tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59881863102506122692012-01-25T18:00:22.946-08:00The continuing adventures of a fulltime RVer.Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.comBlogger3881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-66111394883554844772012-01-22T18:30:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:32:01.537-08:00

While at our gathering in Wellton, AZ earlier this month (I'm really far behind in my blogging), Kurt took us on a jeep trip to Big Eye Mine. It's located in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, north of Yuma. The scenery on the drive there was gorgeous.We first made a stop at the Colorado mine. There is a tunnel there to go through that seems to have no purpose, as you can easily go around it.

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-34439373749705829422012-01-13T21:09:00.000-08:002012-01-13T21:10:58.863-08:00

I have been coming to Yuma every Christmas/New Years for a long time now, and I think this is the warmest weather we've ever had! The temperatures have been in the upper 70s - WOW! The BLM land behind the VFW is a popular spot. The only downside is that big yellow thing on the left, but what the heck - I love trains!New Year's morning we all came out in our PJs.I was the Belle of the Ball in

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10852852961562590972012-01-07T14:10:00.000-08:002012-01-07T14:11:20.285-08:00

Here goes!Gas $ 2,131 Not very high because I mostly stayed in Arizona this year.Groceries $ 1,923Repairs and Tags for car and trailer $ 1,883Includes 2 new tires each for the car and the trailer, plus a new axle for the trailer.Camping Fees $ 1,849I spent 2 1/2 months in RV parks in Mesa and Prescott when it got too hot, the rest is dry camping.Photography and Computers $ 1,455No new

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-19476317047012496172012-01-03T14:58:00.000-08:002012-01-03T14:59:23.316-08:00

I drove the car over to San Diego to celebrate Christmas with the Grandkids (and their parents, of course...)Cookie decorating was first on the list.Do you think Mara might take after her Grandma a little?Finally, Christmas Eve arrived.The kids left cookies and milk for Santa, plus 9 carrots, one for each of the reindeer. Gee, we never used to leave carrots for the reindeer, but now it seems

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-43111400576079740312011-12-21T14:06:00.000-08:002011-12-21T14:07:49.786-08:00

Yes, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, Yuma, AZ is the sunniest place on earth. The sun shines 94% of the daylight hours!I settled in at "The Q," a fairly new casino on the west side of town. They give you $10 free play if you sign up for the players card. I walked away with a whole $2.50!The Q is only 2 miles away from the Mexican town of Algodones, and less than a mile from

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-55556518182474161192011-12-09T16:49:00.000-08:002011-12-09T16:51:04.155-08:00

Well, long for me anyway.... I've been here for more than a month! While here, I went hiking at the Superstition Mountains -And walked around the neighborhood quite a bit. Saw this unusual cactus closeby.Went to the Mesa Flea Market where I saw this shirt that Sandie could get Jim for Christmas.Since we had a huge gift certificate from Filly's, we went back there several times, mostly when

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-54429318357863076922011-11-27T12:45:00.000-08:002011-11-27T12:47:38.901-08:00

I've been hanging around in Apache Junction for some time now. One thing I really like about the area is the SHOPPING! I have been looking for a collage picture frame where you could change the pictures without taking the whole thing off the wall. (I used double sided sticky tape to mount it.) I finally found this one at Hobby Lobby.One small problem was that the pictures could slide down

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-5775035236978221422011-11-19T14:10:00.000-08:002011-11-19T14:13:59.793-08:00

I've written about some of my ideas for fire prevention back in January. If you didn't read it then, be sure to check it out here.When an RV catches on fire, most of the time the firefighters get there too late to do any good.And what you are left with is this. RVs can be replaced, but many times the contents cannot.So my friend Bill showed me his ultimate fire prevention device. He has 2 of

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-62571565067578991672011-11-15T14:00:00.000-08:002011-11-15T14:03:53.201-08:00

Filly's, in Apache Junction, is a very popular spot. They are famous for their wings. Doesn't the chicken look a little nervous?Of course, we did the Chicken Dance.And there was a wing-eating contest. (Believe it or not, the big guy did not win!)And then there was a dance contest! Phil and I didn't even know it until we were picked as one of the 3 couples to compete.We did our best, but didn't

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-90671482888823300812011-11-12T12:22:00.000-08:002011-11-12T12:38:03.664-08:00

Usually when I go to San Diego, it rains, but not this time. The weather was perfect, and Mara and Corrie took a kayaking lesson in La Jolla.After a little instruction, they were ready for a paddle in the ocean - I hope...Bye-bye!While they paddled over to the cliff in the distance, Jonathan chased the wildlife -And played in the waves.Finally, they returned, with Mara doing much of the paddling

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-61317179588437778562011-11-05T15:22:00.000-07:002011-11-05T15:23:15.196-07:00

Each year I try to go to my daughter's in the San Diego area. I think it must be the Halloween capital of the world! This is their house - the decorating starts the end of September.The day before Halloween there was a pumpkin carving party. There were cannoli to eat -And some black cookies that Jonathan really liked.The finished product - a howling wolf and a spider web.Finally, the big day

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-37741953558303467432011-10-31T13:52:00.000-07:002011-10-31T13:52:28.746-07:00

The Railroad Tunnel Trail, near Boulder City, NV, follows the path of a rail line built in 1931 to haul materials to construct Hoover Dam.It's usually possible to walk all the way to the dam, but the trail was closed at last of the 5 tunnels for construction.You get beautiful view of Lake Mead on one side of the trail.It took 5 months, working round the clock, to drill the tunnels, through hard

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-52342133458699847352011-10-25T15:39:00.000-07:002011-10-25T15:39:00.493-07:00

My favorite part of Las Vegas is Fremont Street. A huge overhead screen, 4 blocks long, with 12 million lights, presents a show every hour in the evening.The first hour was a Halloween bash.While waiting for the next show, I saw some interesting tourists.New this year is a zip line down the middle of the street.And I had to go visit the money at Binion's - the closest I'LL ever get to a million

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-15403904984836331322011-10-22T14:50:00.000-07:002011-10-22T14:56:16.609-07:00

Like Page, AZ, Boulder City, NV did not exist until sprang up to house workers building a dam. Hoover Dam was built in the early 1930s.One really odd thing about the town is that bighorn sheep roam through the city park. They used to be up in the hills, but found the nice green grass too good to pass up.The town is also loaded with some beautiful sculptures.I met back up with the WINs here,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-84277643012903447372011-10-18T13:54:00.000-07:002011-10-18T13:57:11.849-07:00

Whoa - where am I??? Not in Great Falls, Montana. This is the Great Falls of the Potomac River in Maryland, which I visited when I was back East for my son's wedding.The locks next to the river are part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which ran 185 miles between Cumberland, MD and Washington, DC. There are 74 locks along the way.The canal operated between 1831 and 1924. Today, tour boats

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-54763153007344261622011-10-14T22:23:00.000-07:002011-10-14T22:29:57.731-07:00

It's a long drive from Page, AZ to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, but there is a shortcut - the Cottonwood Wash road.Forty miles of dirt road sounds bad until you look at the scenery.Wow - it looks like something from another planet!A close up.There's even wildlife!And then you get to Bryce Canyon. Wow!I walked down a little ways among the hoodoos.To see the Queen in the Queen's

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-66119815651630199372011-10-10T19:43:00.000-07:002011-10-10T19:47:27.493-07:00

Lone Rock, near Page, AZ, is a beautiful place to stay. And now that I'm old, I get in for free, and camping is only $5 per night.Unfortunately, it's gotten a lot more crowded since I was first here 10 years ago.But I managed to get away from the crowd and had a lovely view of Lone Rock. There is a lot to see and do in the Page area, and this is a good place to stay while exploring. (No,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-50020333989097736752011-10-06T15:04:00.000-07:002011-10-06T15:05:54.307-07:00

Many of you have probably seen pictures of Antelope Canyon, just outside Page, AZ, but most of the pictures are of Upper Antelope Canyon. I much prefer Lower Antelope Canyon. It's more challenging, but a lot of fun. This is how you enter - just walk into the crack.It's a little narrow, and some ladders are involved. When I first went in Lower Antelope Canyon in 1996, there were no ladders or

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-12151974434291974372011-10-03T15:00:00.000-07:002011-10-03T15:00:51.150-07:00

My son, Mark, got married this past weekend, so I flew back to Washington DC for the wedding, and to go see my father in Pennsylvania. My daughter and her family also flew in, so be prepared for some shamelessly-cheesy-grandkid-pictures.The rehearsal dinner on Saturday was a hit with Mara. She loves pasta - must take after her grandma...On Sunday I brought my father down to my niece's house so

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-2250564747274676182011-09-29T17:44:00.000-07:002011-09-29T17:45:36.214-07:00

The first day at Monument Valley was a little rainy, but made for some great moody shots.On the way here, I had my doubts.But then, YAY, the sun came out!I even got to see the leprechaun and his pot of gold!When in Monument Valley, you can either do a tour yourself, or pay to go on a tour. We chose to go by ourselves. If you go on a tour, you can see more of the park.This is John Ford's Point,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-72347934980091653732011-09-24T16:35:00.000-07:002011-09-24T16:37:59.544-07:00

One of my favorite boondocking spots is at Goosenecks State Park in the SE corner of Utah. The view on one side of the rig looks pretty bland.But look out of the window on the other side and this is what you see! The Goosenecks of the San Juan River.Can you see us parked on the rim? We're about 1,000 feet above the river.I'll zoom in.You are so close to the Goosenecks that it is impossible to

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-26105003378306115622011-09-21T11:15:00.000-07:002011-09-21T11:17:00.063-07:00

Mesa Verde National Park contains over 4,500 archeological sites, of which 600 are cliff dwellings. Cliff Palace, shown here, is the largest cliff dwelling in North America.It originally contained 150 rooms, and 23 round kivas.The tour to Cliff Palace also involves stairs and ladders, but is not nearly as difficult as the trip to Balcony House.You can take a self-guided tour to Spruce Tree House

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-31655168282074883122011-09-17T22:37:00.000-07:002011-09-17T22:39:46.698-07:00

When viewed from across the canyon, Balcony House in Mesa Verde National Park looks impossible to get to.But a sign at the trailhead explains how it's done.The steps down and walking along the ledge are "no big deal."Then you get to the 32-foot ladder.But still "no big deal" except that the air is kind of thin up here at 8000 feet.This is the balcony that Balcony House is named for. By taking

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-22945115944815259372011-09-13T16:37:00.000-07:002011-09-13T16:39:48.024-07:00

Canyon de Chelly (pronounced d'shay) National Monument is located on the Navajo Indian Reservation in NE Arizona.Archeological evidence shows that people have lived in the canyon for nearly 5,000 years. A few Navajo still live here, farming and living in traditional log hogans. But the canyon is known for the many ancient pueblo ruins it contains. Several can be seen from the canyon rim.White

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-2667885563148724622011-09-09T21:58:00.000-07:002011-09-09T21:59:09.113-07:00

A lot of my single RV friends have bought lots here, midway between Show Low, AZ and Concho, AZ. I was really anxious to see it.My friend Carol arranged for us to park on Walter's lot. We don't know Walter, but his lot was great. I don't think I've ever heard such "quiet."Saturday was Jim's birthday party, which he hosted, providing hot dogs, and even a band! Of course we had to dance. (

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-14297807313927243552011-09-02T20:48:00.000-07:002011-09-02T20:54:09.417-07:00

Just north and west of Flagstaff a little ways is what appears to be a pile of rocks in the middle of the forest. But a closer look reveals the entrance to a lava tube, almost one mile long! Supposedly, after you go down through this hole, the tube levels out. I had my doubts, but was willing to try it. You have got to be kidding!!!! I am not a good boulder hopper. And don't tell me that

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-2040491436650769642011-08-28T13:57:00.000-07:002011-08-28T13:59:12.596-07:00

In Winslow, Arizona! And such a fine sight to see - It's a girl, my Lord, in a flatbed Ford, slowin' down to take a look at me. Take It Easy - I'm only quoting the famous Eagles' song. The town of Winslow decided to take advantage of their fame and create the "Standin' On The Corner Park." Notice the Eagle up in the first window. And there's some hanky-panky going on up there too. The

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-61611580657959027232011-08-23T15:00:00.000-07:002011-08-23T15:01:42.578-07:00

Sometime around 1100 AD, after Sunset Volcano was done erupting, some early ancestors of the Hopi, Zuni, and Navajo people returned and settled here, just 15 miles from the volcano, near present-day Flagstaff. The thin ash layer from the eruption absorbed moisture and increased crop production. There are other ancient pueblos in the area, but this is the biggest. Notice how they used existing

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-60813431504111661442011-08-19T16:28:00.000-07:002011-08-19T16:29:50.950-07:00

This is one of the several National Monuments in the Flagstaff area that I had never been to. It would have been nice to climb to the top of the crater, but they closed it to climbing over 30 years ago due to rapid erosion. So now you must hire an airplane, or copy the picture on their brochure for your blog. (Guess which one I did...) There is a great trail through the lava, though. The

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-59865127978189907352011-08-16T13:37:00.000-07:002011-08-16T13:38:28.976-07:00

You'd think after all these years of RVing, I'd be done with the Grand Canyon. But I never tire of it! This is the view from Pima Point, one of the stops on the free shuttle bus. That's Granite Rapid down there. It looks pretty mild from here, but it isn't - it rates an 8 on the Park's 10-point scale of river difficulty. Hermits Rest is the turn-around point for the bus. The next day I

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-61230947463627278932011-08-09T21:36:00.000-07:002011-08-09T21:39:44.565-07:00

Walnut Canyon is a National Monument just east of Flagstaff. There are hundreds of archeological sites in the canyon, and the Island trail takes you by quite a few. It's a short 1-mile loop after you descend 240 steps. Looking across the canyon, you can see dwellings sheltered by overhanging cliffs that were home to Walnut Canyon's inhabitants from 1400 to 800 years ago. This was really the

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-32725292433777335782011-08-05T15:45:00.000-07:002011-08-05T15:49:35.837-07:00

During my stay at the Elks in Flagstaff, hummingbirds were in abundance. I'm pretty sure this one is a Rufous.Occasionally they played "nice."But most of the time each insisted on having the feeder all to themselves. Sometimes there were as many as 10 divebombing individuals.Not sure about this guy, but it may be a Black-chinned Hummingbird.And this might be a Broad-tailed Hummingbird. They

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-46258364122965998432011-07-26T21:00:00.000-07:002011-07-26T21:02:16.889-07:00

On my way up to Flagstaff, and cooler weather, a woman started honking and madly pointing at my trailer tires. Thinking I must have a flat, I pulled off the highway.I saw no flat, but did see a little smoke, and when I touched the hubs, I burned my fingers on one of them. I knew then that I had burned up a wheel bearing. Fortunately, the entire trailer did not burn up, like fellow bloggers, Ed

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-30665078018771338932011-07-21T16:50:00.000-07:002011-07-21T16:53:53.673-07:00

After our wonderful cruise, it was back to the RV park in Prescott for a few more days. As I mentioned before, it is located right in the middle Prescott's Granite Dells. This is the view out my window.We had flown out of Phoenix on our way to Tahiti, and while there I was able to see what happens to saguaro blooms after they are done blooming.The seed pod is bright red (!) and the birds just

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-45006743121143917242011-07-15T19:55:00.000-07:002011-07-15T19:56:15.198-07:00

When we arrived in Tahiti (a long time ago), we were immediately transferred to the cruise ship, and didn't get to see any of the island.But we arrived back in Tahiti last night, and our plane back to LA doesn't leave until 10:30 tonight, so we have some time to explore.Looking down from our balcony, you can see they are loading supplies for the next cruise, which leaves tonight. They want us out

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-33871916855193242012011-07-12T08:06:00.000-07:002011-07-12T08:06:00.928-07:00

Our cruise is almost over and the ship is on its way back to Tahiti. Here, Moorea is the dark island in the foreground and Tahiti is in the sunlight in the background. They are only 10 miles apart.Here is a map of our wonderful cruise. Tahiti is the large island on the right, the other Society Islands are to the NW of Tahiti, and the two Cook Islands are 600 miles to the West, on the left side

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-70902733014744046972011-07-09T19:50:00.000-07:002011-07-09T19:50:00.338-07:00

The ship stays in Moorea for 2 days, and the second day I went on a Photo Adventure Tour of the island with Renaud, a professional photographer. He offers photographic tips and interesting information about the island.Here he's explaining the "Rule of Thirds." Although he probably didn't tell me anything I didn't already know, he reminded me to do a lot of things I forget to do. With digital

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-57997433765256640782011-07-07T12:01:00.000-07:002011-07-07T12:01:00.512-07:00

Moorea is yet another beautiful island surrounded by a lagoon. There are 2 large bays on the north side of the island, Opunohu Bay on the left and Cook's Bay on the right.The Paul Gaughin anchors alternately between the two. This time we were in Cook's Bay.Since we had such good luck on Roratonga finding our own tour guide, we decided to do the same here. We ended up with Caroline, who took 4

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-31666322861760390002011-07-05T08:31:00.000-07:002011-07-05T08:31:00.600-07:00

Taha'a is another French Polynesian island surrounded by a lagoon. The difference between this and our other stops is that the ship puts on a big beach party.The ship anchors between the island and the string of motus (islets) on the north side of the island, approximately where the white spot is. Gee, could that be us?The tender then takes us over to their private motu, where there are lots of

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-70914741308335771542011-07-02T13:00:00.000-07:002011-07-02T13:01:11.977-07:00

Bora Bora is a beautiful island, and looks different from every angle.I went on a snorkeling trip TWICE with Christophe. He goes all the way around the island, in the lagoon, and stops at 4 wonderful snorkeling spots.The first day I went on the tour, I couldn't go in the water because of my hand. But everyone said it was the best snorkeling they had ever done. So the next day I brought Phil

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-38316413827908894022011-06-29T18:24:00.000-07:002011-07-04T15:05:24.110-07:00

We have 2 days here on Bora Bora, after a day at sea traveling from the Cook Islands back to the Society Islands of French Polynesia, shown here.Bora Bora is surrounded by a large reef, enclosing the island and a beautiful lagoon. Notice there is only one place that a ship can enter the lagoon.We are anchored just off Vaitape, and take a tender to the town. These kids were have a great time

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-50555481042911720142011-06-27T06:04:00.000-07:002011-06-27T06:04:01.480-07:00

Roratonga is the largest, most mountainous, and most populated of the Cook Islands. The lagoon is much smaller than Aitutaki's, and not the best for snorkeling.The water is rather rough where the ship anchors, and about half the time the shore excursions are cancelled. But we lucked out, and off to town we went.We immediately happened to meet Sal, who offered us a 20-mile trip around the island

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-62992013585141924652011-06-25T06:36:00.000-07:002011-06-25T06:36:00.504-07:00

Aitutaki in the Cook Islands is a beautiful island surrounded by a blue lagoon and lots of small islands, called motus.There is only one entrance into the lagoon. The ship parks outside and the tender carefully makes its way throught the reef to take us to the island.I had arranged a tour privately on the internet with Teking (rhymes with The King). It came highly recommended and was half the

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-49175829135356341802011-06-23T13:59:00.001-07:002011-06-23T14:16:34.080-07:00

In addition to the Society Islands of French Polynesia, our cruise goes to 2 of the Cook Islands. This requires a day at sea, both coming and going.We have a very nice room on Deck 7, near the back of the ship. This picture is taken into the mirror, the only way to get a shot. There is lots of storage spots (always appreciated by an RVer.)I love the balcony -this is the first cruise I have

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-19352868772102871302011-06-21T23:39:00.000-07:002011-06-21T23:39:01.021-07:00

The ship left Tahiti right before midnight so they can say it's an 11-day cruise instead of a 10-day cruise, so I didn't get to see Tahiti at all, but may after the cruise. The next morning, I woke up in this gorgeous spot.We are anchored in Maroe Bay, between the two pieces of the sleepy little island of Huahine, about 100 miles northwest of Tahiti.I wanted to see the island, so I went on a

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-6379758346916406122011-06-20T17:20:00.000-07:002011-06-20T17:21:39.129-07:00

Well, wherever it is, I needed yet another new Canon camera, a Powershot D10. What's so special about this one? Well, it's waterproof, and I'm going to need it!I'm off to Tahiti, to go on a cruise of French Polynesia and the Cook Islands.The Air Tahiti terminal at LAX was a zoo.But finally we were in the air and on our way. This is my first time crossing the equator.After a VERY long day, we

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-26537841275935901012011-06-11T20:33:00.000-07:002011-06-11T20:34:52.801-07:00

To a gorgeous spot at the Elks in Prescott Valley.I'm parked right at the edge of a cliff, with my picture window looking out over the valley.There's even a park down there, surrounding a small lake.There's a large flea market next door - And the weather could not be better!BUT - you knew there was a BUT coming - right after we got there, the Elks decided there would be no more boondocking. They

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-21985745010106367562011-06-07T08:39:00.000-07:002011-06-07T08:42:18.546-07:00

The stay here in Sedona has been wonderful. This is my parking place, between Sedona and Cottonwood, in Coconino National Forest off FR 525. Lots of good boondocking spots around here.Besides the yucca in the previous picture, the prickly pear cactus are blooming here.I saw lots of birds and bunny rabbits out my window, and one day saw a roadrunner.This is the view out my window. By the way,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-35303308293613616352011-06-02T19:45:00.000-07:002011-06-02T19:53:08.775-07:00

Back in prehistoric times, from about 1000 AD to 1400 AD, the Sedona/Cottonwood was home to a fair number of Ancient Ones. They were primarily farmers, but also did some hunting and gathering. Montezuma Castle was a 5-story, 20-room dwelling with a view.Nearby is Montezuma Well, fed by a continuously flowing spring. Along the side of the well are a couple of ancient dwellings. Notice how they

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-87086336692888596942011-05-30T17:20:00.000-07:002011-05-30T17:20:37.349-07:00

You would have to stay here a LONG time to see all of the 78 hiking trails in the Sedona area. And they are all beautiful! The Teacup trail looks like a garden.The Jordan Trail is one of my favorites.I like trails that have a view, where you do not hike among tall trees.The Jordan Trail connects with the Cibola Pass Trail to form a loop.Another favorite trail of mine is the one to Devil's

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-34422793352842176272011-05-27T21:28:00.000-07:002011-05-27T21:29:28.935-07:00

Probably the most photographed site in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. After paying $9 to see it (even if you have a pass), it better be good! This was the view from the first set of tripod holes (and photographers) I came to, but I just knew it wasn't the best view.Although this cute little duck was an added bonus. I continued down the trail.This is the classic shot, with the rocks known as Red

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-27584319069818197622011-05-25T16:32:00.000-07:002011-05-25T16:34:55.707-07:00

I've really enjoyed my spring in the Phoenix area, but it's gotten too hot even for me. But before I left, I made one more trip to find the perfect saguaro cactus bloom - this time to Canyon Lake.And I think I found it! Thanks to the droopy arm on this guy, I can get a picture without a 20-foot ladder.Ta-Da!!!I moved up to Sedona, parking in the spot the WINs were in 4 years ago, on FR525.

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-70565886796422112992011-05-18T08:48:00.000-07:002011-05-18T08:48:00.915-07:00

Whenever a nice day happens, I try to do something outdoors. Phil, Barbara and I went on another hike by the Superstition Mountains, this one starts where FR78 (First Water Rd) meets AZ88.You can walk right up to the base of the Superstitions.I just love this area - you never know when you're going to see a cowboy on a horse! He'd look better with a cowboy hat on though...Lots of cactus were in

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-75081820224119323832011-05-14T17:36:00.000-07:002011-05-14T17:41:31.494-07:00

I love going to zoos, and taking pictures of the animals. I know it's kind of lame to take pictures of animals in cages, but I like it anyway. These turtles were in a pond outside the entrance. Apparently, everyone drops off their unwanted turtles here, and the place is being overrun.One problem of taking pictures at this particular zoo is that all the animals are in the shade. But who can blame

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-44477316346925087422011-05-10T14:19:00.000-07:002011-05-10T14:26:04.068-07:00

But first, a report on Boyce Thompson Arboreum, up the hill at Superior, AZ. I had been here before, but not when everything was blooming.It's in a beautiful setting, with tall rocks surrounding the many trails.It's a different kind of arboretum, filled with just arid land plants.Of course, that means lots of cactus. I don't know any of their names, but this one was especially beautiful.This was

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-4675621226249343052011-05-06T13:30:00.000-07:002011-05-07T22:00:37.451-07:00

I mentioned before that I've moved into an RV park in Mesa for a month or so. This is kind of a new experience for me, but I have to say I'm enjoying it.I have a nice spot that has some late afternoon shade.There's lots to do in the area, and the park, while not fancy, does have a nice pool and hot tub.There are oleander bushes and cactus behind the rig. This is the view out the bathroom window

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-29923995945205997892011-04-28T10:30:00.000-07:002011-04-28T10:32:17.744-07:00

Northeast of Apache Junction is the old ghost town of Goldfield. The town sprang up in 1892 when rich, high grade gold ore was found here.The gold didn't last very long, about 5 years, but the town was bought and rebuilt in the 1980s. People in period custumes roam the streets, at least on the weekends.I was there on Easter Sunday, so there were lots of activities, including a big gunfight,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-74565024913226921722011-04-22T22:18:00.000-07:002011-04-22T22:25:23.623-07:00

I know I've written a lot about Superstition Skies Restaurant and Bar in Apache Junction, but I just couldn't resist one more post. This place is a "testament to the romantic history of Apache Junction." My sister Barbara and "brother-in-law" Ron joined us there this Wednesday. That is the night my favorite band, Brant and Kerry, plays.The entrance door is typical of many Arizona

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-21860551402977908502011-04-16T15:06:00.000-07:002011-04-16T15:07:20.151-07:00

I've never been in the Arizona desert this late in spring before. The bright yellow blooms of the Palo Verde tree are everywhere! No wonder this is Arizona's state tree.They kind of remind me of the forsythia bushes back east.The Palo Verde tree is recognizable the rest of the year by its green bark.I've moved into a park (gasp!) to escape the heat, and there are huge oleander bushes in full

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-28752568009151010422011-04-08T22:25:00.000-07:002011-04-08T22:31:36.821-07:00

Last Wednesday, we once again went to Superstition Skies in Apache Junction to enjoy Brant and Kerry. One of the songs they regularly play is "Heartbreak Hotel." (Be sure to notice Kerry's upside-down guitar playing.)This song always brings tears to my eyes, when I remember a certain story I'm about to share."Heartbreak Hotel" was co-written by an amazing woman named Mae Axton in 1955. She

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-75473707767897796712011-04-03T07:28:00.000-07:002011-04-03T07:29:49.412-07:00

Last weekend before the weather got hot, a group of us went on another hike from First Water Road, this one from the end of the road - 2 1/2 miles in.This trail was a little rockier. That's my sister Barbara and Joanne waiting for me to catch up.The trail went up and down, past some beautiful cactus -And some very interesting rock formations.This one was way out in the distance.There was even

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-9534484303653119182011-03-27T12:19:00.000-07:002011-03-27T12:19:32.056-07:00

It's time to go hiking! There are lots of trails near the Superstition Mountains in Apache Junction. The moonlight hike we went on earlier started inside Lost Dutchman State Park and required a $7 entrance fee. But if you go just past the park, and turn on First Water Road, there are lots of free beautiful trailheads.This hike started about a half mile up the road at Crosscut Trailhead. Lots

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-84046017144151479302011-03-21T23:13:00.000-07:002011-03-21T23:15:06.941-07:00

These two Mourning Doves have been doing a lot of necking right next to my rig.They are determined to build a nest on top of Phil's car under his kayak. Seems like the perfect spot. Each day they start from scratch, the previous days work having blown away. I tried to tell them that this is NOT the perfect spot, but they just wouldn't listen.Uh-oh! They need to find a permanent home really

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-41176112035553097842011-03-18T14:03:00.000-07:002011-03-18T14:10:41.774-07:00

I've been here in Apache Junction for some time now, but there is lots to do and I'm far from being bored yet. On Wednesday, my sister, Roaming Barbara, and "Brother-in-Law" Ron invited friends still in the area to Happy Hour at their house.Barbara got out the bags and the picker and strongly encourage everyone to take grapefruit, oranges, and lemons. She been working very hard to get rid of

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-29106388203804888312011-03-12T21:20:00.000-08:002011-03-12T21:24:08.197-08:00

The Lost Dutchman Days are an annual celebration in Apache Junction, AZ. They actually happened 2 weeks ago, but with the contest and all, I'm just getting around to reporting on it.There were lots of vendors and more than 30 carnival rides and 3 days of rodeos - all beneath the beautiful Superstition Mountains. WINs may recognize fellow member Ruthie's booth on the left.I enjoyed the vendors,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-54793948722912094162011-03-08T15:00:00.000-08:002011-03-08T15:03:18.416-08:00

I have been looking forward to, and talking about, this day for almost 20 years! At the earliest moment I could, I hurried over to the local Forest Ranger station, and forked over the best $10 I ever spent.And I got a little plastic card in return. What is it? Let's zoom in and enhance it like they do on TV...(Well, maybe they do it better...) But here it is - my very own Senior Pass!!!!! I can

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-90910342989184490802011-03-05T16:14:00.000-08:002011-03-05T20:48:02.400-08:00

What a great response I had to the contest! I received a total of 60 entries for the random drawing, and 10 entries for the "Guess Where This Is" contest. Before I get to the winners, here are the answers to the "Guess Where This Is" contest. As you may recall, all are in one of the 46 National Parks in the Lower 48 States. You had to name both the National Park (1 point) and the feature in the

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-47168670015580666592011-03-01T16:31:00.000-08:002011-03-01T16:52:50.743-08:00

I love this program and have used it for a long time. I was contacted by a public relations firm representing Microsoft to see if I would be willing to give away 5 brand new 2011 Streets and Trips on my blog. They actually sent me 6 copies of the version with GPS Locator, worth $70 each! Of course, I kept one. The GPS Locator enables your laptop to act like a GPS. I have a GPS, so I probably

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com70tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-26588838619118803002011-02-27T15:10:00.000-08:002011-02-27T15:12:29.416-08:00

All the other bloggers currently in southern Arizona have pictures of snow on their blogs today, so here's a picture of what I woke up to this morning. No snow here in Apache Junction, but the Superstition Mountains were really pretty.I thought I was through with snow when I left my father's house in Pennsylvania. We got 6" one evening. My sister and I uncovered the rental car after Steve, the

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-74003833932308908752011-02-24T21:29:00.000-08:002011-02-24T21:29:36.607-08:00

Last week my sister and I flew to Pennsylvania to help celebrate my father's 90th birthday! Our one-and-only cousin, Linda, and her daughter, Rebecca, were putting on a party at the local fire hall. This must be the place!My father's usually on the other end of the camera, but he adjusted well.Inside, the room was decorated with lots of old photos. Not only is my father a photographer, but his

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10911831417693796442011-02-16T14:10:00.000-08:002011-02-16T14:31:55.478-08:00

The Saturday night dance was Hawaiian Dress-Up night at the WIN Dance Rally.There was a contest for the Best Costume. I did my best to work the crowd, but didn't win.Before the dance, we had a Hawaiian Luau, complete with Kalua Pork. Unfortunately, I was too busy eating, and didn't get a picture of the food. But I did get a picture of Phyllis and Jackie, who brought in the ice cream. Wow,

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-29411594958317035902011-02-13T13:22:00.000-08:002011-02-13T15:56:58.627-08:00

This week was the annual WIN Dance Rally. We had a blast! Dancing Judy provided dance instruction every day. This year there was a Hawaiian theme.The rally is held at the fairgrounds in Casa Grande, AZ. It's kind of interesting, because all the workers are prisoners. The state prison is nearby. Each year we have a "Talent/No Talent Show." The No Talent Band entertained us as we came into

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-56019777825058217122011-02-05T18:19:00.000-08:002011-02-07T16:52:46.518-08:00

There's a lot to see in this tiny town, including the (nearly) Naked Bookseller, Paul Winer. He's very photo-friendly, and has a great bookstore too. Of course, a lot of bloggers (including yours truly) come here to get blog-fodder....Every year, the WINs have their annual Desert Golf Tournament while in Quartzsite. Each participant is given a golf club and a tennis ball, and the best hit of

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-54946082999387230862011-02-01T22:09:00.000-08:002011-02-01T22:27:50.524-08:00

About 40 miles northeast of Quartzsite, WAY out in the desert, lies the ghost town of Swansea. The buildings there are about 100 years old. This was the general store.Swansea was first a silver mine, but when the silver ran out, it became a copper mine. That's when this power plant was built.This Dust Chamber was part of the smelting process, used to extract the copper. By 1909, the town grew

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10852868130966729942011-01-30T22:41:00.000-08:002011-01-30T23:14:34.402-08:00

Any visit to Quartzsite, AZ is not complete without a trip out to the Desert Bar. It can be reached at the end of a 5-mile dirt road, but several of us decided to be really daring and take the 4-wheel drive road. I'm sure glad I wasn't driving!It appears some people didn't make it at all.I didn't get pictures of the worst parts, because I was too busy holding on!Finally, we arrived and our

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-60139079253126108542011-01-28T20:11:00.000-08:002011-01-30T22:37:45.614-08:00

Want to buy a rock? Well, this is the place to go! It seems like each year vendors sell the same old thing. Not all of them are rocks, but I'm looking for something new and different. Let's start with food -Watch out, Silly Al's (up until now THE place to get a pizza.) There's a new pizza place in town, the Ladder Truck Pizza Company, an old fire truck turned into a pizza cooker.Another odd food

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10011665982653333252011-01-26T18:31:00.000-08:002011-11-19T14:15:46.097-08:00

A few days ago, one of my WIN friend's rig burned up.We were pretty far away from the fire station, but the fire truck eventually got here. I was kind of surprised that they had only water, and not foam. It took a long time to get the fire out. Another rig nearby was damaged by the heat, but thankfully no one was hurt, and no pets were lost.This is all that was left of her little Class C.

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-19209927985987715952011-01-24T21:21:00.000-08:002011-01-24T21:22:28.215-08:00

Quartzsite is one of my favorite places to go during the year. Back in 1998, I was still working (very hard during tax season) and wondering if I would ever get here. My friend Marie invited me to fly out and stay with her so I could experience it. Coming over the rise on I10 from Phoenix, I wondered what all those white things were. They were RVs! Amazingly, I am now at my 13th Quartzsite

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-58207201581581654572011-01-18T20:31:00.000-08:002011-01-18T20:35:37.090-08:00

Besides abundant recycling, "dumps" are now referred to as "landfills," and are highly regulated. Right next to Kurt's house in Wellton, AZ, is the Copper Mountain Landfill, where all the Yuma trash is taken.Last year, Kurt arranged for a tour, and it was so interesting that we all insisted he do the same this year. This is a drawing of how a modern landfill is made. You might have to click on

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-87625386207410877292011-01-13T19:19:00.000-08:002011-01-13T19:21:17.959-08:00

On Monday, Kurt took us on another backcountry trip through the Barry Goldwater Air Force Range. Once again, the scenery was spectacular.Every once in a while, you see evidence that this is a training area.This was our destination - the end of the road at the 2000-mile long border fence between the US and Mexico. The fence in this area is not built to physically stop individuals from crossing.

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-19570673933184392492011-01-08T22:49:00.000-08:002011-01-08T22:50:06.983-08:00

After our gathering at the Yuma VFW, the WINs moved on to Kurt's gathering in his hometown of Wellton, AZ, just on the other side of the mountain from Yuma. I did not have far to walk to our 4:00 get-together right outside my door.Kurt led us on a 100-mile trip down through the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range south of town. We went down El Camino del Diablo, the Road of the Devil, to close

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-2716070206704649092011-01-03T20:38:00.000-08:002011-01-03T21:15:44.741-08:00

Well, I probably did the same as everyone else - celebrated with friends and family. On Christmas Eve, my WIN friends and I gathered around 3 campfires. At one point, "Bagpipe Bob" came out to entertain us.And of course there were lots of goodies.On Christmas morning, we had a "Chinese Gift Exchange." If you're not familiar with the term, you can read the rules here.Hmmmm.... There are lots

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-21832420533909916822010-12-31T14:46:00.000-08:002010-12-31T14:49:36.565-08:00

Every year the WINs spend Christmas and New Years on a tiny piece of BLM land behind the Yuma VFW. This year there are 121 attendees - amazing how we can all squeeze in here.I found a good spot behind a dirt mound that masks the train noise somewhat.This guy, not a WIN, pulled in the next day. Nice guy, with lots of solar panels, but -His bus looks like it's been put together with spray foam!

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-80827558226284254872010-12-22T15:52:00.000-08:002010-12-22T15:54:19.810-08:00

You would think people who live in RVs would not decorate very much for Christmas. Guess again! On 55th Street in the Yuma Foothills, where lots of RVers live, are the best Christmas lights around.Each lot owner takes a part of "Twas the Night Before Christmas," and then tries to put the most lights they possibly can on their property.I got there early so I could see the decorations before it

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-18324626485099437312010-12-16T15:47:00.000-08:002010-12-16T16:17:39.624-08:00

In my last post, I listed numbers 6 through 10. I think I've finally decided on my top five. In each one, you can click on the link(s) to read the original post(s).Number 5 - Napa, CAI decided to go to Napa because my son was visiting there at a time when I could meet him. Little did I know I would have such a wonderful time there.There are lots of beautiful wineries, and even though the wine

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-92097807231276113472010-12-13T15:20:00.000-08:002010-12-13T15:22:35.426-08:00

Every year I go back through the blog and pick out my favorite places. Once again, they seem to fall into two categories - places I've always wanted to go, or places that surprised me. For each one, you can click on the link to read the original post.Let the countdown begin!Number 10 - The Corn Palace in Mitchell, SDAlthough my father said I was here when I was a kid, I don't remember it, so it

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-29230781226893751482010-12-06T12:23:00.000-08:002010-12-06T12:29:57.071-08:00

On my last post I forgot to mention that if you buy solar panels, or add anything to your solar system, you are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit! Wow! And some states also have a solar tax credit. Arizona, for example, has a one-time 25% credit. That means that if you pay both federal and Arizona taxes, you can get 55% off your solar panel, regulator, and inverter purchase. I often hear

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10323502018017088202010-12-01T14:21:00.000-08:002010-12-01T14:22:38.722-08:00

I bought my 2008 Arctic Fox 22H in June 2007 in Boise, ID. But before I even took delivery, I knew there were modifications I wanted to make.But first a funny story - while poking around under the bathroom sink, I found this written on the linoleum floor. If you can't make it out, it says, "F*ing hurry!!" Uh-oh - looks like the assembly line at Northwood was having a race! It made me a little

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-66610215971810975822010-11-26T19:52:00.000-08:002010-11-26T19:53:41.116-08:00

I have seriously eaten WAY too much over the last 2 days! First was Vicki's Thanksgiving day dinner that she puts on every year for her mostly-WIN friends in the Yuma foothills. She is really the Hostess-with-the-Mostest!There were 32 guests, and, of course, way too much food.Including 7 huge pies! We all took home leftovers.Then today was Bill's 70th birthday. Linda managed to invite us all

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-47246401334056367192010-11-21T16:22:00.000-08:002010-11-21T16:27:14.267-08:00

When I got to Mesa, AZ, I finally got to see my sister, Barbara, after a long absence. She and Ron invited Phil and I over for dinner. We brought some ribs that we found super-cheap at Basha's.Only no one had a basting brush - oh well, a paint brush worked fine.Tuesday, I moved on to Yuma, where the WINs were gathering behind the VFW. Yuma has a nice flea market where I went yesterday. I

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-84609849997616275942010-11-14T16:00:00.000-08:002010-11-14T16:04:02.597-08:00

I'm currently in Mesa, AZ, taking care of yearly medical appointments. Since I don't think anyone wants to hear about that, I thought I'd do a post on things I've seen since I started RVing that are strange, unusual, or difficult (but not impossible) to see.I eliminated things from 2010, and things on my Top Five list here. They are in no particular order, but the first 3 are in California.Back

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-7747094654063594602010-11-06T19:55:00.000-07:002010-11-06T19:56:12.981-07:00

I've been asked to explain how and why I came to be doing what I am doing.My first experience with camping (other than Girl Scout camp) was in my parents brand new 1964 Chevy Greenbrier camper van. My sister and I slept in the tent on top. Okay as long as the wind didn't blow too much...Then in 1970, my parents got a truck and slide-in camper. My ex-husband and I went on our honeymoon in it -

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-8107707668531454892010-11-02T19:09:00.001-07:002010-11-02T19:30:20.520-07:00

The WINs had our annual Halloween party here at Lake Havasu Sunday night.I wore the Tigger jammies that I wore at the Bandera, TX dance rally pajama party last April. Notice the "Dirty Old Man" chasing me...Here you can see the whole outfit while I try to help John turn on the flash of his new Canon camera. Turns out I had my finger over the flash...Of course there was plenty of food. We all

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-81577317948096767282010-10-30T14:53:00.000-07:002010-10-30T15:10:59.177-07:00

Or rather, it was sinking, so the city of London sold it to the developer of Lake Havasu City, AZ.The bridge was dismantled and each of the 10,276 pieces was numbered and shipped here in 1968. It was called the world's largest jig-saw puzzle.The purchase also included the cast iron lampposts, molded from French cannons captured during the 1815 Battle of Waterloo.I'm here with the WINs, who like

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-29266697285449041002010-10-24T15:34:00.000-07:002010-10-24T15:35:11.860-07:00

Last weekend I made a fast trip down to San Diego to see my daughter and her family. It has been a while since I've seen the grandkids. Corrie, Mara and Jonathan took me to see Mission Trails Park. Poor Brian had to work all weekend.Mara has one of my old cameras, and she's quite the photographer.I had crocheted a Barbie dress and hat from a pattern I got from fellow blogger Lynn. Since I

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-54231939682820649332010-10-22T17:39:00.000-07:002010-10-22T17:39:00.176-07:00

With all the people and traffic in Los Angeles, where do you stay?Well, if you are a member of the Elks, there are quite a few Elks lodges in the area with RV parking. This is the one in Ontario, CA - they had a car show while I was there. These California folks sure love old cars! (You can see the RVs in the background.)I liked this one the best, of course, it was the rustiest. Route 66 ends

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-75943454014118383202010-10-20T13:50:00.000-07:002010-10-20T14:24:11.927-07:00

The mission at San Juan Capistrano is the 7th and perhaps the best known of the 21 California missions founded by Father Junipero Serra in the late 1700s and early 1800s.But the mission is probably most famous because of the cliff swallows that return here each year on March 19 after a 30-day, 6,000-mile journey from their winter home in Argentina. Called "The Jewel of the Missions," San Juan

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-76639300877327304892010-10-17T21:05:00.001-07:002010-10-17T21:44:23.565-07:00

Right in the middle of Los Angeles, is the most surprising museum - the site of the La Brea Tar Pits.A closeup of the border of the museum:Scientists have recovered fossils here from ice age animals that became trapped and died in the tar pits from 10,000 to 40,000 years ago. No dinosaurs are here - they became extinct 65 million years ago.A look inside one of the pits on the property, where the

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-10438718965492989942010-10-15T14:51:00.000-07:002010-10-15T14:51:00.137-07:00

I have seen the Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach, CA, before, but never paid to go inside.It's rather pricey - $25 - but I found a coupon online here for $10 off. Much more reasonable and definitely worth it.Not only do you get to wander anywhere you want on the ship, you get an audio tour and the Ghosts and Legends Show. I took a couple hundred pictures...Each of these lifeboats

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5988186310250612269.post-25840291216399270832010-10-13T15:11:00.000-07:002010-10-13T16:11:13.653-07:00

The Eastern California Museum in Independence has the largest collection of RUSTY STUFF that I've ever seen. I was in heaven!!!There were also old wooden wagons with "flat tires" - probably my second favorite thing.Wow - does it get any better?This thresher was my very favorite, especially with the cactus growing under it.South of Independence is the town of Lone Pine. Every year on Columbus

Dianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01547530703319496195noreply@blogger.com10