04:00

My morning began at Summit Hospital. No, I wasn't there as a patient but...My friend Debbie's daughter, Melissa, is pregnant with twin boys. She invited me to go to the Dr office for her ultrasound. Did you know the ultrasounds are 3D now. OMG, those boys were all over the place. Making faces and poking ea other and their mom. Amazing is just about all I can say. I was thrilled to get to go. Debbie always has given me credit for getting Melissa into this world because she came to my house to eat spaghetti the night/morn she went into labor. So I'm going to fix my infamous spaghetti for Melissa this weekend so we will see if I get the blame for those boys getting here. One weighs 5.13 and the other 5.09, whew, where is she putting them?

Next I met another dear friend, Anne B Marshall at Margariatville in Nashville. It's the first time I have been there since it has been built. I couldn't think of anyone else better to go with than, Anne B. She is a true, true parrotthead. We had a wonderful time getting caught up & talking about old and new times. It was such a fun and delicious lunch. Oh, guess what I had to drink...It's 5 o'clock Somewhere! Duh, that didn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out right?? It has Jamaican Silver Rum, Margaritaville Paradise Passion Fruit Tequila, Cruzan 151 Rum, sour mix, orange juice, pineapple juice and a splash of Finest Call Grenadine. Yummy! They wouldn't give me the exact amounts so I guess I'll have to figure it out myself.

First Bar when you enter the building.

Typical M'ville stuff.

Upstairs bar-steps leading up are like a piano.

Carolyn and Anne B

Then I get home to Seven Points COE campground and the mowers had been here and my solar lights have been mowed down. They tried to stick them back in the ground but they are broken. I took them up to the check-in station and asked where I can file a claim. He didn't know but would find me a claim form and I could fax or mail it into the District Ofc. Ugh!!

Later...

Another 60 Celebration-my oh my!

2011-07-09T21:18:00.000-04:00

Last night several of my girlfriends met at Famous Dave's in Nashville for dinner and to catch up on "things." Afterward we went over to BFF Debbie's for dessert and a few gag gifts. I'll have to say, I have some very creative friends.

Missi gave me a big gift bag full of stuff that will help me get along past 60. Here are some of them with their little sayings:
Magnifying Glass Set: This magnifying glass is to help you see the fine print now that your eyesight isn't what it used to be.
Gingerman cookes: I've found you the perfect man. He's rich, he's sweet, and if he misbehaves then you can bite his head off!! LOL
Gummy Teeth: Replacements in case you lose yours!
Bag of marbles: Save these marbles in case you lose yours. They'll come in handy!
Pack of batteries: Toy Not Included-but if you get one, you already have the batteries.
Box of paperclips: Paperclips because sometimes it's hard to hold it all together as you get older!
Pack of mints: Mints-so you can remember all the things you are "mint" to do.
Pack of M&M's in script bottle: Anti aging pills-Dosage: Under normal circumstances take one tablet per day. In emergencies (like yours) consume all at once!
Bag of Pinto Beans: Natural Bubble Bath- (1) Eat Beans; (2) Wait one hour and (3) fill bath and (4) enjoy your natural bubble bath!

Missi & Me

I'll take Over The Hill any old day, thanks Debbie!

Delicious cake


L-R Ann Candler, Missi Dodge, Me, Sandra Williams, Dare Bible		and Sheri

Me & the Pig

Over the Hill Glasses and the Queen necklace w/Lemon Drop in hand

Randy Smith, Dare Bible and Me

Sandra, Missi and Me

Becky sent me goodies, a beautiful bracelet and best wishes from Henderson NV. Too bad she wasn't here. Sandra gave me some prunes. Ann gave me a grabber and a Kroger Plus card reminding me that Wednesdays should be the day I shop. (Senior Day)

Ann and Sandra came over to the campground and we continued the party until the wee hours. Ann got up and went fishing and Sandra and I vegged most of the day. I cooked some breakfast and had a terrific day. What next???

I love life in excess, can you tell?? tee hee
Later...

Happy Birthday to Me!! 60 years young on July 3

2011-07-07T14:44:00.000-04:00

I had a terrific day. It was spent with family. My first nephew, David, invited us to come up to his house in Copper Hill, TN. We had a huge shrimp boil, good fun in the pool and a few adult beverages. Great hosts and thanks David and Jan. Great time.

He just thinks I'm over the hill.

Jonathan and Taylor gave me a remote control boat for my birthday and I have been having a blast with it. Only bad thing is it draws the kids when I use it. I'm in Nashville now and have been taking the Lemon Drop Express out for a ride on Percy Priest lake and man, here comes the kids. All of you who know me, know I just love the kid attractor. Hey Roger, watch this maiden voyage. Of course I didn't open her up, don't want to show you all my secrets!! Look out Citrus Ridge!!

While in Nashville I'll be having my annual checkup w/Dr Holmes, eye exam, dental cleaning all the usual Dr things that must be done to keep my lower cost higher paying insurance. Also, I'll be getting Somewhere's oil changed and tires rotated and balanced and other fluids checked. Yearly maintenance for all of us. Sedona had her teeth cleaned while asleep and toes clipped (a major feet while she is awake). So we should all be ready to go for another year.

Later...

Henderson NV and Sedona AZ

2011-07-02T20:51:00.000-04:00

I flew out to see Becky and Ron. Here is a pictorial of our trip. The captions tell about the trip. Thank you Becky and Ron for a great trip.

Later...

Wonderful 10 days at Parksville Lake

2011-07-02T11:47:00.000-04:00

As usual Parksville Lake was filled with fun, family and relaxation. Our annual trek across the waters consisted of Sisters & B-I-Ls, Wanda and Don and Shirley and Doug. Of course the rest of the family came in and out all week.

I picked up Taylor, granddaughter, on Saturday and she stayed the whole week with us. At 14, 15 on July 30, I feel luck that she is still wanting to spend time with Gran, especially when she has no cell signal. All was not lost, seems we can text while we can't talk. I took my kayak down so we could get out in the coves and play around. Taylor was quite the navigator for both Wanda and me. She liked to paddle, I liked to ride. Doesn't get much better than that. Taylor presented Doug with a big orange adult bib. Seems he was always spilling food down his "my Joy," what he called his tummy.

On Monday the Kings came down (our nephews) and we had a shrimp boil. I cooked at least 360 shrimp and they were all devoured. Only 1 new potato remained. Shirley wanted to play some Minute 2 Win It games so you will see some of those in the slide show.

Shirley also introduced her giant marshmallows. We used the stove to roast those giant things. I heard they made great smores. I didn't have a single one all week but will confess to a few cups of homemade ice cream.

Tuesday, Taylor and I came in to town as Jerry and Leah were going to take her for a horse back ride. It stormed but that didn't let it sway them. They went after the worst of the storms and were soaking wet. Taylor didn't mind coming in to play and shower, 3 of them as a matter of fact.

The Slacks came down on Wednesday and it was Italian day. Wonderful lasagna, salad and bread were in order. Of course there is always lots of swimming and tubing that goes along with kids at the lake.

Jonathan and his friend, Ali and her kids, Grace, AJ and Ty arrived to town on Thursday but didn't come down until Friday. Jonathan presented me with my early birthday present. Are you ready? A remote control boat equipped with lights and a siren. I plan on having fun with this in the winter at Citrus Ridge so Roger you better get ready. We christened it the Lemon Drop Express. I'm sure you will see more on this little number in later posts.

Saturday was family day. We had 43 people show, we cooked 15 lbs of hamburgers (63), 34 hot dogs and loads of dessert. Homemade ice cream both chocolate and vanilla was to cool us off and then the smores for those who could stand the fire.

Our weather was varied during the week. Storms, rain, cold, hot, nice, you name it we had it. Of course I loved the cool nights, they made for some good sleeping. No black bear sightings this year.

Later...

Sisters Day Out

2011-06-16T09:56:00.001-04:00

Tuesday was a terrific day out with my sisters, Shirley and Wanda. We went to the movies to see Bridesmaids. It was funny but not funny like I had heard. They could have done away with some of the language but other than that, it was good or at least a rental.

After the movies we went grocery shopping for our week at the lake. That was fun, 'cause you see, Shirley loves, loves Walmart. She could stay in there for hours. I, on the other hand, go in get it and get out. I was driving the cart and away we go. We were in and out in less than an hour. Shirley explained to Doug (her husband) that she didn't get to tarry long enough at Walmart so on Wednesday, off they go to Walmart, again. Funny!

Then we headed down to Parksville lake where we will be spending the remainder of this week and next. Next Saturday all the family will come down and do our annual cookout. I'm sure through the rest of the week we will have others coming and going. I'm taking my kayak down to get in some much needed paddle time. I'll pick up Taylor on Saturday and she will get to spend the week with us. BTW, I'll be in a cell/aircard black hole the whole time I'm at the lake. Can you say withdrawal??

Later...

Pool time in Englewood TN

2011-06-08T13:02:00.000-04:00

Starting off simple with a new post. I arrived back to Somewhere on Sunday. You should have seen Sedona. She was so happy to see me. She had been to the pond and when she saw my car she turned it out full speed to get to me. OMG, she was so happy and so was I. I sure did miss her.

On Monday Roy and I set out to find water. We were going to lake hop. Instead, what did we do?? What else, we went to buy a pool. Yep, one of those inflatables that is 18 X 4. The 4" deep is a little deceiving. It's 4" from the top of the pool. The water is about 3 1/2" but it's still good enough to get wet and use a float in. It's is just about the next best thing to a full size pool.

Now I have everything I need at Roy's paradise. I may never leave! LOL Loving the life!

Sedona is checking it out.

Pump is in place.

Don't you think it's a little late to read the directions, Roy?

Feels good.

Oh, yeah, it's cold.

All ready to go. 1 mile of water, 5680 gals. Whew!

Later...

Greetings from Sedona AZ

2011-05-23T23:36:00.000-04:00

Another quick note just to let you know that I am in Sedona AZ enjoying life. I am penning this post from my NookColor so won't be posting pictures until later unless I figure out how to do it from my Nook.

We went on a hike yesterday to Devil's Bridge. First, We went to the Hike House where they have an electronic trail finder. You put in distance, elevation, time, difficulty. Then it gives you the trails that match the hiker. It was on target and off we went with hiking sticks, water, snacks, hats and excitement. We got some great pix.

Today Becky and I got a reading from Robin Kelley of Sedona Spirit. It was very interesting.

The pool and hot tub has been very refreshing.

Later...

Just checking in

2011-05-20T02:40:00.000-04:00

I'm okay and I've got a lot to report on a wedding, a visit w/fellow women rvers and a festival. At the time I'm dashing out to head to Las Vegas and then to Sedona AZ so bare with me and I'll get back to you in 14 days or so.

Found out this didn't post so I'm editing from Las Vegas. Becky greeted me at the airport with a sign that said BFF and a big smiley face. I had always wanted to be greeted at the airport like that and it happened.

Marathon Driving Day

2011-05-06T09:47:00.000-04:00

Whew, what a day! I started out at 9 a.m from Kingsland GA and arrived in Englewood TN at 6:15 p.m. Against everything I have ever planned but by the time I got to Atlanta @ 2:30ish, I thought, at least get to the North side and get through the traffic. I stopped once on I 16 exit 88 and then onward. I had planned to stay at Walmart in Cartersville.

I've never stayed in a Walmart so a question for all you veterans. When you stay in Walmart parking lot, do you change into your nightwear? or do you stay in your street clothes? That was just something I thought about as I had plenty of time to think while on the road.

When I got to Cartersville I decided I was only 89 miles from my destination so I might as well continue and I had plenty of day light left. So I stopped and got gas, walked Sedona and myself, ate peanut butter & crackers (my staple for the day) and hit the road again. I got 7.1 mpg which is the best I've gotten in a long time. It was an absolutely beautiful driving day. Window down, no a/c so no generator running and my topper window covers worked great to keep that sun out of my eyes and keep Somewhere cooler inside. Even though it was a long day and this morning my body is sore, I'm glad to be here.

I got here and Jerry was here to help me get set up which was very nice because I was very tired and my knee was killing me. I tried one approach of pulling up and backing in but the road is too narrow for me to do that and I was going to hit the front on the trees so I backed down the hill (mountain in my book) and turned into the driveway and the yard is big enough for me to turn around and get backed up.

A very nice park like setting

Did I mention he put in 30 amps for me?

I slept very well last night and so did Sedona.

Later...

Great News on the Knee

2011-05-03T10:16:00.000-04:00

I suppose I was a little premature on posting I was going to have surgery. I'm NOT. Yep, Doc said surgery wouldn't help what was going on so he gave me a big shot of cortisone (yuck). Cortisone sends your blood sugar out the roof and I'm having to deal with that today.

I have mixed emotions about not having surgery. I'm so active and I didn't like pushing through the pain on a walk or hike. I hoped the surgery would make it whole, well maybe like I was 10 years younger (ha) but that's not going to happen so I'll go to a physical therapist and learn the exercises to strengthen my knees. That will be a good thing.

This premature actions cost me a few extra bucks. I thought I would leave for Las Vegas out of Nashville so I booked the flight, then I changed the flight thinking I would leave out of Jacksonville so now I've changed to leaving out of Nashville again. Thank goodness Southwest does not charge change fees. But my window where you get the best deal had closed so I didn't get the same rate out of Nashville as I did before but it will still be worth it. Becky, Ron and I will be going from Henderson NV (their home) to Sedona AZ for the week and I can't wait.

Now I'm making plans for my route to TN so I'll be there in time for my great niece's wedding. Back to my original plans. Roy (my nephew) has put in a 30amp service so I'll be staying up there and leaving Somewhere there while Sedona and I go on day trips.

By the way I forgot to tell you about this great little restaurant, Barbara Jean's, on St Simon Island GA. OMG I got the crab cake and it was to die for. Every bite contained crab, there are no fillers. Outstanding and the vegetables are to die for, cooked well and seasoned perfectly. Oh and you can order their items off the website. She even has a recipe for the crab cakes. I see that BJ's is located in other locations so you want to check it out.

Later...

Plans constantly changing

2011-05-01T21:30:00.000-04:00

Where to begin...
I arrived at Jonathan & Taylor's on Easter weekend. We went to the beach at Fernandina on Saturday which was wonderful and then on Sunday we went to St Simon Community Church with Jonathan's girlfriend, Ali and her children.

Ali is a nurse at an Orthopedic group in Brunswick and I had been having trouble with my left knee since the last week in December. I asked her if she could get me an appointment at one of her Drs. Sure enough, Tuesday was my appointment, Thursday was an MRI, Monday I go back to the Dr for the "official" results. Ali got my MRI results and it looks like I'll be having surgery on Tuesday. I have a floating piece of bone, bone spurs under my knee cap, a little arthritis (surprise) and a sprained ACL. Guess they can't do much for the sprain but everything else can be cleaned up.

So my week at Jonathan's has turned into more like three weeks. Before I knew about getting my knee fixed I made arrangements to go to Vegas to see Becky and then they invited me to spend a week in Sedona with them. The Dr has assured me he will have be ready to go to Sedona and in hiking shape by May 18 and I'm all about that.

If the results change after tomorrow, I'll keep you posted.

Today was another beach day and the weather was perfect. The water was great and not near as cold as last weekend. The bad thing is that I won't be able to go to my great-niece's wedding next weekend. Taylor is going to be a Jr Bridesmaid and her dress is so pretty. I'll miss seeing all the family but I need to get this knee taken care of so I can continue to enjoy my lifestyle.

Later...

Tire Covers

2011-04-23T20:36:00.000-04:00

Last post I told you about buying the fabric for my new tire covers. Since I arrived at Jonathan's and he has a big living room, Taylor and I decided to cut the fabric for the covers. While at it I made the sun covers for the upper windows on the passenger and driver doors. It seems that when the sun shines in, it gets in the way of driving. These should help. Here they are and I love them.

Driver door shades.

Tire cover before the weights are added.

Ribs and Corn Jonathan cooked after Taylor and I worked so hard.

Tire covers with the weights added

Front tire cover with weights.

We spent the day at the beach today. It was absolutely beautiful. The sun was shinning, there was a breeze and the water was chilly. Perfect day. It was fun being with Jonathan and Taylor today.

Later...

Homossas FL

2011-04-20T20:59:00.000-04:00

When I left Citrus Ridge, I headed to Hudson to have my passenger window checked. They did a water check and it didn't leak but there was some missing caulk on the roof gutter line. They caulked what needed to be be done and I was off to Homossas Fl.

I had two free nights at Chassa Oaks RV Resort so pulled in there to a very hearty welcome. Chassa Oaks is an RV park that sells deeded lots. They are having a special for the next ten sites sold with a discount of $10,000. Still expensive at $39,000-$49,000. There are 39 lots total, a very nice clubhouse and beautiful pool. The maintenance fee is $81.00 per mo that includes, water, wi-fi, lawn maintenance, garbage removal. The trees are not mature yet as it's a fairly new area. It's very close to the Chassahowitzka Wildlife Refuge which is a great place for kayaking.

My site 20 at Chassa Oaks

Site I looked at, nice buffer in the back.

After my two nights, I moved up the road about 10 miles to Rock Crusher Canyon RV Resort. My friend Nan was here and I got the site between her and other friends, Jeff and Barbie. Nan had been here three nights, on Passport America, and was getting ready to leave but we had a nice visit. Jeff, Barbie and I went out to dinner to the Freezer. If you are ever in this area, the Freezer is the place to go for seafood. It was an original freezer for the seafood when it was a place for unloading the catch when it came in. A very unique and very good place to go.

I spent most of the day at the pool and getting some things around Somewhere. It was a very relaxing day.

Today, Nan came down and picked me up and we traveled to Center Hill, FL to visit Beasley Mfg Co. Beasley sells sunscreen fabric by the foot and it can be used as awning screens, windshield screens, patio rugs and other uses. You can get this fabric for $1.00-$2.00 a foot. Great price and terrific selection. Nan and I both went ga-ga over the choices. I got a new lightweight rug, some covers for the upper part of the passenger and driver windows and enough for tire covers. I'm excited and know what I'll be doing when I get to Jonathan's. I'll be making new wheel covers. It was a fun day.

Later...

What? Another going away party...

2011-04-18T18:59:00.001-04:00

That's right. Before I left Citrus Ridge for the season, friends Margie and Roger, had a hot dog fest for me and some of the other neighbors. They sure know how to put on the "dog", no pun intended.

It was a great turnout and the weather was perfect. Lots of the neighbors showed up and the food was very good. My lemon drops were a hit too. Some even wanted to know where the Alligator Piss was, none for this party. Maybe next year.

Margie and Roger have a great place for a party, out the back is the lake and the sun was blocked by the trees and the house next door. Margie's buffet server worked out perfect and held the cheese dip, chili and baked beans at the perfect temperature.

What a great turnout! Margie is on the right.

Margie drinking out of her chihuahua cup.

There were appetizers as well as a meal.

Golf carts parking.

Time for the dogs. Mel & Colette dig in!

Margie & Roger's shed decorations.

A little networking time

The End, thanks Patti for the shot!

Thanks Margie and Roger! Later...

One-going away party

2011-04-06T21:30:00.001-04:00

This was the first of what I feel will be a going away party for me and others in the park. Bob and Shirley Mebanes, my next door neighbors, had some people over for food tonight. Other neighbors came over from Michigan and then others were leaving out tomorrow. The ones from Michigan were out in the sun too much today and were cold so they bundled up in covers I brought out from Somewhere. I teased Shirley about bring out real plates and said where's the silver, which she proceeded to bring out for our use. It was an enjoyable night.

Much of the conversation consisted of the proper use of the black water tanks on the RV. Yeah, good conversation at dinner, but what's a group to do, right?

Sedona's new dress-Dog-a-licious.

Bob & Shirley Mebanes bring out the silver!

John brought some vinison sausage sticks.

It was actually quite good.

Kevin and Tammy add the mustard.

...but Kevin adds the little finger with the use of silver.


Tammy is cold and loves the TN throw to wrap up in.	She's from Michigan.

You will notice that Sedona is in her new dress this morning. It was a little colder today so she needed the dress to wrap up in for her morning walk.

Another thing I did to get me ready to hit the road...put the bike rack on the ladder of Somewhere. 8 more days till I depart Citrus Ridge.

Later...

Just another day in the Park

2011-04-04T21:58:00.000-04:00

It started off being a busy day with my neighbors getting a boring for a sink hole at their property. They had suspected for some time there may be a sink hole. Their insurance company had an engineering and drilling company come out and so some boring sample. It was sure interesting and caused quite a stir in the neighborhood. My place was at "court" side and a good place to sit, watch, visit and have bloody marys. They won't know for about 30 days. If there is a sink hole, the insurance will buy the park model and the site will return to an RV site so nothing permanent can be placed on it.

Let the drilling begin.

Curiosity seekers & lots of noise.

Margie, Roger and Anne watch the action-cute dress Anne.

Really?? It's not that interesting!

Drilling 100'

In addition to this action going on, it was time for my appointment to have my rig cleaned & polished. I had called Professional Coach Services and Roger decided since they were going to be here, he would have his coach cleaned too. It took about 45 minutes to wash it and then about 1.5 hrs to wax it. Also as part of the deal they would do my car. My coach has a bit of oxidation on it so it doesn't shine up like a full body paint job. But boy, does it look better. I'll definitely call these folks next year 'cause it's a lot better than me spending 2 days doing it myself and working up all that sweat! A buffer sure is the tool to have if one is going to polish their own rig. Three workers ascended the ladder and had the roof cleaned in no time at all. It was amazing to see all the dirt coming off the top, well, not really, I've been under an oak tree for five months.

Car looks good.

Three guys working makes it go faster.

Look at that stretch!

They even did windows. A keeper...

Just in case I lose their business card. $250 wash/polish rig/car.

Margie brought Sedona a cute little sun dress and it looks so cute. You will see pictures later she got a little too hot in a dress today. We are supposed to get more windy storms tomorrow so the (clean) awning went in so I wouldn't have to get up too early in the a.m. to put put it up.

Eleven more days till I head out. I'll have to admit I've got hitch-itch bad, (and that's not a disease.)

Later...

Another Farewell Party this time in Ft Myers

2011-03-31T19:24:00.002-04:00

My friend, Becky, has accused me of travelling FL in search of farewell parties. LOL This past weekend I went to FT Myers to visit my sister Shirley and BIL Doug before they migrate toward TN. It happens that they were having their farewell party at their condo so why not. Good food and entertainment.

I arrived on Saturday around noon and we visit for a while and then hit the pool. The food came out around 5 which consisted of hamburgers and hotdogs provided by the condo association. Residents furnished all the other goodies with potluck dishes. Lots of good food, oh I mentioned that already didn't I.

Colorful umbrellas decorate the lawn.

Hamburgers and hotdogs

Yummy side dishes

A big turno

People in the food line.

After everyone ate and cleaned up it was time for the entertainment to begin. Sam, a talented resident, had written a skit for the last three years and the "entertainers" came from the residents of Pinewood. The skit was the last installment of Bob and Sue who had met Behind the Dumpsters, went on their Honeymoon and finally They lived Happily Ever After. No telling what he will come up with next year.

Cindi Lauper w/Back Up Singers. She's had 2 knee replacements.

Some of the "entertainers" were: Frank Sinatra, Dolly Parton, Chuck Barry, John Travolta, Olivia Newton John, Cindy Lauper, Nancy Sinatra, and Dean Martin w/back-up singers.

A very entertaining night.

Here we are:

Next day we went downtown and walked on the riverwalk for a while and then to eat at Joe's Crab Shack. I took a few of my Tervis Tumblers back to the store and swapped them out for new ones. Tervis has a 100% guarantee and it's truly no hassle.

Sedona stayed with Margie, Roger, Anne and Buddy. Margie stayed in communication with me via email and text sending me messages and pictures from Sedona. Ahhh, how sweet!

Please share w/me, Roger.

Roger is surrounded w/love and no fights!


I believe Margie said Sedona was watching Beverly Hills Chi.

Thanks Margie.

Later...

What does one do in stormy weather???

2011-03-31T12:13:00.000-04:00

Make lemonade, of course.

27 Myer Lemonds


15 yielded a quart

During the break in the storm yesterday, Margie, Roger and I went to raid the last of the lemons (with permission of course) on the "secret" tree so it could begin to bloom and produce again. You all may remember reading about the lemon fairy who kept me in lemons since I have been here.

What to do with all these lemons to keep them from going bad? A girl can only drink so many lemon drops at one time. I was talking to my sister this weekend and she suggested I squeeze the lemons and put them in ice trays, freeze them, put them in a zip lock bag and I can have lemonade anytime I want. What a brilliant idea. Thanks Shirley.

I mentioned the stormy weather and I don't mean just raining, take a look at this:

This is just a little of what we have dealt with all morning. Tornado warnings for Polk County (the county I live in) and one was spotted in the western part of Polk Co. I have a rain gauge and Monday there was 5.75" showing, today from last night until about 10 a.m was only 1.5" but it's raining again so there may be more. I've read that rains like this can cause sink holes to appear. Hope we don't start losing park models in here. Uck! That would be baaaad!

Sedona does not like to get wet. During a break in the rain we went out for a walk and she was stepping high. We stopped over at Margie's and then the bottom dropped out while we were outside talking. We began to run, yes I was running but I'll have to say not for long. I figured I could use a hair dryer on us and we could get dry quickly. This rain is not cold like in TN.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!

Later...

Time for the Migration to begin

2011-03-30T23:25:00.000-04:00

Friday was the signal for the migration North to begin. It was the farewell party at Citrus Ridge. Sweet Charlie returned with his good music. Everyone headed to the pool, danced a little (Margie & Roger) and ate a lot.

Noodlers abound

Margie & Roger and Tina & Dave

Do a little dance...

Citrus Ridge does this every year as a farewell and welcome back. Some of the RVers have pulled out already and even some of the park model residents have headed home.

Later...

Next Year at Citrus Ridge & other things

2011-03-24T21:58:00.000-04:00

A decision has been made. I'm coming back to Citrus Ridge next year and going to try to work for Disney. I've got a much better lot with NO acorn trees. It's a lot on the lake and should be a comfortable place for me and Sedona. I'm looking forward to staying there.

I've enjoyed my winter at Citrus Ridge. Lots of activities and lots of very nice people. It's has certainly helped having Margie pave the way for me. Yeah, I'll admit to riding on her coat tails. LOL

Sedona and I have enjoyed riding on the bicycle especially now that the roads have been paved. All I have to say is "wanna go for a ride?" and she goes out to where the bike is and sits until I get out there and get her ready. She sits quietly and watches everything as we go by. I have a clip that I attach to her harness to prevent her from jumping out.

Friends Bobby and Sharon came down from N FL to visit. They got a site in CR and it was nice to have Sharon around here. We went to breakfast with the girls and then on a shopping trip around the Orlando area. It was a short visit but I got to see her new Smart Car. Little thing but it will tow nicely as it only weighs 1700 lbs. They shouldn't even know it's back there.

Margie and I went to The Barn close to Lake Alfred today. It's a nice place out in the boonies. It has antiques and gift store and a restaurant. When you enter the restaurant you pick up the menu, find a table, make your number and name on the menu as well as what you want to eat. You go up to cashier and pay and they fill your order. Your order is delivered to you in wooden boxes with leather handles like a "box" lunch. Very unique and so tasty. Not too expensive and not too much food either.

Another event at Citrus Ridge was a fashion show sponsored by the Red Hat Ladies and Bon Worth.
There was an opportunity to make purchases but I didn't need anything so I passed on the deal. The ladies did such a good job and it was enjoyable afternoon.

One of the ladies had made a purse and called it her DD purse. It's made out of a red bra and she had it decorated with purple and lots of beads. Cute idea. So all you women who want to carry a bra for a purse, here's your idea.

When I leave here on April 15 I'm trying to decide on a route to go back to TN. I'll spend a few days around the Homosassas Springs area, stop in SE Ga to visit Jonathan and Taylor, then Savannah, Augusta, Liberty SC, Dillard GA and then TN. I am always changing my mind so these plans are in jello, they are just my thoughts. I'm trying to avoid Atlanta because I want to see some new scenery. Or I might go through AL. Who knows.

I'm discussing workkamping at TN State Parks for a couple of months this summer. Should work out and it will be a way for me to save some gas money and see if I could really be into this workkamping gig.

Citrus Ridge is having the Farewell Party tomorrow. Sweet Charlie will be back singing his tunes as he was here at the Welcome Back party. Should be a fun time!

I'm heading down to FT Myers this weekend to visit my Sister Shirley and BIL Doug. Should be a good trip. Can't believe I have waited all winter to do this. Time sure flies when you are having fun.

Later...

Segways in Celebration FL

2011-03-20T14:14:00.000-04:00

Jonathan & friend, Ally and Taylor came down from SE GA for a visit with me before I head back N in April. While they were here we decided to do the Segway tour of Celebration. We head over to Irlo Bronson Hwy and take a quick 15 minute training session on the operation of the Segway before they turned us out on the busy street and the trails of the town. Here is a quick video of Taylor receiving her lesson.

After we passed the necessary stopping and turning we meet our guide and then he gives us information about crossing as a team, how we were to let him be our eyes when crossing and we were to look straight ahead until we got out of traffic. It was so much fun. We saw so much wildlife. Celebration is a town that Walt Disney originally built for the families working at Disney. That didn't pan out and it was more expensive than he had planned so it is just a cute community with a town and lots of trails/boardwalks. It is very well maintained. It is also a good place to go walking. We saw alligators, lots of birds and lots of very nice houses.

Carolyn learns to ride.

Carolyn learns to get off the Segway

Ally gives it a try.

Jonathan's got it figured out.

Ally's got it!

Ally, Jonathan and Taylor in front of the Bohemian Hotel

Carolyn, Taylor, Ally and Jonathan

On the road

The girls getting ready to go

Celebration movie house (closed)

The lakes

On the trails

I just could hang on, Jonathan could ride one handed

One of the houses along the trail

Ally poses

Another home

A boardwalk


Business in Celebration.

We all had a great time and would do it again. Probably not as long as this 2 hr 13 mile trip but well worth it. There is a coupon in the coupon books around town if you plan on doing this.

Later...

Roy and Tina Come for A Visit

2011-03-17T00:47:00.000-04:00

Arriving by Allegiant Airline to Orlando Sanford Airport are Roy and Tina for a few days of a great vacation.

First on the list was a trip to the beach. My what a beautiful day. We went to Cocoa Beach on the east coast and before going to the beach we stopped to shop at Ron Jon's Beach Shop. It was a shopping craze as Tina found some things for her and her sons and Roy had to get a T-shirt. Nothing for you Jerry.

Then it was to the beach. What a beautiful day, oh, said that already. But it was! The water was cold, cold but then we took a look around and saw all these blue jelly fish on the beach that had washed ashore. There were a couple of people who had been stung and I sure didn't want to be a casualty. So we soaked in the sun and took a stroll on the beach and had a great time.

Then we headed over to my favorite places, Milliken's Reef in Port Canaveral. This place has great live music, good food, fun people and a place to watch the cruise ships depart. We were also able to see a rocket launch. It was a "top secret" mission that all the news stations seemed to know about and broadcast. We saw it in person and that was pretty exciting.

We missed action in the park. Some of the guys in Citrus Ridge agreed to be Calendar Girls. Since I wasn't there, I'm going to direct you to Margie's blog as Roger was one of the Calendar Girls and boy was he cute. We got home about the time it was breaking up so we got to see some of the guys in drag. What these guys won't do for charity, right? I think they enjoyed it too much to do it "just" for charity.

Sunday we head out to Tampa for the Seminole Hard Rock Casino but before we go there we must stop by Parksdale Farms in Plant City Fl for the best Strawberry Cake in the area.

We got Roy to the casino in time for him to play in a Texas Hold'em tournament and Tina and I were left to our own devices, the slots. I knew Tina was finally liking a casino when she said "I'm gonna go over here and see if I can find something to play that I like." I didn't see her again for quite a while. Yep she's hooked. LOL We ate at the champagne buffet and held our own with the crab legs. What a great day!

Next day we just lazed around a bit and went shopping and ended the day with a good soak in the hot tub. Hated to see their visit come to an end.

I'll be back in Citrus Ridge again in November. I'm gonna try Disney one more time and hope that starting earlier in the application process will get me working in either Oct or Nov '11. I've found another site that is on the lake and out from under this messy oak tree. I have a great view of the lake and the western sky so good sunsets should be in my future.

Later...

Jonathan and Taylor visit

2011-03-17T00:13:00.000-04:00

My son, Jonathan and granddaughter, Taylor came down for a visit. We went to Walt Disney's Magic Kingdom and had a wonderful day. Their visit was cut short by my bad cold and crappy cold weather. But we made the best of a great day. This was Taylor's first visit to Disney and Jonathan hadn't been there since he was 3 yo and he is 35 now.

We had a fun time riding the rides and we all agreed that the Big Mountain Thunder was the best roller coaster. It's funny how Space Mountain seemed so cool way back then. It was still fun but wasn't what I remembered. Of course we had to do it's a Small World. Yes, the song stuck in our head for a while.

Nothing would do the kids but to spin Gran on the Tea Cups. I think you will see we all enjoyed even though I thought I would toss my cookies. Very worth it.

It was a terrific trip and can't wait to do it again.

Later...

The Circle Will Be Unbroken

2011-03-04T23:56:00.000-05:00

Imagine my surprise when I received a phone message from my YaYa's, Becky (Lotus) and Missi (Giggles) last night to tell me to expect a package in the mail sometime in the next couple of days that would excite me. It would excite me because it was a present to keep Theda (LawDog) and me (Queen) and the rest of the YaYa's united forever.

I got the package today and couldn't wait to open it. Oh my, I broke down and sobbed. I'll let you decide if you would have too.

I love my YaYa's forever!

Later...

Busy Week-well sort of

2011-02-27T22:08:00.000-05:00

I had received a phone call from Disney for me to come in for a 2nd interview as Fairy Godmother in the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Downtown Disney. So Margie and I head to Downtown Disney for a look see. It's a cool thing but it's a beauty salon. Lots of little girls being made up like a princess. Excited little girls (no boys were seen) were sitting still and waiting for the Fairy Godmother to work their magic. And magic it was. But it's a beauty salon.

Now let me take you back into my history about 1969 to be exact. That's when I became a licensed cosmetologist. Yep, that would be me. I worked in a salon, actually we called it beauty shop then. Did I like it?? Well, I'm not doing it anymore if that tells you anything, in fact, I only did it for about 8 months. Yep, 1500 hours of training and a state board exam for 8 months of work. Didn't like those "blue" hairs. You know the ones who have their hair shampooed and set once a week, come in on Wed for a comb out and they are good to go. Couldn't do anything right. Nah it wasn't for me then, and I don't think it would be for me now. Even though the clientele would be somewhat different, it's still doing hair.

I came back and called Disney and said, thanks but not this year. I'll try again next year when I have more than 6 weeks left for training and work. BTW, no where in my resume did I EVER mention the hair dresser gig in my past.

Anyway, Margie and I shopped around at Downtown Disney and all we found to purchase was some lighted ice cubes. They are liquid activated and work much like my solar lights. They move from red to green to blue. Pretty cool and they look nice in a wine glass (mine happen to be blue) at night.

Game opening

Saturday afternoon Margie and Roger and I decided to go to the last day of Jai-Alai. For those of you who don't know what it is (I didn't either) I think it's just racquet ball on steroids. But you can click the link to learn more. Enjoy the videos. I was able to win a little money and that made for a very good afternoon.
Roger's celebration dance.

The Game

Another Game

This lifestyle is tough...trying to decide what to do next. A day at the pool was terrific.

Later...

Somewhere has new Floors!!

2011-02-22T21:00:00.000-05:00

I finally found someone who could do my floors at my site in Davenport for a very reasonable price. A Pro Builder van was in the neighborhood a few weeks ago and I stopped to ask them if they would give me an estimate on new flooring for my RV. A few days later they came over and measured. There was a delay in them getting back to me on the cost so I thought they had just decided they didn't want to do a job this small.

All of a sudden I get a phone call with an apology saying things had been crazy and I had fallen through the cracks but they would do the job for $500 & me supply the materials and they could start on Monday and it should take 2 days. The only draw back was that I could not use the partial floor I had put down last year, I would have to get all new tiles.

No problem, off to Lowes I go. Couldn't find the same tiles anyway so Taylor, Jonathan and I chose another in a wood pattern.

Living Room Dirty Carpet

Bedroom & floor from last year

Living Room Carpet

Workers beginning to pull up carpet

More Demo

Bare floor

Chris and Steve show up at the appointed time on Monday and waste no time getting busy. They did most all the demo and put some of the tiles down in the bedroom and the day was gone. They showed up today to finish about an hour late but the fog was very dense and caused some delay. They worked until about 6:15 only stopping for about an hour for lunch and a Lowes run.

Chris and Steve, what an awesome crew!

New floor in Living Room

New Hall floor

Bedroom floor

I am so very pleased. Somewhere looks larger with the new floor. Sedona is just not sure yet. She liked her carpet. But she still has some on the doghouse and under the dinette. She will be okay until bed tonight, then we will see if she wants to jump up or jump off the bed.

I'm a happy camper! Now what?? Hummmm...
Later...

Day tripping...one way ticket please!

2011-02-17T14:39:00.001-05:00

Margie and I headed over to the Nature Coast of FL to check out an RV park selling lots. Well, I was the one checking it out as Margie and Roger already own a lot in Citrus Ridge. I love the Nature Coast because of the springs and the looks of things over there. Reminds me of one big State Park.

They wait until you purchase to pour the pad.

Already poured

I liked lot #6.

I had read another blog, Karen and Al, and they mentioned Chassa Oaks RV Resort. We looked around and talked to the folks and everyone seemed to be very nice. A bit pricey for an RV lot as the one I really liked was $54,900. Way too much $$ for me especially since I think it's a little too far north to enjoy the warmth of FL in the winter. Also I'm still up in the air about what I really want to do. Not ruling it out but I'll tell you if something came up for sale in Rock Crusher Canyon RV Resort, I'd be there in a heart beat! I'll be headed to Chassa Oaks to stay two nights on them on my way north to TN.

We met our bloggin' friends, Jeff and Barbie, at Marguerita Grill in Homosassas Springs, FL. The food was delish and the drinks were fabulous. Can't you tell I was being greedy here? Hey, at least I wasn't driving. Thanks Margie for agreeing to be the driver today.

Marguerita Grill Artwork

Afterward we went to Barbie and Jeff's Castle in Rock Crusher Canyon RV Resort and visited with them for a little while. Good thing 'cause if we had of left right then I would have snoozed all the way back home. Margie got a ride on the golf cart with Barbie to see the place. She hadn't been there but she had heard about it through me and others. Not so sure if she was as impressed with the place as I was. I'm more rustic than she is. She likes the concrete and tv programming she gets from the Dish. There are no bugs at this place and I like that a lot.

Anyway back home we go and it was a great day to visit friends and to check out new places.

More artwork

Barbie and Jeff-that was a medium Margarita.

Nice fire pit

Jeff & Barbie's landscaping, they own their lot.

Barbie and Jeff's new castle.

Margie's chillin.

Thanks for joining us, Jeff and Barbie.
Later...

Auburndale Flea Market and Happy Hour at Somewhere

2011-02-13T20:30:00.000-05:00

There were five us who decided to head south to Auburndale for the flea market. I had my own personal GPS, Dave. He directed us there and found us a good parking space. Why do I need Stella when Dave is along? Oh but then Tina may have a little something to say about that. We twisted Roger's arm and he decided he would just love to go with us. So Margie, Roger, Tina, Dave and I head to the very busy flea market.

Luscious strawberries from Plant City

All frozen and ready to consume

Tina and Dave holding Buddy & Anne

Dave, Margie w/Anne, Shirley

Jan, Shirley w/Alex, Tina and Dave

Shirley, Bob, and Roger

Peggy w/Alex, Tina

Other than just getting out and about on such a lovely day, my main objective was to get some fresh strawberries and that's exactly what I came away with. Well, and a few grapes too.

We got back and the weather was too perfect so I invited everyone over to my place for a little happy hour event. I wanted to make some of my famous frozen daquari's with my fresh strawberries. So I made some virgin ones and then some with some kick to it. They were all consumed so I guess they were good. Margie brought over some snacks and it ended up being a good evening.

Later...

Company Comes

2011-02-09T16:36:00.000-05:00

L-R Tina, Carolyn, Sarah, Margie, Roger

Two friends from the women rv forum, Sarah and Tina, stopped by for a visit after they had been traveling around Florida after the Silver River get together (gtg.) Tina found a place at Deer Creek RV & Golf Resort (Passport America) and Sarah who is a wannabe stayed with me in Somewhere. You may remember Sarah went along with me to Crater of Diamonds state park in the summer.

Anyway Roger & Margie and these rest of us went to The End Zone for dinner. Monday night is wing night and as you can see, Roger can put his fair share away, notice his bone yard. We let Roger tag along so he could claim us as his harem for the evening.

Tuesday evening, they joined us at the Tuesday Happy Hour potluck so they could get a taste of our lifestyle. The first 1/2 hour is spent telling/reading jokes and then it's time to eat. Afterward, we stopped by Margie's to sit around the "campfire" (didn't get a picture) and visit. Margie had just had some work completed around her site and neighbors stopped by to admire the work.

Tina and Sarah were leaving out today. Working their way North to the cold. I had recommended Rock Crusher Canyon Park and the springs around Crystal River/Homosassas Springs FL and I think that is where she was headed. I wouldn't want to be heading to Ohio and North Alabama anytime soon. Safe travels, girls.

Nothing much is happening around here these days.

Later...

New Potluck Carrier

2011-02-03T11:46:00.001-05:00

On Thanksgiving 2010 I saw a holder one of the ladies had to bring her plates, glasses and utensils from which to eat in one neat carrier. I took a picture of it and along with the dimensions of my tray to my creative friend, Nan. So at the latest women RV gtg, she had this to show me.

I chose the one she had made out of screen material thinking it would be easier to keep clean. There are pockets on both sides so if there are two of you, there's room for 2 of everything. I'm excited to try it out. She is only charging $20 so if you are interested let me know and I can send you her email address. She is a very creative person, just give her an idea and presto! there it is.

Just thought I would share this with my reading public so you could get just as excited as I did. LOL

My landlords finally stopped by (1st time since I've been here) and presented me with my two months electric & water bills. Total for 2 months was $170.64 which wasn't too bad. The water is a constant $38.50 so I can expect that every month and I'll probably was my rig a time or two since I'm not using anywhere close to the maximum allowed. The electric was somewhere in the neighborhood of $42 mo but I haven't had the a/c on since I've been here so guess that's just water heater and fans, lights, etc. I'm still under $450 per month so I'm a happy camper and I really like this place. People are nice & friendly for the most part and there are lots of activities. I haven't gotten back into the water exercises yet and I've got to do that but I am going to the pool daily and am riding my bicycle. My DR would be so happy to know that. Of course I'm getting plenty of steps in walking Sedona.

Sedona is settling in pretty good. She seems a little more skiddish than before. Thanks for everyone who have asked about her. She's a resilent little girl but I sure can't mention Mama T's name as she thinks she needs to be talking on the phone to her. LOL

Just heard from my nephew, Roy and he and Tina are planning on flying down next weekend to see me. Yippee, company! I'm excited about that too. Guess I'm just an excitable kind of person.

Margie and I are planning a Super Bowl party at her place on Sunday evening. Hope the weather stays like it has been...
B E A U T I F U L!

Later...

Bloggers Get Together (gtg)

2011-02-01T13:57:00.000-05:00

About 29 other bloggers gathered at Smokey Bones in Lakeland FL to put names with faces and how we did! It was so good to meet others who have this lifestyle and share the ups, downs and sideways of their life. Because I didn't take any pictures, I'm gonna link to Margie's blog and you can get more details. Yes, and because I'm lazy too. (Margie, told you I was going to do this. LOL)

It was terrific to meet everyone and hope we do it again. Thanks Donna and Stu for having this idea and following through.

Later...

I'm Back Home (sort of)

2011-01-28T16:16:00.000-05:00

After leaving my son's, Jonathan, in Kingsland GA I headed south on Tuesday. I stopped by the Silver River State Park in Ocala for a couple of days at the womenrv forum's gtg. I arrived on Tuesday afternoon just in time for the big storm that rolled through. Tornado warnings were issued but we all survived in the cabin. I didn't get pictures so I'll link you to Beth, Liz's , Margie's blog sites so you can see the ladies and all the fur babies.

I pulled out on Wednesday after sharing Nan's RV for the night to head back to Davenport. I felt I needed to get back to take care of a leak in my windshield that Margie had nursed while I was gone for so long. I stopped at the America Choice RV center in Clermont and asked the service manager, Chris, about doing the work and a rough estimate. He said I could bring it in the next day which would have been yesterday and I'm still here. I had a list of items to be fixed and thought as long as I'm here I'll have everything done. The leak was the windshield instead of the top of Somewhere, thank goodness. I had busted my sink and my shower was leaking so kill all the birds w/all the stones.

The sealant had to dry overnight and they put me up behind the locked fence for me to stay with water/electric hook-ups. The sink had to be found and purchased and that didn't happen until late this afternoon, the shower mechanism had to be found and that arrived this afternoon and now something else is needed for that. Good thing they work on Saturdays b/c I am here another night.

I like this place and Chris is a nice guy so it could be worse. There is a 2007 Itasca Sunrise on the lot w/3 slides and it's 50 amp which was very appealing. Of course they tried to upgrade me while I was here and it was terribly tempting to just get a newer rig but I have resisted so far. I like my Somewhere and can't see a need for something else even though I know 2003 will begin to lose value in another year or so. I've had her since Dec 2007 and I still like her except for the dang carpet so I'll just live with that for a while longer.

Margie came over today and looked at the '07 and spent some time with me so I wouldn't be so bored. Oh and did I mention that it was great to be back in my bed?

Later...

A Tribute to My Very Best Friend, Theda Echols Young

2011-01-23T23:37:00.000-05:00

My wonderful friend Theda passed away on Jan 3, 2011. She was 44 years old. Her parents are elderly and both alive. She had two older brothers.

Theda and I became best friends in 1995. She was a little sister that I never had. I say she was my little sister but she ended up taking care of me more than me her. My sister Wanda said that whenever Theda was with me during surgery they (other sister Shirley) didn't have to worry because they knew they would get information and that I would be well taken care of. Theda never said a bad word about anyone, she always saw the good in people.

I remember our first trip. It was our first cruise for both of us. We were hooked and we went on many more trips after that. We went many places together like San Francisco, Destin, Key West, Mexico, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, St Thomas, St Kitts, St Lucia, GA, MS, just to name a few, because we were very compatible room mates and great friends.

There were four of us who were YaYa's. We all had nicknames. Lotus was Becky, Missi was Giggles, Theda was Law Dawg and I was the Queen. Theda kept all of us straight because she was the one who kept her head on straight in every situation. We made a great foursome.

We all met through work but our friendships were much deeper than that. We even adopted a guy, Roy my nephew and his nickname was WahWah so it ended up being 3 YaYa's and a Wah Wah. That's when we went to Cancun for the week and Giggles couldn't go along.

Theda loved my family. She was such a great teacher with everyone who came to her park but especially with Taylor, my granddaughter. She added that extra something for her. My son, Jonathan, used to tell me that he never worried when I was with Theda. He knew I was in good hands.

Theda loved working for TN State Parks. She worked part-time for years and then finally was hired full-time. She was a Ranger which meant she had to go to the Law Enforcement Academy and then was stationed at the Bicentennial Captiol Mall in downtown Nashville. She took great pride in the opening of the "Mall" and then the subsequent tours she would provide and then the leadership when she became the Asst Park Manager. The Mall flourished.

She later got the opportunity to manage a park of her own. Johnsonville State Historic Area in New Johnsonville TN. Some of you readers have read about my ventures at the JSHA. She was thrilled that she was getting a new Visitor's Center. She had such pride in her profession and she was smart and had more knowledge about such a variety of subjects. She was a trained classical pianist, she played the violin. She knew about the Civil War, birds, flowers, trees, you name it and she could tell you information on a particular topic. She was definitely the one you would want in a trivia game. I tried to get her to go on a game show but she never would. She wasn't a bragadocious type person in anyway. Wow, and they say opposites attract.

This past Christmas Theda and I got in a big discussion about religion. I didn't want to assume I knew where she stood in her faith like I had in another instance with a friend. We assured each other that we both know the Lord as our personal savior. We held hands and prayed for our friend. She said she was sure of her salvation & knew where she was going when she died. Little did either of us know that she would be there this soon.

When I called our friend Ann to tell her what had happened she said that a song came on her radio what was something to the effect of "Mama's teaching her angel to sing." I believe that my Mama was waiting on Theda to come join the angels.

Several of our other good friends have gone on before Theda so I'm sure that the Angel Ranger Corps of Eddie, Rick, Larry, Dean-O and Mike were there to see her too.

Thanks to everyone who sent their condolences through email and face book. All of you who knew her were blessed and if you didn't know her, you missed a great opportunity to know someone who was a kind and gentle soul.

It's been a few weeks out and I finished with the house, uniforms and family things and am now with my family who is helping me get through a terrible period. Everyone says it will get easier and I'm sure with time it will but I just don't see how it will.

Theda was Mama T to Sedona. I had given Sedona to Theda a few weeks before Christmas as most of you read. She was now Mama to Sedona and I was Mama Carolyn because Mama C was so close to Mama T, couldn't confuse her you know. Sedona and I called Theda every evening to make sure she was tucked in safely after locking the gate at the park. Some days Sedona wanted to talk to Mama T and here is an example of her carrying on a conversation with her. Sedona is doing okay in spite of what she has gone through. Sedona was at Theda's side when her body was found and she wasn't going to let anyone get close to her. The detective took a loop and was going to put her in the shelter but Andy (Theda's maintenance man) took Sedona home with him until I could get up there to get her.

Seems like this tribute has been rambling but it has been theraputic for me to put words down on how I feel. Theda was my rock and I am going to miss her.

I'll always love you Theda.

Later...

Slide Show of Trip to Animal Kingdom

2011-01-02T21:37:00.000-05:00

I was fortunate enough to be invited to go to Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista FL with Roger and Margie Woodall. Roger is a cast member for Disney and they invited me to go along on a great Sunday outing and I accepted. Here are some shots of our day there. Thanks folks!

Oh, we had a great jalenpeno-cheese pretzel. Neither Margie nor I got a picture but it was very delicious. I highly recommend it on your next visit to a park.

Later...