New Years Eve

I woke up this morning with a partly black eye.  I remember hitting the side of my glasses which then jammed into the corner of my eye.  Beside looking bad, it hurts.  (Makeup helps) I still have a cold and cough a lot.  Way to start a new year!

We went out to dinner with three other couples and then stopped by to listen to a band (outside) which was fair.  Afterward we went to one couple's trailer for dessert and visiting.  Altogether a good New Years Eve.

Gordon and Marge

Mareen and Frank

Dan and Kathy

Us

Wash, wash and more wash

We spent the day unpacking and doing wash.  There is no place to let stuff sit around in the motorhome so there was a big need to get thing put away.  Tired....

Back to Sumter Oaks

We got back to our motorhome about 6 PM, got the slides out, the water connected and the things in the car brought in before it started raining.  We drove 16 hours yesterday keeping just ahead of snow.  (I kept checking the weather on my phone.)  Stayed overnight just south of Nashville and got on the road again at 6 AM today, keeping just ahead of freezing rain.  The trip went well, but long as always and we are tired.

Last day in Minnesota

We did some shopping in the morning and then in the evening met everyone for dinner at the pub in our hotel.  Afterward we all went to our room and gave Josh his gifts for his 16th birthday.  Said goodbye until we see them in April.

(I added some pictures to the last few days.)

Christmas 2012

We started the day by going to Sheila's home for brunch and gifts.  Brenda and Rebecca were also there.  We got many fine things from shirts to food to do-dads.  In the afternoon we went for dinner at Ken's brothers home.  They had a really big bunch this year, as always the food was great and visiting fine.

We are tired tonight and ready to go to bed.

Christmas Eve

We took our gifts to Sheila's house, they saw us coming and scattered.  Thought for a minute they were trying to avoid us!  They just had to get put together - guess we should have called first.

Then it was to CVS to get me some stronger cold meds, the sudafed that has to be signed for at the pharmacy and some cough drops.

We met the Dennis' at their church for the Christmas Eve service and then went to their home crape and fondue dinner - very good.

Sunday in Minnesota

We started the day by doing wash in the hotel laundromat.  Later in the day we met Brenda, Dan and Rebecca for dinner at Fabulous Ferns in St. Paul.  Good food and great visit with them!

Downtown Minneapolis annual trip

We met Sheila and family and Brenda and Rebecca at Macy's to go see the annual animated show.  This is the third year for the same show so we know it well.  It is cute and fun.  Then did some shopping/looking and met again for lunch at the Sky Room on the top floor of Macy's.  What was different this year was we didn't have to deal with a blizzard/slick roads, etc.  Usually the weather is nasty when we go downtown.

Don and I came home for a nap and then got a Subway (not too hungry after a huge lunch) and the movie Hope Springs to watch in our room.

Friday in the north

Don went to the doctor today for a check up.  All is well.  I stayed at the hotel, had some things to do and lazy!  Went to Sheila and Ken's home for dinner and visiting in the evening.  Came back and watched the DVD we had borrowed from them "Descendants" with George Clooney.  Good movie.

Cold day in MN

There was some snow overnight and now a little wind today, nothing that will keep us off the streets.  We finished our Christmas shopping, sure seems cold to us as we are used to temps in the 80's.

We went to Josh's hockey game, was fun to see him on the ice.  Then we went to our favorite Chinese - Hong Wong for dinner.

Made it to MN

We got to Apple Valley about 3 PM.  There had been some freezing rain in northern Iowa but it had melted on the roads.  Looked like some had even been plowed but no problem for us.  Good to be here!

Davenport, Iowa

After 11 1/2 hours of driving today we made it to Davenport.  All went well today, no wrong turns which was a combination of GPS and good luck.  We got into rush hour traffic going into Nashville this morning and had a couple slow downs for wrecks.  There are all sorts of storm warnings for here tomorrow evening so glad we aren't traveling one day later!  We should be able to get to MN ahead of bad weather.

Chattanooga TN

Here we are in Chattanooga for the night.  Ran into some heavy rain, of course in a construction zone.  Otherwise the day went well.  We went to the old town area for dinner,  saw the old depot which is now a hotel.

Sunday afternoon in the sun

It is another hot day, around 80 degrees.  Yesterday I worked like a crazy lady getting things packed.  I thought I had done good preparation but ran into a few delays.  I kept thinking of things I forgot - oh well a Wal Mart is 6 blocks from our hotel!  Today it was getting washing done, putting the Christmas decorations away, cleaning the very dirty house and more odds and ends I forgot.  I think I have it together now.  We want to go to the weekly ice cream social as a friends birthday is being celebrated.  Tonight is the Survivor show ending, can't miss that!

Hopefully we will be on the road tomorrow morning by 8 AM   (We decided to wear shorts knowing we will look silly as we drive north into the cooler weather.)

Where is that sun?

It is yet another gray, humid day.  The sun was suppose to be out by noon, we did finally see some just before dark.  We went out for breakfast and made a couple more stops.  When we got home I made some dip for the wine and cheese party tonight.  There weren't a lot of people at the party, probably about 30.  We had a good time.  The fog is already starting to form.

We are so saddened by the senseless shooting of the little children that happened today.  Even though I am a supporter of sticker gun laws, I know that unfortunately sick people like this shooter will somehow get a gun if they are determined.  We must start identifying people who are a danger to others despite their so called "rights" and think about their potential victims.   Just in the last few months we have had shootings in a mall, a theater, a place of worship and workplace and now in a school - it must stop or no one will be safe.  I think of the parents of these little angles - they probably already have purchased Christmas gifts for them and now they are buying coffins.

121212

Dec. 12, 2012  -  Last time triple digits until next century!

We went out to eat at Steak and Shake this evening.  It rained on and off all day, the air conditioner  ran most of the night.  Suppose to cool down and dry off now!!!!

Santa visits Sumter Oaks

This morning a pre-school group of kids came to the RV park to sing a few Christmas Songs.  They did a nice job, cute and well behaved.  They each had on a white T-shirt with a reindeer on the front.  They had made the reindeer by tracing their foot for the head and nose and their hands for the horns and cutting them out of brown felt, decorated with eyes and a red nose of course.

Santa (a man from the park that didn't need a fake beard or padding for the stomach) passed out little gifts to the kids.

The park managers had treats for the kids and adults as well.  They were worried that people wouldn't show up but say the word "food" and they come.

Afterword Don and I went to Brooksville.  We had lunch at Chic-fil-a, Don got the food and had a strange look on his face when he brought it to the table.  The food was free because it was the 900th order of the month.  We then got hair cuts, went to Wal Mart and Sam's Club.  It rained a bit on the way home.  Rained hard yesterday with the light and sound effects.

Humid Sunday

The humidity turned into rain last night so today it is even more humid and plenty hot.  Had the AC on all day.  Don't bother to watch the movie Sparkle, we were about bored enough to turn it off but made it to the end.  Went to the ice cream (sherbet for me) social this afternoon.  Lots of people there.  I tried on my jeans that I haven't worn for a year to see it they still fit - they do, so I won't have to wear shorts in Minnesota next week.

We're about to grill the last of our Minnesota steak tonight.

Florida Humid Saturday

It has been hot and very humid today.  Woke up to fog, later the sun came out to warm us up.  We went to breakfast at the clubhouse, sat with a couple form Australia that keeps their RV in Arizona and comes to the US to travel around.  They have been to every state but three, better than most Americans.

I started boxing and wrapping Christmas gifts after breakfast and then we went to Bushnell for lunch and some shopping at Wal Mart.  Still can't find one item, will try in Brooksville this week but may give a gift card.  We rented the movie Sparkle for tonight, hope it is good!  Finished wrapping gifts this afternoon.  Cards are about done, now I have to think about packing.

Escapees "First Thursday" lunch

We went to Clermont for lunch at the Golden Corral.  The majority of the people are from our RV park but always good to see people from other places as well.   Friends we hadn't seen for a while were saving a place for us - great to visit with them.

After eating far too much Don and I went to Target, K Mart, Kohl's and CVS.  We got home about 4 PM.  I was determined to get my Christmas shopping done but couldn't find one item.  At Target I got my nerve up and asked if they would price match an item that was cheaper elsewhere, and she said sure!

Sick - eek

I woke up this morning about a dizzy as one can get and not faint.  The bedroom was spinning!  Also I was hot, then cold, etc.   I discovered that I felt better sitting up so stacked the pillows on the sofa behind my back and went back to sleep.  I awoke about 11 AM and felt somewhat better, went back to sleep in the afternoon and then felt almost normal.  It must have been one of those crazy flu's that go around.

12212

We went out for breakfast, came home to read the papers.  Its getting hot again in Florida - humidity can't far off.  We returned the  red  box movie Men in Black lll.  Good movie!

Thursday at Sumter Oaks

Sumter Oaks RV Park celebrated the 11th anniversary of being an Escapees park.  We had a good roast beef dinner at the Club House followed by entertainment from a comedian.  He was good, multi-talented and had a fast paced show of about 1 1/2 hours.  We were here when the park first opened but didn't get a lease lot until about 7 years ago.  The park has changed a lot, much work has been done.

Tampa and beyond

Today we went to Tampa to Christmas shop and of course eat lunch at Sweet Tomatoes   We did some shopping before eating and after went to Target.  If felt dizzy in Target - I had either eaten too much (best possibility)  or was overcome by all the glowing items available.  Then I went to Kohl's to spend the $45 coupon I had earned, when I paid they gave me a $10 "customer appreciation" coupon to use next week.  I think they own me.

We also went to Camping World and Parksdale Farms and loaded up on fresh produce again.  It was a long day, lots of walking - my legs were sore again.

Saturday on the computer

We went to the park clubhouse for breakfast and then I spent most of the day on the computer shopping.  I finally got together orders.  My eyes were almost crossed when I was done.  Also we decorated the MH inside and out for Christmas.  We drove about 30 miles north to eat dinner at Zaxby's.   We rented  the movie "The Expendables 2" which we enjoyed.

Black Friday

We went to Clermont (near Orlando) to Christmas shop.  I spent about 2 hours in Kohl's and got a lot of things.  Then we went to Target, K Mart and BJ's.  BJ's is like Sam's Club - we had a guest pass.  Not much different than Sam's.  I was exhausted mentally and physically and ready for a nap when we got home.  (Not that I slept in the car on the way home.)

Thanksgiving 2012

We watched the Macy's parade on TV in the morning and then went for dinner at Cracker Barrow like we always do.  We had to wait about 15 minutes to get seated which wasn't bad at all.  They had a good dinner:  turkey, ham, stuffing, sweet potatoes,  vegetable,  cranberry sauce, corn bread and biscuits and pumpkin pie.  We took one dinner home for "left overs" for the evening.  After all that food a good nap was next!

In the afternoon we talked to Sheila and Brenda to wish them Happy Thanksgiving.

Sun, at last

After several days of heavy clouds, it is good to see the sun again.  Still cool, still humid.  Yesterday we got a LOT of rain in about an hour.  It hadn't rained for a long time so was needed to green things up.  It really came down hard for awhile, thunder and all.

We went out for breakfast as usual and read the papers this morning.  Then this afternoon went to the ice cream social at the clubhouse.

Brooksville

We went to Brooksville today, had lunch at Paneras and did a little shopping.  Just a day to get away.  We are on day three of heavy clouds and humidity.  Hope to see the sun soon!

Unknown to us, Sam's Club had their Holiday Tasting day so there were many places in the store handing out little bites of food.  The wine stop was my favorite one, followed by the espresso.   There were also lots of people, one man I kept getting behind in the lines wanted to chat up the person handing out the food.  One 18 +/- boy was riding around in a motorized cart but would get up and walk around, in better shape than I am.   I was about ready to tell him that there might be people that needed that cart and he should get a live.  Perhaps it was a version of bumper cars to him.  Sad.

Can't get away with anything

Seems like wherever we go we see someone we know.  We went to Walmart late on Friday and there was a friend that had just made their way south.  Where we had dinner, friends.  Today we went to lunch at McDons, friends - then Walmart, friends.

This morning Don took the Honda to the Honda place to get the wheels aligned  turns out they needed it badly.  Meanwhile, back at the ranch (campground) I cleaned and polished the leather furniture except for the fount chars - ran out of pep and more importantly it was 10:00 coffee time.

Where do you perch?

Tampa and beyond

As soon as we got up we turned on the TV to see that in fact President Obama won another term.  When we went to bed it was fairly certain but I wanted to know for sure.  Still Florida has not declared a winner as usual.  We are probably the only ones in the RV park that voted for Obama.

We went to Tampa today, ate at Sweet Tomatoes, did some shopping and then went to Camping World followed by Parksdale Farms for fresh fruit and vegetables.  Was a nice day to be out.

I got bit by a ant yesterday and am now suffering.  The only thing I could think about when I got bit was how much pain I was going to be going through in the next few days.  My ankle is all red and swollen.  Ice packs are about the only thing that helps (and Tylenol 3).

Sunny Sunday

We ate breakfast at our favorite Denny's and it was good as always - way above most Denny's.  Then we read our two Sunday papers, one we get delivered - the Leesburg paper and one we purchased - the Tampa paper.  We went to the 4PM ice cream social and then had a late dinner.  It has been a hot day but cooling down at night.

Work around the motorhome

Yesterday Don power washed our concrete patio.  It had gotten really black with mold over the summer but looks super now.  Today he washed the motorhome to get all the road grime off, it also looks good.  We picked up dinner at King's Wok, one of our favorite places.  It was good as usual and then we watched the movie "Best Exotic Marigold Hotel".  We enjoyed the movie but sure not for everyone.

Escapees meeting

We went to Clermont today for the monthly Escapees meeting at Golden Corral.  There were about 40 people there, not everyone has made it from the northern states yet.  Afterward we went to Camping Connection and purchased a new motion sensing porch light.  The plastic on our porch light is broken so is a good time to get one of the new 12 volt motion sensing lights.  Also went to Lowes and Kohls.  I didn't buy anything at Kohls, that is a first.

Halloween

There was a wine and cheese party at the club house tonight for Halloween and to say goodbye to our summer managers and welcome our winter managers.  There was a good turn out.  Good visiting and a fun time.

Brooksville

We went to Brooksville today for very badly needed hair cuts.  Ate lunch at Cici's and drove around some.  Stopped for some wine for the party tomorrow evening.  Nothing new in Brooksville.  Picked up a Subway for dinner.  Sure good to get our hair cut.

Busy Monday

We spent the day getting things cleaned up and set up.  Feels good to know we will be here for awhile.  I cleaned the house, did laundry and Don worked outside, even washed the car.  We made a trip to Bushnell for groceries.  It has been cool today which feels fine to us while we were working.  Good to see friends again!

From Gulf Shores to Bushnell

We left the campground at 7:15 for the 10 hour trip.  All went well, the motorhome behaved itself even got better miles per gallon than usual.  It is interstate for the most part.  We got diesel right before heading to Sumter Oaks and put additive in the tank to keep the diesel from separating and getting mold.  Don used the leaf blower to clean off our concrete pad and we got parked and hooked up before dark.  We were a tired pair.  At least it was cooler than normal!  Good to see old friends again, good to just be here and know we will be here for awhile.

Sitting out Hurricane Sandy

We decided to stay one more day in Gulf Shores and wait for better weather.  Winds were forecast for the roads we take and why go if we don't have to go.

Don wanted to go for a ride this morning - we ended up at Krispy Kreme for a donut.  Think that was the whole purpose of the ride?  We also went down by the gulf shore and drove around in that area some.  Later we went to Zaxby's for dinner to take home.  Did some things around the motorhome so we can make a faster get-away in the morning for the 10 hour trip (including time change).  It has turned cold, at least it feels cold after mid 80 degree temps.  Is 50 this evening.

Day of rest in Gulf Shores Alabama

We didn't sleep well last night, too many miles going through our heads I guess.  We went for breakfast at Don's all time favorite place, Foley Waffle House.  It was good as usual.  Then I went to Old Time Pottery to pick up some more drinking glasses to match the ones we have - not many left.  Don went to Coleman outlet and a tools outlet,  then we went to Camping World and CVS.  We both took a good nap in the afternoon and went to Chic fil la and brought home dinner.

Now to Gulf Shores Alabama

We left Vicksburg on Interstate 20 for about 45 miles, there were lots of trucks, fog and road construction.  Got diesel at Pearl (Jackson)  and headed south.  There were many stop lights for awhile and traffic.  (Why do signs tell the motorist to "Watch for trucks entering" ?  Wouldn't you think the entering trucks should watch for the traffic??? )  We went around Pine Bluff and the Hattiesburg onto a decent four lane road to Mobile,  Albania   The last 18 miles into Mobile are many traffic lights and more and more traffic.  Finally we got to Interstate 69 which took us to Interstate 10 and then to the Gulf Shores turnoff.  The last few miles to our campground are always challenging.  We look for a white barn to find our turn, the white barn no longer is there!

We went out to eat at Logan's Steakhouse   We eat at one in Kissimmee, Florida and they ALWAYS try to seat us in the bar.  Sure enough this one at Spanish Fort tried to put us in the bar.  Do we look like bar flies?  The food was good, we were ready for a good meal.

Transylvania and Tallulah

We left Branson today and traveled to Vicksburg, MS.  This is probably the most gruelling, but not the longest trip we take.  There is a new road to Harrison, but in Harrison and beyond for some miles the highway has a curb right on the edge of the road.  If we hit it with our motorhome we are pushed into the other lane.  Then come the hills and curves, finally we get to the interstate and soon have to navigate through Little Rock.  Then it is stop and go traffic for a while until the road reduces down to two lane for about 90 miles into Louisiana where we go through the little towns of Transylvania and Tallulah.  Tallulah reminds me of where the book "The Help" could have been written.  Finally we get to Interstate 20 for 20 miles into Vicksburg.  That is four states for the day: Missouri  Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

The campground in Vicksburg is easy in and out, well laid out, plenty of room to maneuver,  but the sites are not level.  Why do they build campground with unlevel sites, seems like that would be the first concern.

It was a long day and we were exhausted.   About 350 miles.

Sunday

We ate breakfast at Steak n Shake.  The breakfast was good, the service good but they had a smoking corner where six people were puffing away.  The smoke penetrated the whole dinning room.

For dinner we grilled pork chops and had sweet potatoes with them.

12 volt dimmer

We got the 12 volt dimmer switch in the mail and Don installed it today.  Now the main bedroom lights work.

We ate dinner at Panera, just not too hungry - been eating too much.

Arkansas Black Apples

We went to Arkansas this morning for the great Arkansas Black Apples.  We found them at the usual place, a little fruit/vegetable place just beyond Harrison.  It was a beautiful day for a car trip  the fall colors were great and made more beautiful against all the rock formations.

The rest of the day we stayed home.  Clouds formed in the afternoon and it got cool.  Just seemed like a good time to fix dinner at home.

More shopping, more eating

We went to the second outlet mall in Branson.  I got a pair of jeans and a shirt on for $9.99 each.  The jeans were a particularly good deal.  We went to K Mart, I need a K Mart fix now and again and this one is nice, clean and well stocked.  Didn't buy much.

The campground clubhouse had a Chili dinner, with corn bread and strawberry pie.  We visited with Mr. and Mrs. Prevost (a Prevost is a motorhome starting at a million dollars).  They were friendly enough, didn't think they were too special.

Fall Creek Steak and Catfish House

This morning we went to Target and Wal Mart.  Wal Mart wouldn't take my coupons, even at customer (no) service.  They said too many people were copying coupons and they were loosing too much money.

We ate dinner at the Fall Creek Steak and Catfish House.  We'd heard for some time that it was a good place and it was.  We got there early and still had to wait 30 Min. We had so much food we took enough home for another meal.

We had thunderstorms again this morning and some rain.

Rib Crib

We worked around the motorhome today.  Don once again took apart the washer/dryer to remove accumulated lint, a job that seems to need to be one every 3 - 4 months.  It's a big job moving out the machine and taking apart some of the back.  It is drying much better now.

We ate at the Rib Crib tonight.  It is their AYCE night.  The ribs were very good, we had seconds. Couldn't eat all the sides: cole slaw, beans, potato salad, fries and texas toast. 

Grand Buffet and Grand Jubilee

We went for lunch at the Grand Buffet, it is probably the best buffet in Branson.  (Not that we have eaten at all the 2,000 buffets in town.)  It was as usual very good, fresh food, good tasting, clean and good service.  Afterwards we decided to see if our BOGO coupon was good at any of the shows.  One show, The Grand Jubilee seemed to be our best choice but we still had our reservations   We went to the show in the evening and were blown away!!!  It was excellent, the quartet was very good, the band very good.  Many costume changes, great stage lighting.  Also a good comedian, female soloist, and a talented announcer.  We had a great evening.  This is now my third favorite show in Branson (behind The Haygoods and The Presleys).

Sunny Sunday

We went out for breakfast at McFarlands.  It a good place to eat and has an interesting decor.  I made bread in the afternoon (in a bread machine), it turned out well - a little overdone crust.  Don grilled steak for dinner.  I talked to Brenda and Sheila in the evening.  Nice day!!!

Stormy Saturday

It was a nice day until the evening when the predicted storms roared through.  We got a lot of rain but thankfully no wind, hail or tornadoes.  In the morning we went to an outlet mall, I had good luck in one shop.  Then I went to Kohls and found nothing.  There were a lot of people out shopping.  We ate dinner at Steak n Shake.

Rainy day Friday

We were awaken about 6AM by thunder.  It rained most of the day, sometimes hard.  It had been a long time since we'd been in rain.  The car actually looked better, it was covered with dust.  We mostly stayed home, in the evening we suddenly remembered we had to take the movie back which we rented to cover the Vice Presidential debates on Thursday night "This Means War".  We stopped by a local grocery store that has an excellent bakery.  I chose a peach pie and Don got donut holes.  Don ordered the dimmer switch on line so no trip to Springfield.

10-11-12

We went to McDonalds for lunch and then hunted around for a 12 volt dimmer switch.  One place would send us to the next and that place to the next.  We never did find one except on e-bay.  Will check with the Springfield RV places tomorrow.  Dinner was at the clubhouse:  Bean and ham soup, corn bread, fried potatoes (don't know how these fit in) and pudding.  We had good conversations with some people at our table, closed the place.

Catching up

I cleaned the motorhome, washed towels  etc. while Don debugged the front.  A lot of bugs chose our motorhome window.  I was inside when all the sudden the kitchen vent stopped.  Don went on top the motorhome and found the ground wire had become disconnected, repaired the fan again worked.  He also attempted to replace a light in the bedroom but somehow caused a short that will have to be checked out later, meanwhile we have to use the lights by the bed.  We went to Fuddruckers for a hamburger for dinner.  Was a nice day, blue sky and upper 60's - forecast for rain the next 3 days.

Osceola Iowa to Branson, MO

We left Osceola about 8AM, had a good day on the road.  Going through Kansas City went well, not much traffic and the GPS got us through all our turns.  We stopped for diesel at Peculiar Pilot and got to Branson (actually Hollister, next to Branson) about 3PM.  The park, Escapees Turkey Creek, is almost full, we were lucky to get a 50 amp site.  They didn't recommend our site to us but we had parked there before and it worked fine.  We no more got settled when a truck pulling a huge Airstream trailer decided to park in the site in front of us.  I tried to ignore them, but finally got up to look (of course Don was gone) and they were SO close to our motorhome.  I made my presence known and suddenly they were super careful.  It took them forever to get to the exact spot they wanted their trailer parked.  We went to Sonic and got sandwiches which we brought home.  When we returned the people with the trailer were just starting to disconnect the truck, completely blocking the road.  He is an arrogant type, she is friendly.  They wanted to know when we were leaving as they are leaving Saturday.  They had hoped we would be gone so they could get out easier.   We plan to stay a week or two.  Hopefully we will be around when they pull out to guard our motorhome.

Prior Lake, MN to Osceola, Iowa

We got out of Dakotah Meadows RV Park about 8:30 for a day on the road.  All went well, we got to Lake Side Casino about 2PM after getting $250 of diesel at the Pilot next door.  Went to Arby's for a sandwich for dinner.

Dinner at Sheila and Ken's

After a very cold night, got down to 27 degrees, we went out for breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then to Sheila's for a pizza lunch.  Brenda and Rebecca, Kazia, Dusty, Logan and Holland as well as the Dennis family of Sheila, Ken, Josh, Zach and Brianna we there.  We had good pizza and good food.  Sheila made a super dip and Brenda brought wonderful apple crisp.  We sat around a long time and visited and laughed.  A fun day.  We are pulling up the jacks on the motorhome tomorrow and heading south where it will hopefully be warmer!

Minnesota Cold

The weather turned from very nice to very cold in a matter of hours.  We have to go into freezing mode with the motorhome which means putting water into our water tank and disconnecting the hose.  Also means using our propane furnaces as the heat pumps only work down to 40 degrees.  We can do it and stay plenty warm.  It would help it the wind would die down and the sun would shine.  It is Minnesota in October, what can we expect!  Northern MN is getting snow!!!!!

Making the most of the nice weather!

The weather folks tell us we have ONE more nice day then cold, wind, rain.  We have just been taking it easy - went out to the bank, Menards and lunch at Arby's.  In the evening we brought home tacos for dinner.

Last day of September picnic

We had perfect weather for a family picnic today.  The fall colors are beautiful right now in Minnesota.

What's in your hair?  Zach and Sheila

Rebecca and Brenda listening intently

Sheila and Rebecca

Tree outside our motorhome

Morning and evening

We went out for breakfast at the nearby Little Six Casino, they have an excellent breakfast.  We had blueberry pancakes (and there were a lot of blueberrys), egg and thick bacon.  All for $3.95.  Did a little grocery shopping afterwards.

In the evening Sheila, Josh and Brianna came to our motorhome for a visit.  They brought along some good cookies.  Is always great to see them.

Pablo's Mexican Restaurant

We ate at Pablo's tonight, our all time favorite Mexican restaurant.  Again the food was excellent.  I called Bud this morning to wish him Happy Birthday.  They were getting ready to leave for his weekly doctor appointment at the Ft. Meade Veterans Hospital in Sturgis for his ongoing foot problems.  They were taking a cake in the shape of a foot - clever and I'm sure the staff will be happy to have a piece!

Watched the second Survivor show.  I can't miss one and then get into a discussion the next day on the internet.  I've watched every season.  You'd think the castaways would watch and learn that you can't be lazy around camp and not take part in challenges and not be voted off the island.  Like  I would last 10 minutes on the show!

Moving Day

We changed sites at Dakotah Meadows campground today.  We would have had to move sometime in the next week as the site we had was not available past Monday.  It was a warm, nice day today and a good change to move.  We just moved four sites south, but as I always say "moving 50 feet or 500 miles is the same process."  We had to take down everything and secure all.  Unhook the utilities, etc.  We did it all in about an hour!

Concert in the Park

We went to Sheila's band concert in Spring Lake County Park.  It was a beautiful setting, nice day and excellent music.  Brenda, Dan and Becca also joined us.

Dinner at Panda Express

We had dinner with Brenda and Becca at Panda Express and then went to their house to see their new tile flooring in their kitchen and entry and new counter-tops in the kitchen.  All looked very nice!  Also have a new sink and faucet and new washer and dryer.

It was a cold night getting down to near freezing but as always we stayed warm inside the motorhome.

Dinner at The Dennis'

I made a cake, or more like a coffee cake in the morning to take for dinner.  Just had the box in my cupboard and it needed to be used.  We had a super good dinner at the Dennis'.  Ken's parents, Betty and Roy were also there.  We enjoyed visiting with them, we have so much in common with them.  Ken made a great ham dinner with sweet potatoes.  They also had a broccoli salad which I love.

Breakfast at Little Six

We went out for the good and inexpensive breakfast at the Little Six Casino Restaurant.  Then it was off to Menards and CVS.  We didn't get home until about lunch time.  Hung around the motorhome the rest of the day, read, did some sudoku and watched all the recorded shows we had on the DVR.  My stomach still is bothering me after 3 days, more than ready for that to go away.

Doctor Monday

It rained some during the night, hadn't head rain on the roof for a long time.  Don went into the doctor for his check-up in the morning.  His blood sugar was very good - A1C was 6.1 better than it has ever been.  I had an appointment in the afternoon, have to have some more tests.  I fixed dinner and we watched a DVD we had rented "Bernie".  It was different, OK but not something I'd ever want to watch again.

Typical Sunday

We went out for breakfast at Cracker Barrow (that's what happens when you don't have a nearby Cracker Barrow for 4 months, you visit twice in two days.)  We then went to Fleet Farm, another must do.  In the afternoon we read the papers - so good to have the Minneapolis Star Trib to read rather than the scant paper we have been getting.  In the afternoon I made bread in the bread machine which I hadn't used for years.  It didn't rise too well but the bread was OK, sure made the Motorhome smell good!

Kohl's and Cracker Barrow

I was just saying we needed a new rug in front and a new mattress pad.  Kohl's ad came out and both were on sale, I got both and a "couple" other things.  In the evening we had dinner with Sheila and family at the Cracker Barrow.  Good food and good visiting!

Dakotah Medows at Mystic Lake

It was so good to finally have a day that we didn't have something pressing we had to get done.  Didn't even have to set the alarm!  Don worked on getting the splashed mud off the motorhome and took the car to the car wash.  I did things inside like washing clothing, etc.  In the evening we went to dinner at our favorite Hong Wongs.  It was good as usual.

Into Minnesota

When we got up this morning in Sioux Falls there was some fog, we waited awhile for it to clear and then got on the road.  When we got on the road the fog got much worse, almost a white-out.  At the Minnesota boarder it suddenly cleared BUT then the tire monitor indicated the left front tire was losing air.  We pulled into a small town and into a gas station where two men were sitting in the garage.  We asked them if they could fix the tire and they said pull right up and we'll take care of it.  30 minutes later with a small screw removed (and $40 handed over - we expected at least $100 cost) we were back on the road.  The rest of the trip went well.  We got to our site at Dakotah Meadows RV Park in Prior Lake.  Brenda and Rebecca came over in the evening for a visit, great to see them again!

Across South Dakota

We got out of Happy Holiday about 7:45, about 45 minutes later than we had hoped.  All went well on the trip across South Dakota.  It had rained a little, just enough to make the highway wet - we were about to turn into a station to get diesel when an old truck passed us and splattered our clean car and motorhome with mud.  Thanks a lot.  We got the diesel, hurried to our overnight park, plugged in the electric and jumped into the car to take it to the Honda place before it closed.  We got there in time, they said it would take 1 1/2 hours to get to the car.  I got a cup of their excellent coffee (most Honda places have great coffee) and Don was inspecting their new 2013 cars when the man for the garage came to tell me our car was done.  Then we went to our sister-in-law's home for a visit and out to dinner with her.  Got back to the motorhome, finished setting it up enough for the night and crashed.

Motorhome in for maintainance

We got up a 6AM to get to Eddie's Diesel for the motorhome maintenance.  All went well getting the slides in, jacks up and air shocks pumped up and we were at Eddies at 7:30.  We went out for breakfast at the little local place "Morningside" then went to Menards, K Mart, Target, Wal Mart and Mountain Time (for a new watch battery).  It was lunch at Abby's and thinking the motorhome would be done we went back to Eddies.  Turns out it was not done until after 4PM.  We got it back to the park it get propane before we parked and someone was blocking the propane tank and not in any hurry to move.  Finally we got the propane and went to park and the same people were almost blocking our path into our site.  We had 30 minutes to get ready to go out to eat with the Managers Susan and Fritz.  The took us out for a great meal at Longhorn Steak House, lots of good visiting as well.  Now we are very tired, have to get up a 6AM tomorrow to get on the road east.

One last day working

We worked this morning, busy off and on.  Came home and got busy getting things ready to move the motorhome after sitting one place for almost 4 months.  We had dinner with Judy and Guy at the Alpine Inn in Hill City.  Again after we got home we got the last minute (except for what we have to do tomorrow morning) things done.  Was a hot day, up to 96 with 14% humidity.  There are wind, fire and allergy alerts.

Getting ready to leave Rapid City

Don has been working hard on getting the Motorhome waxed, it is looking good!  We are in the process of picking up things inside and out.  We went to Pat and Bud's for the afternoon, they had invited Lisa and Bill who are just back from a vacation.  We had nice visit.  Came home and grilled a ham slice, after we ate we went to say goodbye to Harold and Jean who we worked with this summer and are leaving tomorrow.

Cool Weather

The weather has cooled down to the 70's during the day and 40's at night.  We have actually gone a couple days without air conditioning.  Feels so good to be able to go outside without a blast of hot air.  We worked today, which may be our last day, all went well but not much to keep us busy.  We did get have the expected experience of 3 motorhomes come in together after sitting a couple hours with nothing to do but read.  I couldn't find Don to park them, couldn't get him on the radio so finally called him on his cell.  He seemed surprised that there was actually work to be done!  (Still have no idea where he was hiding.)  We went to Panchero's for dinner one last time.

Our (workamping) days are numbered

We worked Monday and Tuesday and have to work on Friday, probably again Monday and we are done.  I am really getting tired of working and want to be retired again.   The job is OK, but it is some of the people we have to work with and more than anything shuffling things we need to do around a schedule that changes weekly.  It will be good to be able to schedule our own time and we are ready to move the motorhome.  We take the motorhome in for annual maintenance on next Tuesday and leave on Wednesday if all goes well.

We are eating out at our favorite places one more time and getting things done around the motorhome.

Motorhome Joke

Just another day at work

We had a long shift today and a number of people coming in for the Labor Day Weekend.  I got a call from a man who said "I don't know where I am."  I replied that "I didn't know either, but it you could tell me what he was near perhaps I could help."  He said "I don't know where I am."  After sometime I got him to say he was near a Conoco Gas Station.  I told him there were several Conoco Stations around, did he see a street sign.  His answer "No".  Finally I could hear his wife say they are at a Flying J station.  Then I gave him directions, which should be a 20 minute at the most, trip.  After about an hour they arrived.  I didn't even want to ask.

Lunch with friends

We had lunch with friends Lamont and Georgann who we worked with in 2003 at Happy Holiday and have always kept in contact.  They are on their was from a job in West Yellowstone to their lot  on Hilton Head Island.  We always find so much to talk about that it is hard to find a stopping point.  Great to see them again!!!

H as H at HH

Hot as Hell at Happy Holiday.  The weather guessers said a couple weeks ago that we had seen the last of 100 degree weather - wrong (again).  Forecast is for 100 to 107 degrees depending on who you want to believe.  The humidity is very low and the winds will be picking up resulting in a RED FLAG WARNING for fire.

Why is it Louisiana is being flooded from hurricane Issac and we are so dry and hot?  Doesn't seem fair to anyone----

Second day in a row of working

We worked today and yesterday, were busy off and on.  One of those times when we were swamped or had nothing to do.  We were working alone which we don't mind at all.  We parked a group of 6 RV's, went scary smoothly.  One of the women was in the office four times in two hours with questions/problems.  Two of the RV'ers parked their trucks right in the middle of the road, had to ask them to move their trucks.  Have these people never camped before???

We had dinner tonight at Golden Phoenix, first time this summer - good Chinese.  Last night we went to Quiznos for salads.  Friday was 97 degrees and felt even warmer but today it was about 80 and very pleasant.  We sat outside until after 8 PM.

Dinner and Target

We ate at the always good Texas Road House and then I got my Target fix.  I had no trouble finding some things to buy at Target.  We came home and read on the patio until it was too dark, there were no bugs tonight - not even the ever present fly that drives me crazy.

Don power washed the motorhome roof today and put a sealer wax on, an annual chore.  I did some rearranging of drawers inside.  Felt like I should do something with Don working so hard.

Motorhome tune-up

We had the local (and very good) RV Tech over to do some things to our motorhome today.  He sealed around the edges of the shower stall and checked the propane.  All was good, no leaks - correct pressure, etc. with the propane.  That is suppose to be checked every two years and this was the first time in about 6 years.  He put in a new switch in the rear furnace, we don't often use that furnace but when we want it is usually late at night or early morning and Don isn't too happy to have to go outside and get it started so it will be good to have it fixed.  Otherwise it was a stay at home day, we spent time outside on the patio reading and doing sudokus.

Birthday

I celebrated my 66th birthday today by first going out for breakfast at Perkins - I like their potato pancakes and good coffee.  Then we went to the Mammoth Site at Hot Springs, we hadn't been there for a couple years so there were some new bones exposed of the huge mammoths.  From there we had lunch at a local place in Hot Springs and went on to the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park.  On the way we saw buffalo and many prairie dogs, some prairie dogs even crossed the road in front of us - first time I've seen that.  We saw many more buffalo some antelope and donkeys in the Loop.  We then came home for a rest and went to dinner at the Alpine Inn in Hill City.  I opened my gifts from my daughters and received nice things.  So it was in all a great day.

Mammoth bones exposed

Can see the tusks

Buffalo guarding sign

Working Weekend

We worked yesterday, Saturday and again today.  I don't like working on Sundays.  The highlight was our friends Kathie and Cliff stopped in for a short visit.  Who knows when we will see them again.  We had hamburgers at Fuddruckers last night, eating at home tonight.  Have to work again tomorrow which is OK.  There was a major screw-up in the schedule for us and another couple but we got it worked out - just wonder how it happened.  We know it wasn't our manager, someone cleaned out our notes to him.  The plot thickens, it will all come to light before long.

Breakfast with friends

We had breakfast with friends that we once worked with at Happy Holiday.  We all had a excellent time visiting and telling and retelling old stories.

Judy, Cliff, Kathie and Guy

Happy Holiday "Getting towards the end of the season"

We got together with the campground crew one more time before people start to go their separate ways.  Susan and Fritz brought wonderful BQ ribs that had been cooking overnight and great hot German potato salad.  Of course there was a lot of other great food.

The 2012 Crew

Dawn and Ben and new puppy Olive

Excellent Salad (or dessert)

Jody’s Excellent Apple/Snickers Salad

 

1 small pkg. vanilla or French vanilla instant pudding

16 oz. Cool Whip

3-4 firm apples like Fuji, peeled and cut into bite size pieces

1 pkg. fun size Snickers candy bars, approx.. 11 oz., each cut into six pieces

 

Mix pudding and Cool whip, add apples and Snickers.  Chill at least one hour.

Powder House

We went to the Powder House for dinner with the Dennis family.  Was a good meal as always.  Thanks Sheila and Ken, and thanks for the wine also.

Family Picnic

We had family to our motorhome from Belle Fourche, Newell, Sturgis, Rapid City and of course our daughter Sheila and family form Rosemount, MN.  It was a nice relaxed day and I think everyone enjoyed the time.

Dennis family

Jay and Sheila looking at old pictures

Brianna enjoying holding Quinton

Lisa and Quinton

Dennis' arrive

Our daughter Sheila and her family arrived today from Minnesota.  Sure good to see them!  The surprise was how tall Zach has gotten in the last two months - he is taller than his older brother Josh!  (Josh doesn't like to talk about that.)

We had a rain, some storms around but once again they either went north or south.  The campground is starting to empty out of the motorcycle people, won't be soon enough for me.  We were awaken at 5AM to a lot of banging and crashing of people getting set to move out.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

We went to Sturgis today to see all the bikes, strange people and fun happenings.  It looks about the same every year but here are a few pictures:

Monday and the motorcycles are appearing

We worked Saturday and Sunday, my leg was better but now back to not so good.

The people for the Annual Sturges Motorcycle Rally are beginning to check-in.  We have a huge 5th wheel toy haler (storage area in back like a garage, back of RV goes down to form a ramp) parked next to us.  They have two very nice looking Harley's and dressed in all the appropriate gear to make an average person look like a bad biker.

We are enjoying watching some of the Olympics on TV.

Life goes on!

Went to the doctor again yesterday for some more antibiotic for the cellulitis, also got some pain pills.  I just want this stuff to be over with.

The pesky camping group came into the park today, you'd think they owned the place.  Also have another group that is congenial so the park is mostly full.

We got 2.5 inches of rain yesterday afternoon along with the mandatory hail (about the size of large marbles).  We had no damage and today you'd never know it rained so much.  Was nice to have a cooler day or two but now the heat is building up again.

Last day in the Hills for Brenda

Brenda and crew came over for dinner after a long day in the Black Hills.  After dinner they went to Mt. Rushmore to see the night lighting.  Brenda's knee is really bothering her, hope it hasn't spoiled her trip too much.  Good thing Becca has her friend Kirsten along to do things with her.  Good seeing them!

Leg no better

I was up half the night with let pain from the cellulitus that even my fine pain pills didn't cover.  Tried ice which was fine until it milted which was quick because of the heat from my let.  I had to work 6 hours today and it was a super busy day so was on my feet most of the time.  I don't expect tonight to be any better than last night.

Brenda and crew are visiting Lisa and family at their ranch overnight.  They had dinner at Jay's in Belle Fourche last night.

We are having a heavy rain storm which is great as long as there is no hail.

Brenda comes to the Black Hills

Daughter Brenda arrived along with Becca and her friend Kirsten today.  So good to see them.  It was way too hot to make dinner so I put some ham slices for sandwiches in the crock pot on the porch.  Was a good choice along with potato salad and grapes.  We ate inside as the heat just can't be tolerated!  They are off to many adventures in the next couple days, will see them again later.

Leg still bad

I hardly slept Tuesday night, the bed sheet touching my leg felt like sandpaper.  I took a light pain pill, but was too light didn't help much.  My let was somewhat better in the morning but had to work and be on my feet most of  6 hours so went back to where it was on Tuesday.  Last night I took a powerful pain pill and slept soundly for 6 hours, today the red seems to be receding a little.  One more day and it's back to the doctor if my leg is not much better.  Don't have to work until Saturday.

It is still hot here up to 103 today, low humidity which helps.

Sick again

I felt fine yesterday morning but all the sudden about noon I got the chills, then hot and cold, stomach upset.  I took a long nap and felt even worse.  Today still hot and cold and Don noticed my right let was all red.  I know right away it was cellulitis so went to urgent care and got some antibiotic.

We got home in time to go to a pizza party at the office, I wasn't hungry but good to get out for awhile.

Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road

We got a fairly early start and did a tour in the Black Hills and Custer State Park.  We went over the Iron Mountain Road and through the Needles.  This trip twice has been named one of the top ten driven in the US by USA Today newspaper.  It is a beautiful trip no mater how many times you go.  We came back via Hill City and stopped for a great lunch at Alpine Inn.  We had sandwiches made of ham, turkey, bacon and advato on honey nut wheat bread.  We got home about 1PM just as it was getting to be very hot.  We were in the upper 90's today, low humidity.

How can people be so lazy?

Not a good day working at the campground office.  We worked with a fairly new couple, they did NOT want to do ANYTHING.  She just sat and read and filed her nails.  He disappeared when there was anything to do.  They were sure to take a break and go home for dinner for 45 minutes.  (We do neither, when we are there to work - we work.)  I finally got busy with another project and she had to get up and work.  At one point Don got really mad, which is rare for him, when the man flat out refused to help Don.  We have talked to our boss and found out we aren't the only ones having problems with them.  We also said we never want to be on the schedule with them again.  - Larry and Jane - be gone~~~

Bear Country

This morning we went to Bear Country just up the road from us.  It is always fun, lots of animals, we especially like the little bear cubs.

Busy Monday

We worked 6+ hours today then came home and cleaned the house.  I washed and put away 3 loads, went to Target and stopped by Schlotzsky's for sandwiched to take home.  I was really tired---

Don's Birthday

We went to breakfast at Denny's to celebrate Don's birthday and then to dinner at Texas Roadhouse.  We got some cupcakes of Don's choosing.  Sheila and Brenda called to wish him happy birthday, they had sent nice gifts.  Brenda also sent a musical card and Sheila's card referred to Don's outstanding sense of fashion!?!  Don said he had a nice birthday - he also got several e-mail wishes.

Storm

We had a rain storm along with wind this evening.  No hail for a chance.  Sure hope we got enough rain to help with the forest fires around here!  The wind really rocked the motorhome, at one point it felt like it picked up one side of the MH a little.

It felt good today to have nothing major to do.  We went to Menards and Wal Mart in the morning and ate lunch at McDonald's.  I saw two people I know at Wal Mart!

Independence Day - July 4th

We had a fun picnic at Jay's house, they went all out.  Jodi made 7 layer dip, baked beans, fruit pizza and ice cream Rocky Road dessert as well as the hamburgers and hot dogs.  Everyone brought something so we had plenty of food.  It was a hot day but very pleasant in the backyard shade.

We were going to the parade but when I got up I felt like H***, when my allergy medicine and three cups of coffee kicked in I felt much better but it was too late for the parade.

There were no fireworks around Rapid City as the county had banned them.  Campfires, charcoal fires and fireworks were also banned even in the campground.  Just too dry and the fire danger is high.

Beginning of the holiday week

It was busy in the office today, so busy we worked an hour and half extra.  Just can't leave co-workers in a jam.  One older man came in and asked why we had all the US flags out and the red, white and blue decorations.  I said because Independence Day is coming.  He didn't think that was"all that important."  He was also drooling down his beard.  He paid for a $2.50 bill with a $100 bill.  I used our special pen to make sure he wasn't making his own money.  We also have over 100 kids from the east coast tenting in the park, what a pain - they use their charge card for even a pack of gum.  There is a total fireworks ban in effect and a big fine if anyone wants to set off a few.  We heard tomorrow there will be a campfire and charcoal fire ban.  It is so hot and dry here that the chance of a forest fire at super great.

Dinner with ---

Thursday evening we had dinner with our friends Kathie and Cliff at Rapid City's new Famous Dave's BQ.  Was a good dinner and even better conversation.  Tonight we had dinner with niece Laurie, her husband Dick and son Ryan (form Vegas) at the Powder House.  Again, good dinner and great conversation.  After dinner they came to our motorhome for even more visiting.

During the day a couple we worked with 8 years ago pulled into the campground,  Terry and Jessie.  They are going to work again this summer.  We really enjoyed working with them and hope we are on the schedule with them again this summer.  We visited with them for awhile.

Where there's smoke there's fire!

We woke up to the smell of smoke this morning.  At first I thought it was just someone's campfire but then I realized it was from the Sheridan Lake fire.  Looking outside the air was thick with smoke.  Thankfully the wind changed and the smoke cleared.  Hope they get the fire out soon as it is threatening some homes.

Poor Ben

We had a good afternoon working at the campground store.  Poor Ben, our young co-worker got stuck with a difficult person to park - we almost had to tranquilize Ben when he came back.  Then the guy couldn't get his truck unhooked so came back to Ben for help - Ben and Don finally got him unhooked.  The guy came back a third time saying something was wrong with OUR electricity as his air conditioner wouldn't work.  Turned out HIS air conditioner wasn't turned on!  We of course, had to give Ben a bad time ----

Was 109 degrees today, tied the all time record.  Had a hot wind also.  We could first smell smoke and then see the smoke from a forest fire near Sheridan Lake, hope they can get it under control soon.

Big day at the office

Don and I along with the manager's son Ben checked in and parked 24 RV's between 1PM and 7PM.  That plus all the other stuff like selling store things, setting up bus trips, taking future reservations and answering the phone made for a very busy afternoon.  I was so tired that I didn't care if there were storm warnings, I just went to sleep.  Oh yes add to that a couple unhappy people to contend with, I think they found out we had very little sympathy for their "problems".  Don't like it here, leave.

Little trip

We went to Belle Fourche to get our new car and motorhome license stickers and then went to Spearfish for lunch at the Cedar House.  We often eat there when in the area, just a nice home grown place - we had their meatloaf special.  Then we took a drive up Spearfish Canyon, beautiful as always.  We drove back down through Lead and Deadwood and Boulder Canyon.  Decided to stay home for dinner for once.

Bridal Veil Falls in Spearfish Canyon

Wild day at work

We have worked alone for the past two days and it has been crazy busy.  I don't know if being crazy busy or being bored is worse.  The camping season is really getting underway!  We haven't even gone to Rapid City for a couple days, just too tired in the evening.

Father's Day

We started the day by going out for breakfast, then came home and got ready for the family picnic at Spearfish Park.  The whole crowd was there for a change.  New baby Quintin is darling, but I tried to stay a distance because of my lingering cold.  Don got nice gifts from both of our girls and visited with both on the phone.

Boring

We worked alone this afternoon which was good as it was as boring as I can ever remember it being.  I read until I was tired of reading, played games on my phone, stared out the window.  I thought the day would never come to an end.  Susan brought us dinner which was very nice of her!

Workamper picnic

We had a workamper get-together tonight.  We have some strange people this year.  Susan (bosse's wife) made delicious lasagna.  There were more desserts than anything.  One good thing about this cold is I have lost my appetite so didn't eat much.

Still sick

I feel even worse today, just can't get rid of this cold bug.  At least I have been able to sleep with the medication.  I really expected to be over this thing by now.  Don is feeling better at least.  We don't have to work until Friday so have a couple days to recover.

Working

We worked in the campground office Saturday and Sunday mornings, it was very slow.  We both have colds, I didn't have any voice on Sunday - kind of difficult when you try to talk to people.  I feel better today and my voice is back at least some.  We went out for groceries and I bought some cold medications.  I got Night Qual which I hope helps me sleep rather than cough.  This is the first cold I have had for years and hopefully years to come.

48th anniversary

It is our 48 wedding anniversary!!!  We went to the wild animal loop in Custer State Park today.  Had lunch at Legion Lake.  We got home in time for a good old South Dakota storm with heavy rain and hail.  The hail stones stayed about pea size so did no harm.  It had rained a lot last night so we much have gotten a good dose of much needed moisture.  After the storm we went to Powder House for their good prime rib dinners.  The sun is shining now but the outside temperature has dropped about 20 degrees.  Had the air conditioner on this morning and the heat no now.

About the same

I keep thinking I'm feeling better but later in the day I start feeling pain again.  My new pain meds are fantastic, so much I almost hate to take them.

It has been in the lower 90's here, wind adversary today.

What a pain!

Friday while taking a shower I got a sudden and pain in my left side, it didn't get any better so went to the emergency room here in Rapid City, SD.  They thought it was a kidney stone but turned out to be a pool of blood.  The doctors didn't know how or why it was there so kept me in the hospital overnight for observation.  On Saturday I had another CT scan which showed the same blood pool but nothing else.  I was more than ready to go home so the doctor said one more blood test and it the hemoglobin was up I could leave.  It was up and I left with a prescription for pain meds.  I had more morphine in my time in the hospital than I have had all my life.  Still have pain but not as bad.

Too much

How can I be so tired after working just 6 hours, what if I had to work a full day - day after day?  We went shopping after work and ate at Fudruckers.  I think I'm getting a cold, loaded up on vitamin C.  I haven't had a cold for years and don't want one now!  I am probably just tired.

First day back at work

We are workamping at Happy Holiday Resort again this summer.  The 8th summer in 10 years - we didn't work last summer.  I am so tired, I remembered most of the stuff and some things have changed as well.  I was going to take a short nap, was 1 1/2 hours and I'm still tired!

Nice weather at last

We woke up to blue sky for the first time in days.  We went out for breakfast - the place was jammed full, we waited and waited for someone to take our order and were about to leave when a very congenial waitress came along.  She gave us "pancake puppies" (deep fried pancake batter with cinnamon and sugar coating) to eat while we waited for our meal as she said it would be awhile.

We read the papers, the Rapid City Sunday paper has more ads than actual news!  About the time we were going to grill our steak for dinner the clouds formed over the mountains and it looked like we were going to get a big storm.  We got a little wind and a few drops of rain.

Weather eek

If this cold and wet weather doesn't give it up I will be in the nut house.  Fog today, can't even see the nearby hills.  This evening we even got some hail.

On the bright side we went to a high school graduation party for our friend Vic.  Nice party, good food and some long time friends there for good visiting!

Alpine Inn

The motorhome is clean, laundry caught up and stuff out for a long stay.  Our reward was to eat at the Alpine Inn in Hill City, it was good as usual. It is rainy and cold, not good for the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend.

Wall Drug and then Happy Holiday

We got an early start this morning in hope of getting ahead of the south winds we experienced yesterday.  They didn't bother us until we got past Wall, South Dakota.  More road construction again today.  We stopped at Wall Drug for a donut and a cup of their 5cent coffee.  I headed to the Black Hills Gold store and found a nice pinky ring.  Don always has an awful time getting me a birthday present (birthday in August) so I bought the ring for him to give to me and for me to wear now.

We got to Happy Holiday RV resort about noon.  It took awhile to get the motorhome situated just right in our site so the slides had room to go out and the basement doors would open around our porch, light pole and water/power pole.  Then we went about getting set up for almost a 4 month stay.

Motorhome parked at Wall Drug

Hot and windy drive

Not to mention road construction, we got into Al's Oasis Campground about 4PM.  We had dinner at Al's Oasis, Don debugged the front window and now we are ready to rest up for a new day.

Sunday with our family

We all got together at Sheila's home this evening as we are leaving tomorrow for the Black Hills.  We had a good dinner and lots of good conversation.  The kids spent time kayaking and on the trampoline and had a great time.  Brenda even tried the Trampoline!

Sheila and Brenda

Rebecca and Brianna kayaking on pond behind Dennis' home.

Brenda tries out the trampoline