NOVEMBER 24, Friday, sunny
What a nice day. Temperature went up to 75*F and we did some kayaking.
We left from our site, a small creek , up the creek for about 2 miles. It was absolutely beautiful. We saw lots of wildlife but no alligators. (I think that may be a blessing as I don't know what we would have done had we seen one). Saw tall egrets and small egrets, a few turtles which are quite big (approx 8-9 inches across their back shell), unfortunately I never got any pictures; not fast enough. We also saw a beautiful Anhinga with his wings spread out in the sun. A beautiful bird.
The creek got narrower as we went up it and the branches across it made all the more beautiful and eerie. We explored little bays. There were quite a few boats at anchor or attached to docks along the creek. They were backing private property and signs warned you to stay off at the risk of being shot at. WOW!
We went up one side and back on the other shore. We were gone for about 2.5 hours. A very nice day indeed.
NOVEMBER 25, Saturday, sunny
Sunny again today and we decided to go see the fort in St-Augustine. It was very interesting and not like all the other ones we saw. This one was more natural and represented more what it was like in those days. There were volunteers dressed in the era's uniforms and they even fired the cannon. We also saw this beautiful brig sail boat sailing full and by. As she turned broadside to us, she fired her cannon, at which time, the soldiers on the fort, fired back. It was quite neat and unique.
From here we went back into town and walked around for a while and bought a unique set of salad utensils made of wood and carved like a turtle. We alos stopped a the Old Mill and had a brew then came home.
It was windy near the water but it was also warm. No jacquets today!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Monday, November 20, 2006
November 18-23, 2006
NOVEMBER 18, Saturday, sunny
Cute sign! I think Val is trying to tell me something, do you think?
We picked it up in St-Augustine. Today, we worked on the rig, Val washed the blinds, I fixed some leaks, got the air vent going...it was pinched under the stairs, thus we weren't getting heat through, also fixed the water spout that was broken.
NOVEMBER 18, 19, Sunny but really cool
We didn't do much in these past 2 days. Basically stayed around home, walked, read and stayed warm as it never got above 50*F (10*C)
NOVEMBER 20, Monday, sunny
Went to Jacksonville today via hwy 13. A nice easy drive and we visited the water front and went for lunch at Hooters. They had a special whereby if you spent more than $50. you got a free boat ride to the stadium to watch the Jaguars play football against the New York Giants.
After lunch, we followed A1A hyway along the coast back to St-Augustine.
NOVEMBER 21,22 cloudy and cold
The last two days were cold and miserable. It rained on and off and never got above 50*F So we stayed in and read.
NOVEMBER 23, Wednesday, sunny
It got to a balmy 68*F (17*C) We went to Daytona today, a 50 miles drive along the coast. We packed a lunch and followed Hwy A1A all the way. We stopped at a couple places and watched surfers doing waves about 4-6 feet high. We walked the beach and enjoyed the sun and the wind which was blowing quite hard, but we wnjoyed it.
Once in Daytona, we followed the hyway which ran between the ocean and the IntraCoastal Waterway. It was quite neat and very pretty. Val saw a few Dolphins in the IntraCoastal Waterway but I never got any pictures of them, unfortunately. We also went to see the famous Daytona Speedway. It is a huge place and the pictures don't do it justice.
We dove back home following hwy 17 north. Also saw a few orange grove finally. Lots of them actually.
Tomorrow the forecast is for warmer temperature so we hope to do some kayaking....keep you posted
Downloaded new pictures too
Friday, November 17, 2006
November 15 to 17, 2006
NOVEMBER 15, Wednesday, sunny
It's 6 p.m. and we have the A/C on full. It was and still is a warm and humid day with little to no winds. We went to Wal-Mart to get some groceries then took a drive to the beach and took some pictures. Drove through downtown St-Augustine and found it to be a very pretty city worth exploring more.
The forecast is for heavy winds and rain overnight so I've put up the awning as a precaution. There is a tornado watch on for this part of the State.
Had pizza for dinner.
Called Vanessa tonight as it is her birthday. Also talked to the rest of the gang. Nice to hear their voices. Everyone sounds good
NOVEMBER 16, Thursday, overcast
It really rained last night but the tornadoes never materrialized, thank goodness for that. It is still raining now at 8 a.m. and much cooler...60*F
Finally cleared mid-afternoon so we went to Green Cove Spring, on the St-John river, a local town and checked it out. There is a big shopping centre and a marina. After this, we drove to Camping World to buy a few needed items for "Kenzy"
NOVEMBER 17, Friday, sunny
Another cool night....42*F. and the forecast is for a max. of 65*F but who is complaining...it's sunny!?
Val did a wash this morning then we went into St-Augustine to check it out. Drove to Hwy A1A and walked the beach. Beautiful white sand with lots of crushed shells. From here we went into town. Very historic and beautiful. Took a lot of pictures too and bought a t-shirt, a hat and a door hanger that says "crabby is in"....cute! Will definitely be back.
came home and relaxed and brought this blog to date and downloaded more pictures.
It's 6 p.m. and we have the A/C on full. It was and still is a warm and humid day with little to no winds. We went to Wal-Mart to get some groceries then took a drive to the beach and took some pictures. Drove through downtown St-Augustine and found it to be a very pretty city worth exploring more.
The forecast is for heavy winds and rain overnight so I've put up the awning as a precaution. There is a tornado watch on for this part of the State.
Had pizza for dinner.
Called Vanessa tonight as it is her birthday. Also talked to the rest of the gang. Nice to hear their voices. Everyone sounds good
NOVEMBER 16, Thursday, overcast
It really rained last night but the tornadoes never materrialized, thank goodness for that. It is still raining now at 8 a.m. and much cooler...60*F
Finally cleared mid-afternoon so we went to Green Cove Spring, on the St-John river, a local town and checked it out. There is a big shopping centre and a marina. After this, we drove to Camping World to buy a few needed items for "Kenzy"
NOVEMBER 17, Friday, sunny
Another cool night....42*F. and the forecast is for a max. of 65*F but who is complaining...it's sunny!?
Val did a wash this morning then we went into St-Augustine to check it out. Drove to Hwy A1A and walked the beach. Beautiful white sand with lots of crushed shells. From here we went into town. Very historic and beautiful. Took a lot of pictures too and bought a t-shirt, a hat and a door hanger that says "crabby is in"....cute! Will definitely be back.
came home and relaxed and brought this blog to date and downloaded more pictures.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
November 13 & 14
NOVEMBER 13, Monday, sunny
Another cold night....42*F (6*C) but it did go up to 70*F in the day. Got an e-mail from our friends, Carol and Rick...they are in Deer Creek RV & golf park. Will have to visit them once we are in Florida.
We went to the submarine naval Base but there were no tours offered nor was anyone allowed on the base unless by business. The submarine museum nearby in St-Marys was closed so couldn't even see that. We walked the downtown St-Marys which consisted of about 2-3 blocks and walked along the Bay. A pretty place but not much to look at. Also very few people about.
We came home early. Getting tired of all this sightseeing, to much information and it all blends together after a while.
This campground where we are staying is a stop over as it empties in the morning then fills in the afternoon.
Changed the water filter on our filtering system. It was overdue by the looks of it. Yuck!
NOVEMBER 14, Tuesday, sunny
Up at 8 a.m., breakfast, loaded up and ready to leave by 10:15 a.m. Filled one tank of propane for $19.47 then left.
Took I-95 south and 20 minutes later, we stopped at the Info Centre in FLORIDA!!!!! FINALLY, WE ARE HERE!
We were welcomed with a glass of orange juice and got maps and a lot of pamphlets on the sites to see, bike trails and where to kayak. This info centre is huge. They don't spare expenses for the tourist here. We left 20 minutes later, crossed Jacksonville and after a few miles, turned off I-95 onto hwy 16 west. 12 miles later, we arrived at our new home for the next 21 days: Pacetti's Marina & RV Park. It is wooded but we have a site in the open. It also has the St-John river running by the site so will try it out.
The only draw back was when I went to pay, I was told it was $16/night rather than $14. as we were told when we made our reservation. Their reasonning is that we are wired for 50 amps so they charge extra even though they only have 30 amps hook-ups. Needless to say I was not happy and made my feelings/disatisfaction known but to no avail. So, we took it for a week and will phone AOR in the morning to complain and review our options.
N 29* 59' W 81* 34'; Altitute 16 feet; Distance today: 136 km (85 miles)
Another cold night....42*F (6*C) but it did go up to 70*F in the day. Got an e-mail from our friends, Carol and Rick...they are in Deer Creek RV & golf park. Will have to visit them once we are in Florida.
We went to the submarine naval Base but there were no tours offered nor was anyone allowed on the base unless by business. The submarine museum nearby in St-Marys was closed so couldn't even see that. We walked the downtown St-Marys which consisted of about 2-3 blocks and walked along the Bay. A pretty place but not much to look at. Also very few people about.
We came home early. Getting tired of all this sightseeing, to much information and it all blends together after a while.
This campground where we are staying is a stop over as it empties in the morning then fills in the afternoon.
Changed the water filter on our filtering system. It was overdue by the looks of it. Yuck!
NOVEMBER 14, Tuesday, sunny
Up at 8 a.m., breakfast, loaded up and ready to leave by 10:15 a.m. Filled one tank of propane for $19.47 then left.
Took I-95 south and 20 minutes later, we stopped at the Info Centre in FLORIDA!!!!! FINALLY, WE ARE HERE!
We were welcomed with a glass of orange juice and got maps and a lot of pamphlets on the sites to see, bike trails and where to kayak. This info centre is huge. They don't spare expenses for the tourist here. We left 20 minutes later, crossed Jacksonville and after a few miles, turned off I-95 onto hwy 16 west. 12 miles later, we arrived at our new home for the next 21 days: Pacetti's Marina & RV Park. It is wooded but we have a site in the open. It also has the St-John river running by the site so will try it out.
The only draw back was when I went to pay, I was told it was $16/night rather than $14. as we were told when we made our reservation. Their reasonning is that we are wired for 50 amps so they charge extra even though they only have 30 amps hook-ups. Needless to say I was not happy and made my feelings/disatisfaction known but to no avail. So, we took it for a week and will phone AOR in the morning to complain and review our options.
N 29* 59' W 81* 34'; Altitute 16 feet; Distance today: 136 km (85 miles)
Sunday, November 12, 2006
November 9 to 12
NOVEMBER 9, Thursday, sunny,
Went to Charleston today and took a tour. What a beautiful city it is. Absolutely gorgious. I was really impressed with its cleanliness and friendly people. It is full of history and heritage buildings. They have a law here that any building over 75 years old cannot be altered without first seeking approval to preserve history. This is also where the civil war began from what we were told and read. Reading Charleston history, it's amazing there is any building standing. They have upgraded a lot of buildings against earthquake by an innovative screw bar through the walls.
After the tour, we walked King street and stopped in a local restaurant for a light lunch, and returned via Market street. Came home around 4 p.m. and had happy hour with new friends we met: Jim and Vicky from California and Rick and Brenda from Ontario. Very nice people and we exchanged personal cards.
After dinner, we went to Jim and Vicky's rig, a very nice and big (45 feet) Monaco motorhome, for a nightcap.
NOVEMBER 10, Friday, sunny
It's 9 a.m. and already warm....65* F It's supposed to go up to 80*F and it is humid to top it.
We went to the Magnolia plantation which was really nice and spent almost 3 hours there. I must have been impressed!!!!! Seriously, it was gorgious with lots to see and look at such as tall live oak trees with spanish moss, cypresses, magnolia, camellia, azalea, gardenias, etc.... What a combo of colours. WOW! Also very nice ponds and a beautiful river. Words are hard to express the tranquillity and beauty of the place. It was worth the visit.
After this, we went to Patriot Point where the Yortown Aircraft Carrier is located and open to the public for a fee. We didn't go on board but took pictures from the shore. We bought a hat for me and t-shirt for Val instead.
Came home via Hwy 17, went over the Patriot bridge and fought rush hour traffic for one hour. Stopped at a garage, fuelled and put air in the air bags. 8.69 gallons @ $2.359 (.76/L) + .75 cents for the air. Loaded the bikes and installed the new protective cover we got at Camping World.
NOVEMBER 11, Saturday, foggy in a.m.; sunny in p.m.
It was foggy early in the morning but cleared up and turned sunny by 10 a.m. We left at 10:30 after loading the rest of our stuff and saying good-bye to our new friends with promises to see each otehr somewhere in Florida. Hit Hwy 17 south then I-95 to Georgia. Arrived at the State line around 12:30, got some info on Georgia then had lunch. Very friendly people here too and willing to share every bit of info they can part with.
Left around 1:30 and drove to Woodbine, exit 7 where our new campsite is. King George RV Park is very nice and cost us $26 for 3 nights plus $3. for WI-FI. It is a balmy 81*F (25*C), sunny and humid but tolerable. Lots of no-seeums and mosquitoes. Went into town for bread, milk, beer and wine. Also filled the tank for 17.55 gallons @ $2.499
N 30*50' W 81*40' Altitute 70' Distance today: 322 Km (202 miles)
NOVEMBER 12, Sunday, sunny
We had a cold front come through overnight and the temperature dropped to 48*F with a high of only 70*F in the afternoon. Life is hard in this sunbelt country! (SMILE)
We got our mail yesterday so caught up to our bills and book-keeping; Val did a wash and I downloaded pictures. Also made reservation at a place call Layton on the Keys. It is $32/night but figured it was worth the expense when looking at the overall picture.
Went to Okefonokee swamp. As it was past 2:30 p.m. when we arrived, we got free admission. A really cool place and we saw our first live alligator although it was sickly looking, skinny and missing an eye. We went into the information centre and saw a film on the swamp which was very interesting the drove the "Swamp Island Drive". We stopped at a place whcih was a homestead that belonged to a certain Mr Chesser back in 1916. The place was just like the movies. Old, air space between the wall planking, tin roof but cleanly kept. Inside, we looked at the kitchen, bedroom and dining room/living room as it was in those days. In the back, there was a garden with sugar cane and a shed for it. We also were shown an actual sap catcher on a pine tree from which they made turpentine. WOW! The Chesser's had 7 children. Didn't see any gators or snakes but took lots of pictures.
Came home around 4:30 p.m. A good day!
Went to Charleston today and took a tour. What a beautiful city it is. Absolutely gorgious. I was really impressed with its cleanliness and friendly people. It is full of history and heritage buildings. They have a law here that any building over 75 years old cannot be altered without first seeking approval to preserve history. This is also where the civil war began from what we were told and read. Reading Charleston history, it's amazing there is any building standing. They have upgraded a lot of buildings against earthquake by an innovative screw bar through the walls.
After the tour, we walked King street and stopped in a local restaurant for a light lunch, and returned via Market street. Came home around 4 p.m. and had happy hour with new friends we met: Jim and Vicky from California and Rick and Brenda from Ontario. Very nice people and we exchanged personal cards.
After dinner, we went to Jim and Vicky's rig, a very nice and big (45 feet) Monaco motorhome, for a nightcap.
NOVEMBER 10, Friday, sunny
It's 9 a.m. and already warm....65* F It's supposed to go up to 80*F and it is humid to top it.
We went to the Magnolia plantation which was really nice and spent almost 3 hours there. I must have been impressed!!!!! Seriously, it was gorgious with lots to see and look at such as tall live oak trees with spanish moss, cypresses, magnolia, camellia, azalea, gardenias, etc.... What a combo of colours. WOW! Also very nice ponds and a beautiful river. Words are hard to express the tranquillity and beauty of the place. It was worth the visit.
After this, we went to Patriot Point where the Yortown Aircraft Carrier is located and open to the public for a fee. We didn't go on board but took pictures from the shore. We bought a hat for me and t-shirt for Val instead.
Came home via Hwy 17, went over the Patriot bridge and fought rush hour traffic for one hour. Stopped at a garage, fuelled and put air in the air bags. 8.69 gallons @ $2.359 (.76/L) + .75 cents for the air. Loaded the bikes and installed the new protective cover we got at Camping World.
NOVEMBER 11, Saturday, foggy in a.m.; sunny in p.m.
It was foggy early in the morning but cleared up and turned sunny by 10 a.m. We left at 10:30 after loading the rest of our stuff and saying good-bye to our new friends with promises to see each otehr somewhere in Florida. Hit Hwy 17 south then I-95 to Georgia. Arrived at the State line around 12:30, got some info on Georgia then had lunch. Very friendly people here too and willing to share every bit of info they can part with.
Left around 1:30 and drove to Woodbine, exit 7 where our new campsite is. King George RV Park is very nice and cost us $26 for 3 nights plus $3. for WI-FI. It is a balmy 81*F (25*C), sunny and humid but tolerable. Lots of no-seeums and mosquitoes. Went into town for bread, milk, beer and wine. Also filled the tank for 17.55 gallons @ $2.499
N 30*50' W 81*40' Altitute 70' Distance today: 322 Km (202 miles)
NOVEMBER 12, Sunday, sunny
We had a cold front come through overnight and the temperature dropped to 48*F with a high of only 70*F in the afternoon. Life is hard in this sunbelt country! (SMILE)
We got our mail yesterday so caught up to our bills and book-keeping; Val did a wash and I downloaded pictures. Also made reservation at a place call Layton on the Keys. It is $32/night but figured it was worth the expense when looking at the overall picture.
Went to Okefonokee swamp. As it was past 2:30 p.m. when we arrived, we got free admission. A really cool place and we saw our first live alligator although it was sickly looking, skinny and missing an eye. We went into the information centre and saw a film on the swamp which was very interesting the drove the "Swamp Island Drive". We stopped at a place whcih was a homestead that belonged to a certain Mr Chesser back in 1916. The place was just like the movies. Old, air space between the wall planking, tin roof but cleanly kept. Inside, we looked at the kitchen, bedroom and dining room/living room as it was in those days. In the back, there was a garden with sugar cane and a shed for it. We also were shown an actual sap catcher on a pine tree from which they made turpentine. WOW! The Chesser's had 7 children. Didn't see any gators or snakes but took lots of pictures.
Came home around 4:30 p.m. A good day!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
November 4 to 8, 2006
NOVEMBER 4, Saturday, Sunny
Another sunny day but a very cold night, 28*F (-4*C)
Today, we went ot the Naval Base in Norfolk, one of the biggest in the world. The visit was a real disappointment. We were packed onto a bus then took a tour of the base which consisted of driving around and we were told NO PICTURES! Paid $5. to drive around and didn't see anything that I couldn't see outside the gate. It is however a huge base.
From here we went to Yorktown via I-64 then hwy 17 north. We went through the tunnel and bridge which was over a mile long....more interesting than the naval base.
Yorktown was the first English settlement back in the 1600's and all the house are very much British style. We walked around for a while then drove the Colonial Parkway which was very beautiful and interesting. Very much enjoyed that drive. We arrived at Jamestown but had to pay to enter so decided to leave and went through Williamsburg downtown the home.
Except for the Base, it was a very interesting and enjoyable day. Virginia is a beautiful State, very historic and rich in culture. A destination on its own and worth coming back to.
NOVEMBER 5, Sunday, Sunny
It went down to 0*F overnight. Time to leave. We hit I-64 to Hwy 17 south. Arrived in North Carolina around 11:45 and stopped at the info centre for maps (free) and info. Very friendly people.
Country side is very flat and forestry whereas Virginia was rolling hills. There was lots of pine trees and oak trees but also started to see more pampas grass and swampy areas. Also saw lots of cotton fields, I want to touch one of those!
We followed the intra-coastal waterway for a while and then through the "great Dismal Swamp" It was interesting and beautiful and was below sea level, according to my GPS, by 5 to 10 feet.
Arrived at Walmart in New Bern, N.C. at 3 p.m. and made camp.
N35* 06' W77* 05' Alt: 45' Distance today: 349 KM (218miles)
Bought fuel in NC 13.85 gal @ 2.599
NOVEMBER 6, Monday, sunny
Got up at 7 a.m. Had a quick breakfast then hit the road by 8:30 Followed Hwy 17 which was again very scenic and well maintained. Over half of it was 4 lanes.
Trees and foliage again changing ever slightly. The highway is still fairly flat. We are getting closer to the coast and drove near Cape Fear (movie!?) Drove through Camp Lejeune Marine Corps property but didn't see anything. Swamps are becoming more prominent and we started to see Spanish moss hanging on trees. Long brown, dry moss like that hangs off branches on trees just like the movies. Apparently they attract moisture and help trees grow.
We entered South Carolina at 11:30 drove through Myrtle Beach. Stopped and walked the beach and took some pictures. It is a big place much like any resort, full of hotels and motels and tourist attractions. It was calm when we drove through but we could imagine what it is like in the summer. We drove over 5 miles along the beach then hit Hwy 17 again.
Drove through Georgetown, a big and smelly steel town. We are also noticing the rise in temperature....now 70*F and that the trees are not so much in autumn mode. By-passed Charleston and drove to our site, Lake Aire RV resort, 7 miles south of town. A nice plac surrounded by lots of trees. We have C6 and the palce is almost full. We are also moticing more humidity in the air. WIFI is available but sporadic. It is a balmy 70* and 9 pm.
N32* 46' W80* 06' Alt: 36' Distance today 447 km
Fuel: NC this morning 14.806 @ 2.499; SC 17.80gal @ 2.359 and SC 14.80 gal @ 2.499 (.79/Litre)
NOVEMBER 7 Tuesday, raining
It rained all night and all day and only 60*F The de-humidifier is working overtime and had to empty it twice today. We worked on planning our route and doing laundry. A quiet day
Text mail Steve tonight for a while then went to bed
NOVEMBER 8, Wednesday, cloudy
Washed the fifth wheel and the truck today It was overdue. After that, we took a drive to check out a "live angel oak tree" that a worker here told me about. We drove about 10 miles then arrived at the site. And what a site it was. It is HUGE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL, the tree that is. It is considered one of the oldest if not the oldest tree in North America. Over 1400 years old. Its circumference is over 25.5 feet, it is 65 feet high, it shades an area of 17000 feet. Its largest limb has a circumference of 11.5 feet and measures 89 feet long WOW!!!!! Took lots of pictures and posted them. That is what I call IMPRESSIVE!!!
We are now home and the BBQ is going. The sky is clear and we are watching a nice sunset
Another sunny day but a very cold night, 28*F (-4*C)
Today, we went ot the Naval Base in Norfolk, one of the biggest in the world. The visit was a real disappointment. We were packed onto a bus then took a tour of the base which consisted of driving around and we were told NO PICTURES! Paid $5. to drive around and didn't see anything that I couldn't see outside the gate. It is however a huge base.
From here we went to Yorktown via I-64 then hwy 17 north. We went through the tunnel and bridge which was over a mile long....more interesting than the naval base.
Yorktown was the first English settlement back in the 1600's and all the house are very much British style. We walked around for a while then drove the Colonial Parkway which was very beautiful and interesting. Very much enjoyed that drive. We arrived at Jamestown but had to pay to enter so decided to leave and went through Williamsburg downtown the home.
Except for the Base, it was a very interesting and enjoyable day. Virginia is a beautiful State, very historic and rich in culture. A destination on its own and worth coming back to.
NOVEMBER 5, Sunday, Sunny
It went down to 0*F overnight. Time to leave. We hit I-64 to Hwy 17 south. Arrived in North Carolina around 11:45 and stopped at the info centre for maps (free) and info. Very friendly people.
Country side is very flat and forestry whereas Virginia was rolling hills. There was lots of pine trees and oak trees but also started to see more pampas grass and swampy areas. Also saw lots of cotton fields, I want to touch one of those!
We followed the intra-coastal waterway for a while and then through the "great Dismal Swamp" It was interesting and beautiful and was below sea level, according to my GPS, by 5 to 10 feet.
Arrived at Walmart in New Bern, N.C. at 3 p.m. and made camp.
N35* 06' W77* 05' Alt: 45' Distance today: 349 KM (218miles)
Bought fuel in NC 13.85 gal @ 2.599
NOVEMBER 6, Monday, sunny
Got up at 7 a.m. Had a quick breakfast then hit the road by 8:30 Followed Hwy 17 which was again very scenic and well maintained. Over half of it was 4 lanes.
Trees and foliage again changing ever slightly. The highway is still fairly flat. We are getting closer to the coast and drove near Cape Fear (movie!?) Drove through Camp Lejeune Marine Corps property but didn't see anything. Swamps are becoming more prominent and we started to see Spanish moss hanging on trees. Long brown, dry moss like that hangs off branches on trees just like the movies. Apparently they attract moisture and help trees grow.
We entered South Carolina at 11:30 drove through Myrtle Beach. Stopped and walked the beach and took some pictures. It is a big place much like any resort, full of hotels and motels and tourist attractions. It was calm when we drove through but we could imagine what it is like in the summer. We drove over 5 miles along the beach then hit Hwy 17 again.
Drove through Georgetown, a big and smelly steel town. We are also noticing the rise in temperature....now 70*F and that the trees are not so much in autumn mode. By-passed Charleston and drove to our site, Lake Aire RV resort, 7 miles south of town. A nice plac surrounded by lots of trees. We have C6 and the palce is almost full. We are also moticing more humidity in the air. WIFI is available but sporadic. It is a balmy 70* and 9 pm.
N32* 46' W80* 06' Alt: 36' Distance today 447 km
Fuel: NC this morning 14.806 @ 2.499; SC 17.80gal @ 2.359 and SC 14.80 gal @ 2.499 (.79/Litre)
NOVEMBER 7 Tuesday, raining
It rained all night and all day and only 60*F The de-humidifier is working overtime and had to empty it twice today. We worked on planning our route and doing laundry. A quiet day
Text mail Steve tonight for a while then went to bed
NOVEMBER 8, Wednesday, cloudy
Washed the fifth wheel and the truck today It was overdue. After that, we took a drive to check out a "live angel oak tree" that a worker here told me about. We drove about 10 miles then arrived at the site. And what a site it was. It is HUGE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL, the tree that is. It is considered one of the oldest if not the oldest tree in North America. Over 1400 years old. Its circumference is over 25.5 feet, it is 65 feet high, it shades an area of 17000 feet. Its largest limb has a circumference of 11.5 feet and measures 89 feet long WOW!!!!! Took lots of pictures and posted them. That is what I call IMPRESSIVE!!!
We are now home and the BBQ is going. The sky is clear and we are watching a nice sunset
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Nov 2 to 4, 2006
NOVEMBER 2, Thursday, Sunny
Left Front Royal around 9:30 a.m. Drove East on I-66 to Hwy 17 South, to I-95. Once in Richmond, we headed East again on I-64 to Williamsburg and our new site Anvil Campground. Turns out it is a nice place but after setting up and sitting down for a brew, a train went by only about 200 feet from the camp. WOW! What an awakening!!! Good thing we are only here for three nights.
As we were setting up Val had a problem with the Dining room slide. Wouldn't go out properly. Got it out finally and will check it out further tomorrow.
Went into town to get milk and bread, 5l wine and 24 beer; all the important ingredients in a camping situation, all for $35.
We have WIFI here
N37* 10' W76* 43' Alt: 92' Distance today: 302 km, $19.80/night (with tax) Fuel: 20.42 gal @ 2.399
NOVEMBER 3 , Friday, Sunny
Got up at 7 a.m. Train went by twice over night and woke me up both times.
A cool night and a cool day. Only went up to 49* F (9*C)
Tried the slide and it wouldn't go out. Call a local RV Repair shop and they came out around 2 p.m. 3 1/2 hours later, the slide was operating. Turns out that the activator bar which connects both support was spot-welded in two places and they both broke off and cause the slide not to operate properly. So after calling our extended warranty, a $450 bill cost us only the deductible...$100. Thank goodness for that.
Unfortunately, this ruined our day and never got to visit anything. Will have to do it all tomorrow.
NOVEMBER 4, Saturday, Sunny and cold
It got down to 28*F (-2*C) overnight. Brrrrrrrr!!!!
Left around 9:30 a.m. for Norfolk. Took Hwy 60 East then I-64. Took the Exit for hwy 17 and and then Hwy60 south. Drove through Newport News and at the south end, we took I-664 and through the tunnel (quite something) Could see the naval base in Norfolk as we crossed the bridge part. It is over a mile long (both bridge and tunnel). We went into Suffolk then over to Norfolk. Had lunch at Pizza Hut then headed to the naval base for the tour. Paid $5. which became a total waste. The tour was a flop as far as I am concern. We got on a bus and were never allowed to leave or take pictures as we drove by the aircraft carriers, war ships and the submarines. A real disappointment!
From there, we drove to Yorktown was was the first english settlement in North America established in the early 1600's. (see pictures) From there, we took the "Colonial Parkway" which turned out to be very beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We drove to Jamestown but weren't willing to pay $10 to see a mock-up village so drove back to Williamsburg and our site.
Aside from the naval base, (which was Ok I guess) it was a good day and we are now at home ( 5 p.m.) and dinner is on....lasagna! Yum! Yum!
Tomorrow, we leave for points further south, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Hopefully also to warmer climate.
Topped-up the fuel: 7.21 gal @ 2.499
See you all soon
Left Front Royal around 9:30 a.m. Drove East on I-66 to Hwy 17 South, to I-95. Once in Richmond, we headed East again on I-64 to Williamsburg and our new site Anvil Campground. Turns out it is a nice place but after setting up and sitting down for a brew, a train went by only about 200 feet from the camp. WOW! What an awakening!!! Good thing we are only here for three nights.
As we were setting up Val had a problem with the Dining room slide. Wouldn't go out properly. Got it out finally and will check it out further tomorrow.
Went into town to get milk and bread, 5l wine and 24 beer; all the important ingredients in a camping situation, all for $35.
We have WIFI here
N37* 10' W76* 43' Alt: 92' Distance today: 302 km, $19.80/night (with tax) Fuel: 20.42 gal @ 2.399
NOVEMBER 3 , Friday, Sunny
Got up at 7 a.m. Train went by twice over night and woke me up both times.
A cool night and a cool day. Only went up to 49* F (9*C)
Tried the slide and it wouldn't go out. Call a local RV Repair shop and they came out around 2 p.m. 3 1/2 hours later, the slide was operating. Turns out that the activator bar which connects both support was spot-welded in two places and they both broke off and cause the slide not to operate properly. So after calling our extended warranty, a $450 bill cost us only the deductible...$100. Thank goodness for that.
Unfortunately, this ruined our day and never got to visit anything. Will have to do it all tomorrow.
NOVEMBER 4, Saturday, Sunny and cold
It got down to 28*F (-2*C) overnight. Brrrrrrrr!!!!
Left around 9:30 a.m. for Norfolk. Took Hwy 60 East then I-64. Took the Exit for hwy 17 and and then Hwy60 south. Drove through Newport News and at the south end, we took I-664 and through the tunnel (quite something) Could see the naval base in Norfolk as we crossed the bridge part. It is over a mile long (both bridge and tunnel). We went into Suffolk then over to Norfolk. Had lunch at Pizza Hut then headed to the naval base for the tour. Paid $5. which became a total waste. The tour was a flop as far as I am concern. We got on a bus and were never allowed to leave or take pictures as we drove by the aircraft carriers, war ships and the submarines. A real disappointment!
From there, we drove to Yorktown was was the first english settlement in North America established in the early 1600's. (see pictures) From there, we took the "Colonial Parkway" which turned out to be very beautiful with all the trees changing colors. We drove to Jamestown but weren't willing to pay $10 to see a mock-up village so drove back to Williamsburg and our site.
Aside from the naval base, (which was Ok I guess) it was a good day and we are now at home ( 5 p.m.) and dinner is on....lasagna! Yum! Yum!
Tomorrow, we leave for points further south, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Hopefully also to warmer climate.
Topped-up the fuel: 7.21 gal @ 2.499
See you all soon
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Oct 27 to Nov 1 2006
OCTOBER 27, 06 Friday
Got down to 28* F (-6*C) Very frosty this morning. We are at the Walmart in Albany, Maryland. It is 8 p.m. and pouring rain. It took us 5 hours to go from our site in Connecticut to I-95 in New Jersey, trying to circumvent N.Y.
As we were packing this morning, I broke the tie-down bracket on the awning. Had to tie it in a way that it wouldn't open on the road. DAMN!!!!
It started to rain south of Philadelphia. We followed 95 to 387 then 202, 206 south to I-95 again. Had a couple tolls to pay but nothing too serious/expensive. Made reservations with RPI at Front Royal.
The new batteries seem to be holding their charge.
Fuel before leaving CT 20.3 gal @ 2.72 (.85L); NJ 10.9 @ 2.40(.76L) and Delaware 16.7 gal @ 2.70
N 39*29' W76*10' Alt: 94' Distance today 497 km
it's 10 p.m. and blowing like crazy and raining hard.
OCT 28 Saturday, raining in morning but sunny in p.m.
It was a balmy 55* F this morning. Crazy how the temperature changes. Left at 9:30 a.m. and arrived at Front Royal at 4 p.m. We took our time coming down with lots of stops. drove through Baltimore, around Wash DC via 495 then I-66 west to Front Royal and our site. The drive was absolutely gorgious. Trees are now in full colours which adds to the atmosphere.
This camp site (Skyline RV Resort) is very pretty and clean. Lots to do for the family. ($8/night RPI)
The wind picked up in the evening and was blowing really hard over night. There is a halloween party going on in the park and lots of kids around.
Moved the clock back one hour to Standard time before we went to bed.
N 38*54' W 78*17" Alt: 721' Distance today: 245KM
OCTOBER 29, Sunday, Sunny
It is a balmy 60* F. this morning, short sleeve for sure. Went into town to check our e-mail and buy some groceries. this is a quaint little town.
Tried to get the dish set up but too many trees around.
Fuel 22.5 gal @ 2.41
OCTOBER 30, Monday, Sunny
Left @ 10 a,m, and stopped in Camping World for the awning part....$23 later we will have the part delivered to us overnight. From here, we went to Arlington Cemetery where JF Kennedy and his wife are buried. Very impressive and touching. Also saw his brother Robert's grave and the Unknown Soldier and the change of guard. Impressive and awe. From here we drove to the Iwo-Jima monument.. AWSOME AND HUGE!!!! I hadn't realize it was so big.. Also saw the Pentagon and where the plane crashed into it. There is a memorial at the site....see pictures.
Came home during rush hour and got home by 6 p.m.
Tucker stayed home all day and did very well. Needless to say, he headed for the first tree before saying hello!!!
OCTOBER 31, Tuesday, sunny
It was cloudy in the morning but sunny for the most part of the day. We went to Vienna, suburb of Wash, and took the subway in. Got off at 23rd by the University and walked down to the Lincoln Monument. What a huge and awesome monument. Bigger than I had realized opposed to when you see it in person. Walked around for about 20 minutes, reading all the history and taking in the site of the Constitution Gardens, the Pond and Capitol Hill in the distance. We walked to the Vietnam memorial. It was very poignant seeing people touching the Wall and praying for their lost friends or family member(s). Thousands of names. People left momentos, including a small Canadian flag. It was breathtaking and both shed a few tears. Can't help it....such an emotional place
We then walked to the WW2 monument. A huge circle with a fountain prominent in the middle. Each States represented and pictures of certain battles, we then walked to the White House and again I was a bit disappointed. It was smaller than I imagined but still awsome. Walked Pensylvania Ave which was all blocked off. Security was very prominent everywhere. We didn't see any of the Smithsonian museums but saw the buildings. It was getting too late and we were both tired.
Took the subway back to Vienna, then drove home.
What a day...full of emotions and womders. Oh yes, we also took in the White House visitor centre which was very impressive.
NOVEMBER 1, Wednesday, Sunny
And warm, got up to 78* F (24*C) Day spent fixing the awning, write this blog and made reservations for some places we will go in the near future.
Time to get home
fuel 22.5 gal @ 2.419 (.76L)
Got down to 28* F (-6*C) Very frosty this morning. We are at the Walmart in Albany, Maryland. It is 8 p.m. and pouring rain. It took us 5 hours to go from our site in Connecticut to I-95 in New Jersey, trying to circumvent N.Y.
As we were packing this morning, I broke the tie-down bracket on the awning. Had to tie it in a way that it wouldn't open on the road. DAMN!!!!
It started to rain south of Philadelphia. We followed 95 to 387 then 202, 206 south to I-95 again. Had a couple tolls to pay but nothing too serious/expensive. Made reservations with RPI at Front Royal.
The new batteries seem to be holding their charge.
Fuel before leaving CT 20.3 gal @ 2.72 (.85L); NJ 10.9 @ 2.40(.76L) and Delaware 16.7 gal @ 2.70
N 39*29' W76*10' Alt: 94' Distance today 497 km
it's 10 p.m. and blowing like crazy and raining hard.
OCT 28 Saturday, raining in morning but sunny in p.m.
It was a balmy 55* F this morning. Crazy how the temperature changes. Left at 9:30 a.m. and arrived at Front Royal at 4 p.m. We took our time coming down with lots of stops. drove through Baltimore, around Wash DC via 495 then I-66 west to Front Royal and our site. The drive was absolutely gorgious. Trees are now in full colours which adds to the atmosphere.
This camp site (Skyline RV Resort) is very pretty and clean. Lots to do for the family. ($8/night RPI)
The wind picked up in the evening and was blowing really hard over night. There is a halloween party going on in the park and lots of kids around.
Moved the clock back one hour to Standard time before we went to bed.
N 38*54' W 78*17" Alt: 721' Distance today: 245KM
OCTOBER 29, Sunday, Sunny
It is a balmy 60* F. this morning, short sleeve for sure. Went into town to check our e-mail and buy some groceries. this is a quaint little town.
Tried to get the dish set up but too many trees around.
Fuel 22.5 gal @ 2.41
OCTOBER 30, Monday, Sunny
Left @ 10 a,m, and stopped in Camping World for the awning part....$23 later we will have the part delivered to us overnight. From here, we went to Arlington Cemetery where JF Kennedy and his wife are buried. Very impressive and touching. Also saw his brother Robert's grave and the Unknown Soldier and the change of guard. Impressive and awe. From here we drove to the Iwo-Jima monument.. AWSOME AND HUGE!!!! I hadn't realize it was so big.. Also saw the Pentagon and where the plane crashed into it. There is a memorial at the site....see pictures.
Came home during rush hour and got home by 6 p.m.
Tucker stayed home all day and did very well. Needless to say, he headed for the first tree before saying hello!!!
OCTOBER 31, Tuesday, sunny
It was cloudy in the morning but sunny for the most part of the day. We went to Vienna, suburb of Wash, and took the subway in. Got off at 23rd by the University and walked down to the Lincoln Monument. What a huge and awesome monument. Bigger than I had realized opposed to when you see it in person. Walked around for about 20 minutes, reading all the history and taking in the site of the Constitution Gardens, the Pond and Capitol Hill in the distance. We walked to the Vietnam memorial. It was very poignant seeing people touching the Wall and praying for their lost friends or family member(s). Thousands of names. People left momentos, including a small Canadian flag. It was breathtaking and both shed a few tears. Can't help it....such an emotional place
We then walked to the WW2 monument. A huge circle with a fountain prominent in the middle. Each States represented and pictures of certain battles, we then walked to the White House and again I was a bit disappointed. It was smaller than I imagined but still awsome. Walked Pensylvania Ave which was all blocked off. Security was very prominent everywhere. We didn't see any of the Smithsonian museums but saw the buildings. It was getting too late and we were both tired.
Took the subway back to Vienna, then drove home.
What a day...full of emotions and womders. Oh yes, we also took in the White House visitor centre which was very impressive.
NOVEMBER 1, Wednesday, Sunny
And warm, got up to 78* F (24*C) Day spent fixing the awning, write this blog and made reservations for some places we will go in the near future.
Time to get home
fuel 22.5 gal @ 2.419 (.76L)
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