The Big FMCA Rally

Up early ... hustling around to get up to Perry to attend the big RV show. We were pumped.  Bob (we call him Maine Bob) met us at the gate and directed us to his coach where we gathered.  Their friends, Fred and Lynn, arrived about the same time and we soon learned that the big show wasn't really starting until tomorrow. Wait! Tomorrow?  But all the literature said Monday.  The billboards said Monday.  The website said Monday.  I know we had daylight savings time change this past weekend but did I miss something?  Should I have moved my calendar as well as my clocks?  But Maine Bob says no ... all these rallies start a day late. "So how come?" I ask.  'Well that's just the way they do things'   So the newest RV rally rookie learned his first lesson.  Show up a day late.

All was not lost as Maine Bob says 'lets go to the Museum of Aviation' (http://www.museumofaviation.org) just north of Perry. I caught a glimpse of some of the ladies rolling their eyes indicating maybe this wasn't their first choice ... but the men prevailed so off we went.

I usually cannot pass up a military museum so this was right up my alley.  Well kept and lots to see, each of us headed off in different directions focusing on exhibits that interested us most. 

Standing under the wing of modern fighter jet, the size and complexity of this war machine is really amazing.  And to think that some snotty nose kid who lived down the street a few years ago is now the ripe age of 25 and flying this multi-million dollar bullet.

The museum has one of those rare SR71 Blackbird high altitude spy planes.  Considering it was the fastest plane in the US arsenal (though now retired), and it was designed and built in the 1950's, it still is a completely awesome plane. 

Sharon who secretly really does like her picture taken, posed for this touristy shot on a Chinese wall replica.

The display depicted those airmen who flew 'The Hump" from India to China during WW II.  The 'Hump' referred to the treacherous flight path taken over the Himalayan mountains to supply the Chinese with materials

.

One of the fascinating aspects of WW II war planes was the 'nose' art.  'Nose' art are the personal characterizations, usually of girlfriends, wives, or pin-up girls painted on the very front of the aircraft.  Some racy but many just an extension of that aircraft crews personality.  Here's a nice example on this beautifully restored old bomber.

  

The grounds surrounding the museum has a large number of other planes worth looking at.  From four engine Lockheed Super Constellations, to a variety of fighter jets, cargo planes and bombers.  Speaking of bombers,  the real 'wonder' plane that has nearly 50 years of service under its wing is the B52.  This one, all dressed out in camo paint, looks like it may have quite a few missions before retirement.  A proud lady for sure.

So there you have our first day with great intentions of going to the FMCA rally.  Not all things go as planned but thanks to our friends from Maine, a very enjoyable day ... still livin' the dream.

Phil

Settled in

After a short one hour run from Albany, we're now parked in Elko Georgia at the Twin Oaks RV Park (www.twinoaksrvpark.com).  Surrounded by blooming apple trees we're but a 3-wood, a wedge, and two putts from I75.

The park is filling up fast as the big FMCA show starts tomorrow and places to stay around here are at a premium.  Our friends Jim and Carol from Iowa should not be far behind as they left Alabama this morning and our friends Bob and Joan from Maine are already in Perry at the FMCA camp.

This weather will certainly make the Georgia peaches ripen as it's in the mid 70's, a slight breeze and blue skies. Should be a little warmer tomorrow.

So we're about to take on another adventure: a big RV rally with about 10,000 people to mingle with and about 800 new coaches to look at.  Oh my aching feet.  Later tomorrow.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Slow lane ... continued

A trip into Albany this afternoon took us to the Ray Charles Plaza located on Flint River.  A unique little park with a great view and Ray Charles greatest hits playing through speakers everywhere.  With his bronze likeness seated at a grand piano, it was a nice tribute to one of the best.

Embedded in the design of the small park was an area that represented keys on a large piano keyboard.
Sharon is standing on a C note (don't I wish).  In the background the old bridge over the Flint River is currently closed for repairs/

I'm always amused at cleaver uses of our language.  Hopefully this repairman will get as much business as laughs.

So there you have it.  We're back in camp and hamburgers will soon be sizzling on the grill.  The park is full up today with many getting ready to move on to the Family Motor Coach Association rally in Perry tomorrow.  We'll fall into the line headed that way about 11:00am and get to our next camp in about an hour or so.

Livin' the dream

Phil

Another day in the slow lane

Betcha' ya thought Albany Georgia was just another wide spot on the road we're travelling this winter.  Au contraire mon frere'.  For those old enough ... you will remember Harry James.  That great band leader and trumpeter of of the 40's through the 80's  was born here and ... what about soul singer Ray Charles ... who doesn't remember him?  And did I mention that lady pro golfer Nancy Lopez still lives here.  (We were going to invite her over lunch but we just couldn't fit it in our schedule)  And what about singer Ray Stevens ('Ahab the Arab' and 'Little Red Riding Hood') was born here as was famous southern cook and TV star Paula Deen.  I think I going to have to get an autograph book if we stay here any longer.

The weather here is near perfect with the highs today in the low 70's and a cloudless azure blue sky.  I just returned from the fishing pond where I was feeding the local ducks and geese and seeing the spring flowers starting to emerge from the ground.  This is great.

I almost forgot ... yesterday we headed over to the Monaco pre-rally in Moultrie.  What is a pre-rally you ask?  Well I think it is a gathering of people who have the same make of motor coach who meet prior to a larger rally ... in this case the FMCA rally in Perry.  Since we're still a little dumb on all these things we thought we'd attend one to find out what happens.  We were suppose to pay a visit on Thursday but because of our delays, Friday was our only option ... the last day of the rally.

We did get up early again and made the 25 mile drive to Moultrie only to find the place almost empty.  All but one of the vendors had already left for Perry; many of RV's had pulled out already but at least admission was free.  Like I said ... only one vendor was left and it was one of the Monaco dealers with maybe a dozen new coaches still parked on the grounds. We had a chance to tour the new Vesta model.  A snazzy 32/35 footer with a front placed turbo diesel engine and, according to the manual, comes standard with a chrome tipped exhaust pipe.  That was enough for me.  How cannot I not own one?  A real chrome tipped exhaust pipe.  I'm not sure who writes the copy for these brochures but my guess if they have never owned a motor home.  Anyway it was a pretty radical design that will surely take advantage of the apparent trend of offering these slightly smaller coaches.

So I still don't know a thing about these pre-rallies.  I didn't learn of any special hand signals, secret words, or  about clandestine rituals held under the cover of darkness.  No badges, ornate hats or vests to earn or buy.  Maybe I should try some other pre-rally in the future.  All the people that attend these things must surely be as sane as I am.

We off to find a place for lunch.  So you know ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

Dodged another bullet

Mother Nature has once again tried to spoil my winter vacation.  Planning to leave for Georgia yesterday, we were all packed, hooked up and ready to roll.  We knew a major storm was brewing out west and thought we could get ahead of it but no such luck.  We awoke to strong winds and tornado warnings.  As it turned out we headed for the clubhouse for shelter but ultimately returned to the coach as conditions improved.  The storm was a dilly with 10 tornadoes within 60 miles of us and with some places getting nearly 7 inches of rain.  With all of the morning wasted and part of the afternoon, it was now impossible to make the 300 miles I needed to drive to our next stop (Albany Georgia) so we spent another day at Bella Terra.

Greeted by a bright blue sky and crisp air we headed out this morning actually getting on the road by 8:30am.  That's not a typo folks ... we really did.  Motoring up to I10 about 30 miles up the road, we made our first stop at a Love's fuel station.  Getting in line behind a bunch of 18 wheelers is kinda' cool but I really think they would rather we rv'ers not mingle with 'real' truck drivers.  Love's didn't have any problems dealing with me as they cheerfully let me buy 110 gallons of their finest fuel at a princely sum of $3.96/gal. Ouch!.

So we finally got on I10 and headed east.  Moving along somewhere between 60 and 65 mph we saw a 5th wheel ahead.  As we going a little faster, we pulled along side it to pass and quickly realized it was Tom and Mary who had paid us a visit a few days ago.  We had no idea they were leaving their park the same day and to actually run across them on the road was really amazing.  We quickly called them to talk of our unusual coincidence and suggest that at the next rest stop we would pull in and give Mary her umbrella back.  She had left it at our coach several days earlier but agreed she could wait until we were all back in Michigan before she got it back.  I think she and Sharon figured it was such a lucky day maybe we should try to find a casino but probably knew what Tom and I would say.

We arrived late this afternoon at our next stop (www.albanyrvresort.com) to find a very pleasant layout with loads of trees and large, paved sites.  In the morning we'll check it out a little closer before heading to the Monaco rally in Moultrie.  Stay tuned.

Still livin' the dream ...now in the Peach state.

On your mark ... get ready

The pace is quickening.  Time is running out.  We're soon pulling up stakes and taking our motor-tent to new vistas.  We've been four months here at Bella Terra and have enjoyed the great people and the beautiful facility.  But wanderlust is rearing its adverturesome head again and we headed for two RV rallies in Georgia.  We're not too savvy about these events so we really don't know what to expect.  But ... what would be bad about getting together with a bunch of folks who like to do the same thing? 

Our first stop will be in Albany GA.  I think a quaint little spot on the map that is about 25 miles from where the first rally we're attending in Moultrie GA.  Since I waited far to long to get reservations, it was the closest place I could get a site.  We'll be in Albany about four days then move on to a resort just south of Perry Georgia where the big RV gathering is.  Thousands they say, will be in attendance.  I suspect we'll need knee transplants before this one is over.  Lot of acres to see lots of stuff.  We'll be there about four days then move on to Florida for a few weeks.

Anyway lots to be done before the coach is ready for the trip.  Check the air in the tires, check the oil, check the water, fill the fresh water, empty everything else.  Put away the lawn furniture, grill and outdoor lighting.  Whew! It's wearing me out just thinking about it.
But is all will get done and with another powerful storm at our back, we hopefully get to our next desitination without any issues.

Oh ... and did I tell you about our friends Tom and Mary who stopped by on their trip from Phoenix to Florida.  It was sure great seeing them.  We all were invited to have a Mardi Gras party with another back-home couple John and Linda at their fantastic beachfront condo.  Plans were dashed to see the big parade as a violent storm raced through the area with high winds, rain and a couple of tornadoes west of us.  We did manage to slosh down a little vino and find our way to a local eatery to round out the evening.  Mother nature may be fierce but when folks want to party ... look out. 

Seeing back-home folks is a real treat for us.  The old adage ... 'absence makes the heart grow fonder' couldn't be truer.  Sharon and I are so fortunate to have just a great group of friends.  We appreciate each and everyone of them.

Still livin' the dream and gettin' ready to see what's over the next hill.

Phil

ps ... looking forward to see my friend Jerry quickly recover from surgery and waggle his wings on a South Haven flyover

Plea to China

I'm giving the Chinese government and Premier Wen Jiabao, another chance to reinstate my blog. It was unceremoniously  banned in China almost a year ago. I can only imagine the throngs (well maybe one or two) who have protested in Tiananmen Square or the Great Wall on my behalf.  So free my peeps ... let them learn of the western ways of RV travel.

Still livin' the dream and waiting for the Chinese.

Early Bird (?)

Contrary to common belief, I do usually get up early in the morning.  Though not often dressed much before noon, this morning was an exception.  With the thought (ready for this?) of actually taking a walk and getting some much needed exercise, I dressed, grabbed my camera and headed out as the sun was rising.

Our eyes, even old eyes, have a unique capability of noticing movement.  We might not always find what caught our eye but something moving against a still background usually gets our attention.  This morning was no exception.  As I left the coach I glanced over a tree lined berm to my east and noticed a slowly galloping critter loping across an adjacent empty field (coyotes can gallop and lope at the same time , I think).  Though my trusty Canon had only a short telephoto, I grabbed several images as the critter headed for nearby woods.  After my sojourn around the park, I popped the memory chip into the computer, fired up LightRoom and took a look at images a little closer.  Yup ... old wylie coyote was heading in for a morning nap after a night of hunting.  About 300 ft away, he didn't noticed me so maybe I'll get a little closer (and a longer lens) and try another day.

There's quite a population of these four footed wanna-be wolves in the area.  We hear them at night occasionally and pet owners in the park make sure they know where their little 'FiFi' is at all times.

Still 'livin the dream' and keeping my eyes peeled.

Phil

Plug

Okay ... here's an unabashed endorsement for a hamburger joint we've grown to love.  Some of the things you can't buy at Five Guys www.fiveguys.com are ... salad ... eggs ... steak ... fish ... chicken ...beer ... milk shakes ... quiche ... pancakes.

They only offer hamburgers and hot dogs with the emphasis on hamburgers.  Oh and did I mention french fries.  Handfuls of freshly made fries.  Nothing fancy here.  Just great hamburgs, fries and hot dogs in a clean, airy atmosphere.

If you find one ... give it a try.  A neat place where we can be found 'livin' the dream.

Phil

ps ... if any Five Guys executives read this and want to give us free hamburgs for life, don't be bashful.

Out and about

And the good news is ... Sharon and I are almost over our two week battle with colds.  Runny, sniffley, hacking, achey ... you'd think were were wintering in Michigan.  But no.  We're still here in Alabama and, after a great Super Bowl party, each came down with this ugly malady.  It's been over three years since we either had one so I guess we were due.

So we've been coach ridden but the weather wasn't so good anyway but now, all is good.  Sun is shining and in the 70's.  What a better time than get outside and do a little sight-seeing.

With friends Jim and Carol in tow, we headed for the Orange Beach Seafood festival and car show.  Figuring the combination of good food, neat cars and a carnival atmosphere would be good therapy, we ventured out for a day of fun.

We finally stumbled across the place only because of the traffic jam in the area.  We got in line and eventually found a pretty good parking spot.   Surprise! Free admission. Go figure ... but they probably reasoned that with all the seniors in the area they wouldn't get anyone to show up if it wasn't.  Anyone we wormed our way for the food concessions only to find another line.  Maybe 50 ahead of us, we wondered what we were getting in to.  Like lemmings we stood there for a few minutes then finally figured out that that line was to buy the $10 food ticket; not to get the food.  That was yet another line.  Looking around towards the front of the food line, we could see plastic boxes of fried shrimp and some other unrecognizable stuffs we being passed out.  Some festival.  Pay your money and we'll give you what we want you to have.

With the search for food in the tank, we headed for the car show.  Maybe 50 cars at best.  About what a normal Tuesday 'cruise night' at a Flint hot dog stand is.  Anyway we walked through the lot and here's some of the beauties.

A sweet tri-power Chevy

Chevy II hop-up kit

This one will fool you. 54' Vette treatment on front and rear of 2010 Z06

Not to rub it in but after the car show we headed over to a beach resturant for lunch.  Mid 70's and lots of sun brought out the sun worshipers.  Sure beats snow.

Hard to beleive ... but we're still Livin' the Dream

Phil

Deja vu ... again

I know none of you folks in the north country want to here this, but the weather here is not so hot either.
As you were getting your pretty white snow flakes we were getting deluged with buckets of water, high winds, tornado alerts, and lightening.  And the next few days will see the temps drop to the low 30's again.  Some of our neighbors are asking if maybe we'd pick some other place to stay next winter. Inferring that the bad weather is something we brought with us.

As nightfall fell (can I say that?), mother nature was at her zenith with winds nearing 50mph, we heard a loud crash.  At first I thought it was my satellite dish again but knowing that I had put a couple of guy lines on it earlier today it could only we my nice Coleman Road Tracker grill.  The neat little red number with the collapsible wheels and the nice full length cover.  Cooked many a meal on this and I thought it was pretty tough.  In about an hour the rain let up for a minute and I ventured out with a flashlight.  As I approached the crime scene it was apparent the victim was flat on its back.  It slightly rusty, greasy underbelly was exposed and its supporting limbs at awkward angles.  It wasn't pretty.  The cover was covering (I probably shouldn't say that either) most of the carnage but as I slowly raised the rain soaked cover, the situation only got worse.  The neat red enamel lid had been snapped off the grill like the greasy spear on a Bloomin' Onion at the Outback.  I could quickly see that other parts were broken and thankfully the rain started up again so I didn't have to stay too long and mourn the loss. I'll have to give it a decent burial in the morning.

The depth of my grief ran deep ... but it was short lived.  I jumped on Amazon within minutes and ordered a new Weber Q220.  So much for my period of mourning.  When it arrives maybe I should bolt it down.  These storms down here are real dillies.

So there you have another snippet of life in the slow lane.

We do have a big supper bowl party coming up this weekend which will be a primer to the annual Mardi Gras festivities.  Plans are being made to go to Mobile AL (true home of Mardi Gras, not New Orleans) to see the parades and throw a few beads.  Should be interesting.

So bundle up everyone ... Spring is but forever away.

Still livin' the dream,

Phil

Here's what been going on

This evening Rock & Roll is on the agenda.  Not white buck shoes and Bill Haley and the Comets but our coach is being buffeted around like a pop corn kernel in a popping machine.  Driving rain, cold temps, and 50mph winds aren't that bad it's just that Mother Nature just knocked over my satellite dish.  Damn!  Just hope it didn't bend the dish or the LNB arm.  I guess it will give me something more to do tomorrow.

I've been taking a few photos over the past week or so and I thought you might like to see what we've been up to.

It seems that we're located in right spot for the real 'snow birds'.  Towards evening each night they gather nearby to head for their roost.  Thousands of these aerial ballerinas swoop around in such synchronized harmony I'm convinced they do it just for fun and to entertain us humans.

Our good friends Bill and June from Michigan stopped by on their whirlwind RV buying trip to southern Florida.  Joining the ranks of class "A" owners they'll now get a chance to travel in style and enjoy pouring money into a mechanical house on wheels.  We always like others to get seriously into RV'ing as misery does love company sometimes.  We're sure pleased they decided to head our way on the return trip.  We tried to wear them out showing them all the local attractions and even serving them some of the famous "royal reds" in the two days they were here.  These over-sized deep-water shrimp are bright red in color and taste like lobster. Oh so good.

We took them over to the Pensacola Naval Air Museum which, by-the-way has one great warbird collection.  Currently being completely remodeled and expanded, it is an ever changing collection of the US Navy's aircraft.  The museum is also adjacent to the home the the famous Navy Blue Angels aerobatic squadron.
Above is one of their F-18's that has been retired because of old age.  Most may think that the team flies only new aircraft but in fact they only fly ones that are destined to retire soon.  New aircraft always are deployed directly to the fleet for duty.  This one and the remaining aircraft are in a holding area behind the museum waiting for a spot in one of the museums restoration hangers.

 Here's a group of old Navy and Marine helicopters. Of note ... the snappy green one (to the left) with the big rounded nose is like the one I used to hang out side door and take pictures when I was in the service.  This is a Marine version and the one I was on was a beautiful Army olive drab.  Lots of noise and really ugly.

A closer look at this plane may bring back some memories for some of you oldsters, movie buffs or history lovers.  It's a nearly identical Lockheed Model 10 Electra to the one that Amelia Earhart flew in her attempt to circle the globe in 1937.

I don't exactly remember what this plane is (looks like a B-47) but this is largest jet ever flown on and off an aircraft carrier.  It's wing tips were within 19 feet of the 'island' when landing making the approach pretty hairy.  We were told that they took more than a dozen take-offs and landings to prove that in an emergency, large jets could land on a carrier.

This picture is just to let my old friend George had a plane named after him.  Actually its really a WWII Japanese Shiden Kai (meaning violet lightening modified) dive bomber renamed a 'George' by US forces.

Bill, not wanting to miss a single shot, hangs precariously out our high speed bus risking life and limb to get that perfect image.

Across the street from the museum is the naval base's light house.  Still in working order, it still commands an imposing position on the shoreline.  June, being a fan of lighthouses wherever they are planted, wanted to climb to the top but time was short so maybe next time.

Now wait a minute ... is that her peeking out the window up there?

So there you go.  A little update on what's been going on down here.

The winds are still howling outside but my fingers are as tired as is my mind so we'll continue another day.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Happy New Year

We would like to wish each and everyone of you all the best in 2011. We appreciate you stopping by and keeping us company as we travel around this great country.

Still Livin' the Dream

Phil & Sharon

My how time flies ... we're well into our 4th year as almost full-timers.  With only an occasional trip back to the old homestead, our vagabond lifestyle is certainly a departure from previous years.  Our home on wheels has kept us safe and warm and has allowed visits to places most will never dream of going.  Of course some of the places we've gone don't warrant dreaming about anyway but the good far outweigh the bad.

We've talked a bit about the weather down this way and here's a rare occurrence I caught on film (?).
A photo of an approaching warm front from the Gulf of Mexico with the setting sun about to be covered up. But we really did have a few days of warm weather.  Unfortunately those dark clouds had a bit of rain in them.  Our coach is out the picture to the left (we're on another side of the lake) and the clubhouse is on the far right.

As the holiday season is upon us,  the pace is quickening to fill old Santa's bag with presents on his trip north.  Store to store we go ... looking for just that perfect gift ... "Oh they'll just love it" I think.  "But what if it melts before it gets delivered", I wonder.  Okay okay ... so maybe frozen Gulf squid wasn't the best idea.  It's the thought that counts ...right?  So back to the drawing board ... With choices like shippable bags of pecan shells, Gulf shoreline oil balls, and returned tee-shirts from the local souvenir shops ... it's always tough to pick out that 'just right' gift to show we really care.

Just so you know we've not forsaken our desire uncover good eateries across the land, we have been dining out ... and with some regularity.  We made a pack with our Iowa friends before we arrived here that we would only eat out on Fridays.  Leaving the remaining six days for more healthy, at-home fare.  I think something occurred when we crossed over the state line or maybe sometime during the last full moon, but whatever cosmic event struck us, we somehow have messed up the commitment and have now migrated to eating at home once per week and dining out the other six.  Sure hope the budget can continue to stand the pain. I know the waistline can't.

We had a little pre-Christmas gathering at the clubhouse tonight.  Live entertainment, free food, booze and even Santa made an appearance.  A very nice holiday get-together for the park residents.

When retuning home tonight we jumped on Skype to wish our daughter a very happy birthday.  Not as good as being in there in person but it was great seeing her and the family.  We sure miss all of them.

As a Christmas present to ourselves, we're headed to Biloxi Mississippi with our friends Jim and Carol in a few hours.  We've booked a couple of rooms at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and will continue to spend our kids inheritances, much to their chagrin.  We'll fill you all in on the outcome later.

So if by chance we get delayed counting the large horde of money we're expecting to win at the casino, Sharon and I would like to wish you all you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.
And I would like to thank all of you for checking out my blog now and again and the many nice compliments.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

And the weather outside is frightful ...

Okay maybe it's not as frightful as it is up north ... but we've had quite a rain and wind storm pass through here the last 24 hours.  Though the sky is now blue, the wind continues to rock the coach around like a drunk on New Year's eve.  And did I mention how it messes up my hair?  Anyway it's cool and windy here but nothing compared to the white grief many are experiencing in the likes of Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York and even ... Iowa.

Last night before the storm, a group of about 40 of us from the Bella Terra RV http://www.bellaterrarvresort.com park gathered at Flippers http://www.flippersrestaurant.com Restaurant in Orange Beach to enjoy a nice meal and watch the annual Nautical Night of Lights Boat Christmas Parade.  Little boats and 'Oh My God' yachts alike made the trip from Lulu's http://www.lulusathomeport.com along the inter-coastal waterway past our vantage point then into Perdido Bay.  Festooned with brightly colored lights, most motored past us into the night but one nice sailboat turned into our marina to give us an up-close look.  Pretty neat!

This morning we were treated to a brunch at the clubhouse sponsored by the RV park.  Several tasty quiches, marinated fruits (I think in the good stuff), mimosa's, bloody Mary's and champagne made up this mornings delicious fare.  Now these folks know how to have a good time down here.  This afternoon a few of us are headed off to the movies to get our popcorn fix for the day.  I'll be begging for a day of rest before too long.  All play and no rest will certainly catch up with us one of these years.

Still livin' the dream and thinking we really should start doing a little Christmas shopping.

Phil

More adventures

I'm sitting here in the coach looking out at a bright blue sky and thinking is this weather going to be a repeat of last year?  It was in the mid-30's last night and thoughts of another cold winter gets us thinking about heading further south.  I wonder if this thing floats?

Speaking of weather ... our friend Susanne, who lives in Finland should get a little of our sympathy.  Weather reports for her part of the world are indicating temperatures this winter as low as they've been in 100 years. Stockholm Sweden, just west of Susanne's home in Helsinki (Finland capital) is already expecting a minus 15 C this week.  Brrrrrrrr.

We visited an old haunt the other day.  McGuire's Irish Pub in Pensacola was introduced to us by our Grand Blanc friends John and Linda in 2008 so we thought we should extend our good fortune to our Iowa friends Jim and Carol.  With ceilings and walls covered with thousands of autographed dollar bills, this unique eatery has not only visually interesting surroundings but outstanding food.  I had a combination pastrami and corn beef sandwich on rye. Large enough for two so I had half to take home. Just as good on day two I might add.  By the look on everyones face I think the food and service was more than good.  I can usually tell how good a restaurant is by the amount spilled on the front of my shirt.  I was a mess. We'll surely return ... as long as my laundry lady can get the stains out. http://www.mcguiresirishpub.com

Carol and Jim ... Iowa's finest

The oil spill in this part of the gulf has no doubt had a detrimental effect on  the local economy.  Many condos for sale .. many businesses closed.  Sad to see but I suspect they'll recover in time.  It's far too nice a destination not to. We'll continue to poke around the region absorbing the local culture for another month or so then head further west ... unless the weather is crummy there.  Then who knows?

For those out there you have not used the internet service Skype I can only say you're missing out.  The free (like in no charge) version has brought our friends and family right into our coach.  We've even tried three-way video conferencing and it's great.  All you need is the free software downloaded from the net, a laptop or  desktop computer (PC or MAC) and a net camera.  Many laptops already have them (camera) built in or you can purchase an inexpensive USB one ($30-$60).  Set up is simple and it allows face to face conversation.  Ya gotta try it!

Still livin' the dream

Phil
   

Looking Back

I usually don't do this ... but because I've been a little lazy I'm finally getting around to a little trip my son-in-law took last October.  A fierce storm was ravaging Lake Michigan with high winds and lots of rain.  We decided to grab our cameras and head across state to the town of Grand Haven to see what it was all about.  Two lighthouses ... wild water ... high winds ... and those wild and crazy guys in the water.  What could be better!

The rain had stopped, the sun was shining but the wind was still howling. Blowing sand on our faces felt like little needles and our equipment was slowly getting sand blasted.  We ventured out on the pier with some of the other crazy onlookers and began shooting.  The winds were a fairly steady 40mph with an occasional gusts even higher.  The waters were angry and no place for mortals ... but wait!  Who was that daredevil trying to kite surf? And who were those two guys on jet skis?  Where was that guy walking to on the pier? And take a close look at the last photo and do you see the outline a someone out at the end of the pier?  The game is played like this ... see if you can run out to the end of the pier and back  in between surf surges without getting washed into the water and dashed against the pier walls.  And I used to think playing marbles was exciting.

So here's a little photo essay of that exciting day.  Check out my son-in-laws website too for probably the best shot of the day (http://scottlaforestphoto.photoshelter.com)

Grand Haven Lighthouse

Go fly a kite

Whoosh

Hang on

Does this guy know the hot dog stand is the other way?

See the guy leaning against the building on the far right?
  On your mark ... get ready ...  Go!

There you have it.  Another look at the drama Mother Nature can conjure up.
 It was great to have witnessed it

 so  you know

 I'm still livin' the dream.

Phil

Thanks

Another Thanksgiving Day has almost passed and here we sit.  A little bloated, a little sleepy, and maybe a little too much football but a good day to reflect on all the things in our lives to be thankful for.

Sharon and I certainly have had our share of good fortune in our lives.  We have each other ... and our family;

our most important assets.  We have many dear friends who have been at our side and we treasure each and every one of them.  And we have relatively good health. A commodity we sometimes take for granted. 

All in all life continues to be exciting  and fulfilling. We look forward to each upcoming day.  We hope that each of you are as blessed in your own way as we have been.

We hope all of you have had a great day and be sure ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

New Flash ... News Flash ...

We have learned through inside sources that two 'closet' cooks have emerged from the shadows this holiday season.  Our Jenny has dipped her toe into the cauldron of cookery and has discovered that she is really quite good at it.  Adventuresome, but not bold, she has already mastered the delicacy of pork tenderloin with une pomme' sauce and reduction.  And our friend Micki has stepped to the plate and hit a grand slam as she served up her first turkey.  Stealing the honors from husband Corky (better known as the Wolfgang Puck of South Haven) she created a sumptuous feast that will surely install her into the Cousin's Hall of Cooking Fame  (a little known but highly prized accolade in the RV world). 

Reporting from the land of grits and crawdads ... cub reporter Phil

    

Flashback

All words and no pictures make for a dull blog I say so I thought I'd toss in a few images I took along our path south.

We'll start in Battle Creek.  Not known in most RV circles as a camping mecca but we did find a spot as a result of the kindness of Sharon's cousin Marsha and her husband John.  They allowed us to stay overnight in the parking lot of their first class auto repair facility.  Pretty nice treatment I'd say.  Now if we could only get them to add cable TV service, picnic tables, WIFI, and a hot tub they might get a steady stream of campers.  Anyway it was very thoughtful of them and if any of you are ever in the Battle Creek area and need a little work on that toad you're dragging behind that coach, stop in at Double E Auto Service ... they're very friendly and really know what they are doing.

Our next stop was near Effingham Illinois at Camp Lakewood located off I55/70 on Lake Pauline. (www.camplakewoodcampground.com)  Now this is one nice campground.  You can fit any legal size rig and whatever it is towing, with room to spare.  Located on a wooded hillside next to the lake it is very well maintained and professionally operated by hosts Brian and Vanessa Caton.  Level, clean  gravel lots offer full hook-up, a solid WIFI signal at our site, and a small convenience shop.  We even had a pizza (one of the best we've had) from Joe's Pizza and Pasta delivered to our site.  Be sure to stop by this park if you're in the area.

Moving southward our next stop along the way was in Caruthersville Missouri.  Why Caruthersville you might ask?  Well it was only about 250  miles from Effingham so we'd reached my endurance level for driving.  Oh ... did I forget?  There was a casino there.  The LadyLuck Casino (www.ladyluckcaruthersville.com). We got off the freeway and meandered into the small town.  Not exactly designed for about 65 feet of motor coach and tow car but none-the-less we squeezed through to find the brightly lit (surprise) casino.  A new building all adorned with neon.  As it turned out that fancy new building was really not the casino but led to the casino located on the Mississippi river.  The RV park was located  inside the flood wall (oops) so if we had to leave in a hurry we'd need to get out before they closed the gate.

The park was new with concrete pads, paved streets and full hook-ups. But NO WIFI and the sites were very tight.  Some of these parks still just don't get it.  Internet to many of us is as important as a sewer or water hook-up. Anyway it was only going to be a one nighter and some of that time would be spent in the casino ... so we got over it.  

Now getting to the casino was not for the weak hearted.  Leaving that fancy little neon lit building you walked some 400 feet down this steep inclined, covered ramp to the floating casino barge.  Not very clean and not very anything.  Maybe 15 others gamblers were in there with us and that didn't make us feel all that comfortable either.  Best part was be got out without losing much.  It would have been nice however if they had oxygen available on the way up. We did get a good night sleep though ... so not all was bad.

Our next stop was going to be special as we were going to meet up with our Iowa friends Jim and Carol.  Not surprisingly, for those who know us, we were meeting in the mid-south's gambling mecca of Tunica Mississippi.  With 8 or 9 of those money grabbing establishment within only a mile or two radius, it has grown into quite a destination for those who like to place a bet or two, or three, or four, or .......

We booked in at the Mid-South RV Park located on Harrahs Casino property (www.harrahstunica.com).  Nice big lots, paved, with full -hook-ups.  Shuttle service to and from the casinos and priced very reasonably at around $18/night.  But what really torqued me off was what they offered as WIFI service.  Yes it might be available at your lot if you were close enough (we weren't) to the clubhouse or if you really wanted a good signal you could come into the clubhouse, if someone was there, and get a great signal.  Wherever you got the signal the price was the same. $12 DOLLARS A DAY.  Unbelievable!  Yes I know they would rather have you gambling than hanging out on the internet but this is simple case of price gouging and not having a clue what the needs of the RV community are.  Enough ranting ... we had a good time seeing our friends and did get some solace as Sharon did win a little.

Here's Jim and Carol Winnebago next to our rig.  Notice how much room we had.

Our next leg of the trip took us to New Orleans.  Our second trip there (the first just prior to Katrina) and Jim and Carols first visit.  After traversing some of the worst (bone jarring) interstate highways on planet earth, we arrived at the French Quarter RV Resort (www.fqrv.com).  Not the cheapest place to park but very , very nice and close to downtown.  If there was a major shortcoming it would be the noise.  We were situated in an area near the highway (I10) and there was a steady drone of trucks, police sirens, and diesels with their Jake-brakes on all night.  Our remedy was to turn on the air conditioning and that pretty much drowned out the racket.  

We stayed two nights in the Crescent City and took in some of the sights. Our first night out we stopped at  Landry's Seafood House (www.landrysseafood.com).  We all had good meals then headed off for a drive around town in my TrailBlazer.  The French Quarter is not exactly the best, or easiest place to drive in at night but interesting anyway.  We even looked up Emerils restaurant (www.emerils.com),  though it took a little extra GPS work to find the place.   

We kind of goofed off in the morning and really didn't get a early start but did manage to book an afternoon tour of the sights of New Orleans on a small tour bus.  A great trip through the city.  Everything from the Garden District, to the French Quarter to the lower 9th Ward where much of the Katrina damage occurred.  I wouldn't want to live here (too hot, too humid) but a great place to visit.

Here's our park at night.

Bourbon Street 

Now this following image was taken at Mr B's resturant in the French Quarter (www.mrbsbistro.com). Our final night out on the town needed to be special so the four of us went to this nice place in the heart of the Quarter.  After being seated I noticed a small plaque over Sharon's shoulder.  Apparently our seat had a former president as a guest a couple of times in the past.  Pretty neat eh?

After our meal our waiter suggested dessert.  'Oh we shouldn't', we all said.  Then ordered.  Sharon and I chose to share something (unusual) ... which turned out to be outstanding (see below).  Jim and Carol picked the same thing.  As it turned out it was something that I can neither pronounce or spell but I know we all liked it (Actually it was 'Profiteroles with Chocolate Sauce';  A cream puff filled with rich vanilla bean ice cream; topped with chocolate sauce).  Good stuff.

We waddled out of the place and took a short walk around the area to hasten the digestive process.  There was a slight chill in the air so we hailed a cab and headed back to the park for a good night rest prior to the last leg of our trip to Bella Terra RV Resort (www.bellaterrarvresort.com). 

So now you're sort of caught up.  We're settled in and enjoying the great weather and meeting up with friends at the park.  Thanks for tagging along.

Still livin' the dream in Alabama.

Phil

We're Backkkkkkkkkkkkkk

Back on the road again ... with a hope and a prayer we're again meandering southward looking to avoid another Michigan winter. Snow is not our friend and with any kind of luck this winter, we will find much more temperate weather.

But what a great summer!  Cousins RV Park, near the shores of Lake Michigan, was again our summer resting place.  Hard not to return as we've got so many good friends there, the park is always well run and maintained, and did I mention those fantastic sunsets in South Haven?  We'll be returning this coming Spring to a newly improved patio and parking pad as well.  We'll be adding some new plantings as well so it should be extra nice.

Just before leaving my kids threw me a nice birthday party.  All the grand kids were there too so it was extra special.  It's always a bittersweet time for us as we are leaving our family for a time but also enjoying the fruits of many years of labor.  I'm sure there will come a time when we either do not want to travel or can't but right now we're enjoying each day.

We started our trip with a quick two day stop-over in Battle Creek visiting with friends and family.  I've often said you cannot have too many friends.  But if we never acquired new ones, the ones we now have are simply the best; probably better than we deserve.  To a person, they've treated us like members of their own family and  it's really tough to leave them all behind for the winter.  But somebody has to test the warm winds of the Gulf Coast ... sample the fresh shrimp at the dock or sit down to one of those Texas steaks so tender and juicy.  So childhood friends, high school friends, college friends, rv friends, neighborhood friends ... they're all very important to us.

Needing a fuel stop before leaving Michigan, I stopped by a Flying J station and was pleasantly surprised that I could pull right up to a pump with no waiting.  The wind was kicking up outside and snow started to fall.  I was thinking my timing for leaving the state was right on the money.  I started putting the necessary credit card and customer discount fuel card in only to receive a message on the pump that I needed to see the cashier.  Once you see that message there is no chance things will go well.  So I stood by the pump and Sharon went into the station (some 250 feet away) to find out what was the problem.  She soon returned joining me again in the cold, blowing snow.  I started pumping fuel but it promptly stopped after spending only $75.  I re-inserted the credit card and discount card and started over.  Another $75 rolled up and it stopped again.  Now I needed about $350-$400 in fuel and all I can think is that I'll be pumping fuel here till spring.  Not only was the pump stopping every 24 gallons but I could have filled the tank with a turkey baster faster.  Absolutely the slowest pumping I've ever run across.  Maybe this was Michigan's way of punishing me for leaving the state but I was thinking there ought to be a law for such a poor operation.  Sharon made an additional trip into the station only to learn that we could pre-charge a large amount of money on the card and it wouldn't stop so often.  She then put $300 on the card and was assured that the pump would stop at that amount. The coach soon gobbled up the $300 but the pump ran over 5 cents and the dreaded "see chasier' message re-appeared. The thought of driving off without paying crossed my mind but the idea of being sprawled across the hood of some state police car for 5 cents quickly quenched that notion.  So back in she went with the nickle to pay off the bill.  I will never know why I continue to go back to this outfit for fuel but for some reason I do.  They are usually clean and their prices are competitive but certainly not friendly to this rv'er.

With a stop or two along the way we finally met up with our Iowa friends Jim and Carol in Tunica Mississippi.  Tunica, for the uninformed, happens to be the mid-south's answer to Las Vegas.  With 8 or 9 casinos/hotel complexes it's quite the place.  We parked our coach at Harrah's park for about $18/night.  A very nice park though few campers were there this time of year.  We spent three nights there supporting the locals but in the end, actually came out ahead.

Before leaving Tunica the four of us decided that it would be fun to go down to New Orleans for a day or two so we booked a couple of nights at the French Quarter RV Resort ( http://www.fqrv.com) in downtown New Orleans.  A little pricey but safe and very near all the neat spots in this dynamic city.  The city is really an assault on ones senses.  The smells, sights, food, the many cultures and its people all push the extreme.  Mid westerners like us, should have a little coaching before entering the city as the unexpected is really the norm here.  We enjoyed a couple of great meals in the 'Quarter', listened to a little jazz music, and wandered a bit around.  It was Jim and Carol's first trip to the Crescent City so rather than me stumbling around town in our truck, we all decided to take one of the city bus tours offered.  During the three hour trip we hit all the hot spots from the Garden District to the French Quarter to the famous above-ground cemeteries.  But the eye-opener was the tour of the lower 9th ward where the devastation from hurricane Katrina was still very prevalent.  Abandoned homes and businesses were everywhere.  High water marks could best be seen by how high the mold had grown on the building.  A family here and there had re-claimed their property but most were still gone.  The nine generation New Orleans tour guide took us through some of the roughest areas you could imagine.  I think she was making sure we understood what went on here.  She places the blame on government.  Federal, state and local all shared the blame but most she said belong to ex-mayor Ray Nagan.  Obviously the wounds are still raw even after 5 years.

A rain storm greeting us this morning as we prepared to head for our next stop ... Bella Terra RV Resort in Foley Alabama.  A driving rain followed us the entire trip making the 200 mile trip seem like 400.  Anyway we're here and are looking forward to kicking back and taking it easy for a few months.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Oh my!

It's been awhile ... hasn't it?  Have we been busy?  Sure.  But not too busy to write, you'd think.  But I haven't.  Sorry.  So what can I do to really, really really bring you some fantastic news.  Well let me give it a try ...

Let me introduce the newest member of our family.

Lola Sofia

7lb 9oz

20 inches

Born September 4th

Our Daughter-in-law and Son presented their beautiful baby girl to the world a few days ago and we were smitten from the first moment we met her.  Pretty like her Mom and handsome like her Dad, she entered our lives healthy and ready to grow up. 

As she makes her way through these glorious years of exploration and wonderment, we look forward to being near-by to watch this new family learn and grow.  

Without a doubt ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil 

Two more

Continuing with our ongoing quest to uncover good restaurants wherever we travel, we've recently found two little gems here in Southwest Michigan.

The Kalico Kitchen (http://www.kalicokitchenrestaurant.com) near Douglas is a homey little place that you'd expect to run across somewhere in Oklahoma along Route 66.  Not a pinch of pretentiousness, this down home eatery has an ever changing list of daily 'specials' that will satisfy almost any palate.  I settled in on an open faced prime rib sandwich and Sharon ordered the broasted chicken.  I actually could have ordered any of the 6 or 7 daily offerings and would have been happy but the beef sounded good.  I did see one item on the menu that I don't often see and dearly enjoy ... chicken livers.  Okay I know many will view this as some sort of illness on my part but chicken livers have been a favorite of mine forever.  Anyway I asked the waitress if we could get a small appetizer size and she made it happen.  Arriving in just a few minutes, these lightly breaded little morsels of goodness were outstanding.  Just enough to satisfy but not enough to spoil my dinner.  Our meals arrived hot and delivered with a smile (a trait many waitresses have lost).  Out plates were overflowing.  Piping hot and everything looked fresh and appealing.  The portions size far exceeded the normal cost and best of all ... everything was delicious.  With most entrees less than $10 this place is a bargain in a tourist town.  Located on the Blue Star Highway just south of Saugatuck in Douglas, it has plenty of parking and outdoor eating if you want. We'll make plans to return soon.  Oh ... did I mention the desserts?  No we didn't have room for any, but I've heard they are famous for the homemade cakes and pies.

Our next stop on our "eat across America" tour was a trendy little place north of Kalamazoo in a little burg called Richland.  Having passed many times through this sleepy little town years ago, my return turned out to be quite a surprise.  New retail stores and commercial businesses have now settled here and has changed the whole complexion of the little community.

It actually all began as we were having our afternoon 'happy hour' wiith friends here at the RV park in South Haven when the phone rang.   Friends from Battle Creek called with a last minute suggestion that we join them for dinner at this new place in Richland.  It was nearing 7:00 pm and we weren't exactly dressed for dinner but since it was a new place to try and old friends to share it with, we decided to get around and make the hour drive.

Mission Pointe (http://www.missionpointerichland.com) is located in an upscale little mall on the north side of town on M-89.  With sort of a southern California/southern Florida architecture we walked in the front door and were met by a pretty boisterous bar group enjoying the 1/2 off martini night.  The 20 something/30 something group of patrons were having a good time and reminded me of days long gone by.  We sought out our friends in the dining area who were seated by the fireplace.  A nicely appointed restaurant that was sized right for the small community of Richland.

Before too long our waitress came by and went through the menu with us.  This girl knew her job and knew the menu as well as she did her own diary.  Pleasant and informed.  What a concept.  Anyway ... the menu was really unique as it offered up many combination meals that consisted of pairing various meats in ways most restaurants have not explored.  So what do you think of a meat loaf and lobster meal? Or baked walleye and halibut?  Pick any two meats on the menu and pair them up for an eclectic blend of flavors.  Doesn't matter if the combo is listed on the menu or not.  If they have it, they'll pair them up.  A nice idea I wish more restaurant would promote.  Prices were very reasonable too.  One of the specials this evening was sirloin steak and lobster.  Small portions of each but for $11.99!  Now that's a bargain.  And it was excellent.  Three of our group ordered that and I opted for a large chuck of potato encrusted walleye paired with a small tenderloin for $18.99.  This too was excellent.

So there you have it.  Another addition to our ongoing review of neat places to eat in America.  RV'ers take note.  Hot dogs on the barbee get a little old so get out in that 'toad' and explore the local eateries.  You might be pleasantly surprised.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil