APR. 27, Monday, some maintenance then to Anacortes, Wash.
After showering and breakfast, we drove to LES SCHWAB to purchase and installed 2 new tires on the right side of the trailer and change the spare around. They had a sale going on which made it irresistible not to purchase two rather than just one. Afterwards, we drove across the street and I had an oil/lube done on the truck and changed the synthetic oil in the rear differential. As we were waiting, we walked over to ROTH a grocery store, and bought some grocery we needed. From here we drove to a dealer about the under-carriage and after talking to them, I decided to head home and get it done in B.C.
We got on I-5 and headed north, drove through Portland and Seattle with no problems and finally arrived in Anacortes via hwy 20, at our campsite around 6 p.m. This is a CCUSA club member so paid $15 for the night. We fuelled in Anacortes before going to FIDALGO BAY RV PARK @ 2.259/gal. The campsite overlooks the Puget Sound and we have a very nice view form our site. This park is very clean and well maintained. There is even a bike trail that goes through the park from the town of Anacortes and not sure where it ends.
We travelled 515 KM (315 miles) at an average speed of 51 MPH
N 48* 28’ 58”
W 122* 35’ 37”
APR. 28, Tuesday, ferry to Sidney, Vancouver Island, B.C.
We got up at 5 a.m. to be at the ferry by 7 a.m. We paid our fare, $144, then got on the ferry at 8:15 and were on our way. The ferry stopped at ORCA Island and FRIDAY HARBOUR on San Juan Island then it continued on to Canada and Sidney BC. The whole trip took 3 hours.
Clearing customs was a breeze and then we stopped at our friends, Dennis and Zillah, in Sidney for a short visit. We took Hwy 17 to Victoria then Hwy 14 to Sooke. We arrived at George and Gladys’ place (Val’s cousin & husband) around 3 p.m., parked and rested. No one was home yet then Gladys showed up and took us to where George was doing some yard work for someone. We came back to their place and George had me move the rig to another spot where we have a wonderful view of the Bay and Sooke harbor across the way. We are here for a couple weeks now.
We travelled a total of 76 KM (45 miles) and a 3 hours ferry ride in 5.5 hours
N 48* 21’ 40”
W 123* 43’ 50”
Alt: 10 feet
We are here on the Island for at least 3-4 weeks
APR. 29, Wednesday, Sooke, BC
We got up to a sunny day! I went into town to get some money and buy a 9/16 drill bit. I also checked on replacing my Sirius antenna then drove to a local mechanic recommended by George about my throttle problem. Yes, that is still going on.
In the afternoon, we went to visit Val’s uncle Russ then came home. Gladys cooked us dinner, a noodle dish with white sauce and lot of little shrimps. We visited for a while then headed to our rig and to bed.
APR. 30, Thursday, Sooke
Another sunny day and a bit warmer; even wore shorts today! Val did some laundry in the morning then we went to town where I deposited some outstanding cheques I had, got some groceries, filled the truck @ .90/Liter (over $3/gal) then checked on the Sirius antenna. I will have to wait until we get home as it would take 3-4 weeks to get here.
In the afternoon, we went to see uncle Russ then came home and Val cooked dinner for everyone…her famous meat balls, mashed potatoes, and rich, thick gravy. Yummy, Yummy!
Another month gone by!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
April 23 to 26, 2009, Sonama CA to Silverton OR
APR. 23, Thursday, Sonoma & Napa valley
We got a late start. It is cloudy this morning and I paid for another night. We drove back to Steve and Gail’s house around noon. The sun finally came out. Gail had to work in the afternoon so Steve took us on a tour of Napa valley. Sonoma and Napa run parallel to each other with Sonoma being closer to the San Francisco Bay so is a bit cooler. Both are famous for their vineyards and wine making. We visited winery such as Di-Rosa, Artesia, Hess Collection and Castillo de Amorosa. He also showed us where Bett Midler has a cottage. We also saw a huge castle built by an eccentric Italian vineyard owner. It was beautiful and quite authentic with real torch for lighting, dragon heads and cast iron throughout. It was the highlight of the day. The whole valley is like a Swiss Alp scene. We stopped for coffee then drove back to the house around 6 p.m. to pick up Gail and we went for dinner at a Mexican restaurant in AGUA CALIENTE.
We had a marvelous visit and it was indeed sad to say goodbye to them. We drove back to our site in Santa Rosa. Tomorrow we leave for northern California.
APR. 24, Friday, to Gasquet, California
We were up at 7:30 and on the road by 8:45 a.m. A cool morning and it stayed that way all day. The highest it got was 55*F (12*C). We headed north on Hwy 101 under a sunny sky. The scenery was sure a different perspective since we’ve always driven south on this highway rather than north. We drove through Eureka where I picked up fuel @ $2.199 at a Safeway. We climbed through the HUMBOLD Mountains and finally arrived in Crescent City where I topped up @ $2.499. From here, it was a short run of 18 miles up Hwy 199 to Gasquet at Cathy and Craig’s place. We set up in the same spot as the last time we were here. Craig hooked us up to water and electrical then we caught up to each other’s news. Cathy cooked us a marvelous dinner then afterwards we chatted a storm, or should I say Val and Cathy did!??? Hihihihihi!
We travelled 515 KM (325 miles) in 7.5 hours @ an average speed of 48 MPH.
N 41* 50’ 44”
W 123* 59’ 13”
Alt: 353 feet
APR. 25, Saturday, visit with the Johnson’s
It was cloudy this morning but finally cleared by noon. Val did some laundry in the morning then we all went for a drive in Jeremith National Park and looked at all the tall, huge redwood trees. Val had a small incident where she tripped on a stump and fell on her face. Nothing serious except a few sore bones and dirty clothes! From here, we went to Crescent City, walked the beach then went out for dinner at a Thai restaurant. We came home and I helped Craig unload his kayaks from the roof of his 5th-wheel. We played ‘SEQUENCE” in the evening. Finally went to bed by 10:30 p.m.
APR. 26, Sunday, to Salem Oregon
We were up by 8 a.m., visited with Craig and Cathy then said our goodbyes. As I hooked up Craig informed me that something was dangling underneath. Hold and behold, the under-cover had come apart again so I crawled under and retied everything as best as I could once again. By 10:20 a.m. we were on our way. We got on Hwy 199 and headed north-east to Oregon and Grants Pass. We got to I-5 and headed north to Sutherland where I fuelled @ $2.319. We -then stopped for lunch at a rest-area then continued on to Salem where we turned east on 213 to Silverton and our stop for the night at Silver Spur RV Park, a CCUSA Park. We are 18 miles from Salem and have a pull-through so I don’t have to unhook. We set up and now it’s time for Happy Hour. It was sunny most the whole day but the forecast is for a change and possible rain coming soon.
We travelled 451 KM ( 280 miles) at an average speed of 51 MPH
N 45* 00’ 08”
W 122* 48’ 10”
Alt: 223 feet
We got a late start. It is cloudy this morning and I paid for another night. We drove back to Steve and Gail’s house around noon. The sun finally came out. Gail had to work in the afternoon so Steve took us on a tour of Napa valley. Sonoma and Napa run parallel to each other with Sonoma being closer to the San Francisco Bay so is a bit cooler. Both are famous for their vineyards and wine making. We visited winery such as Di-Rosa, Artesia, Hess Collection and Castillo de Amorosa. He also showed us where Bett Midler has a cottage. We also saw a huge castle built by an eccentric Italian vineyard owner. It was beautiful and quite authentic with real torch for lighting, dragon heads and cast iron throughout. It was the highlight of the day. The whole valley is like a Swiss Alp scene. We stopped for coffee then drove back to the house around 6 p.m. to pick up Gail and we went for dinner at a Mexican restaurant in AGUA CALIENTE.
We had a marvelous visit and it was indeed sad to say goodbye to them. We drove back to our site in Santa Rosa. Tomorrow we leave for northern California.
APR. 24, Friday, to Gasquet, California
We were up at 7:30 and on the road by 8:45 a.m. A cool morning and it stayed that way all day. The highest it got was 55*F (12*C). We headed north on Hwy 101 under a sunny sky. The scenery was sure a different perspective since we’ve always driven south on this highway rather than north. We drove through Eureka where I picked up fuel @ $2.199 at a Safeway. We climbed through the HUMBOLD Mountains and finally arrived in Crescent City where I topped up @ $2.499. From here, it was a short run of 18 miles up Hwy 199 to Gasquet at Cathy and Craig’s place. We set up in the same spot as the last time we were here. Craig hooked us up to water and electrical then we caught up to each other’s news. Cathy cooked us a marvelous dinner then afterwards we chatted a storm, or should I say Val and Cathy did!??? Hihihihihi!
We travelled 515 KM (325 miles) in 7.5 hours @ an average speed of 48 MPH.
N 41* 50’ 44”
W 123* 59’ 13”
Alt: 353 feet
APR. 25, Saturday, visit with the Johnson’s
It was cloudy this morning but finally cleared by noon. Val did some laundry in the morning then we all went for a drive in Jeremith National Park and looked at all the tall, huge redwood trees. Val had a small incident where she tripped on a stump and fell on her face. Nothing serious except a few sore bones and dirty clothes! From here, we went to Crescent City, walked the beach then went out for dinner at a Thai restaurant. We came home and I helped Craig unload his kayaks from the roof of his 5th-wheel. We played ‘SEQUENCE” in the evening. Finally went to bed by 10:30 p.m.
APR. 26, Sunday, to Salem Oregon
We were up by 8 a.m., visited with Craig and Cathy then said our goodbyes. As I hooked up Craig informed me that something was dangling underneath. Hold and behold, the under-cover had come apart again so I crawled under and retied everything as best as I could once again. By 10:20 a.m. we were on our way. We got on Hwy 199 and headed north-east to Oregon and Grants Pass. We got to I-5 and headed north to Sutherland where I fuelled @ $2.319. We -then stopped for lunch at a rest-area then continued on to Salem where we turned east on 213 to Silverton and our stop for the night at Silver Spur RV Park, a CCUSA Park. We are 18 miles from Salem and have a pull-through so I don’t have to unhook. We set up and now it’s time for Happy Hour. It was sunny most the whole day but the forecast is for a change and possible rain coming soon.
We travelled 451 KM ( 280 miles) at an average speed of 51 MPH
N 45* 00’ 08”
W 122* 48’ 10”
Alt: 223 feet
Friday, April 24, 2009
April 20 to 22, 2009 Ehrenberg to Sonoma Valley, CA
APR. 20, Monday, To California
What a day! We are camped at Pyramid Lake resort near Gorman, California. Our day started at 7 a.m. when we got up and by 8:30 we were at Meade repair shop in Blythe, CA, just across the river. I got my brakes checked and adjusted and the wiring checked. From here we went to McDonald for breakfast and by 10:30 we were on our way west on I-10. It was already 90*F by this time and it got to 101*F (36*C) in Palm Spring. Stopped for fuel @ $2.28 and continued on I-10 to hwy 57N then I-210W to I-5 north. Believe it or not, it got up to 106* F (38*C). Our A/C could barely keep up and as we were driving over the "Gravevine" pass in the Santa Anna mountains, we had a blow out on the right side of the trailer and to top it, the blow out ripped the under-cover covering the wiring and slide mechanism.
I proceeded to change the tire. A tow truck stopped and offered to help at no cost, compliment of the California Highway System! In this heat, it was great to have a helping hand. The lucky thing was that we were in the shade of the rig and on the ditch side away from the traffic wheezing by. We patched the under-cover as best as we could then we proceeded to go on to Gorman where we stopped for the night. I repaired the underneath as best as I could and now we are relaxing. We have the A/C on full blast, it is 9 p.m. and still very warm outside.
We travelled 465 KM ( 289 miles) in 9 hours at an average speed of 50 MPH
N 24* 43’ 22”
W 118* 47’ 49”
Alt: 2980 feet
APR. 21, Tuesday, To Sonoma, CA
This has been a very looooong day!!! I sincerely hope I don’t see another one for a long time.
We met another couple this morning before leaving from Silver Creek, BC near where we live. What a small world!
We left at 8:30 this morning, headed north on I-5. We fuelled in Santa Nella at $2.439 then again in Stockton at $2.319. I had forgotten how boring and monotonous the drive on I-5 is between the Grapevine and Stockton! Miles and miles of farm land, mango tree, oranges, apples and many other fruits. The hills are bare with just grass growing.
We finally reached Hwy 12 where we turned west and headed for Napa Valley. We arrived at our destination, Sonoma County Fairground RV park at 6 p.m., paid $62.50 for 3 nights. They accept PASSPORT AMERICA for one night only. We called Steve and Gail and made arrangements to meet them tomorrow for brunch. Time to relax! We have internet connection!
We travelled 643 KM ( 401 miles) in 9.5 hours at an average speed 52 MPH.
N 38* 25’ 30”
W 122* 41” 57”
Alt: 187 feet
APR. 22 Wednesday, Sonoma Valley.
We met our friends Steve and Gail at their house in Sonoma, approx. 28 miles from where we are parked as that was the nearest we could find. They showed us around their house and yard then we had a marvelous brunch cooked by Gail consisting of scrambled eggs, fruits, cheese, locally made fresh bread. We caught up to each other’s news. Steve is retired and has quite a green thumb. There are lots of trees and bushes, nicely arranged to make up different area on their ½ acre lot. He has a separate garage where he keeps an old ford truck and a Harley Davidson bike, he closed the upstairs and made it into a storage area, he built two little cottage, one for him and one for Gail’s painting; he has an area where there is a bench with a Palapa, a small pond with fish in it then tall bamboo reed make a fence around the yard for a final touch. A marvelous place!
We went to the downtown historic Sonoma where we visited the most northern Mission, buildings that were part of an old fort and the town square. The town has retained its quaintness with old buildings and clean street. People about were friendly. We went to an Irish pub for a beer then Gail took us to a motel where her paintings were on display on a wall along a walking path. IT was really neat seeing her work in person. Then we went to a local school where she teaches art to the students and they painted the outside walls with story-telling pictures. It was very well done
From here we went to the top of a local mountain to take a different view of the valley then we went back to the house where Steve BBQ’ed trouts he had recently caught on a fishing trip. It was delicious. Afterwards, we sat around and chatted then it was time to come home.
A GREAT DAY!!! I will post pictures soon
What a day! We are camped at Pyramid Lake resort near Gorman, California. Our day started at 7 a.m. when we got up and by 8:30 we were at Meade repair shop in Blythe, CA, just across the river. I got my brakes checked and adjusted and the wiring checked. From here we went to McDonald for breakfast and by 10:30 we were on our way west on I-10. It was already 90*F by this time and it got to 101*F (36*C) in Palm Spring. Stopped for fuel @ $2.28 and continued on I-10 to hwy 57N then I-210W to I-5 north. Believe it or not, it got up to 106* F (38*C). Our A/C could barely keep up and as we were driving over the "Gravevine" pass in the Santa Anna mountains, we had a blow out on the right side of the trailer and to top it, the blow out ripped the under-cover covering the wiring and slide mechanism.
I proceeded to change the tire. A tow truck stopped and offered to help at no cost, compliment of the California Highway System! In this heat, it was great to have a helping hand. The lucky thing was that we were in the shade of the rig and on the ditch side away from the traffic wheezing by. We patched the under-cover as best as we could then we proceeded to go on to Gorman where we stopped for the night. I repaired the underneath as best as I could and now we are relaxing. We have the A/C on full blast, it is 9 p.m. and still very warm outside.
We travelled 465 KM ( 289 miles) in 9 hours at an average speed of 50 MPH
N 24* 43’ 22”
W 118* 47’ 49”
Alt: 2980 feet
APR. 21, Tuesday, To Sonoma, CA
This has been a very looooong day!!! I sincerely hope I don’t see another one for a long time.
We met another couple this morning before leaving from Silver Creek, BC near where we live. What a small world!
We left at 8:30 this morning, headed north on I-5. We fuelled in Santa Nella at $2.439 then again in Stockton at $2.319. I had forgotten how boring and monotonous the drive on I-5 is between the Grapevine and Stockton! Miles and miles of farm land, mango tree, oranges, apples and many other fruits. The hills are bare with just grass growing.
We finally reached Hwy 12 where we turned west and headed for Napa Valley. We arrived at our destination, Sonoma County Fairground RV park at 6 p.m., paid $62.50 for 3 nights. They accept PASSPORT AMERICA for one night only. We called Steve and Gail and made arrangements to meet them tomorrow for brunch. Time to relax! We have internet connection!
We travelled 643 KM ( 401 miles) in 9.5 hours at an average speed 52 MPH.
N 38* 25’ 30”
W 122* 41” 57”
Alt: 187 feet
APR. 22 Wednesday, Sonoma Valley.
We met our friends Steve and Gail at their house in Sonoma, approx. 28 miles from where we are parked as that was the nearest we could find. They showed us around their house and yard then we had a marvelous brunch cooked by Gail consisting of scrambled eggs, fruits, cheese, locally made fresh bread. We caught up to each other’s news. Steve is retired and has quite a green thumb. There are lots of trees and bushes, nicely arranged to make up different area on their ½ acre lot. He has a separate garage where he keeps an old ford truck and a Harley Davidson bike, he closed the upstairs and made it into a storage area, he built two little cottage, one for him and one for Gail’s painting; he has an area where there is a bench with a Palapa, a small pond with fish in it then tall bamboo reed make a fence around the yard for a final touch. A marvelous place!
We went to the downtown historic Sonoma where we visited the most northern Mission, buildings that were part of an old fort and the town square. The town has retained its quaintness with old buildings and clean street. People about were friendly. We went to an Irish pub for a beer then Gail took us to a motel where her paintings were on display on a wall along a walking path. IT was really neat seeing her work in person. Then we went to a local school where she teaches art to the students and they painted the outside walls with story-telling pictures. It was very well done
From here we went to the top of a local mountain to take a different view of the valley then we went back to the house where Steve BBQ’ed trouts he had recently caught on a fishing trip. It was delicious. Afterwards, we sat around and chatted then it was time to come home.
A GREAT DAY!!! I will post pictures soon
Sunday, April 19, 2009
April 16 to 19, 2009 Casa Grande to Ehrenberg, AZ
APR. 16, Thursday, Casa Grande
A sunny and cool morning! Only 48*F at 8:30 a.m. We went shopping to Wal-Mart then came home. The wind has picked up a lot in the last little while and gusting to 40 MPH. We visited with neighbours then called it quit and went home.
APR. 17, Friday, visit in Phoenix
Sunny and cool again today but the wind has abated. It got to 70*F which is cool compared to what we’ve been used to. We went to Phoenix to Camping world where I bought items I ABSOLUTELY needed including a game of SEQUENCE which we played with Glenda and Terry and we both liked very much. We then went to COSTCO where I bought a phone to go with the MAGIC JACK I purchased a while back and finally got when our mail was picked up when we arrived here.
Afterwards, we drove to uncle Bud and Judy and visited with them then we all went for dinner at their golf club and had their famous fish and chips. We came back to their place around 8:30 p.m., visited for a while then came back to Casa Grande to our rig after making arrangements to meet again tomorrow.
A good day overall
APR. 18, Saturday, Casa Grande
We called Bud and Judy only to find out they can’t make it out to our site as they have plans that they had forgotten so we said our goodbyes over the phone. We drove to town and Val had a ring and bracelet cleaned and polished. We had lunch at a little Chinese restaurant where the food was excellent and the prices were also very good. We came back home and I loaded the kayaks and the bikes and packed whatever we didn’t need for the next few hours.
It is very warm today…85*F (26*C) and the forecast is for even hotter for tomorrow
APR. 19, Sunday, to Ehrenberg, Arizona
We left early this morning fuelled at $2.039 then went to McDonald for breakfast. By 9:30 we were heading out of Casa Grande on Hwy 238 which turned out to be a very pretty drive. We turned north on hwy 85 then eventually west on I-10. By following this route, we by-passed Phoenix but didn’t gain any time or mileage. It might have been better had we followed I-8 to Hwy 85 but we did enjoy the drive.
We stopped at a REST AREA for lunch then again in Quartzsite where Val went to the famous “BookStore” but I think she just wanted to see the naked guy there!!? We fuelled here at $2.099/gallon then went on to EHRENBERG where we stopped for the night at COLORADO RIVER OASIS Park, a W.H.R. park so free for us. I found out in Quartzsite that it is better to go to BLYTHE which is just across the river to get any mechanical work done. I need new brakes on the trailer.
I installed MAGIC JACK, a phone system which allows us to call long distance using a regular phone via the internet. Val tried it out by calling a few family member. We also had a pleasant surprise as my daughter called to chat. We also talked to my grand-daughter Vanessa who is graduating this year.
We travelled a total of 354 KM (221 miles) in 5.5 hours at an average speed of 49 MPH.
N 33* 36’ 28”
W 114* 31’ 32”
Alt: 326 feet
A sunny and cool morning! Only 48*F at 8:30 a.m. We went shopping to Wal-Mart then came home. The wind has picked up a lot in the last little while and gusting to 40 MPH. We visited with neighbours then called it quit and went home.
APR. 17, Friday, visit in Phoenix
Sunny and cool again today but the wind has abated. It got to 70*F which is cool compared to what we’ve been used to. We went to Phoenix to Camping world where I bought items I ABSOLUTELY needed including a game of SEQUENCE which we played with Glenda and Terry and we both liked very much. We then went to COSTCO where I bought a phone to go with the MAGIC JACK I purchased a while back and finally got when our mail was picked up when we arrived here.
Afterwards, we drove to uncle Bud and Judy and visited with them then we all went for dinner at their golf club and had their famous fish and chips. We came back to their place around 8:30 p.m., visited for a while then came back to Casa Grande to our rig after making arrangements to meet again tomorrow.
A good day overall
APR. 18, Saturday, Casa Grande
We called Bud and Judy only to find out they can’t make it out to our site as they have plans that they had forgotten so we said our goodbyes over the phone. We drove to town and Val had a ring and bracelet cleaned and polished. We had lunch at a little Chinese restaurant where the food was excellent and the prices were also very good. We came back home and I loaded the kayaks and the bikes and packed whatever we didn’t need for the next few hours.
It is very warm today…85*F (26*C) and the forecast is for even hotter for tomorrow
APR. 19, Sunday, to Ehrenberg, Arizona
We left early this morning fuelled at $2.039 then went to McDonald for breakfast. By 9:30 we were heading out of Casa Grande on Hwy 238 which turned out to be a very pretty drive. We turned north on hwy 85 then eventually west on I-10. By following this route, we by-passed Phoenix but didn’t gain any time or mileage. It might have been better had we followed I-8 to Hwy 85 but we did enjoy the drive.
We stopped at a REST AREA for lunch then again in Quartzsite where Val went to the famous “BookStore” but I think she just wanted to see the naked guy there!!? We fuelled here at $2.099/gallon then went on to EHRENBERG where we stopped for the night at COLORADO RIVER OASIS Park, a W.H.R. park so free for us. I found out in Quartzsite that it is better to go to BLYTHE which is just across the river to get any mechanical work done. I need new brakes on the trailer.
I installed MAGIC JACK, a phone system which allows us to call long distance using a regular phone via the internet. Val tried it out by calling a few family member. We also had a pleasant surprise as my daughter called to chat. We also talked to my grand-daughter Vanessa who is graduating this year.
We travelled a total of 354 KM (221 miles) in 5.5 hours at an average speed of 49 MPH.
N 33* 36’ 28”
W 114* 31’ 32”
Alt: 326 feet
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April 14-15, 2009, Tucson to Casa Grande, AZ
APR. 14, Tuesday, Tucson.
A beautiful sunny day but it got really windy in the afternoon, gusting to 35 mph. We had the carpets cleaned this morning. We took all the furniture out except the dining table which is bolted down and the couch. Val did some laundry and I called WESTERN HORIZON to make reservation at CASA GRANDE Park. I picked up our truck at DESERT DIESEL around 4 p.m. They couldn’t fix the Jake but did manage to replace the Y valve and seals behind the turbo; also replaced was the CAM SENSOR and repaired the gauges for the EGT and the Tranny. All of that was less than a thousand dollars which really surprised me.
APR. 15, Wednesday, To Casa Grande, AZ
We were up by 7:30 this morning. Another beautiful day but very windy day again! We got “Q” ready for the road, drove to McDonald for breakfast then to CAMPING WORLD to pick up parts I needed then back to the Park to hook-up ”Q”. We drove out on AJO St, then I-19 and I-10 to Casa Grande. Two hours later, we pulled into DESERT SHADOW RV PARK, registered and set up at site 307. It was time we got here; the winds are gusting to almost 40 mph now and rocking the trailer at times. We picked up our mail at 2 p.m. and then relaxed. We are here until Sunday. Val called her uncle to let them know we are here and we made plans to see them on Friday
We drove 123 KM in 2 hrs @ an average speed of 47 MPH.
N 32* 55’ 15”
W 111* 45’ 19”
Alt: 1390 feet
A beautiful sunny day but it got really windy in the afternoon, gusting to 35 mph. We had the carpets cleaned this morning. We took all the furniture out except the dining table which is bolted down and the couch. Val did some laundry and I called WESTERN HORIZON to make reservation at CASA GRANDE Park. I picked up our truck at DESERT DIESEL around 4 p.m. They couldn’t fix the Jake but did manage to replace the Y valve and seals behind the turbo; also replaced was the CAM SENSOR and repaired the gauges for the EGT and the Tranny. All of that was less than a thousand dollars which really surprised me.
APR. 15, Wednesday, To Casa Grande, AZ
We were up by 7:30 this morning. Another beautiful day but very windy day again! We got “Q” ready for the road, drove to McDonald for breakfast then to CAMPING WORLD to pick up parts I needed then back to the Park to hook-up ”Q”. We drove out on AJO St, then I-19 and I-10 to Casa Grande. Two hours later, we pulled into DESERT SHADOW RV PARK, registered and set up at site 307. It was time we got here; the winds are gusting to almost 40 mph now and rocking the trailer at times. We picked up our mail at 2 p.m. and then relaxed. We are here until Sunday. Val called her uncle to let them know we are here and we made plans to see them on Friday
We drove 123 KM in 2 hrs @ an average speed of 47 MPH.
N 32* 55’ 15”
W 111* 45’ 19”
Alt: 1390 feet
Monday, April 13, 2009
April 9 to 13, 2009, Magdalena Mexico to Tucson, Arizona
APR. 9, Thursday, To Magdalena, Sonora, Mexico
We had a lazy start! We left around 10 a.m. after fuelling, 85L @ 7.72 Pesos. We are sad to be leaving but it’s time to go. We headed north on 15 which was light in traffic but very busy southbound. I guess everyone is heading for San Carlos. We stopped for lunch at BENJAMIN HILL then through the Military Checkpoint. For some reason, they had us sitting there for about 15 minutes before giving us the go-ahead. No search or anything. We continued through Santa Anna and arrived at Magdalena around 3 p.m. The park is empty except for a small Mexican van with a lady and two dogs. We paid for two nights: 360 pesos. Now it’s time for happy hour
We travelled 325 KM at an average speed of 47 MPH and paid 119 pesos in tolls north of Hermosillo.
N 30* 37’ 34”
W 110* 58” 20”
Alt. 2400 feet
APR. 10, Friday, exploring Magdalena
A sunny and warm day and our last in Mexico! We went cycling into town, looked at the Town Square, went along the river which one could jump over and looked at a few shops. We even saw a parade of Jesus bearing the Cross and others dressed as Roman soldiers and flagging him. They walked to the Square Church where everyone met and prayed. It is Good Friday after all! We also searched but an Internet café but had no luck. I bought a 30 pesos phone card and called Tucson Diesel to confirm my appointment next Monday.
We came home and changed our bikes for the truck and drove to a back road where we found a blanket on the road as we were climbing this hill. We saw a young man running down and I assumed it was his. We gave him a ride back to the top and to his family who were very grateful for our help. We continued on and turned around about 5 miles further along as there really wasn’t much to see. As we came back, we met the car and everyone was vividly waving at us. It was quite neat and heart-warming. Before coming home, I fuelled up; 90.57Litres for 700 pesos. We had a little siesta before dinner. I loaded the bikes and hooked up the truck to “Q”
APR. 11, Saturday, back to Tucson, Arizona.
We got up at 5:30 a.m. and were on the road by 6:45. It rained overnight, quite heavily so the streets are wet and dirty this morning. The town is very quiet at this time of the day. We got on 15D north and stopped at Km 245 to drop off our “all States” sticker, through a toll booth for 85 pesos then on to the border where I surrendered our tourist card and got our passport stamped. We crossed into the USA without any glitches and the whole process took less than an hour. It was really cold…only 45*F
We stopped in town at McDonald for breakfast and a good coffee then it was back on the road heading north on I-19 to Tucson.
We arrived at our chosen park, Miracle RV, at almost the same time as Terry and Glenda, but found out that the sites were just too small for both our rigs so we headed south west to RINCON WEST RV PARK, another Campclub USA park. We drove there and paid for 3 nights and Terry for 2 nights; $20/night + 3.91 in tax. We set-up at site 801 and 802 then it was Happy Hour and catch up time. Glenda made dinner and Terry cooked these beautiful and delicious American steaks. Afterwards we played a card game call Sequence and had a good time over coffee and dessert. We finally called it quit around 10 p.m. It has warmed up a bit but very windy
Tucker has been coughing a lot and that has us very worried.
Travelled 228 KM in 6 hours at an average speed of 47 MPH
N 32* 09’ 58”
W 110* 59’ 43”
Alt: 2440 feet
APR. 12, Sunday, Tucson,
It is sunny today but still cool in the morning. Terry and Glenda came with us to the Vet. Hospital where we wanted to have Tucker checked but they had an emergency going so we left and went to Camping World but unfortunately it was close so we went for lunch. We drove back to the hospital and after an hour wait, we finally got to see the doctor where he found him with a good heart beat and no fever but wanted to get an X-Ray and blood test done. They estimated this to be around $800 US so needless to say we said no and left. We got back to our site and had Happy Hour on the road, chasing the sun, the dinner at our place. Terry BBQ’ed the burgers. We had a nice visit again and Val served dessert and coffee. Once again the evening ended too soon!
APR. 13, Monday, In Tucson
A bit warmer this day, we were up at 7 a.m. to say goodbye to Terry and Glenda and see them off as they are headed to Albuquerque for a RV Rally. Afterwards, I took the truck to TUCSON DIESEL to get my Jake fix and the turbo exhaust seals. They drove me back home and I paid for another night at the RV Park.
We cycled over to the Mall and Val bought some make-up stuff then we went to Home Depot which was more interesting. I bought a few things that I needed for the rig and some RID-X for the sewer. We cycled back on this path which was paved and followed a dry river bed. As we were cycling back, Visa Security called to ask if I had just made a purchase at Home Depot as we hadn’t used our card much in Mexico. WOW! Now that’s what I call looking after your customers and good security!
A really hot day which is quite a change from the last two days; even wore shorts and had the A/C on most of the day.
We had a lazy start! We left around 10 a.m. after fuelling, 85L @ 7.72 Pesos. We are sad to be leaving but it’s time to go. We headed north on 15 which was light in traffic but very busy southbound. I guess everyone is heading for San Carlos. We stopped for lunch at BENJAMIN HILL then through the Military Checkpoint. For some reason, they had us sitting there for about 15 minutes before giving us the go-ahead. No search or anything. We continued through Santa Anna and arrived at Magdalena around 3 p.m. The park is empty except for a small Mexican van with a lady and two dogs. We paid for two nights: 360 pesos. Now it’s time for happy hour
We travelled 325 KM at an average speed of 47 MPH and paid 119 pesos in tolls north of Hermosillo.
N 30* 37’ 34”
W 110* 58” 20”
Alt. 2400 feet
APR. 10, Friday, exploring Magdalena
A sunny and warm day and our last in Mexico! We went cycling into town, looked at the Town Square, went along the river which one could jump over and looked at a few shops. We even saw a parade of Jesus bearing the Cross and others dressed as Roman soldiers and flagging him. They walked to the Square Church where everyone met and prayed. It is Good Friday after all! We also searched but an Internet café but had no luck. I bought a 30 pesos phone card and called Tucson Diesel to confirm my appointment next Monday.
We came home and changed our bikes for the truck and drove to a back road where we found a blanket on the road as we were climbing this hill. We saw a young man running down and I assumed it was his. We gave him a ride back to the top and to his family who were very grateful for our help. We continued on and turned around about 5 miles further along as there really wasn’t much to see. As we came back, we met the car and everyone was vividly waving at us. It was quite neat and heart-warming. Before coming home, I fuelled up; 90.57Litres for 700 pesos. We had a little siesta before dinner. I loaded the bikes and hooked up the truck to “Q”
APR. 11, Saturday, back to Tucson, Arizona.
We got up at 5:30 a.m. and were on the road by 6:45. It rained overnight, quite heavily so the streets are wet and dirty this morning. The town is very quiet at this time of the day. We got on 15D north and stopped at Km 245 to drop off our “all States” sticker, through a toll booth for 85 pesos then on to the border where I surrendered our tourist card and got our passport stamped. We crossed into the USA without any glitches and the whole process took less than an hour. It was really cold…only 45*F
We stopped in town at McDonald for breakfast and a good coffee then it was back on the road heading north on I-19 to Tucson.
We arrived at our chosen park, Miracle RV, at almost the same time as Terry and Glenda, but found out that the sites were just too small for both our rigs so we headed south west to RINCON WEST RV PARK, another Campclub USA park. We drove there and paid for 3 nights and Terry for 2 nights; $20/night + 3.91 in tax. We set-up at site 801 and 802 then it was Happy Hour and catch up time. Glenda made dinner and Terry cooked these beautiful and delicious American steaks. Afterwards we played a card game call Sequence and had a good time over coffee and dessert. We finally called it quit around 10 p.m. It has warmed up a bit but very windy
Tucker has been coughing a lot and that has us very worried.
Travelled 228 KM in 6 hours at an average speed of 47 MPH
N 32* 09’ 58”
W 110* 59’ 43”
Alt: 2440 feet
APR. 12, Sunday, Tucson,
It is sunny today but still cool in the morning. Terry and Glenda came with us to the Vet. Hospital where we wanted to have Tucker checked but they had an emergency going so we left and went to Camping World but unfortunately it was close so we went for lunch. We drove back to the hospital and after an hour wait, we finally got to see the doctor where he found him with a good heart beat and no fever but wanted to get an X-Ray and blood test done. They estimated this to be around $800 US so needless to say we said no and left. We got back to our site and had Happy Hour on the road, chasing the sun, the dinner at our place. Terry BBQ’ed the burgers. We had a nice visit again and Val served dessert and coffee. Once again the evening ended too soon!
APR. 13, Monday, In Tucson
A bit warmer this day, we were up at 7 a.m. to say goodbye to Terry and Glenda and see them off as they are headed to Albuquerque for a RV Rally. Afterwards, I took the truck to TUCSON DIESEL to get my Jake fix and the turbo exhaust seals. They drove me back home and I paid for another night at the RV Park.
We cycled over to the Mall and Val bought some make-up stuff then we went to Home Depot which was more interesting. I bought a few things that I needed for the rig and some RID-X for the sewer. We cycled back on this path which was paved and followed a dry river bed. As we were cycling back, Visa Security called to ask if I had just made a purchase at Home Depot as we hadn’t used our card much in Mexico. WOW! Now that’s what I call looking after your customers and good security!
A really hot day which is quite a change from the last two days; even wore shorts and had the A/C on most of the day.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
April 4 to 8, last days in San Carlos
APR. 4, Saturday, Semana Sante (Holy Week)
This coming week is Semana Sante, Holy week. This means that it’s going to be crazy in town with traffic as a lot of Mexicans are off work and came here to San Carlos for a holiday and party. We went to TONY for some greens then home.
At 5:30 we went to THE PALAPA restaurant on the beach with Gaylard and Carol for a lamb dinner. It was different then what I am used to but good all the same. We came home around 8 p.m. and had a nightcap before saying goodnight.
APR. 5, Sunday, San Carlos
Another quiet day! Val did some laundry and I went to the bank to get some deneros. It was cloudy all day and warm. Traffic in town isn’t too bad considering. The park is almost empty and only 3-4 rigs came in for overnight stay. The season is definitely coming to an end. Downloaded e-mail and updated the blog
APR. 6, Monday, 3 days to departure
An overcast day but very warm! We went to the dentist and Val had a slight problem fixed then we went to Guaymas to get some wine and beer and buns at SORIANA then came back to San Carlos and picked up Val’s meds. So far the traffic in San Carlos has been manageable. Let’s hope it last to Thursday morning.
Other than that, it was a quiet day at home. We got an e-mail from our friends Glenda and Terry and we’ve made arrangement to meet in Tucson on Saturday, the 11th…looking forward to it.
APR. 7, Tuesday, one last day at the beach
Val went for her last Tuesday Tai-Chi class then we went to SOGGY PESOS to meet Garry and Virginia. Val and Virginia went out on the Bay while Garry and I watched them and I had a beer. The beach was very busy today. There are more and more young Mexicans coming out for the Semana Sante. We came back around 3 p.m. I washed the kayaks and loading & secured them for our departure. Also put away the bikes after washing them. Things are sooooo dusty!
We had dinner then went over to Gaylard and Carol for one last nightcap. They are leaving tomorrow.
APR. 8, Wednesday, Last day in San Carlos
We got up late this morning and that’s OK! I washed and cleaned all our gear and put everything away. Washed the awning and put it up after it dried. The only things left out are two chairs, the satellite dish and the water and sewer hook-ups. Tomorrow we leave for Magdelena, about an hour from the Border which we will cross on Saturday morning.
The place is really looking empty now; only 15 rigs left in the park. Our neighbour, Gaylard and Carol left this morning for northern places.
We went for one last hot dog at EL CHEQUE and said our goodbyes to him. We are going out for dinner tonight, probably the Best Western Hotel.
I also called TELUS and re-connected our cell as of this coming Saturday.
This coming week is Semana Sante, Holy week. This means that it’s going to be crazy in town with traffic as a lot of Mexicans are off work and came here to San Carlos for a holiday and party. We went to TONY for some greens then home.
At 5:30 we went to THE PALAPA restaurant on the beach with Gaylard and Carol for a lamb dinner. It was different then what I am used to but good all the same. We came home around 8 p.m. and had a nightcap before saying goodnight.
APR. 5, Sunday, San Carlos
Another quiet day! Val did some laundry and I went to the bank to get some deneros. It was cloudy all day and warm. Traffic in town isn’t too bad considering. The park is almost empty and only 3-4 rigs came in for overnight stay. The season is definitely coming to an end. Downloaded e-mail and updated the blog
APR. 6, Monday, 3 days to departure
An overcast day but very warm! We went to the dentist and Val had a slight problem fixed then we went to Guaymas to get some wine and beer and buns at SORIANA then came back to San Carlos and picked up Val’s meds. So far the traffic in San Carlos has been manageable. Let’s hope it last to Thursday morning.
Other than that, it was a quiet day at home. We got an e-mail from our friends Glenda and Terry and we’ve made arrangement to meet in Tucson on Saturday, the 11th…looking forward to it.
APR. 7, Tuesday, one last day at the beach
Val went for her last Tuesday Tai-Chi class then we went to SOGGY PESOS to meet Garry and Virginia. Val and Virginia went out on the Bay while Garry and I watched them and I had a beer. The beach was very busy today. There are more and more young Mexicans coming out for the Semana Sante. We came back around 3 p.m. I washed the kayaks and loading & secured them for our departure. Also put away the bikes after washing them. Things are sooooo dusty!
We had dinner then went over to Gaylard and Carol for one last nightcap. They are leaving tomorrow.
APR. 8, Wednesday, Last day in San Carlos
We got up late this morning and that’s OK! I washed and cleaned all our gear and put everything away. Washed the awning and put it up after it dried. The only things left out are two chairs, the satellite dish and the water and sewer hook-ups. Tomorrow we leave for Magdelena, about an hour from the Border which we will cross on Saturday morning.
The place is really looking empty now; only 15 rigs left in the park. Our neighbour, Gaylard and Carol left this morning for northern places.
We went for one last hot dog at EL CHEQUE and said our goodbyes to him. We are going out for dinner tonight, probably the Best Western Hotel.
I also called TELUS and re-connected our cell as of this coming Saturday.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
April 1 to 3, 2009 San Carlos
APR. 1, Wednesday, San Carlos
Is this park ever quiet now! Val did some exercises outside and I did some little repairs inside. We cycled to town, had a couple hot dogs then to TONY to buy some greens then to the bank to get deneros (money). Once back at the park, I paid for another week (1925 pesos). We are due to leave on Thursday the 9th.
Called a campsite in Tucson and made reservation for the 12th at MIRACLE RV PARK under CAMP USA CLUB. I also called UPS at home and had our mail forwarded to Casa Grande where we will be staying after Tucson.
Val met a French couple (Michel and Claudette) from the Baja while walking Tucker so invited them over for Happy Hour. They had interesting stories to tell. They own a lot by Mulege on the Baja and are on the way back there via the ferry at Los Mochis.
APR. 2, Thursday, San Carlos
Val went for her TAI-CHI lesson while I backed up all my pictures and documents (the right way this time, I might add and double checked). Afterwards, we went to the doctor for Val to renew her pills then it was lunch and relax.
APR. 3, Friday, More routine stuff
Val went for her last lesson of TAI-CHI at the Gym and came back home glowing from the compliments she received from her instructor. We went to Tecali only to discover that the library was closed. A real disappointment as it is open only on Friday and next week, we won’t be here. I called TUCSON DIESEL and made an appointment for Monday the 13th.
In the afternoon, we went to visit Garry and Virginia then came home for dinner: Chili renello, shrimp and salad! YUM! YUM!
Is this park ever quiet now! Val did some exercises outside and I did some little repairs inside. We cycled to town, had a couple hot dogs then to TONY to buy some greens then to the bank to get deneros (money). Once back at the park, I paid for another week (1925 pesos). We are due to leave on Thursday the 9th.
Called a campsite in Tucson and made reservation for the 12th at MIRACLE RV PARK under CAMP USA CLUB. I also called UPS at home and had our mail forwarded to Casa Grande where we will be staying after Tucson.
Val met a French couple (Michel and Claudette) from the Baja while walking Tucker so invited them over for Happy Hour. They had interesting stories to tell. They own a lot by Mulege on the Baja and are on the way back there via the ferry at Los Mochis.
APR. 2, Thursday, San Carlos
Val went for her TAI-CHI lesson while I backed up all my pictures and documents (the right way this time, I might add and double checked). Afterwards, we went to the doctor for Val to renew her pills then it was lunch and relax.
APR. 3, Friday, More routine stuff
Val went for her last lesson of TAI-CHI at the Gym and came back home glowing from the compliments she received from her instructor. We went to Tecali only to discover that the library was closed. A real disappointment as it is open only on Friday and next week, we won’t be here. I called TUCSON DIESEL and made an appointment for Monday the 13th.
In the afternoon, we went to visit Garry and Virginia then came home for dinner: Chili renello, shrimp and salad! YUM! YUM!
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