A full week

Taking a deep breath and finally sitting still after a whirl-wind week.

We actually made the 1200 mile journey in just two days.  Sort of like a world record for us slug-setters.
Arriving early Monday evening to clear skies and low-70's, our escape from the grip of 'old man winter' is complete.  After waking up the coach (it naps while we're away) we contacted our Iowa friends Jim and Carol to make plans to meet later in the week for the visiting the Tampa RV show.  The following day we returned to our favorite Mexican haunt to refresh our memories and friendship.  And make plans to visit the Tampa RV show later in the week.

We then made plans for meeting our Michigan friends Tom and Mary to hand-off some frozen venison sausage we'd carried south for them.  Actually Tom created this scrumptious delicacy from the results of his fall deer hunt in upper Michigan.  I've had a taste of this world-class sausage before and he was kind enough to give us a generous sample while we were back in Michigan.  Actually his daughter Jenny brought it over to us as Tom and Mary had already headed south.  She said she was going to ship a package of it to them but I suggest we hand-carry it to Florida as we were staying at a park not too far from them.  Anyway we made the transfer and enjoyed getting caught up over lunch.

Wednesday was movie day and we joined Jim and Carol to see film 'Tinker-Tailor-Soldier-Spy'.  Now this movie is both dark and deep.  So dark it may have put me to sleep for a minute or two, and so deep that I would have to see it about six more times before I got the gist of it.  All that means that it will probably win an Oscar and I will continue to wonder about my skill set.

Thursday I was granted a day of rest by my social director, though she was scheming to fill up the remainder of the week.

We took off early Friday with Jim and Carol for the Tampa RV show.  About an hour or so from our Florida Grande RV Resort location, this spring Mecca for the over the road set is always a good reason to get out and drool over the latest offerings from the RV industry.  Entering the main building we were met with a display of of maybe fifteen of the finest motor coaches money can buy.  These opulent, feature rich road condos will cause jaws to drop and lips to drool.  Some needing an appointment even to get inside to look at, this display of over consumption was still pretty cool.  Setting aside the alligator skin inserts in the leather seating areas, the Sub-Zero appliances, and the electronic packages that would confound the Star Trek crew, but what got my attention was the engine compartment.  Crammed into this rear area was a 650 HP turbo charged behemoth with 5 alternators, a water pump that could run the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel in Vegas, and enough belts and do-dads to drive any respectable gear head insane.

You need lots of Love and lots of Money

Rube Goldberg would be proud

So where do you store your junk? 

This couple is trying to figure out if you can get 12 fillet Mignon on the grill.   

Since nobody who owns one of these beauties ever will actually work on one of these mechanical marvels themselves,  the repair guys they hire must be absolutely giddy when one of these comes in for work.

I think the least expensive one listed at $1,200,000, so this rarefied air is only available for certain clientele to breathe.  But its still nice for the rest of us to just get a little sniff.

She does have perfect hair.

I don't know how many rigs were in the show nor how may vendors were present, but it's worth a visit to this traveling show.  I think this following week its starts all over in the down-state Sarasota area.

With little strength left, we left the RV show and wouldn't you know it but there, within eyesight, was the Hard Rock Casino.  Not that I wasn't already sapped of all my physical powers after ogling the RV stuff, so now the social director conned me into going gambling.  Apparently with hopes of winning enough for a new coach, we ventured in ... into the belly of the beast to be krill for giant money eating whale.  An hour and half passed and we escaped.  Luckily with the shirts still on our back, we made it out alive and of course vowed never to return.  Oh what a lie!  Anyway it was a fun day.

It was quite a surprise to learn that our friends Henry and Geannie were here in camp for a few days.  Down from their South Carolina home for some mechanical repairs at Wildwood, it was good to see them again.  We made plans to visit them Saturday afternoon and ended up staying for dinner.  Southern hospitality at its finest and great conversationalist.  They were leaving the following morning for Jacksonville to have something repaired at the Marathon dealer so we made plans for a late March visit and closed out the evening.

Getting up early (for us) is not our strong suit but be wanted to say good-bye to Geannie and Henry (and Buddy their four-legged companion) so be got over to their site just before they left.  We said our farewells and they headed north.

Henry and Geannie (looking out the window) heading north

Belleville, I think.  An uneventful meal but it lead us past a large flea market that was in full swing.  We found a parking spot and headed in.  As you know from previous trips we usually stop at these places, if only for a short while as we find them unique and the people are always interesting to look at.

Wandering around the place reiterated the old adage ... "one man's junk is another man's treasure".  But we did find some interesting things.

Just right for a special girl

This girl sold us pistachios and cashews

This guy said his new tattoo was 'family' friendly as were the 15 others he already had.

At the 'puppy palace' customers could give hugs

Thousands to choose from.

From the flea market we headed south back to the Clermont area for dinner with Jim and Carol.  So you fellow retirees and those soon to be retired ... no need to sit around waiting for the grim reaper.  Get out and see the world ... it's not as bad as the evening news says it is.

I know this blog is beginning to look like a Twitter message but I can blabber more than 160 words and you can get pictures too!  So it's a real bargain.

On the road and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Headin' for the Promise land

Yup ... the promise of no snow and no sub-zero temps gets us on the road today.  We've managed to put 600 miles under our butts and we're now snuggled into a comfy Hampton Inn in Knoxville Tennessee.

Totally great weather for driving, at least until we got to TN whereas a light drizzle goobered up the once clean car.  We arrived in Knoxville shortly after dark and located the Hampton.  We checked in and got from the manager, with a little coaxing from Sharon, a recommendation for a place to eat this evening.  Since it seemingly is what we do best, we headed out to Puleo's Grille www.puleosgrille.com to find out for ourselves. A quick ride down the street brought us to the restaurant and were soon seated.  As Puleo's advertising likes to put it ... it has 'Southern roots and Italian heritage'.  I know it sounds like fried chicken, grits and spaghetti but it really has a very nice selection.  We started out with a delicately battered and fried calamari (chopped up little eight legged {and two tentacles}denizens of the deep). As good as Sweeny's (near Miamisburg Ohio) they were, and as my son-in-law would say ... "very tasty".  Sharon ordered shrimp whereas I choose a NY strip.  We each split our order when it arrived so we each had surf and turf.  Each meal was very nicely prepared and ... very tasty.  The dinning area was very comfortable and, even though it was a Sunday night, very well attended.  Our waitress Emily was so pleasant and helpful this northerner had almost gotten what southern hospitality was all about.  I think I've met a couple of hundred waitresses who could learn a thing or two from her.  Attentive, friendly, and able to give excellent details on Puleo's many offerings, it made the evening extra special.  Give this place a try the next time you're in the Knoxville area.  I think they have about six locations but we were at the Cedar Lane restaurant off I75 at exit #108.

So we've got about half the distance covered for this trip ... on the very first day!  I know many of our friends will find this a complete fantasy but before we left I put some blue fairy dust in the fuel tank and we travelled like the wind.  Or at least that's the story I'm telling today.

Still livin' the dream and headin' south.

Phil

Happy New Year

To each and everyone of you we wish all the best in 2012.  May your life be full of good health, happiness, good fortune and safe travels.

Still livin' the dream

Phil & Sharon

Twas' the night

Twas indeed the night before Christmas and I'm almost to bed.  At times it seems such a chore but when the kids and grand kids walk through the door tomorrow all the effort is forgotten.  Smiles and grins all around as they see the tree surrounded by brightly wrapped gifts.  It always good to be home for the holidays

We again have a great deal to be thankful again this year and hope each and every one of you all the best this holiday season.

Wait!  Is that Rudolph and jolly old Santa I see out on the neighbor's roof?  Gotta get out the cookies and get in bed.  See ya!

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Somebody special

A special shout-out and Merry Christmas to one of our dear friends who lives in Finland.  One of my most loyal readers whom we've known for a good many years, Susanne lives (I think) very near Santa Claus so ... if all you other readers think very nice thoughts about her today, maybe she can put in a good word for you.

Thank you Susanne for your friendship and support.

Still livin' the dream and thinkin' good thoughts.

Phil

Time warp ... or something

Last Wednesday at 12:30 in the afternoon and again at 8:30 the following morning I entered a United State Postal facility with items to mail and found no one   ... repeat ... no one waiting in line ahead of me!  Actually there wasn't a soul in the place except the postal workers.  The last time I was there there were at least 15 people standing in line ahead of me.   Hey folks this is the holiday season!  Let get out there and support our money starved postal service.  I can't imagine I was the only one who didn't get the message to mail early before the deadline... was I?  I was planning on meeting new friends and kibitzing about the weather and such while waiting, but no.  I walked in, went straight to the counter, shipped my package, wished the clerk a Merry Christmas and out the door I went.  Or was I in some sort of seasonally induced parallel universe thing?  Stay tuned.

Confused but still livin' the dream.

Phil

Time flies

We really forgot how lazy we could become.  With big plans to clean out the garage, clean out the office, and clean out the spare bedroom ... I think the only thing that got cleaned out so far was the refrigerator.  Intentions, much like New Year's resolutions sure look good on paper but it always seems 'something' comes up.

No sooner than we got back into Michigan and we met with our summer RV neighbors at an eatery in Battle Creek to get caught up.  Sure good seeing everyone and are already looking forward to returning to Cousins RV Park in South Haven next spring.  We jabbered awhile, took a quick trip to the local casino (lost) and before long we had to depart for a pre-concert dinner with our dear friends from Battle Creek.  This time a nice downtown eatery, followed by a great Brass Band of Battle Creek (www.bbbc.net) concert at W.K. Kellogg Auditorium.

Just a side note on the Brass Band of  Battle Creek.  If you ever plan to be travelling in Michigan check out their website and performance schedule.  This is not a tuba player and a couple of trombones with folks playing Sousa marches but a gathering of some of the finest brass instrument players on the planet.  From the London Symphony to Carnegie Hall to New Orleans and Chicago jazz, these people can play just about anything you can imagine and do it so you won;t forget it.  If you close your eyes when they're performing you'd swear there were wind and string instruments playing as well but no, only brass and percussion some 40 players strong.  If you do have an inkling to go ...plan ahead ... many times they are almost fully booked 6 months ahead.  By-the-way, if you were expecting maybe a hundred music buffs showing up for one of these at the Kellogg Auditorium (one of Michigan premiere acoustical gems) think again ... more like 2000 attend every performance.

Okay let me get back on track.  The following day Sharon and I attended a baby shower (girls) brunch (guys) for Kim, the daughter of our dear friends George and Paula at Clara's Restaurant (www.claras.com) in downtown Battle Creek.  The charming restaurant is an old New York Central train station of the 1940's and 50's era and is full of lots of historical items from the town.  The shower was a gala affair that had all the neat stuff expecting mothers do and get and an extra special treat for the guys who got there own separate room to eat, drink and tell outrageous stories of bygone years.  All-in-all  a pretty good outing.

Finally getting home that evening, it was good to be back and was really great to discover the house was not flooded nor taken over by a herd of raccoons this year. We knew we could now get at all those projects we'd planned on.  Oh but did I forget?  We had other duties to do first.  Within a few days we were going to stay with our grand children as their folks headed off on a cruise out of Miami. 

Five days with two young adults, one brown dog that likes everybody, one grey, stripped cat who is almost too friendly, and finally one white cat with big black spots who doesn't like me.  It was interesting to spend some time with our fast maturing grand kids.  We quickly learn the kids are growing up fast and the need for us to look over them in their folks absence will soon pass.   We look forward to being a part of their lives as they continue the journey into adulthood but will miss the 'little kid' times.

So now maybe I can get to work on the garage.  Oh wait!.  The temperature is dropping fast so maybe I should work inside on the office or the spare bedroom.  Oh wait again!.  What about Christmas shopping Sharon says.  Okay, I give up.   Maybe next year I get started on the cleaning jobs.

Still livin' the dream here in the North country.

Phil

ps ... a get well fast goes out to our friends Miki and Tracy

What on earth are we doing?

We saw the first signs of trouble around Dayton Ohio.  A little unnerving ... but manageable.  As the miles went by our worst fears became a reality.  It was unmistakable ... something no rv'er ever wants to see.  Call it angel dust.  Call it Santa's dandruff.  But it's still Snow.  OMG.  There it was ... covering the fields ... covering the green ... covering life itself.  And it was a dirty, nasty white at that.  Leaving our winter retreat in central Florida meant no more sunshine.  No more 80 degree weather.  No more fresh picked oranges.  We've returned from once we came.   But alas... but for such a short time; then we'll return to the land of bright skies, warm winds, blue haired ladies and a ribbon of left turn-signal lights in the right lane in early January. 

With some some very special reasons we returned to Michigan for the month of December.  Friends and family, being the most important, made the return despite the weather, a worthwhile adventure.  A baby shower ... a wedding ... a meeting with summer rv'ers ... and of course, Christmas and New Years holidays.  It's still good to be home.

For those snowbirds still contemplating heading north for the holidays or those late starters heading south, a couple of warnings. If going through Cincinnati, Louisville, or Atlanta try to do so sometime between 11:00am and 2:00pm.  Sundays would be best but on workdays, mid-day seems far less hectic.
Longest tie-up we noticed coming north was south bound traffic in Cincinnati.  North bound was bad enough but those heading south the lanes looked like a parking lot half way back to Dayton.  Speaking of Dayton ... we stayed at the Hilton's Homewood Suites in Miamisburg (south side of Dayton)http://homewoodsuites1.hilton.com/en_US/hw/hotel/DAYSOHW-Homewood-Suites-by-Hilton-Dayton-South-Ohio/index.do.  Take exit #44 off north bound I75 then east one block then south one block.  Best price we could find on short notice, including dinner and breakfast was $89. Plus beer for 50 cents per glass and wine at 75 cents per glass. Rooms were large, clean and very quite.  Great shopping nearby as well.  Dayton Mall, Barnes & Noble, etc.

So Mother Nature give it your best shot while we're here.  Show us what a white Christmas really is but please make sure the snowplows have cleared a path for us in January cause' we're again ... outta here.

Shivering but still livin' the dream.

Phil

Maybe I should trade in my land yacht for this little beauty.  More storage and can go places the Monaco won't go.  May have to rename her but I'll ask Sharon what she thinks of the idea.

The new Sharon K ???

Maybe livin' the dream is over?

Phil

Whew! We made it one more year

Butterballs on the run

We're all still livin' the dream

Phil

Up, up and away!

10:02 am Saturday morning.  Look due east and watch the show.

NASA lit the fuse on another big rocket (Atlas V) taking a new and bigger rover vehicle (named Curiosity) to the planet Mars.  They say they're looking for signs of life on the old Red planet but I think once they get there (next summer) most of those little green people will already be on vacation.

This shot was taken from our back yard some 75 miles away from Cape Canaveral.  I've seen a number of these launches but each one is still as exciting as the last.  Still a kid at heart, I guess.

'Curiosity' off to get curious

Still livin' the dream but keeping my feet on the ground.

Phil

Living it up

Not soon after getting settled in camp, Sharon's sister Gay and our grandchildren Allison and Austin flew down to spend a week with us.  We had rented a condo near Orlando to save the hour or better drive each way from camp to Disney and Universal Studios.

Summers Bay Resorts (http://www.summerbayresort.com/orlando.htm) turned out to be quite a nice place.  Spacious rooms, several pools and best of all ... close to the Orlando attractions.

Our condo

I really got off easy by returning to camp to work on a major photo project leaving the heavy entertaining to Sharon.  I returned at the end of week to enjoy the festivities.

But just one little anecdote on the trip to the airport to pick everyone up ... I had not paid a lot of attention to how much fuel I had in the tank so I dropped Sharon off at the airport to meet our visitors and headed out to buy gas.  Driving and driving, I finally found a Shell station some 10 miles away.  A nice clean station near a big mall.  I really needed the gas so I pulled into the first place I could find.  I got ready to pump only to noticed what the price was.  Regular gas was just shy of $6.00/gallon!  No wonder I was the only one at the gas pumps.  The locals wouldn't be anywhere near this rip-off joint so I pumped just a couple of gallons and headed back to the airport ... slightly miffed.  No very miffed!

OMG gas prices

Sharon carried the most of the entertaining load this week dashing from place to place and roller coaster to roller coaster with our guests.  I don't know how she keeps going but she is really amazing.  Being young at heart helps.  As the week progressed I did noticed all of them were running a little low on steam and hanging out at the pool became the attraction of choice.

And so this past week went.  If you're coming to the Orlando area to see all the great attractions, don't forget to have very deep pockets or a good line of credit ...  or both.  Now not all things are expensive but those do take a little effort to discover.  All in all whatever the cost it was really good to have family come done and spend some time with us.  We hope they all had a good time ... we sure did.

Here's a few more images of the condo ...

Pool at our condo

Master bedroom

Living room and kitchen

Patio view

So in addition to all the great fun, my Grand daughter Allison celebrated her 17th birthday with us. My Grandson Austin is growing like a weed (he was noticeably taller each morning) and my Sister-in-law Gay is still a kid at heart.  All great individuals but when in a group ... crazy rules.  But Sharon and I really enjoyed their visit.

So once again ... we're still livin' the dream ... now in warm and sunny Florida.

Phil

A quick update ... almost

Roughing at our winter camp

We've finally landed at our winter destination at Florida Grande RV Resort near Webster Florida.  We were here last year and enjoyed the stay so we're back again.

Just to back up a bit ... we left Adairsville and motored on a few hours to Manchester TN.  Not to abandon my 'late to start ... early to quit' driving style, we managed to get maybe 200 miles under my belt before seeking out the KOA in Manchester.  Another repeat stop for us and it too was well kept park.  We didn't unhook with plans of getting on the road early the next morning.  As you might guess that didn't materialize as we managed to get back on the road about 10:00am.

Now here comes the ugly part ... I24 south of Manchester is no place for the meek.  The roads are in perfect shape ... the scenery is spectacular ... but the hills and truck traffic is not so good.  If I had not 400hp pushing me going up the mountains and a reliable Jake Brake slowing me on the decent, my fingers would still be permanently bonded to the steering wheel.  I'm trying to maintain a 60-65mph speed but the 18 wheelers roared by me like my wife rushing for the 'blue-light' special at K Mart.  Up and down and around the mountains we went ... I think if I were driving a car it would have been a more pleasant route but a little to tense for my liking in a motor home.

Though the trip to the next over-night was short, the stop at the Forsyth KOA was again very enjoyable.  We'd planned to revisit a restaurant (Prime Palate) was nixed as we were there for dinner but on that day they were only serving breakfast and lunch.  So we consulted my new Garmin GPS unit for new eating places and found a steak house that sounded good.  We found the place but learned that it had gone out of business some 11 months ago.  So much for the map upgrade.

Sharon mentioned that there was a movie she'd seen (Fried Green Tomatoes) was shot near Forsyth so we again consulted the GPS unit and drove off to the east about 10 miles to the small village of Juliette.

Inviting sign

About half way there we came over a hill and looming on the horizon was 2 very tall smoke stacks and 4 huge cooling towers.  I first thought it was a nuclear generating plant but Sharon did a little Google checking and discovered that it was the largest coal fired power generating plant in the US.  If time would have permitted I sure would have liked to take a closer look and taken some photos.  It was an imposing facility.  Anyway on to Juliette ... we pulled into the made-for-the-movie street discovering that both sides of the street were small old-time shops (all closed) each built at maybe 2/3 scale.  Sort of like an over-grown doll house look.

Whistle Stop Cafe

Specialty of the house

The famous restaurant we wanted to eat  at (specializing in fried green tomatoes I guess) was closed as well so I took a few pictures and headed back to Forsyth.

We cruised around the city square and found a place called 'Grits Cafe' www.gritscafe.com.

Grits Cafe next to the Rose Theater

Normally I'm gastronomically about as far away from grits as I am the moon but it looked like the only game in town at the time so we ventured in.  Wow!  What's a place like this doing in this little burg?  Table cloths, nice wine list, original art on the walls and no paper towels in the restroom but white cotton towels all neatly rolled in a stack near the sinks!  Oh did I mention the food?  Yup, lots of grits offered but only as compliments to the main entrees.  Checkout their website and see the selection.  Oh, and one last little treat. Along with the bill came a little plate of special chocolate to finish off the meal.

A sweet little chocolate delight

So fellow snowbirds and other vagabonds of the road ... if you're passing through or stopping over in Forsyth Georgia area you can't go wrong at either the Prime Palate or the Grit Cafe.  You will not be disappointed.

Heading out at the crack of 10:00am the next morning we made to our next stop in Lake City Florida.  We've been there before and it was an easy in and easy out stop over.

So here we are on our last leg of the trip.  Another rough 3 hour day on the concrete canyons of northern Florida.  I like to rate the trips we take using the famous "Cone" formula.  This was a one cone trip.  That is  I only hit one orange cone and no orange barrels.  Not too bad for me considering it took me 6 days to go 1200 miles.  Nothing like smelling the roses along the way.

Thanks for tagging along and stay with us as we embark on another winter adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Farewell friend

Corky Vogel  1936 - 2011
R.I.P.

On the road again

The wind rustled fallen leaves through the vacant sites.  It was very quite that last night we were at our summer camp.  We were the last to leave (again) the following morning.  Bittersweet.  The good times with friends and family but  now most all have left and we've said our goodbyes to family. Yes bittersweet.

We got around in the morning, hooked up the car and said farewell to Mary the camp owner, and headed south.

First stop was an old stop.  Been there before and found it works best for us.  Woods-n-Water Rv park near Columbus Indiana is close to the highway and roomy enough for our rig.  We met up with Sharon's sister Linda and husband John at Mark Pi's China Gate restaurant in Columbus for dinner.  Maybe not as good as previous meals there but not bad either.  Before dinner we took a little tour of downtown Columbus and finally could see what a wonderful array of architecture it has.  Bold, elegant, and whimsical ... all styles are embraced here.  A truly neat little city.  I also noticed a big Cummins engine plant there.  If I could have spent a weekday there I understand they have guided tours of the plants.  It would be neat to see how that big M11 400hp coach engine that pushes around us was built.  Maybe later.

Kind of slept in today and got a late start.  I know ... no surprise to some of our friends but once underway I quickly discovered that I had made a slight error in where our next stop would be.  Originally I had planned to bypass Louisville as the I64 bridge was closed routing all traffic to the I65 bridge.  Two to three hour backups were the norm so I cleverly thought I'd head further west and cross the Ohio river further downstream.  Well what I thought and what I plugged into my trip planning software were two different things.  When I left camp I turned on the laptop, brought up the trip plan and away we went.  Enjoying the scenery and motoring along the little female voice in the laptop kept belching out that famous word "recalculating" "recalculating".  After a half dozen "recalclating" I looked a little closer at the screen and discovered that I had called up the wrong trip map and we were headed directly for the 2-3 hours traffic jam in Lousiville.  We found a rest stop about 30 miles down the road and we pulled in to figure out what we could do.  It wasn't long before we realized we'd gone too far and were going to have to stick with the drive through Louisville.  Trip planning is not my strong suit.

Bracing for the sea of red brake lights, we approached the outskirts of town only to be pleasantly surprised that two of the four lanes were moving over the bridge at about 30mph ... so it all worked out. Except for the crummy roads we got through in good order.  It pays to traverse big cities on Sundays, I guess.  I don't care how long I've driven a motor home I still don't like heavy truck traffic around me.  They drive faster than I usually do and my knuckles return to their normal color only after my fingers have been pried from the death grip on the steering wheel.  Winds buffeting from both mother nature and my fellow road warriors always make for tense driving.  Maybe age has something to do with it. I'll be happy to get to Florida.

Anyway we made it to our next stop in Manchester Tennessee.  We stayed at this KOA last spring and if I can find my fishing rod those big catfish in the pond are in real trouble in the morning.

Tomorrow we're off to Adairsville Georgia.  We may stay there a couple of days to do a little shopping for a chair for the coach.  The old 'J" couch has served it purpose and now I need something a little more comfortable.  If we have the room, Sharon may get one as well.

Once we get settled in Florida by next week, and I get my Mac up and running, I can catch up some of the things we did at our last camp.  Pictures and everything. Stay tuned.

Thanks for hanging in there and waiting for me to get my writing mojo started again.

On the road again and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Latest

Okay ... promptness is not one of my virtues.  But before long I'll get you caught up on our remaining weeks in Southwestern Michigan.  Mini trips up north for a little color touring ... a zany Halloween party ... coach issues and finally our plans for this winter ...which we're only a couple of weeks away before we leave but have not be made any plans.  We're thinking about spending the first month in the Atlanta area, then returning north for the holidays, then back south (somewhere) for the rest of the winter.  So if you have any suggestions for around the Atlanta area drop me a note.

So hang in ... the dust here has got to settle a little before I can access my photo files and write a few lines but it will surely will happen soon and we'll soon start another play-by-play commentary of our next adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Blatant plug and timely tips

Okay this will be short.  My granddaughter Allison has been very active in high school TV production and I want to show everyone why we are so proud of her.  So take a look at this attached clip and compare it with your small hometown commercial news cast.  I  think you'll find these high school kids do a pretty fine job.

http://www.mhsaa.tv/davison/events/21943

Campers are slowly but surely pulling up stakes and heading out ... and we'll soon follow.  As I watch the parade of those preparing to leave, it reminds me of the preparation we all need to do to get ready to hit the road.  Some need to winterize, all need to check engine fluids, tire air pressure, windows and vents closed, propane valves closed, battery(s) condition, windshield wipers, stop lights and turn signals, antennas lowered, will the slides retract, and will the engine and generator even start.  Try to get all these checks made on the morning you're planning to leave will almost guarantee higher stress and the likelihood that you'll get to spend another day in camp fixing something.  So make out a check list a week ahead of your departure date and get at it.

Still livin' the dream and working through my checklist.

Phil

Ole'

Yet another day of conspicuous consumption.  Or as we call it around here ... pigging out at the clubhouse.

Steeped in the traditions of old Mexico, another spread of ''theme' food was prepared for the residents here.  Nancy, who must have worked on the dinner for a month, again bettered her efforts of last year by introducing yet another delectable array of homemade 'south of the border' delicacies.

Chef Senorita Nancy

Senior Rod and the Fajita fixens'

 Now I can look at a menu at any Mexican restaurant and before too long become so confused as to what to order I usually end up with a taco and call it a day.  But Nancy does it right.  All these homemade goodies lined up and labeled!  Yes she actually identifies each item (with a beautifully handcrafted sign) which helps us not so sophisticated diners figure out what to flop on our plate.  Smell those beans cooking ... see that blacken chicken ... um..... black beans, refried beans, peppers, onions, taco meat, shredded chicken, steak strips ... need I go on?  But I can't stop ... taco salad, tortillas, fajitas, flan but hopefully ...... no flatulence.  I don't know how she does it but this one woman food show was another success.

Where the 'action' starts

Looked good ...tasted better

Nothing forgotten

Not so shy eaters

After margaritas and lots of cold beer, the crowd settled into the evenings entertainment.  The old college football rivalry between the University of Michigan and Notre Dame was on national TV.   Sides were drawn weeks ago with an occasional prank punctuating the pre-game days.  You know ... those silly little games youngsters of all ages play in an attempt to get the upper hand prior to the big game.  As the season is just starting, we can only guess what lies ahead as each week brings on new challengers, but the outcomes of U of M and ND will be at the forefront.

By the time the game started a large semi-circle of chairs surrounded the big screen TV.  For those who didn't follow the game it was a real nail biter right to the end.  Though not a particular well played game (some would say a really bad game) it ended up being one of the most exciting many of us had ever seen.
Something like three touchdowns within the last 90 seconds was almost too exciting to watch.  Underwear changes were in order shortly after the finish.  U of M squeaked out the victory but it maybe wouldn't have mattered as it was just great fun. (Go Blue!)

Pre-game posturing

So another, and almost final get-together for the folks here at Cousins RV at seasons end.  With a Chili cook-off next week, our Michigan social calendar is almost at an end.  A very busy summer filled with many great memories and good times.  We're thankful for this unique opportunity and look forward to the next adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Little Beauty

Lola, our youngest granddaughter, just celebrated her 1st birthday.  Mom and Dad threw a big picnic party at a local park and friends and relatives from all around helped Lola enjoy the day.  I may be just a little prejudiced but isn't she just the cutest?

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Don Ho would be proud

A luau in South Haven?  At Cousins RV Park? ... Who wooda' thought.

Grass skirts, flowered leis, yummy tropical drinks, and a feast fit for King Kuwanahana (I think the famous leader of the Opanicani tribe on the Big Island).

Pat and Sandy hosted the extravaganza and no body, and I mean no body was disappointed or went home hungry.  All of us were amazed at the variety of scrumptious goodies provided.   In addition, fantastic snacks and deserts were provided by a number of other campers.  To put on a party of this magnitude took an almost super-human effort and I hope all of those who attended take the time to again thank Pat and Sandy (and their families) for a very memorable Hawaiian Luau.

So Don Ho, where ever you are, take note ... this is how a Luau is done.

Thankfully I couldn't find a grass skirt my size so I'm still livin' the dream.

And by-the-way

Here's just a sample of the photos I took at the luau.  See them all on my other website by clicking the following: www.philipdean.zenfolio.com

Phil

Antartica WRU?

Okay ... I've have readers of this blog in all the earth's continents with the exception of Antartica.  So what gives?  I know people (upwards to 5000 per year) live down there in places like Grytviken, Leigh Harbour, King Edward Point and Husvik so what's keeping you from logging in?  Too cold to type?  Busy making snow angels?

The continent is twice the size of Australia and besides that ... what else have they to do down there?  So thaw out you folks in Husvik and get on line.  (Do they have cable or is it still dial-up?)

Anyway I'm looking to some of my globe trotting friends (like Suzanne in Helsinki)  to get the ball rolling on this by spreading the word.  As a matter of fact ...  I'm not exactly on the hit parade in South America or Africa either (see widget "Where My Readers Live") so  lets everyone get to work on increasing my readership.  My ego needs help.

Still livin' the dream but still looking for Antartica.

Phil

Sunday finale

Bicycles and airplane aside there was yet another party in the making last Sunday afternoon to celebrate the birthday of one of the guests here in camp.

Henry is what most around here might call a southern gentleman.  Soft spoken and deliberate, taken by an occasional cigar, maybe a little whiskey now and again, an observer of the world around him, and ... is usually in the company of a lovely southern belle.  To complete his persona is his faithful four-legged companion ... Buddy.  A dark brown lanky mix of Lab and Poodle who is well groomed and well mannered but still likes act a little foolish when given the chance.

Henry and his wife Geannie returned to camp this summer with the intent of a short stay but, with maybe a little encouragement from the locals here, decided to stay for the remainder of the season. They, along with Jerry and Della, are refugees from Hilton Head Island who escape the summer humidity and oppressive heat there ... so it's the Palmetto States loss and our gain.

Anyway it was Henry's birthday and what better an idea than to have a little celebration.  Since we were already planning on happy hour,  ... with some extra bells and whistles (translate ... great pizza, food and deserts) we turned it into a first class party.  Maybe the only sour note was the groups rendition of Happy Birthday which I think, caused Buddy to break into a howl before we mercifully stopped.

Probably not used to having a bunch of folks make a fuss over him, Henry remained the consummate southern gentleman and maybe with a little more encouragement, he and Geannie will return next year.

Geannie and Henry

Still getting along just fine and continue  livin' the dream.

Phil

Planes, bicycles, and waiting

Today was another outing for the guys here at the park.  No Blueberry Festival craft show for the men.  This was going to be real men's stuff.  The smell of aviation fuel, the roar of radial engines, the chance to touch and feel those magnificent machines that allows one to 'escape the surly bonds of earth'.  It was the annual South Haven Fly-In pancake breakfast at the airport. 

Since we are a tough lot and shun the thought of eating pancakes in an outdoor hanger with lesser types, we settled in at Cousins restaurant for a normal man's breakfast.  You know ... pancakes.  So after filling our faces with all types of breakfast goodies we headed off to the airport, some 5 miles away.  

One car headed off following the northern most path while Bill and I decided to take the southern route as Bill convinced me that this was much shorter.  Something about Pythagoras's theorem  c squared equals something plus something ... it sounded believable at the moment.  Anyway were rolling along quite well thinking that we'd arrive early (certainly ahead of those other guys) when the traffic began to slow, then stop.  In the distance we could see flashing red lights at our upcoming turn so something was wrong.  After a few minutes and still no movement, I could see something pass near the flashing red lights.  Closer inspection determined that they were bicycles.  Lots and lots of bicycles streaming across our road heading south.  We waited, inching our way forward ever so slowly until we were next to turn.  Two Michigan State troopers were manning the traffic and were holding back east and west traffic that was now backed up at least a half a mile in each direction.  Across the road the bikes streamed.  The riders all decked out in their brightly colored skin tight Lycra race outfits.  Heads adorned with Stars Wars helmets and arms and legs marked with large black numbers (apparently given out by the race people to identify their name and class).  Where in the world were they coming from and where were they going I wondered.  Well I actually didn't care but just wanted them to pass.

The trooper came over to my window and gave me a little advice.  'Go like the wind when I give you the high sign' he said.  As the racers occasionally got spaced out he would let a car make the turn and I was next in the launch lane.  After a few minutes I got a quick nod and an authoritative hand gesture and off I went.  Probably the best left turn I have every made and ... I did it without my turn signal being on.  Now this is real grey power.

From that point it was another mile to the airport and when within sight of the place we again came to a halt.  The bikers continued to stream past us.  Hundreds of them of all shapes, colors and sizes.  The highly tuned two wheeled pedal pushers hummed with precision as they flew past me.  Every now and then I could catch some of them talking as they went by.  "The poor suckers and going to miss out on their pancake breakfast" was said more than once as the minutes ticked by.  My thoughts raced on how smirky they'd be if I all of a sudden I open my car door as they flew by?  Evil thoughts like this are really just thoughts and besides ... it was Sunday.

 

We could see the rest of our group inside the  airport enjoying the exhibits while we sat idling on the road.  

As I looked into my rear view mirror and the stream of cyclist disappearing down the road I could only hope that this nightmare was soon to end.

Some 45 minutes and several hundred more bicycles passed and we finally got in.  Our short cut was not so short. 

Anyway we walked around the parked planes in the cold, overcast day but were treated to a couple of the old WWII war birds tearing up the sky over the airport.  Engines roaring as they made several low level passes over the crowd before landing and allowing the crowd to examine these beautiful old fighter planes up close.  

I did manage to take a few photos while there:  No this isn't Pappy Boyington's 'Black Sheep Squadron' but some of the finest RV jockeys around. 

 

Bill, Jerry,Rod,Don,Charley, and Corky.  Concealed under Don's shirt is junior pilot Evan.

Here's a Grumman trainer (I think) that's tight on space but looks like a hoot to fly.  Painted pretty, this pint sized  aircraft was a crowd pleaser.  Pretty confident nose art for such a little puddle jumper.

And all this was going on before noon on Sunday.  I think I'm exhausted but wait!  There's more to come this afternoon.  To be continued on the next installment.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Mother Nature

The weather radar had that ominous dark red signature indicating that another round of rain and wind was soon to hit the South Haven area.  Already soaked with almost two inches of rain, this newest helping of Mother Natures stew was roaring across Lake Michigan.  I thought this might be an opportunity to get some new storm photos so I got of hold of my friend Bill, we grabbed our gear and headed to the South Beach area of the city.  The horizon was dark the clouds looked angry and the wind was picking up.  We could see towering rain shafts both north and south of us but in between was this dark blue/black ledge of clouds that was rolling toward us with bolts of lightening seeking places to release their energy.

Thunder in the background along with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, began herding beach goers and boaters alike to safe grounds.  The rush was on as boats of all types and sizes rushed for the safety of the Black River harbor.  Looking over their shoulders to confirm the pending danger, these lucky jet skiers made it back just in time.

The race to safety

I should know better but  ... I must have been thinking that as long as these other folks were out on the pier watching the approaching storm I should be out there to trying to get some pictures.  As I stood there under  the metal causeway that ran from the lighthouse to shore I got to thinking about how well that metal structure would transmit the power of a lightening bolt along its entire length.  As the storm approached and the lightening bolts were firing across the horizon, a collective notion of all of us getting the hell off this pier might be prudent.  I started to back off, trying not to stumble as I continued to shoot the storm.  Trying to catch a shot of that elusive lightening bolt is a challenge but while navigating in reverse is a fools wish.  Slipping off the side of the pier into the frothy water was an option I quickly thought distasteful and had time enough to grab one more image and get back to the car.  As luck would have it got the shot.  Not the real dramatic one I really wanted but not too bad.

South Haven Lighthouse

Still staying dry, avoiding lightening and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Old neighbors and old trees

Old friends are a lot like old coins ... You're glad you have them and they become more valuable the longer you keep them.

We've known Dick and Linda for the better part of 42 years.  Neighbors back then with little kids,  Dick worked steadfastly at his craft of graphic art design and Linda spent her time raising the kids.  As the years drifted by, and we later moved out of town, we always kept a thread tied to them as these are friends you need around for the long haul.

So now each of us has more time and the opportunity to get together is easier.  We received a call the other day that  they would like to drive over to South Haven and pay visit.

When they arrived we knew Dick had something he was excited to share with us.  After all the accomplishments he has acquired in his professional career he had decided to make a little course correction and delve into the world of writing.  Not the earthy novel or gut tightening thriller but a simply, yet elegant children's book.  Written and fully illustrated by himself, his first venture into writing for the little ones is brave new step.  Kids books aren't often labeled 'thought provoking' but within this verse is something for all ages.  A thoughtful message about friendship tells the tale of an old man and a tree and what that tree meant to him.

So if you'd like to learn more you can soon pick up a copy at your local book store or order on line at Amazon.

"The Old Man and the Tree" by Richard Schlatter

Another day, expecting little but receiving a lot and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Hubba, Hubba

Livin' the Dream Headline ....

Saginaw Valley State University graduates excel in picking good looking babes!

Now Tom, Rick and myself may not have been the sharpest tacks in the box of scholars but we sure knew how to pick our ladies.  Now that the three of us have greyed and fallen apart, it's a relief to know that the 'sweeties' we picked (or was it the other way around?) are still lookin' good and turning heads.  We all met for dinner in Saginaw the other evening, reliving outrageous stories of our college days and still enjoying each other friendship after all these years.

Cindy, Sharon, and Jan

So there you have it.  Another reason we are still livin' the dream.

Phil

Twofer day details

At the drop of a hat we've had yet another party.  When will I get some rest?  Oh but this time we've had a  'twofer' celebration.  Two for the price of one!

Friends Jerry and Della  celebrating 56 years of marriage along with friend Bill who had another one of those semi-forgettable birthdays so ... the camp soldiers are summoned and let the festivities begin.

Ya' ...  I'm sure you think this RV life is one continuous party ... well you may be on to something.  But really it's keeps us off the shuffle board courts.

Oh, by the way ...  before I forget ...  or maybe I'm just remembering something I've already said ...
The new round-about we have on Blue Star highway (just in front of RV park) has turned into a real good training ground for us more senior drivers.  Since many of us like to drive with our left turn signal on continuously, this counter-clockwise intersection is providing some needed practice.  nfortunately a few of us have run out of gas before we could figure out how to exit the damn thing.

Back to the partying.

Jerry and Della, compared to many of us, define grace and style.  No nose pickers here.  These folks probably know what to do with that extra fork they give you at the sit-down eating establishments.  And their socks match and their clothes are pressed real nice.  So to help this really great couple celebrate another year of marriage was really our pleasure.  No kiddin' ... truly an outstanding couple whom we all admire and wish  the best of everything to.

Della and Jerry on their 56th

Still working at feeding the SS system, Bill has not slowed down a step.  Retiring from one job and  mmediately starting another, his stamina is noteworthy and, as the SS system is in such trouble, we all appreciate his ongoing contributions to our lifestyle.  Rumor has it that he may hang up his volt meter next year and dive headlong into RVing almost full time.  We wish him all the best on this special day.

Birthday Boy Bill and his sweetheart wife June

So another party, another celebration, another good time with friends and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Celebration(s)

The first week of August was a time of celebrations for us.

Our son Steve turns 37.  A great son, a loving father, and a devoted husband.

Our fantastic daughter Leigh and her husband Scott celebrated their 6th year of marriage.  A stellar couple. (Oopps ... I forgot to take a picture of them together.  Maybe they'll send me one.)

Our friends Jerry and Della celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary.  More on this later.

My old friend Bill will be celebrating yet another semi-forgettable birthday.  More on this later to.

Each a milestone ... each special in there own way and we so fortunate to share that special time with them.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil