The 4th and beyond

Our nation's holiday has passed and the park is starting to settle down at bit. The weekenders have left but South Haven has a new crowd in town. It seems the city fathers have decided that as long as people wanted to have a fireworks display it should be on a day when the weekenders were gone so the locals could find a parking place and enjoy an evening of booms and star bursts. Well surprise surprise. Many of the weekenders are still hanging around and some folks are making the trip into town from miles around. The results is there is still few places to park, the beaches are crowded, the town fathers are still footing the fireworks bill and the locals still have to struggle to see where their tax dollars are being spent. At least all the interlopers are spending a little of their cash and that helps the merchants.



Yesterday, the 4th, was quite a day here with park owners Hal and Mary Cousins putting on a grand pig roast. Hosted by Corky, Micki, Jerry and Bonna, there were no stomachs left unfilled. Well planned with even a motorcade with decorated golf carts all decked out in red, white and blue. The pig was sooooo tasty you had to be careful not to eat too much. Doing so and you'd miss all the homemade salads and of course the homemade desserts. It was definitely one of those two pound days.

Just an update on the Hal's new best friend Oprah.... (that's NOT her above)... I went to the barn yesterday morning and she crawled out from one of the lawn tractors to greet me. She sniffed around me and headed outside apparently thinking I wasn't either food or somethings to play with. There is a big maple tree next to the barn and she scampered up. I thought she'd only go up a few feet up as she looked tentatively back now and again. But up and up she went. Maybe she was expecting me to follow but since a step ladder is about my limit, that wasn't in the cards. So after a few wobbly minutes she was perched some 60 feet over my head. Just a little banded-eyed speck amongst the limbs and leaves.

Since the pig roast was soon to begin, I figured she'd be up there for the day or she'd fall victim to a misstep so I headed to the festivities. After about and hour or so I returned to the tree and spent a few minutes looking for the little critter. Without seeing her amongst the leaves, I began to look around the ground to see if she had made a bad step and maybe didn't make it. After a quick walk around I found nothing and became a little worried. Walking back to the coach, Hal's Grandson Colin went whizzing by me on his electric scooter doing about 20 mph. Perched on his shoulder was Oprah. Nose into the wind with tail whipping in the breeze. Now what stories will this raccoon tell her kits someday?

We've all been wondering if Oprah would be staying in camp this summer but ...apparently not. Grandson Colin has gotten permission to take Oprah home with him in a week or so. So it's been fun Oprah ... write when you can and good luck.

Today was left-overs day as there was enough food left over from the roast to have a nice lunch. So we all returned to the trough for another go at it. Just as good as yesterday but fewer desserts. Oh well... didn't need them anyway.

Tomorrow we're heading back home for a couple of days to take care of some business. It's getting harder to leave the park as summer has begun but the time will go quickly and we'll soon return to 'livin' the dream'.

Phil

Okay ...Okay

Okay so you want to see more of the little critter. I cornered the little rascal over at the barn and she (Oprah) was willing to pose for a few pictures. Oprah is quick becoming the darling of the park and is often seen riding around on one of the golf carts sitting on Hals' (park owner) shoulder. If you come around her she will follow you everywhere. So anyway here she is.

I'll keep you up-to-date on her growth...




























Looks like little Oprah is also 'livin the dream'

Catching Up

Wow... my how time flies when you're having fun. Seems I've been a bit remiss in writing so let me bring everyone up to speed. What really jogged me into start writing again was a note Sharon received from our friend from Finland who emailed us asking why nothing was happening. We met Susanne about 15 years ago while attending a Comdex computer convention in Atlanta. We were all standing around outside the motel looking for transportation to the convention when we struck up a conversation. A lasting friendship began that day that Sharon and I both treasure. If you notice the small world map on the left side of my blog, you'll notice a large red dot covering Finland. That's Susanne checking out our blog. Last year we had many 'dots' throughout Europe, many of which where as a result of her travels.

We've been in our RV about two months now and have been staying in South Haven, Michigan. It will be our second full summer at this park and it's turning into our favorite place to be. Cousins RV park is not one of the mega parks with swimming pools, hot tubs, tiki bars, or tennis courts. It's a well maintained park with about 85 sites, a nice restaurant and its owners Hal and Mary Cousins make every effort to make you feel at home. Their graciousness, in turn, draws great people back year after year. A wonderful mix of folks from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio who enjoy the RV life and go out of their way to make you feel a part of this summer family.

Hal and Mary and a host of others all chip in to have regular parties that break the ice for newcomers and reacquaint park quests.

Actually there was other food to take pictures of but this is where I was planning to spend most of my time...

Just to let everyone know, the town of South Haven is located in the southwestern portion of Michigan on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. If you could row your boat about 80 miles west, southwest... you could be in Chicago. The beautiful little harbor town is loaded with boats of all sizes, shops of every description and people who have little on there mind but to relax and have fun. The entrance to the harbor is alongside a long pier with one of Michigan's finest lighthouses at the end. A great place for a late afternoon stroll.

As summer is now upon us, the strawberry crop is ready to pick. Sharon and I visited a local farmed owned by a lovely older couple and bought a couple of quarts. The berries are plentiful this year and this beauty was extra special.

This all sounds sweet and wonderful but there is a downside to this little oasis in Michigan. Critters.... yes critters. Small and large and there is no getting away from them. This is apparently a good year for them. Let me explain....

I was out one recent evening to photograph one the the hallmark reason for living on this side of the state. Some of the most dramatic sunsets you'll ever see are here. Everyone is spectacular and each is different. I found a perfect spot not too far from camp and lugged my gear out into the field to capture the moment. So, here is how that turned out....

Okay ... that was fun I thought. I shot maybe a dozen images before the sun finally sunk below the horizon then lugged the gear back to the car and went back to the coach. I processed the images in Lightroom (another plug for Adobe's great product), picked out my favorite then off to bed.

Waking early the next morning I quietly got dressed, not wanting to wake Sharon as she's best not to be disturbed too early, if you know what I mean. Brewed up a pot of coffee, poured a cup and walked into the bathroom.

There on the floor was this critter that I instantly knew was trouble. It was edging its way across the floor in a very deliberate manner. Not fast but steady and heading to the bedroom where my bride was resting. I quickly sprung into action. Scooping the little bastard up with lightening speed and dropped him (or maybe her) onto a nearby counter top. I quickly got my camera and snapped a number of images before dispatching it with a heavy flashlight. Not an easy chore as several blows were required. So what was this ghastly critter you ask? Well take a look.

I placed the critter on a sheet of paper when I took its picture and as you can see it was quite formidable. Actually what quickly crossed by mind was is this a deer tick. You know the one that carry lime disease. After a bit of research on the net I discovered that this was not a deer tick but a dog tick. Locals later told me that when you're out in the woods you can expect that one (or more) will hop aboard your clothing so the mystery was finally solved as to what it was and how it got into the coach. I guess Sharon wasn't in as much danger as I thought but she still probably thinks I'm a hero (well maybe not).

The next encounter with wild things came just the other day when Hal (park owner) drove up in his golf cart with his BFF aboard. The little bandit was found up a tree by one of the other campers and Hal got a ladder up and rescued it. Now Hal would like you think he's a pretty rough and tumbled fella with ice cold blood in veins, nerves of steel and not an ounce of compassion but the little critter brought out the soft side of Hal. As the photo shows the two have bonded and will probably be in Hal's will before long.

So there we have it folks... another chapter in this ever-changing life we live. In weeks to come we'll be visiting local vineyards, attending some art festivals and maybe a jazz concert or two. So come along for the ride cause' we're still livin' the dream.

Ham Radio Retreat

I've been on the road recently (sans RV) to partake in the annual migration of ham radio aficionados to Dayton Ohio. For here is Hamvention. The Oscars, Academy Awards, and Grammies of the amateur radio hobby all rolled into one. Like lemmings to the sea, we fly, drive and waddle to the jumble of high tech toys and old tech junk scattered amongst four buildings and 10 acres of asphalt. Braving whatever weather shows up, we trudge through the open-air flea market looking at stuff most (no all) wives would quickly have in the trash yet we pause, fondle, negotiate, and scheme how these treasures will enhance our radio lives in some special way. We journey through the several buildings seeking out that unique new gadget that will transform us or our station into something better than we already are.
I had not been to the convention for about about five years so it was a way to re-ignite my old hobby. Friends Bill and George also made the trip so it was just like the old days.
Three days of shopping for radio stuff, would seem to most a general waste of time but to hams, Dayton is like no other place. And besides the radio stuff there is a town full of great restuaruants and the finest aircraft musuem in the world.
The thought of being able to sit in your house and talk with someone in the next state, in Europe, in Asia, in South America, almost anywhere without a cell phone or a plane ticket is still pretty neat. The challenges of building a basic radio station with a couple of hundred bucks or a mega station costing tens of thousands; the process is both exciting and rewarding. Literally something for everyone of all ages.
For those of us in the RV world, ham radio is yet another opportunity to stay connected with others as we travel and share our experiences. So if you're ever get into the hobby and hear me on the air, give me call back. My call is N8FPI. and 73's to all. (ham radio talk for "Best Regards")
Still livin the dream
Phil

Frank the Photographer

He was sitting alone watching the clothes dryer spin. A cane at his side, his arthritic hands folded in his lap.

The laundromat was almost empty this late afternoon as Sharon picked out the washers she wanted to use and I settled in to read a magazine. The old man got up from his seat and came over to the magazine rack near where I was sitting. His gait revealed a slight limp; on his head a crumpled Knights of Columbus ball cap. He looked through the magazines and turned and gave me a glance over. His sharp blue eyes peered over his glasses as he walked by but stopped momentarily and held up a teen magazine and said "not much to choose from". I agreed... but in my pause to find another subject to talk about, he said something about being an Army photographer and the pictures in the magazine he was holding. I didn't quite catch all of what he said but muttered back something just to be polite. About 80 years of age I guessed, standing with a slight stoop, propped up with his rather ornately carved cane. Since I was an old Army photographer myself, I thought we might have something in common.

"Name's Frank" he said. And for the next hour or so he spilled out most of his life's story to me. And quite a story it was. From his high school days at Taft High School in Chicago as a yearbook photographer to his enlistment in the Army two days after graduation. His photo assignments in Europe covering the Battle of the Bulge to the horrors of Auschwitz, and to his touching story of smuggling some unusual contraband out of Europe when he was reassigned to the States.

As he told his stories I was intrigued by his use of the word 'contraband' and before I could press him on the subject he volunteered the story. Apparently he and several members of his photographic unit had come across a young German boy whose family had been killed near where he was camped. They took the boy back to their camp made him into their 'tent boy'. Probably charged with cleaning up after the group, making beds and general 'go-fer' tasks, they provided shelter and a temporary home for the boy. The war in Europe was ending and the photo group was being disbanded and sent home. The group of four concocted a scheme to smuggle the boy in a duffel bag aboard the Navy ship that was taking them home. All went reasonably well in the beginning but when finally at sea the young lad was discovered by the ships personnel and the problem of what to do now with him came to the forefront.

As the story unfolded, Frank was obviously pretty proud of what he and buddies had done but now the reality of what was to happen to the boy became a serious question. They had been told prior to leaving port that if any contraband was later discovered it would be dumped at sea so don't bring any aboard. Not knowing what the boys fate would be, they made it known that one of Franks buddies would be willing to adopt the boy if possible.

Their journey home was to take them across the Atlantic, through the Panama Canal and then on to an undisclosed port on the west coast. Apparently along the way provisions were made, while at the Panama Canal, to proceed with the adoption and the boy and his soon to be parent, left the ship and proceeded home. I asked Frank what had become of the young boy and he said he settled in New York state with his new parents and now grown had his own family and children. Frank said it has been almost 20 years since he'd talked with him and thought it best to let him not be bothered by the past so has not corresponded with him since.

Frank got a surprise after leaving Panama as the ship headed directly for the Philippines rather than the planned west coast stop. WWII was still raging with Japan and photographers were still needed to record the effort. Stories unfolded of meeting up with a survivor of the Bataan death march and who later became a life-long friend and seeing the aftermath of the atomic blast at Nagasaki, painted a picture of someone who not only had seen a lot in his life but whose memories were still vivid and revealing.

After the war Frank set up a photo processing company in Chicago with a couple of his buddies handling all the photo work for Montgomery Wards department store. He later sold that business and moved to the South Haven area were he purchased a retail paint store. A life long bachelor he recounted one story of dating a widowed women some years ago who had several children and grand children. He reminisced that she would have been a good catch and that he could have had a ready made family but she it hadn't worked out.

Thinking about my short time with Frank clarified something that all of us really want and need in our later years. Someone to listen to our stories and tell of our life experiences (hence this blog) . It's sort of a validation process that what we've done in our lives is worth something. That maybe someone would want to do something or see things like you have. I continue to be rewarded by these little experiences while travelling and hope you enjoy the stories.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Okay ... We can do this

Kicking back ... sleeping in ... who cares what time it is.. kind of life. Well not exactly, but close. Getting into the rhythm of no rhythm isn't as easy as it sounds but we're improving daily.
We visited a few of our old haunts; you know WalMart, several of the local bistros. the local Rite Aid. Must not made too great of an impression last year as no one remembered us. But then again we didn't remember them either. So it's kinda' like starting anew. Fresh and exciting all over again.

Speaking of fresh and exciting... my old college buddy Rick and co-champion at the euchre table from our college days, sent me a rather dated photo with the tantalizing caption "do you know this handsome guy"?

Could it be Errol Flynn maybe or that 007 Bond guy? Well of course I didn't know ...but then Sharon walked in and said "oh dear... you were so much thinner then and had hair". Oh my God I thought!. It all came back like a giant tsunami. Needing some sort of quick rebuttal I quickly noted that at least I didn't smoke any longer.

After careful inspection I do concede some resemblance. What do you think? I think the photo was taken around 1975 so the ravages of time have indeed taken a toll. However, in a somewhat lame defense, my mind is still semi-sharp and I still don't smoke but I am starting to drool some. And of course my eyes are still steely blue somewhere behind those bags.

We've been putzing around camp getting some flowers planted, some new solar lights, and trying to stifle the ant population. Pesky little buggers that find their way around the campsite with an occasional one discovering a secrete passage into the coach. A fatal mistake for all of them so far.

My good friend Bill stopped by the other day and brought me some RV supplies from Camping World. A couple of neat teak tables and a fitting for a sewer hose I'd asked him to pick up if he was in the area. A great help saving me a 100 mile round trip.

Today, this Mother's Day eve, we did a little shopping in Grand Rapids and returned in time to stop at the 'What Not Inn' just north of our camp. A homey little bar/grill that is always packed with an ever changing crowd of summer residents and vacationers. The food is good, not gourmet but better than most in the area. The atmosphere is easy and unpretentious. Tonight was live blues music. It was nirvana for me. Front row table, a nice steak, a tall glass of beer, foot thumping blues, and of course my vote for Mother of the Year... my bride Sharon.

So for all you Mothers out there, and mother wanna-bees ... have a great day! Most of us don't say it enough, nor show it enough but we really do appreciate all you do.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Settling in ...

We made the 150 mile trip south to South Haven; our new summer hangout. Getting out of the casino in Manistee was long over due as a couple of days of getting financially beat up was enough. A great place to visit none-the-less and we'll return someday for another go at it.
Of course the trip was really about getting together with our old friends; something that we greatly treasure.
Along the way we thought we'd do a little bear hunting with our friends George and Paula. (Bet you didn't guess this did you) Now the season isn't quite open yet but when you need a bear... you need a bear. Not just any bear but one that stood about 5 foot at the shoulder and weighed about 300 pounds. We had seen such a critter a couple of days ago near the intersection of M10 and M31. Normally not a hot spot for bruin hunting but all of us saw that very bear not two days prior and thought we do the hunt anyway. I parked the coach several miles east and George transported us back to the hunting grounds in his 4x4. We slowly approach the site only to discover there were more of the critters than we had expected. Many little ones but only a few adults. Paula's keen eyes picked out the trophy of the group and the hunt began. I saw him immediately and he was quite a specimen. Strong, broad shoulders. Standing on his rear legs he was taller than expected easily looking me directly in the eye. His fur was a little coarse and unkempt but since this was a spring bear just emerging from hibernation, he didn't have the smooth coat of a fall bear. He was surprisingly quite and well mannered for such a beast. Standing quite still, and staring off into the distance... maybe wondering where his next meal will come from; his demeanor was majestic and he was obviously the 'big dog on the porch' around these parts. Paula was ready to take the beast but double checked with her guide and suddenly decided to wait for a more perfect specimen. The drama quickly subsided and we were driven back to the coach to continue our trip south. An exciting day to say the least.
You know hunting for a chainsaw carved bear statue can be gruelling work but when you're retired you seek out all the excitement you can.
Actually the bear statue is slated to guard in the entrance of the 'beer cave' at Geoff's (Paula and George's son) new party store in Battle Creek (Duffy's). A novel design feature that will help establish the stores identity.
Silliness aside... day was a very special one as it is Sharon's birthday. Forever young in heart and soul she is the crown jewel of the family. We all love her dearly and we're planning many more years of laughter and good times together.
We're almost completely settled at our summer site as of this evening but with just a few more odds and ends to complete tomorrow. It looks like a number of last year's group have already returned and we look forward to hearing of their winter journeys. The weather is perfect and all is good.
Still 'livin the dream'

Phil & Sharon

On the road again...

We're rolling now. First stop was a quick one just East of Traverse City Michigan at a lovely, and empty, parking lot at the Turtle Creek Casino and Resort. Free use of the parking lot for the coach was the chosen alternative to the $159/night rate at the adjoining hotel. Makes us feel good saving all that money. Of course our journey getting here was not without a bit of drama.
Seems we miscalculated the approaching storm as I had planned to hit the road just ahead of it and avoid driving in it. We left a little late and managed to stay in the midst of it the entire drive. Just to top off the last hour the low water light came on indicating something was amiss with the engine. Checking the temp gage proved the sensor was not quite accurate as the engine was a normal operating temperatures. However what really irritates is the blaring racket that accompanies the little red light on the dash. This obnoxious siren is in your face and ears and makes you want to jam your fist right through the dash and make it stop. I know it there for a purpose but couldn't they have a sexy voiced woman tell you your water is low and let it go at that?

Anyway we arrived shortly after our old friends Bill and June arrived in their classic GMC motorhome. It's always good to travel in pairs as you sometimes need someone to share your misery with. They too had not made the trip with some issues. Seems there was a small opening in one of the fender wells that allowed a path to flood the carpeted floor throughout their coach. Since carrying a wet/dry shop vac is something most don't normally pack, fans and mopping up with towels got most of the job done.

We ventured into the new casino later that evening for a short and very unrewarding experience. Nice place to visit but we're moving on to our next stop... Little River Casino and Resort. A stop we've made several times before and one we really enjoy. Not just because we've made a few bucks in the past here but because their RV park is first rate. Well maintained and their shuttle drops you off and picks you up right at your door. Not if that isn't lazy decadence I don't what is. Compared to Turtle Creek this place was booming with people. To be fair it's Thursday compared to Friday's crowd but I think in general Little River draws more people. Anyway we had a great early dinner at a restaurant on M55 just down the road and returned to try our hand at a little gambling. So so results with some of us winning... some of us losing. Didn't spend much time there but it was fun just the same. Saturday our other good friends, George and Paula will be joining us from Battle Creek but they gave up the RV life years ago and will have to rough it one of the hotel suites.

This 2009 season is starting off on a great note especially since we're with our good friends. We hope they can join us whenever their schedules permit. It really makes our travels all the more special. Thanks for joining us...we hope you enjoy the journey
Still .... "livin' the dream" Phil & Sharon

Really ... finally ... we're getting ready to hit the road

Without whining a lot, we've been deluged with distractions the past month or so and though I'm not quite ready to hit the road... we're very close.

Our coach has undergone several changes to help make this next journey a little more comfortable. We added a new LCD HDTV to the bedroom (actually doing that today), had the interior redecorated with new day/night shades and wallpaper. And I also had a rear ladder installed to facilitate the addition of a ham radio antenna (my call is N8FPI). So with a little help from our friends at American RV in Burton Michigan and Coughlin Decorating, also in Burton, we soon will begin our summer travels.

The first leg of the trip will be a 'casino run'. A chance to visit several of this states gaming houses and pit our skill against the best one armed bandits in the land. Michigan and its plethora of Indian tribes, have created the 'perfect storm' of adult entertainment. All the pieces fall together nicely...your Social Security or pension check arrives, all the TV shows are reruns, you've got more than a half a tank of gas in the car... you're bored and need a little excitement and who knows... maybe it will be the day your ship finally comes in.

Anyway we've convinced ourselves, and maybe a few of our friends, that this would be a great way to start off this years travels. So stay with us and follow our journey...

First stop will be the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, Mt. Pleasant Michigan. We should be arriving around April 29th for a night of frivolity and low-stakes gambling. And to top off the excitement we'll be dry camping for the first time in quite a while. To the non-campers in the audience that means we will not have outside sources of electricity or sewer hookups. We are on our own and at the mercy of the mechanical beast we're calling our home. Hopefully Murphy will stay home.

Still livin' the dream...

Phil & Sharon

Getting ready

The sun will be bright and the temperatures are expected to be in the 50's tomorrow so I'm officially opening our 2009 RV season. After a long winter (it's not really over) I'm taking the first warm day to make the trip over to see the coach. Still parked in a county horse barn some 20 miles away it's well protected. As usual we've kept it in a dry, out of the elements environment which we're sure has kept it from aging. With any kind of luck I can start it up and listen to its rumble as I dream about hitting the road the first of May. Our remodel of the house is almost complete (thankfully) so leaving will be easy. And we will remember to shut off the water lines this time so as not to have another catastrophe.

I wish I were leaving soon but we're really not going anywhere right now as we Michiganders know winter will soon return and the thought of driving the coach through snow and ice seems like cruel and unusual punishment. But it's great therapy to hear it run, watch the gages spring to life, smell that sweet diesel exhaust and sit back and think about where we've been and where we are going.

Actually I do have a little housekeeping to do as I want to take down all the day/night shades and see if I can re-string and clean them. Three of the five broke last year and need to be repaired before we head out again. I also need to figure out how to install a new LCD TV in the bedroom. Should be a challenge as the custom cherry woodwork was designed to fit the old Sony and not the newer ones. I'll also be installing a new digital to analog converter to capture those HD TV signals we will get through our batwing antenna on the roof whenever the satellite system fails to find a signal. Anyway it will be fun to get reunited with the coach after a long winter.

Our travel this summer will be short and sweet. We've booked the entire summer in South Haven Michigan (like last summer) and if we venture out we'll at least have a spot to come back to. It only about a three hour drive from home so if need be we can buzz back. We will have the site from May to mid-October. Beyond that is only a guess but staying in Michigan another winter is something we want to avoid.

So another chapter of our travelling lives is about to unfold and we're looking forward to sharing it with you. Over the past year or so we have had over 1800 visitors to the site from almost every continent around the globe. It's been great fun to hear from some of you and we encourage you to drop us a line when you feel the urge.

Still livin' the dream and looking forward to seeing what's around the next corner.

Twas' the night before New Years

And all through the house we are taking this time to thank all of you who have visited this site all the best in this upcoming new year.

Sharon and I have had an exceptional year with many fantastic experiences during our travels. We have stepped into the past and visited some of the places where I used to live. We have seen the aftermath of a Gulf coast hurricane and subsequent rebuilding. We had the opportunity to visit with friends and family along the way. We have learned to live with one another in a rather confined space for many months. We have overcome (almost) some unfortunate flooding at our home allowing us to remodel and update.

We are fortunate to have loving children who have each developed into responsible adults who care deeply about their mates and children.

We are most fortunate to have Sharon's father recover from some severe health issues that would have taken men half his age.

We enjoy good health and a good marriage with many great friends.

And personally I am grateful for having my wife Sharon as my loving and understanding partner in this journey through life. Having your best friend and wife all wrapped into one is really... livin' the dream'.

Happy New Year to one and All.

One step ahead ...three back

Cabinets are in. The master bath is almost complete. The 1/2 is almost complete. A lot of 'almosts' but progress none the less.

Our hardwood floors have been laid, then one finish, then another... but wait that wasn't right.
Let's do it one more time... three times and still not right. By now we've got a build up of polyurethane that looks like it's a 1/2" thick. Seem the finishers didn't get into all the IBD's ... oh like removing all the dust and dirt particles, or leaning on the sander a little too hard in the corners, or just plain not really caring how it looks. So while we were pining away our days in a local hotel (can't be in the house because of the poly fumes) our new floors were getting encrusted. Not happy campers were we. Several meetings with our project team led to the president of the company making a call and crawling around almost every inch of the place on his hands and knees looking it over. Now I could see the problems from 6 feet up but I gave him the benefit of the doubt and let him crawl ... now thinking I've got a battle on my hands to get some resolution to the problem.

After looking a every nook and cranny and mulling over the potential causes of this not-so pretty job, he finally concluded that it wasn't right and agreed to do it all over. This time using a different sub-contractor. Coincidentally the same one we originally requested but were denied the last minute at the start of the project.

Anyway we all agreed that we'd start the new year fresh and the new crew would return January 5th to start over. This meant we could at least have Christmas Eve dinner at our house with all the family. However the deal was this... bring a present and bring something to sit on as we have no furniture. They all agreed and our holiday gathering went very well. Last year at this time we were in Texas and even though we had a good time, there is nothing like having all your family around.

So now it's a couple of days after Christmas and the quite and tranquility is soooooo' soothing. No scrambling to wrap presents, shopping for last minute items, cooking, or stress.

Life is good again and we're still livin' the dream.

Another Day ...Another Speed Bump

I really knew that Bob Vila and those "This Old House" episodes I watched all those years were NOT 'reality shows' but vicious little teasers created by the home improvement industry. Thinking that with just a little guidance from somebody like carpenter extraordinaire 'Norm', I could turn a shabby, outdated kitchen into a cooking mecca that Rachel Ray would be knocking down my door to cook here. Now I'm no fool and realize that it takes more than 30 minutes to rebuild a kitchen, but 'Bob' never told be about all the little 'speed bumps' I'd encounter with our little project. Even though we had a general contractor that managed the project, and with a costly run-in with the local building inspector, it seems that there is conspiracy to keep us from finishing this project we started late last October.

It seems that those IBD's (itty bitty details) will reach out and screw up a perfectly good plan every time. For instance ... The building inspector paid an unexpected visit one morning. I was upstairs and did not hear the knock at the door. Our plumber, who was installing a kitchen sink, answered the door. Now this seems innocent enough but workmen are generally not supposed to answer the door or answer the telephone while on the job. Who knows who they may be letting in. Just install the sink... no more... no less. As it finally dawned on me, from the voices I heard downstairs, that someone else was in the house, I came down stairs only to discover a rather large, and imposing man, walking out my front door. Without a 'hello' or 'good morning' he said he was 'shutting the job down' and the plumber would have to leave immediately. He went to say there were no permits issued for the project therefore he was stopping all work. Now I was standing about two steps up from the bottom of the stairs when he walked past and I was looking at him in straight in the eye. My blood pressure spiked a little as he stopped to inform me something about what permits I was supposed to have and then it dawned on me how big this guy was. So why should I argue... he was probably correct and if he wasn't no big deal...right? Who am I to tell this local Paul Bunyan the law? As it turned out, we did have some of the permits but not all. To argue too strenuously would mean tearing down freshly finished walls so they could review the work. I wasn't prepared to push them that far. Pay for the permits and just shut up is the right answer.

Anyway it was the start of a long string of delays that moved the project completion date of two days before Thanksgiving to ... I have no idea.

Not exactly sure we're 'living the dream' right now... but at least trying to make the most of it.

We hope the holidays are going well for all of you....

A little rain ...

Call it Murphy's Law or 'a little rain must fall on my parade' ... so it finally happened here.

Our remodel project was going so well with only a day or so of work to be done and our township building inspector stopped by and paid a visit. What or who prompted him to come over will surely remain a mystery but one wonders. He arrogantly told the plumber, who was finishing up the work on replacing the kitchen sink, to stop work as there wasn't proper building permit and all work must cease. I was upstairs at the time and by the time I got downstairs the inspector was walking out. He introduced himself, handed me his card and headed out the door. I told him we did have an electrical permit and that was all I was told I needed before starting the project. Apparently not according to him. Sure glad we hadn't planned Thanksgiving dinner here.
Without any appliances or operable sinks it would have been a little awkward.

So our parade was rained on a little and we'll have to stay in the motel a little longer. No big deal I guess ... just damn inconvenient.

On a better and more cheerful note...

We sincerely wish all of those who read this blog a safe and restful Thanksgiving Holiday and, as our saga continues, stop back in on occasion and get caught up on our journey through retirement.

Still livin' the dream

Phil & Sharon

Another wonderful day ...

The alarm clock goes off at 6:15 and I prepare myself for another day of "Extreme Makeover" ... Phil & Sharon Edition. Shuffling around in the dark at the motel (don't want to disturb Sharon), I find all the stuff I need for the days work. I've convinced myself that I'm the head dude at the job site (my house) even though all the sub-contractors know better. My main mission in the morning is to get the right mix of donuts and coffee for the crew. Taking one of Sharon's traits to heart, I try to grease the work effort skids with donuts and coffee (you know . . . man stuff) to get the best from the hired help; not with the sissy hand lotion and moisturizer she gives out. Unfortunately the workers see it as another opportunity to take a break ... and I wonder why the job isn't on schedule.
Anyway, I'm at the house before 8:00 making sure that I set the example to the crew that is supposed to also be here at that same time. So religiously they show up an hour or so later, yawning and wondering why the coffee is cold and the donuts dried out. Gee if I only had another project to work on maybe I'd get this right.

So the inside crew with a donut in one hand and a coffee in the other stand at the window looking at the outside crew who are enjoying the 17 degree temperature this morning. Luckily I remembered to lock the door.

Today was interior paint again, outside soffits, and tub surround. The guy doing the bath brought his two little girls maybe knowing that Sharon would be here as a ready kid schmoozer. But as luck would have it I was minding the ship today and would somehow assume the role as sitter in chief. The five year old is as bubbly, talkative, and outgoing girl much like a young Shirley Temple. Mannerisms and singing ability that most kids would only dream of having and quite able to wrap me around anyone of her tiny fingers. Her older sister is such a beauty as well. Maybe a little less outgoing but when the two tag-teamed me I was putty in their little hands. Changing TV channels, coloring supplies, and games... what ever they wanted. I was the typical old fool and enjoyed it all. So while their dad complete the tile work in the bath I played with his kids. Everyone won today.

So another work day has passed and it looks like were coming to the end. Maybe a couple more days and it will finally be done. Tomorrow thankfully, we all have the day off but come Monday look out. Plumbers, painters, electricians, aluminum hangers, floor finishers and carpet layers will all return for the last push. I don't think they'll make it but their really trying anyway.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Moving along ...

As our remodeling progresses the days seem to get longer and longer. The project is nearing its end, and the pressure to get everything completed is escalating. The old saying 'The Devil is in the Details' couldn't be more accurate as it's the little things that seem to cause the most problems. I'm sequestered in my office on the second floor trying to stay out of every ones way but the urge to poke my nose into project overwhelms me at times. A questionable tactic at best and I wondered to myself will I ultimately suffer some consequence. Sort of like complaining to the waitress that your steak wasn't cooked enough and wondering if the cook later spits on your plate when no one is watching. Oops... way too cynical ..maybe I better put my rose colored glasses on and continue napping.
Anyway ... our new floors are in with only a final coat of finish remaining, the cabinets are almost complete, the master bath should be complete today as will be the final touches to the electrical systems. The plumbers are also supposed to be here today joining the painters who are hard at work as I write this. The new counter tops are here but need a little tweaking for fit and the new kitchen sink should be installed today. Plus 5 guys just appeared to put on the new aluminum eaves and soffits. And did I mention the three guys cleaning the lawn? Why today? Since Since my tractor went on the fritz about three weeks ago, the oak and maple leaves have piled up to about 10 inches and then topped with a fresh 2 inch coat of snow, there was no way I could personally rake it all up before spring. So ... I hired a crew (didn't check for 'green cards') to do the job. Whew... tires me out just thinking if I had to do all of this.

Sharon and the Sherwin Williams paint lady did a great job picking out our new colors for the remodel. Quite a change from the mostly white decor of the past. Hope I don't come home some evening after a few drinks and think I've entered the wrong house. Regardless it's a welcome change and she finally will have a new kitchen with enough counter space and cabinets storage.


So before Thanksgiving they should be about 99% done with only a little odds and ends to complete. The light is beginning to brighten at the end of the tunnel.

Still livin' the dream ...

Phil & Sharon

Catching up ...

It's been a long few months with many speed-bumps along the way so I thought I'd bring everyone up to speed.

As we left you in September, we pulled the rig out of camp in South Haven Michigan. The party was over and we finally had to face the music and return home to repair all the water damage we had incurred last July. Leaving our new friends and comfortable surroundings was difficult but the park was soon closing for the season; but it was still a little sad. The bright note is that we have reserved the same spot for next summer so it's something to look forward to.

The short 3 hour trip was uneventful and arriving home to the mess we left was a little bittersweet. We unloaded the coach and began planning our next steps. I would be taking the coach back into the shop for some paint touch up and some new shocks. I thought it wasn't handling quite as it should with a little too much road feedback into the steering wheel. As it turned out they put all new Bilsteins gas shocks on and what a difference it made. It felt, I suppose, like a new coach now. The unfortunate part was that I was test driving the new shocks on a rig headed for winter storage. The remodeling will take us into December so our November departure date was out the window. If there is any money left after the new kitchen and two new bathrooms, we might be able to drive it around the storage barn a couple of times. We did strike a deal with the storage people to put the rig right next to the exit door so if we can stay under budget or the 'ship' (A.K.A. lottery) comes in, we can head to warmer climes. It stills hurts to see all the rigs heading south these past few weeks but the good thing is we will have made some much needed repairs and we'll get to be home with our families for the holidays.

We're about 40% through our remodel with the completion of the new hardwood floors tomorrow. We've had them in previous homes and missed them so this was great time to do it.
The master bath will be gutted tomorrow leaving us with no bathroom facilities in the house. The main floor half bath was gutted last week. Slowly they have pushed us into the only two rooms left in the house that will not have anything done to them, but losing the master bath was the last straw. So ... we're headed to a motel for several days so at least we can take a shower and sit in a real chair rather than a camp chair. However all the inconvenience will soon pass and we'll return to a new house, forgetting all the mess and the constant stream of plumbers, carpenters, electricians and painters that flow in and out of our house these days.

On another subject....

I'd like to get some dialog started with those of you who might read this blog on some of the travels you've made (or are planning to make). Looking at the world map on the right of your screen, many of your are scattered around the globe and are seeing and doing things that many of us have only dreamed of. Our readers are from as far away as Australia, India, Chile, Finland, and even Chicago. I know some of you have visited such exotic places as Fiji and China and have even worked on Russian icebreakers in the Arctic Ocean. So lets hear your stories and see your pictures. You can remain anonymous if you wish and I can only imagine what great stories many of you have to share. So add a comment below or drop me a line and I we will figure out a way to pass your stories and pictures along to others.

Still livin' the dream and hoping to hear about yours.

Phil & Sharon

Frolicking on the Sun Coast ...

As most of you know we are great frolickers. Hither and yon we frolic; usually from one disaster to another but now with most of that behind us, we can now focus on serious goofing off.

... Well that's not entirely true as we've been spending some needed time with friends and family in the Battle Creek. It was good to see them all and provide support in some difficult times.

Anyway we've been poking around the South Haven area, discovering new places and things to do. Since this time of year kicks-off the fresh vegetables and fruit harvest; roadside stands are overflowing with peaches, blueberries, tomatoes and sweet corn. Not wanting to disappoint any of the local farmers, we've tried to stop at all of them for a few items. The downside of all this fresh stuff has made many of the local restaurants a little despondent as we've not been visiting them as often. It's a heavy burden we carry... literally and figuratively.

We've wandered down to the beach at sundown to catch one of nature's wonders ... sunset over Lake Michigan. Joined by hundreds of other sunset worshipers, every one is different and magical. Earlier in the week we were joined by our friends Tom and Mary and witnessed an oncoming thunderstorm complete with lots of lightening. Beautiful, exciting and maybe even a little frightening too as the lightening strikes grew closer.



That's Tom, Mary and Sharon in the photo, watching calmly as it all unfolds. About 3 seconds after the flash the thunder clap reached them and it sorta' looked like the tryouts for the Olympic 100 meter dash getting back to the car. Tom won.

Sharon and I wandered down to Blue Chip Casino ... only now we call it the Buffalo Chip as that's the chips we ended up with. Actually, a few winning spins on the roulette wheel got us back even but it sure could have been a lot better. On the return trip we were greeted with another one of Mother Nature's treats. A super severe storm that brought high wind, tornadoes, torrential rain, and wide-spread damage. As an old storm spotter back home I knew this one was a doosey. In between lightening flashes I was convinced I saw a forming tornado quartering toward us. With no place to turn off, I barrelled ahead and got beyond its path. Not exactly textbook behavior but in this case it worked out. The old heart muscles sure got a workout for a few minutes.

We're struggling with our satellite system as we're having trouble finding a clear opening to the southwest sky. Trees are great for shade but suck for satellite reception. Without it we're stuck with whatever our analog antenna will get us ... two gospel stations and a channel specializing to cucumber cultivating. Good thing we brought our lawn darts. They are a little dangerous at night however.

And so it goes ... life in fast lane.

Still livin' the dream

Home again and again and again ...

With fond memories of our New York sibling gathering still wandering around my head, I opened the back door of our home after the long drive. With cat-like speed I quickly figured out that I wasn't still at Upper Saranac Lake but was now standing in my own lake. Not the welcome home we expected. I could see the fallen drywall, the warped flooring, the general mess. I poked my head out the door and informed Sharon that she soon would be not too happy. I went upstairs to find a similar mess and to confront the problem that caused all the damage. The small water line that attaches to the toilet had broken and had ran for the better part of 9 days. I was right about Sharon not being too happy. Anyway a call to the State Farm Insurance agent got the process rolling to get us whole again. Staying calm helps but staying calm with vodka helps better.

State Farm put us up at the Residence Inn and brought in a catastrophic damage team to clean up the mess and begin drying out the house. About five days later we returned and then began the process of working with contractors to do the repairs. After a week or so fussing and fuming with various contractors, I call the insurance people and told them to put everything on hold as we were going on vacation for a couple of months. We figured why spoil the perfectly good trip we'd planned to the sun coast of Michigan! So we quickly solidified our plans and began packing for the trip.

We could only go so far in packing as our coach was still in for paint and repairs. A few days later we got the call that all was ready so we picked it and brought it home for packing. Normally it's a two day job but we managed to get it ready in one. The coach looked great and ran like a top.
At least from the shop to our driveway.

The next day we shut down the house for our two month trip, packed the final toothbrush, attached the tow car and headed out. We got only a few miles and a warning light came on and the engine lost power and the transmission wouldn't shift. I could only see our savings account disappearing as each minute passed. I called American Recreation Vehicles in Burton Michigan and told them of our problems.


We returned to their shop and a few adjustments were made and we were off once again.

This time we made it almost to Lansing (about 40 miles) and the loss of power and overheating reoccurred. I grabbed the cell phone and once again called American RV. All of you RV owner know the feeling that was overtaking me. Slightly nauseous, tightening sphincter muscles, bulging veins in the neck and that knowledge of pending poverty. Our vacation ruined. I knew the RV gods had left the building.

Two techs were immediately dispatched to our I69 rest stop location. They soon arrived and after a passing monsoon let up they worked on a few things and we soon discovered the same problems crop up after the engine reached a certain temperature. So we all decided to return to the shop for addition diagnosis.

So day 1 was scrapped and we needed to decide where to spend the night. American RV wanted to put us up in a local motel and take care of our dinner expense but we decided to return home, turn the electrical and water back on and just put up with the mess our home was still in. We really appreciated their offer but it wasn't such a big deal for us to return home. None-the-less it was very nice of them to ask.

Day 2 passed, so did day 3 only to again find the overheating problem was not solved. The best (?) minds from Monaco Corp., the best (?) from Cummins Engine, and the best (?) from Allison Transmission were of little help in helping our shop resolve this problem. As it turned out... someone at Monaco dusted off one of the old guys who new that the new charged air cooler the shop just had installed was slightly different from the original and needed some special shrouding fabricated to funnel the air properly through the new unit. Sure would have been nice if they had told my service people at A.R.V when they ordered the part.

Speaking of American RV in Burton, we cannot express how well we were treated through this whole experience. The owner, Clarence Reynolds and his crew spent many long hours trying to fix our problem when all along it was an undisclosed design change from Monaco that caused our four day delay.

As most RV owners know, owning one of these mechanical marvels will get you acquainted with repair shops some time or another... and I'm no exception. I've frequented maybe 8 various shops in our travels but none, including Monaco's factory shop, can hold a candle to the dedicated crew at American RV. To top off the final day they had sincere apologies for taking so much time and they presented Sharon and me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers for the coach and thanking us for our patience. First class outfit ... I'd say.

So fellow RVer's take note. This is an unabashed endorsement for the quality of service we experienced at American Recreation Vehicles. Take the Belsay Road exit (I69 exit #141) just East of Flint on I69 then go about a quarter mile north just past the railroad tracks. Tell them Phil sent you. Their names in the picture above are... (l to r) Joy, Clarence, Laurie, Jay, and Jason. Thanks again.

Headed for South Haven and still 'livin' the dream.

Sibling Soiree' ...

We arrived at my sister and brother-in-law's lakeside retreat on Upper Saranac Lake in the northern reaches of the New York's Adirondack's state park. Heaven on earth was invented here. A beautiful lodge, great weather, great food, plenty of wine ... the list goes on.

But wait ... I'm getting ahead of myself.

A last minute decision to drive though Canada and pass through the Niagara region to New York was paved with good intentions (about those later) but was derailed by my inability to pay attention in 10th grade history class. Cut me a little slack but that was about 50 years ago, but I forgot it was Canada's birthday. You remember...that time in 1879 when the British North American provinces bonded together to form a new entity called Canada. So everyone gets the day off there and all 9 million of them head for the same place I wanted to take my deserving wife ... that is... the casino at Niagara. Maple leafs and Labatts as far as the eye could see with nary a parking spot within 10 kilometers of the place. So my good intentions were in place but just couldn't get it done; we had to keep moving.

We motored on to the Syracuse area staying just north of the city on the western edge of Lake Oneida. Can you believe they would name a lake after silverware? Got out of town just in time as Hillary Clinton was arriving the next morning and who knows what kind of mood she'd be in. Anyway a beautiful ride through the foothills of the Adirondacks catching glimpses of white tailed deer and wild turkey soon brought us to our destination.

All the locals in these here parts call these places 'camps'. I kinda' think of a camp is where bugs eat you alive, you sleep in a wet sleeping bag, and eat 'smores' after beans and franks. Thankfully not the case here as we settled into our sleeping quarters, comfortable and very well treated. The others were not arriving until the next day so we enjoyed the conversation, great lamb chops on the grill and several bottles of good wine.

The next day the weather turned a little sour but the remaining siblings would be arriving soon so what's a little inclimate weather?

Rich, Marcia and Bill and Susie arrived in early afternoon and we all settled in to catching up on each other lives and enjoying the improved weather. Though I have a wonderful sister, I had always wondered what it would have been like to have had a brother. I think I may have missed out on something after being around Bob and his brothers. Though there respective lives have taken them in different directions and locations, which each having notable careers, it's apparent that their formative years were full of great fun and cemented the closeness seen now. Not that a little rivalry didn't still exist and some good natured kidding, but it couldn't hide they were still loving brothers. It was fun to be a part of it.

As the group finally settled in we were soon treated to a grand dinner consisting of Carson's Ribs from Chicago, and assortment of salads and copious amount of fine wine. Oh my ... what fine dining.

The 4th of July is a rather exciting day around Upper Lake Saranac as it is the day of the annual wooden boat parade. We all hopped into Bob's 1949 Christ Craft speed boat and headed off to find the parade. At the southern end of the 7 mile long lake we found the parade marshal and the lead boat in the parade; the newly purchased Upper Lake Saranac fire boat ... complete with powerful water canons to help extinguish fires along the lakes edge. I'd never heard of a lake having its own fire boat, but there it was, on the ready with sirens and flashing lights.













All in all there were about 18 classic old wood boats in the parade and we cruised the entire length of the lake waving to all the on-lookers along the way.

Of course all the men were in the front of the boat do those manly things like steering , navigating, and looking for sharks and the like.
Brother Rich at the navigator position and First Mate Brother Bill in the look-out's chair scanning the seas for pirates (I think) and securring the bloody mary's.




















The women, all decked out in their festive sailing bonnets were working the shore-bound crowds with their best Bess Myerson and Mary Ann Mobly hand waves and pearly white smiles. I'm usually not this descriptive when describing folks on a boat ride but as it turns out our nautical magic carpet caught the eye of more than simple bystanders: the local news photographer captured our image and it ended up on the front page the following day. Personally my second front page picture in 58 years. (but I'll leave that story to another day). Next time however it will be important to bring the ice for the Bloody Mary's Judy brought. We did somehow managed to empty the pitcher anyway.

We ended the day with a great seafood salad and various libations. And I almost forgot.... a huge fireworks display. It was bold ... it was showy ... it was the celebrations of our countries independence... it was Sharon's sack of sparklers. Everyone was allotted 6 giant (said so on the box) fire wands to spend the next several second writing their name in script against the darkening sky. Oh to be ten again. Happy birthday USA.

The following morning was, what some have coined the Saranac Olympiad. With fuzzy yellow balls in hand, brothers Rich and Bob headed for the tennis court to again confirm the families dominance on the clay courts. Though Bobby Riggs and Billy Jean King were not present, a couple of the areas elder tennis ringers were brought out from the Tupper Lake nursing home to provide a semi-strong counterpoint to the families tennis legends. I was so excited to see this match of champions that I hardly slept a wink the night before. Unfortunately I accidentally did not hear the alarm clock to get up in time to bear witness but Sharon and Marcia managed to find an empty seat to watch the event. Bill could only stay a short time as the excitement and tension were too much to bear. As the match wore on it became painfully clear that the team from Tupper Lake brought some bad mojo. Maybe it was something in those strange leather bags strung from their necks or the smell of 20 years of Ben Gay applications; but whatever it was ... it took the brothers down. Beaten...destroyed...but not humiliated. With sweaty heads still held high they limped back in for a cold drink, shower and 800 mgs of Ibuprofen. As it turned out 800 mgs was not near enough for Rich as his back finally gave out and he'll probably be on the 30 day disabled list at the bank. Neither he nor Bob played to their potential, for sure.

The idea of getting families together was for reasons other than weddings, funerals or graduations is becoming a lost practice. Taking the time to sit and talk with your siblings about old and new times is both entertaining and therapeutic. I'm pretty sure everyone had a great time and we all thank our hosts Bob and Judy for sharing their home with us and allowing all of us to share our lives with one another.

We left with many fond memories and look forward to getting together again soon.

Our trip back to Michigan was uneventful. We were looking forward to picking up our newly painted coach and begin our next trip. We will be motoring on to South Haven Michigan to enjoy the remainder of the summer. But when we arrived home things weren't quite as we left them. More about that on our next blog.