Just Another Day in the Life . . .

This morning started with a session at Curves followed by the exciting chore of laundry at Lindsay's house! :) This has been one of those ordinary days that everyone has in which you have to take care of the mundane issues of life. But! I get to do it with one of my favorite people, Reagan. While at Lindsay's, I get to play with Reagan. So, doing laundry and ironing isn't so bad, after all.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, er, I mean, RV, Randy waited for the Dish Network technician to come. You know how that goes, “a technician will be there between 8am and noon.” And he actually did show up before noon. That was nice. Unfortunately, he couldn't do anything with the issue we have. We don't have broadcast channels through Dish because of moving around, so we use the antenna when we want to watch those. But, we can only do that on the TV in the living room. We had hoped the tech could set up our bedroom TV to receive antenna channels, too, but it's not gonna happen. Oh, well. He did give Randy some tips on setting up the satellite, so I guess it wasn't a total loss.

We planned to spend the afternoon in our recliners, as usual, with a chicken & noodle casserole for dinner. The weather was sunny, but very chilly, so no sitting outside. I am beginning to go through outside-sitting withdrawal. I just love sitting outside in my lounger reading, stitching, napping, whatever. But, I know I'll get out there eventually.

As it turned out, Lindsay called to see what our plans were for dinner because she found out that Jason wouldn't be home. Well, I'm not going to pass up an opportunity to spend time with Lindsay & Reagan, so the casserole was put on hold and we went out to Applebee's for dinner. I had gotten a gift card for Applebee's for my birthday and was glad to use it with them. Afterward we stopped in Target to pick up a few things, then it back to Lindsay's to pick up the truck and head home.

On the way home, we stopped to fuel up. UGH! We paid $4.79.9 a gallon for diesel. That's 40 cents higher than a couple of weeks ago when we filled up. We paid $153 for 31.8 gallons of fuel and we didn't fill the tank! But, our friends, Darrell & Judy, are in upstate New York and diesel is $4.98.9 there, so I'm being grateful for the little things! :)

For being such loyal readers, here's a treat – pictures! Not exciting ones, but pictures nonetheless. These are shots of our set up here at Cedar Lake Campground in Dover, PA. We just love the owners, Greg & LeAnn Starner and their staff. Greg & LeAnn actually enjoy what they do and the campers who live here. It's a pleasure to drop by the office to chat. If we can't be in Alabama, then we want to be here. It's nice to have a home in two places! :)

Tomorrow's going to be fun. Lindsay & Reagan are coming to the campground to feed the ducks, play at our playground, and just have fun! I can't wait! I'm sure I'll have more pictures for you!!

Until the next time . . .

A Reunion and A Good-bye

Gosh, we woke up to SUNSHINE this morning! Yes, really, we did. I couldn't believe it when I came downstairs (yes, we have stairs!) and needed sunglasses! And, although it was just 44 degrees outside, it was beautiful and crisp. Our walk this morning was very refreshing. I guess you really don't appreciate the sun without the rain, huh?

This afternoon Randy and I went to the viewing of a close family friend. Glenn lost his four and a half year battle with cancer last week. He and Shirley have been friends of my parents for my entire life. They were “family” and I grew up with their kids. It's sad to have a reunion when it means we're saying good-bye to one of us. Watching my parents talking to friends, some of whom have already lost a spouse, was a little tough. But hearing them reminisce, sharing stories of the early days and laughing was a gift. Watching Glenn's wife, Shirley, and their kids and grandkids meeting and greeting visitors brought home to me that Paula and I will have to go through this ritual some day. Not too soon, hopefully, but inevitably, we will be standing in a room and making the small talk that is done at these gatherings. I only hope that we can do it with the same dignity and yes, humor, that Glenn and Shirley's family did today.

Until the next time . . .

Well, I Didn't Pass Out!

I made it through my first session at Curves! And without embarrassing myself, I might add. Too bad I can't say the same for our daughter, Lindsay – that is, I embarrassed her. But, she's used to it by now. I can't help it, I'm a morning person. My feet hit the floor, my mouth flies open! :) So, as we began our workouts this morning, I was laughing and talking to my trainer and Lindsay just looked over at me with the “Mom! Just settle down!! face” Oh, well. I have good time, no matter where I am. 'Cause that's how I roll . . . (I am so very cool!!)

In all honesty, though, I did enjoy the workout. There are probably 30 stations, alternating between machines and jogging-in-place boards, and you are only at each station for 30 seconds. Yes, that's seconds, not minutes. Yeah, I was surprised, too. It's kinda cool, you don't get bored at any of them. You go through the circuit twice. And I was truly worked out by the time I was done.

After the session, I got to go back to Lindsay's to watch Reagan for about an hour. Yes, I forced myself to do that. It was a tough gig, but somebody had to do it. I just love spending time with that little girl. She cracks me up! Randy came over after taking Blackie to the vet for his vaccines.

Since the rain continued today, we didn't do much this afternoon. Randy got a good nap in and I just futzed around on the computer, reading various blogs and email and watching TV.

Dinner tonight was macaroni and cheese – homemade, I might add! The evening will be spent watching American Idol (actually, I'm doing that as I'm writing now) and the Dancing with the Stars finale. Hey, don't judge me!!

Tomorrow Randy and I will be going to the viewing of a gentleman who was a good friend of my folks', going back to when I was a toddler. Glenn fought a hard, long battle with cancer and finally lost the battle last week. If you think of it, pray for the Hunter family as they mourn the loss of their husband and father.

Take time to thank God for those who love you 'cause you just never know when you'll get another chance. Until the next time . . .

Good Start to the Week

Well, this is my first attempt at posting a generic blog for documentation purposes only. Boy, that sure sounded dry and scientific, but you know what I mean. So, we'll see how this goes. Be sure to let me know what you think. The only problem with posting daily is that there will few pictures. Guess I'll just have to be more entertaining than usual to keep your attention. :)

We woke up to a cool morning, but with beautiful sunshine! Nice change. Unfortunately, it's not supposed to last; we've got rain coming the next couple of days with highs in the low to mid 60s. Man, I am tired of rain. I don't think we've had a week without some rain since the beginning of the year. This has been a very strange year, weather-wise.

I was a good girl this mornig. I got up and got right outside for my walk. I have found if I don't go as soon as I get up, I just don't do it. I didn't do my full 30 minutes this morning – it was cooler than I thought it was and pretty windy, too. But, I got 20 minutes in, better than nothing. Even took Blackie for his walk 'cause Randy hadn't gotten up yet. Points for me!

And tomorrow I start Curves! Lindsay & I signed up for a 30 day fitness study (Hey! No laughing!!); we work out 3 times a week for four weeks. At the end of that, I'm thinking of joining, but am concerned about finding Curves gyms while traveling. We'll see . . .

Once I got back from my walk,and Blackie's, I got a bottle of water (the Curves lady said I should be drinking water when I first get up because you get dehydrated while sleeping, so I'm trying) and my coffee and settled into read the various blogs that I read each morning. Most of them are other RVers, but there are a couple that are friends'. This is how I spend the first half hour or so each morning. I also try to get my prayer/quiet time in, too, but once Randy's up, it's hard to do. I know, excuses, excuses.

This morning I also tweaked our 2009 itinerary. Yeah, a little anal, but hey, I like doing it! Mike & Pat McFalls wrote that they were staying at the Gunsmoke RV Park in Dodge City, Kansas. Doesn't that sound too cool?? So, I checked our Spring/Summer itinerary and we are scheduled to go right through Dodge City!! So, I added it as one of our stops. Good grief, you can't drive through Dodge City and not stop, can you? I don't think so. I also broke up a couple of other drives that were five and six hours long. We hate driving that long and we don't have to, so I found a couple of parks to stop in to bring the driving times down to three and four hours. Much better.

The morning ended with my updating our finances. Once a week, I enter any receipts from purchases or dinners out into the computer and transfer monies as necessary for credit card purchases. Glad to say we are doing well this month on our cash outlay as well as our budget. That's always a good thing.

We spent the early afternoon watching the last part of a mini-series we had recorded, “Streets of Laredo.” It's the sequel to the “Lonesome Dove” mini-series. This one had James Garner in it and I just love him. Then it was time for Dr. Phil and Oprah! Oprah had a reunion of the Mary Tyler Moore show cast and that was pretty cool to watch.

Gosh, it's time to fix dinner! Time flies when you're having fun or being lazy! :) Easy fixings tonight, just salad and baked potatoes. The evening will be spent watching the first part of the Dancing with the Stars finale. At least, I'll be watching it; Randy will go upstairs to the bedroom and watch something, anything, else! :)

I guess I didn't have as much trouble sharing my day with you as I thought! But, that should be no surprise, I usually don't have trouble talking, or writing, as the case may be. You can see what an exciting life we lead. I'll share my experience at Curves with you tomorrow.

Until the next time . . .

What a Weekend!!

I had a fantastic weekend! Yesterday, Jason & Lindsay hosted a birthday party for me. Lins had told me it was a family party – well, she only told me half of it!! She had actually invited many of our friends as well. What a wonderful surprise. Lots of family and friends, some of whom I hadn't seen for quite a while. Gosh, did I feel special! Since Jason & Lins lived in Pennsylvania now, most of these folks traveled an hour and a half or more just to show me how much they love me. Life just doesn't get much better than that, folks.

Lindsay also had those who couldn't attend the party send me cards. How nice it was to sit this morning and really read those cards. So many good wishes and reminders of why these people are my friends.

I can't begin to describe the feelings that I had yesterday as I sat among my family and friends and realized how very blessed I am. I still have my parents, who have supported me through good and bad choices and have been fantastic grandparents to my kids. I have a sister who is also my friend (and not everyone can say that about his/her siblings) and is married to a great guy is who has become my brother. I have nieces and nephews who I dearly love. I have three kids who care enough to be sure I know they love me; and their spouses/partners have become my kids, too. I have two grandchildren who are beautiful and so very special. I have a husband who loves even when I'm not very lovable. And I have friends, so many friends, who care enough to take time out of their lives to celebrate me. I'm telling you, I was a little overwhelmed and so very happy.

And, I got presents!! I sure didn't expect that, but it's always fun to get presents! :)

Here are some pictures of the celebration. More can be found on our pictures site which you can see by clicking on the link to the left.

Today was spent relaxing. It was another rainy day, so Randy and I just watched a movie and hung out. I had a hankering for Mexican food, so we did got out to dinner with Jason, Lindsay & Reagan. Now, I'm posting this entry and watching the Academy of Country Music Awards. Hope you had a great weekend, too!

Until the next time . . .

Ramblings

Can I just say how much I love my family? Well, yes, I can because this is my blog, after all. :) Anyway, in addition to this past Sunday being Mother's Day, it was also my birthday. At 12:06 am the phone rang (which of course scared me to death) and it was our son, Kevin, from Korea. He wanted to be the first to wish me happy birthday as well as happy mother's day. I was thrilled, to say the least. In the morning, I woke up to find a beautiful card from Randy. The card was very special and its wording touched my heart. By 9am I had three more phone calls from my folks, my sister & her grandkids, and Lindsay, Jason & Reagan. All of them sung “happy birthday” to me in their own very individual versions. Later in the day, two of my nieces and our oldest daughter, Ginny, also called to wish me happy birthday. How great is that!?!?!! My friends ain't too bad, either. I had lots of cards, emails and comments on the blog wishing me happy birthday. So, thanks to all of you who made my special day even more so.

We spent Sunday afternoon with Lindsay and her family. It was pretty mellow; we just hung out together and went to Applebee's for dinner. That is Reagan's favorite restaurant; now why she got to choose the restaurant when it was Mother's Day, I'm not too sure. Oh yeah – it's because she's so darn cute – that's why!! :) After dinner, we went back to Lins and Jason's for cake to celebrate my birthday. Reagan helped me blow out the candles. We had a quiet celebration because Lindsay is having my whole family over on Saturday for a big party and that will be anything BUT quiet!. I'm very excited! Mostly because I haven't seen the whole family since we've been back, so I'm looking forward to that.

Monday was my wonderful, talented nephew, Joe's, birthday. Joe is such a cool guy. He lives in LA (and we miss him terribly) and is pursuing a music career. He is so crazy talented – he has taught himself to play many different instruments and he sings with such passion. He has a CD coming out this summer and I am just so proud of him.

Yesterday was a shopping day. I don't normally enjoy shopping, but I really wanted to find a jean jacket. I needed a lightweight jacket and really like jean jackets – they go with everything. My frugal daughter always has coupons for everything and she had a 25% one for Boscov's, which is a department store in this area. We walked in and within 5 minutes, I had me a jean jacket!! And the best part was the price – it was already $14 off the regular price, and then I got 25% more off. Such a great thing!

Of course, we had to take time out to have fun at the mall, too! Can't pass up those merry go rounds! :)

Then, we went to Linens 'n Things to get a coffee pot for Randy. For those of you who know my hubby, he can't go without his coffee!! :)

Today is a quiet day, too, but another special one. It's our niece, MacKenzie's, SIXTEENTH birthday. She is a smart, beautiful young woman and is going to be a phenomenal adult. So, happy birthday, Meme!!

We did go out to breakfast this morning. We found this local diner last year and, although it doesn't look like much from the outside, it's good eats inside. Randy & I look for these local places and if there are lots of cars out front, you can figure the food's good. That's how we found the White Horse Diner. We ate breakfast here once a week last year and will probably continue this year, too. We can get a BIG breakfast for just $16 for the two of us, and that's with tip!! It sure doesn't take much to make us happy.

Well, I've rambled enough for now. Take care of each other! Until the next time . . .

Normal Family Stuff

Spent Thursday morning with Lindsay & Reagan at Gymboree. For those of you without grandkids, Gymboree may need explaining. We used to take our kids to the park or just played with them at home, but our kids have many more options for activities with their kids. Gymboree is an organization that has devised specific playgroups for every stage of a baby's life – from newborn through preschool. For about 45 minutes, there is music, storytelling, acting out stories, and movement to music. It's amazing to watch these little ones (Reagan's been going since she was 6 months old!) catch on to what the teacher wants them to do. And they remember from week to week! It's very interactive with the moms (sorry, I haven't seen many dads there 'cause it's during the work day) and the kids are learning while having fun. It's pretty neat. I go with Lins & Reagan at least once each time we're home. I love watching Reagan learn!

Yesterday Lindsay & I went with Sara, our soon-to-be daughter-in-law, to a fitting for her wedding gown. She is SOOOO beautiful. I know we had gone this past Tuesday to “pick up” Sara's gown, but the alterations that were supposed to have been done, weren't. Thankfully, Sara is a very laid back bride and took that in stride. We went back and Sara had another fitting and, hopefully, this will do the trick. The dress just needs hemming, so how hard can this be????

After the fitting, the three of us went for pedicures. That was fun! Sara had never had a pedicure before and now she knows what she's been missing!! Kevin – I think you better put that in your budget once you get married! :)

We ended the evening with dinner together with Randy, Jason & Reagan as well as a short talk with Kevin via Skype. Actually, Sara had to call him to wake him up for formation. Some things never change – the boy still likes his sleep.

The weekend looks like it will be a quiet one. We're joining in a Basket Bingo evening tonight with the rest of the campground. Never done this before, so it should be interesting. We just want to get know some of our neighbors and figured this would be a great way to do that.

Tomorrow, of course, is Mother's Day. It is also my birthday! Yep, 50 years ago, I hit this world and it hasn't been the same since! ;) I can't believe I'm 50!! I gotta say, it feels great. Yeah, I hurt in places I didn't know I had and I sure don't look like I did when I was 20, but all in all, I'm a happy old girl. Wouldn't trade places with anyone. I've got a great husband, 3 kids who are doing well and are with spouses who love them (and us!), two healthy, happy grandkids, my parents are still kicking and extended family and friends who love me. What a great life!!

I wish all you moms out there a wonderful day tomorrow. I hope you find a moment to reflect on the joys and blessings in your lives and figure out a way to celebrate them.

Until the next time . . .

Busy Few Days

Sunday started out with a great time of worship and teaching at Daybreak Church. Our friends, Lee & Cheri attend this church and we've always enjoyed visiting there. This may be our church home while we are in PA; just not sure yet. Nothing like good worship music and good teaching to start the week!

The afternoon and evening was spent with Jason, Lindsay & Reagan. It is so good to be back home with them. I feel so blessed to actually LIKE my kids! And I think the feeling is mutual, which makes it even better. :) We were even entertained by Jason and his buddies with a lawn mower race. Gosh, free entertainment and family, what more can you ask for?

Monday was appointment day for all three of us – including Blackie. Both Blackie and I got groomed. :)

And Randy had an endodontist appointment. Fun. Lindsay, Reagan and I headed down to Columbia for our haircuts, after which we hooked up with Sara for a few minutes just to say hey and get a hug since I hadn't seen her since before Christmas. Then, it was back to PA so that Randy & I could get ready to go out to dinner to celebrate Lee & Cheri's daughter, Courtney's 21^st birthday. We just love Courtney like she's ours. We've known her since she was five years old. And Lee and Cheri are two of our closest friends, so it was a privilege to share this special day with them

Being that she was born on Cinqo de Mayo, Courtney wanted to go to a Mexican restaurant. Well, that was interesting . . . the place was packed, of course. We didn't get seated until after 8pm and then it was so loud in the restaurant we really couldn't have much conversation. Very different than what we are used to anymore. (Guess we really are getting to be old fogies!) But, it was want Courtney wanted and it was her birthday, so that's what we did. After all, you're only 21 once!

This morning was started with another appointment, but this was Blackie's. Poor guy, groomed yesterday (which he hates) and a vet appointment today. It's just not his week. :) Anyway, his allergies have been driving him, and us, crazy. He is itching constantly and has dug himself raw in some places. So, it was off to the vet. Good grief!! This dog is more expensive than we are!! Between the office visit, a cortizone shot, antibiotics and his normal heart guard and flea/tick meds, I walked out over $200 poorer. Oh, well. He's a good dog and doesn't cost us much any other time, so whaddya gonna do.

This afternoon, I get to go with Sara and Lindsay to pick up Sara's wedding gown from the alterations shop. I'm so grateful that Sara wants to include me on so much of the wedding plans. As mom of the groom, I know that this isn't always the case and I love that Sara cares about me that much. Can't wait to see her in it. She is such a beautiful girl and I know she will be a gorgeous bride.

The rest of the week seems to be pretty quiet. That's good, I'm ready to hang out at the campground and just relax. We do have to get the rims on the RV replaced and Randy's working on that. But, that's about it.

This is a field near our campground. Randy says all of that yellow is probably ragweed, but I still think it's pretty so I took a picture!

Hope your world is a happy place. Mine sure is!

Until the next time . . .

A Quick Update & Some Pictures

We have arrived in Dover, PA!! YAY!!!! We are set up at Cedar Lake Campground and it felt like coming home. While I loved being at my folks' and visiting with them, it's so nice to be back in my own home and sleeping in my own bed. Aahhhhhh . . .

Anyway, while I was at my folks', I couldn't upload any pictures because my AT&T air card's signal just isn't strong enough. It's a bummer, but what can you do. Now that we are back online using the satellite, I want to share some of the pics I thought were pretty cool. So, enjoy the “show!”

This picture was sent to us by Russ & Pat Peterson who helped us celebrate Randy's 40th Cracker Barrel. They read in the blog about my forgetting to take a picture of Randy at his 50th and created one for us! Isn't it great?

I just loved this picture of Reagan. There's nothing like a kid's belly laugh!

These next 3 pictures are of my daddy making his famous chocolate milkshakes. I think it may be the first time Reagan's ever had one of his shakes. I think it's safe to say she enjoyed it! And I just love the last one of Reagan and her mommy, Lindsay.

Lastly, this picture is of my dad measuring Reagan and marking her height on the wall. Daddy's done that with all of the grandkids and now he's continuing the tradition with the great grandkids. It's great to "read" the wall and see how our kids grew over the years. And it is really special that it's at Grandma and DadDad's house!

Well, I hope you enjoyed this little glimpse into what makes me smile. I hope you've been smiling, too!

Until the next time . . .

Checking In

Hey there. Sorry I haven't posted much this week. We've been hanging out at my folks' and then Lins & Reagan came down. It was SOOOOO great to see them. That little girl has grown up so much since we were home at Christmas. And Reagan's amazing, too! :) HAH!

Actually, we've been a little busier than expected as my mom ended up back in the hospital on Monday due to some internal bleeding. Since her surgery in March, she's been on cumadin (not sure how that's spelled) because of the blood clots. Well, it was too much for her system with the other meds she's on and her body couldn't handle it. Thankfully, Mommy knows her body well enough that she knew she was bleeding and got to the doctor's and was admitted to the hospital before she got very sick. I'm grateful to say that Mommy is doing very well now and she's off the cumadin and will probably be coming home in the next couple of days.

So, we didn't get to play as much with Lins & Reagan, but we still got extra time with them since I really expected not to see them until the end of the week. I just can't get enough of Reagan. She's funny, adorable, loving, and I'm so glad I'm home!!!!!

Randy & I figure we'll leave here this weekend, as long as my mom continues to get better. As much as it's been great to be here at my folks', we're looking forward to getting back into our home and bed. There's no place like home!

Until the next time . . .

A New "Toy"

I've placed a “shout out” box on this page. It's just another fun way for you to communicate with us. Try it out. Just type your message (keep it short!) in the message box and hit enter. Be sure to enter your name, too, so we'll know who's hollering at us. Give it a try!

Almost Home

We spent the last couple of nights on the road; Saturday night was spent in Brunswick, GA which is just 30 miles north of the Florida/Georgia border. We want to go back there in October because it is very close to Jekyll Island which I've read is pretty cool. Sunday night found us in Florence, SC for an overnight stay.

Monday morning we set out for a three and a half hour trip to Winterville, NC to spend a couple of nights with Dan & Debbie. An hour and a half later we had gone all of 60 miles having to stop twice to find a truck stop with a good air hose. How frustrating. But, at the end of that hour and a half we found ourselves at a Cracker Barrel! That sure takes the frustration out of a morning. :) AND this was Randy's FIFTIETH Cracker Barrel! (Russ & Pat, we wished you were with us to celebrate!) I wanted to get a picture of Randy in front of this CB in Lumberton, SC, but I totally forgot. UGH! I was not happy when I realized that.

Anyway, we were finally rolling down the road putting the miles behind us. We had an uneventful trip, thank You, Lord, and got to Dan & Deb's about 3pm. So, what was supposed to have been an easy, short trip ended up being an easy, longer trip. Oh, well. We're retired, so what do we need to rush about for?? :)

We leave Dan & Deb's tomorrow morning and head to my folks' on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. I'm really looking forward to seeing them, especially my mom since she's had a bit of a rough time since her surgery in March. We'll spend a week with them, just hanging out and doing whatever they want to do. Mommy's got a “honey do” list for Randy. He can't wait! But, it's really nice to be flexible enough to be able to stay and help them whenever they need it. After all, they certainly have done enough for us.

Hope you are happy in your world. If not, look inside yourself and see what it is that you can change, 'cause guess what? You are the only person you can change, so when you're not content, you can fix it within.

Until the next time . . .

Looks Like We're Ready to Leave!

It seems we'll be leaving Camp Monaco tomorrow morning. YAY! I know, I know, I need to hide my sorrow a little better. :) I gotta say, even though we were here a week longer than we ever expected, the RV techs are great guys. They are as caught in the middle as the customers. We are all at the mercy of the those scheduling the service. And since we'll need to come back in October, I'm glad we now know what to expect.

Yes, we are making another “reservation” at Camp Monaco for October. While caulking the roof area, a crack was found. It's in the area where we had work done a couple of years ago when Randy had back into a tree while parking the RV. Apparently, that repair has run its course and needs to fixed again. So, we'll be back!

Here are a couple of pictures. The first is our “site” - we are parked right next to a bay door leading into the service area. Nice, huh? Actually, it's a good place to be 'cause we don't have to be moved every time techs need to work on the rig. So, it's not very pretty, but it's functional.

The other picture is of the guys who worked on the rig. They are a great bunch of guys, very personable. If we had to be here, at least the staff is friendly.

So, we'll leave here Saturday morning, spending the night in Georgia. We'll spend Sunday night in South Carolina and arrive at Dan & Debbie's Monday afternoon. We'll just spend a couple of nights with them and leave Wednesday morning for my folks'. Can't wait to see them.

Until the next time . . .

Starting the Second Week

It's Tuesday again and we're still guests of Camp Monaco. Didn't think we'd be here this long, but it is what it is. We did have a nice chat with the Customer Service Supervisor and shared our displeasure at the slowness of the service. Of course, he was sympathetic and he did share his disgust with the incident involving the poorly written diagnostics. Apparently that technician is walking around with a new rear end. :) Work has begun on the rig, finally, and we are to pull out of here on Saturday morning at the latest. We'll see.

More to come, I'm sure. Until the next time . . . .

. . . and Still We Sit . . .

We've now been at “Camp” Monaco, as I've learned it's called, for four days. And you're thinking we're getting ready to leave tomorrow, right? WRONG!!!!!!!!!!!!! The work has not even been started yet! Yeah, you heard me.

Part of the problem was that the technician who wrote up the diagnostics on the the worklist items is not the sharpest tool in the shed. He finished his diagnostics and gave the list to our service writer, Matthew, who in turn gave it to the person in charge of warranty work approval. She got halfway through the list and had to have Matthew come in to explain the descriptions to her. No, it wasn't legibility on the part of the tech's writing, it was his lack of a grasp of the English language (and he was not of ethnic heritage, either!). So, Matt had to find another tech to go back over the same worklist to rewrite the order. That brings us to yesterday afternoon and no actual work having been done on the rig.

This morning we were told that the warranty approvals were being sought and we would know something today. Now, we had approved one item that had been brought to our attention after we got here. That is the stripping and resealing of all the caulking on the outside of the rig. It's supposed to be done every two years at the most and we've never done it – we didn't know it was supposed to be done. So, on Wednesday, we gave Matt the go ahead to have that done, figuring it would get started because there was no warranty involved. Needless to say, for whatever reason, that hasn't begun either.

This afternoon we found out that only two of the items on our list would be covered by warranty. We were shocked. But, most of the items fell under that wonderful umbrella of “maintenance.” UGH! How the heck are you supposed to perform maintenance on things when nothing is wrong???? And when something does go wrong, isn't that what a warranty is for? Hmmmmmmmm . . .

We will now be guests of Camp Monaco for the weekend and well into next week, if not longer. Aren't we lucky? And we've found out from talking with others here, this is typical of the service facilities. You come and just figure you're here until your work is done. Some people have stayed for a month or more!! I find that unacceptable, but what are you going to do? The work has to be done and you're already here. But, I can promise you, my concerns and disgust will be shared with those in charge. I believe it's this way because no one complains enough and just figures “it's just the way it is.” My complaining may not do any good, but I feel service organizations need to know when they are not hitting the mark.

I'm sure I'll more to share as the week rolls on. Here are just a few pictures of Camp Monaco; there are more on the website. I need to get a picture of our setup to share with you. It's a sight to behold.

Our rig sits apart and alone. :(

Until the next time . . .

Some Blessings in the Midst

If you look under the debris, and you ask God to show you the sun, you can always find blessings in the midst of chaos or crisis. I firmly believe that and it's not Pollyanna talking. It is something I have experienced in every stage of my life. And it continues . . .

Since we have found ourselves in Central Florida, we knew there were a couple of visits we could make. Our good friends, Ray & Judy, who we met during our first full-timing winter in Florida, are still in Palmetto which is just a couple of hours south of Camp Monaco. Sara's grandparents, Bob & Sue Smith, live in Valrico, just a little more than an hour south of us. So, we made plans to visit both while waiting on our rig to be serviced. These visits are two wonderful blessings in the midst.

We had dinner Wednesday evening with Bob & Sue. Now, Randy & I figured we'd go down for dinner, stay a little while and head for home. Boy, were we in for a surprise. We arrived around 5:30 and four hours later, we were still having a wonderful time! Bob & Sue are two of the most loving, generous, caring people I've ever met. We were welcomed into their home (and family) with open arms and hugs. From the time we stepped through their door, we were comfortable and at home. And what a home they have! Bob collects deer figures, every kind imaginable, and Snow White and Seven Dwarfs figurines and dolls. Yes, Bob collects them. He has a fantastic collection of all things Snow White. I loved it!! These pictures represent just a small portion of the collection. Sue collects dolls and miniature tea sets and dishes. Amazing. They are such vibrant people and I feel so blessed that they are now family. They already love Kevin and haven't even met him. But, Sara loves him and that's pretty much makes him okay with them. We had a lovely evening and can't wait to spend more time with them at some future time.

Thursday was spent with Ray & Judy at their campground in Palmetto. We had not seen them in a year and a half and were quite excited about getting together. As it happens with good friends, it was if only a couple of days had passed instead of 18 months. We just started talking and laughing and didn't stop until we left that evening. We sat outside at their campsite and visited with whoever walked by and also got to see some of the folks we knew from our time there. We finished our day with a great dinner at a Mexican restaurant Ray & Judy really like. It was hard to say good-bye, but we are hoping to see them this summer at the wedding. If not then, we'll see them this fall when we go through Kentucky.

So, instead of ranting and raving about the injustices of poor customer service, I am reveling in the joy of new family and old friends. The sun is shining and I have a roof over my head and a man who loves me more than I probably deserve. I'm gonna concentrate on my blessings in the midst. I hope you can, too.

Until the next time . . .

Here We Sit . . .

Okay, so we pull into the Monaco Service Facility around 7:35am after having to spend last night at a nearby campground because the facility didn't have room for us at their campground. Not a big problem. I wait to speak with our service writer, Matt, to let him know we are here and ready for his walk-through and for the coach to be taken in for its service. Yeah, right.

Matt is a really nice guy and I feel badly for him having to deal with the customers who have not been given ALL of the information needed. I fully expected, as we have had this appointment since June of last year, to check in and be taken fairly quickly into the service bay. Not happening. As we sit here at 2:20 in the afternoon, the RV has yet to be taken in for diagnostics. Grrrreaaaat.

I fully understand that service facilities can only estimate the length of time repairs will take, but c'mon! How long have they been doing this? So, we are not sure how long we will be “guests” of Monaco, nor do we know when/if we will get a spot in their campground. We have been told that we will be able to plug into their electric for the night, so I guess that's something. But, I am a trifle annoyed by the scheduling of service.

I've taken several pictures of all of the RVs lined, but since I'm on a WiFi connection, I don't think I'll be able to load them for your viewing pleasure. However, when I get our satellite connection, I'll be sure to do so. Until then, you can look forward to hearing more of the continuing saga.

Until the next time . . .

The Famous Suwannee River

Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate so we didn't get out to the town of White Springs to check out some of the historic dwellings. It has rained off and on all day yesterday and today. So we just had to relax and watch movies and play on the computer and cross stitch. Such a rough life we lead! :)

We did brave the outside today long enough to get a couple of pictures of the Suwannee River as it runs beside our campground. Yes, folks, I sacrificed for you and got caught in the beginning of a thunderstorm, but it was worth it to show you the famous “ribber” that Stephen Foster immortalized in song. Hope you appreciate it! :) hahaha

Yeah, I know. Looks like any other river, doesn't it? Oh, well, ya get what ya pay for!

We leave tomorrow morning for Wildwood where we're getting some work done on the rig. Hopefully, we'll only be there for a couple of days. And since we have to be out of the rig all day, we're going to try to get down to Frog Creek Campground (where we stayed during our first winter on the road) and see good friends, Ray & Judy. We're also hoping to meet Sara's grandparents as they live just an hour south of the service center. We'll let you know!

Until the next time . . .

White Sulphur Springs & Stephen Foster Culture Center

We've settled in White Springs, FL for the next few days. White Springs sits on the Suwannee River, the same river that Stephen Foster immortalized in his song, “Old Folks at Home,” or as most people know it, “Way Down Upon de Swanee Ribber.” There is a museum and park dedicated to Stephen Foster which we visited today.

First we stopped at the visitors' center to get some info on the area. While there was lots of information, I certainly was not impressed with the staff. We were never greeted nor asked if we needed any help. But, we found what we were looking for and left.

Located behind the visitors' center is White Sulphur Springs, fed by the Suwannee River, it was a popular retreat in the late 1800s and early 1900s for folks who wanted the healing benefits of the springs. The current structure was built sometime between 1903 and 1908 and consisted of treatments rooms, concessions and an elevator. While we were there, we met an elderly gentleman who used to live in the area and remembered the glory days of the Springs. Since he didn't appear to be 100 years old, I'm not sure just what he remembered himself or what he remembered being told. Either way, it was fun speaking with him and seeing the joy he was experiencing being back in his hometown.

Suwannee River feeds the springs

We then went on to the Stephen Foster Culture Center which began in 1950 as a museum to Stephen Foster and his music. Because of a folk festival that was first held in 1953, the museum grew into a park where folk arts and music are celebrated and demonstrated throughout the year. This weekend there was an antique tractor and engine show. There are also several buildings in which local crafters show their skills and creations such as quilts, jewelry, pottery, and even dulcimers!

In the museum there are several dioramas dedicated to the most recognized songs Foster wrote. They are quite lovely and, unfortunately, my pictures don't do them justice. Also found in the museum, along with several antique pianos, is the desk upon which Foster wrote “Old Folks at Home.” It was his brother's desk, but had been kept in the family until its donation to the museum. The original manuscript of the song is encased in glass on the desk.

Old Folks at Home
Camptown Races

Another focal point of the park is the 97-bell carillon that is found in the middle of the park. It is housed in a towering campanile that is 200 feet high and was completed in 1957. The carillon is the world's largest tubular carillon in the number of bells and it was installed in the tower in 1958. It took more than a year to build the set of bells which is made of 3 sets of 32 bells, plus one high G bell. Many of the more than 200 compositions that Foster wrote are played throughout the day and is a beautiful sound to hear.

Finally, the hot, humid weather drove us back to the RV. I sure wasn't prepared to go from a hint of spring last week in Alabama to summer in Florida! Yuck. I guess I shouldn't complain, though, considering lots of folks up north are still getting snow.

If the weather cooperates, we may take a jaunt into the town of White Springs. There are several other historic sites that may be interesting to check out. I'll let you know.

Until the next time . . .

We're in Florida

After a great breakfast with good friends, Randy and I pulled out of Rainbow Plantation and headed east. We had a very easy drive along US Route 90 for our first stop in Florida, Sunset King Lake Resort in DeFuniak Springs. We arrived without mishap (praise God for his traveling mercies) around 2:30pm.

Sunset King Lake Resort is a membership park, but allows nonmembers 2 nights through Passport America. The park sits on a lake, hence the name, and most folks are long-term campers, with many park model homes here as well. I think we're in a fairly new section because the sites in this area are larger than those in the front of the park. And I'm grateful for that 'cause the other sites are quite close to one another. Gotta be chummy to camp in those! Otherwise, it seems to be a nice park with lots of winter activities.

We're going to have a visitor today. Bob Hampton, the fellow who publishes FiftyPlus, the magazine that I write for, is always in and out of this area. So, when he found out we were going to be here for a couple of days, he asked if we could get together. Of course, I said yes! I am looking forward to meeting him since we have talked so often on the phone over the past few months. I'll let you know how it goes.

Tomorrow we'll break camp and head for Suwannee Valley RV Park in White Springs. We'll be there for four days so I'm hoping to do a little exploring. I know I haven't had a lot to share with you all this winter, as far as sight-seeing goes, maybe I can rectify that soon.

Until the next time . . .