December 1st already

Here we go on our way to Christmas day, and for me a letdown that happens every year. I see this time of the year as a fun time, and look forward to it, but at the day of Christmas all we have been driving toward, just seems to go by fast, and not as huge as the hype says it will be. I love the time to spend with family and friends, but just see it all happen fast.

This year I will spend more one on one time with friends and family. I usually get some of this time, but this year I will pay attention to this time, and make opportunity to be available to spend the time we have wisely. In the new year I will make an assessment of how well I did on making this happen.

Work is 1/3rd of our lives, and sleep another 1/3rd, then we have what's left to invest in what we want to do. Weekends are when we make plans for the friends and family, and that always goes fast as well. This weekend I think will be a work at home weekend, (rain is forecast) as Polly and I are getting closer to making the sell and move out happen, so will have to get the house ready, and decide what to store, and what to get rid of.  Polly asked me yesterday How much will it cost us monthly to store what we want to keep. Depends on how much room we will need and if heated or not. I then thought we have to start to get stuff sold, given away and some junked. Been putting this off, but have to start as the time will come soon, and have to be ready.

I wonder if putting this here will push me to move forward now, as I have been thinking of it, just not doing it. It will feel good to start, and work toward our goal of selling this spring, and making the future happen as we have planned.

Today starts a new week and Christmas is just ahead.

Saturday morning I got up 5am, and looked up a YouTube video Doug, a friend at work had made. He made it a few years ago after his son died in a car accident. Was a very heartfelt video, and I watched it twice as he spoke at first to explain why he made the video, and then he sang a song he wrote that he hopes will help some.  You can take a listen at  Know one knows

Also went to a video I have watched before, made as a man I knew was going through the last days of his life. He started out thinking he was going to have a possibility of a cure for his lung disease, and as it goes on he realises the disease is terminal. Was a good morning for me to have some introspection.

Saturday afternoon we went to Courtenay for Claudette's Birthday celebration, she didn't expect us, and had a plan to go to the legion in Comox. We had a fun time in the afternoon at the Legion with C&A, and then back to their place for a couple of Margaritas. Later we went out to dinner at a Chinese buffet restaurant, Claudette had arranged this already, as she celebrates with her friend Cindy who has her B Day on the same day. Many of their friends were there, and more kept coming. Full is how we felt when we left, and back to C&A's place to have cake Polly had made for Claudette. Cake was a hit, but the candle was a fun time, made a huge flame to start, then opened up to a candelabra.... Was fun to watch Claudette and Polly as the flames came and the candle opened, then as we all sung Happy B Day, the smoke detector went off, and what a laugh we all had.

No one had much jump left after the big dinner, so a few ate a piece of cake, and then a smooth transition toward the door, as we all were tired, and would make our way to bed. Food does slow us all down. Not as I had expected, but we did enjoy a few laughs with everyone, and had a good visit with Ron and Barb as we were seated across from them at dinner. Got a few likes from people during the night about the blog written, and pictures of our trip to San Francisco.

Bed Early, and up at 5am, and so was Americo, which surprised me. Then not long after Polly gets up, and we realised that they had a plan to go to PA that day for celebration of her B day with family, so we left early and enjoyed a relaxed trip down the old highway to Parksville before we joined the rush on the Island Highway. Was a nice day to travel, we stopped a few times and checked out a few campsite possibility's for the future, looks like we would like the Qualicum Bay Native site sometime this spring/summer.

This week I am Dayshift as a trade with another worker made my week days rather than afternoons, and for this I will be able to enjoy the Ladysmith Lightup, which I do like. Dinner this time will be at the Legion as I see they have a Cabbage roll and Perogie dinner, and would like to support our Legion, and try something different this year, we usually go to the Spaghetti Dinner at the Eagles.

Work has been better this last week, the boss has left us alone, and stayed out of our way most of the week. Makes life just a little better. Looking forward to this week, and hope all goes well, and he stays in the office.

A Funeral, and a Birthday today.

The weekend is here and Wahoo, at least that is how I used to think. I now need the rest to make it through another week. I think there is a correlation between plans for future retirement, and my working now. Seams that the more I ready and plan for the future, the less I desire working now. I still like to work, just wanting to get on with the plan we have developed.

November 15th today, Yesterday Polly and I went to a funeral for her friend Betty. Was a surprise when we found out about Betty's passing, I went to check my e-mail last week, and there was a note from Chris on FB, that Betty had and aneurism, and died.  I was surprised, and when I told Polly she was shocked. Isn't that the way it goes, you can't help but be shocked, as the unexpected just hits you face first.

We had a plan to be in Port Alberni already as we were to celebrate Polly's Mom, Memere's Birthday as she turns 96 tomorrow.

We traveled the highway early with less traffic than we usually have, and made it to PA in an hour, much faster than usual. Strait to the funeral at the All Saints Church. Was a packed house, as Betty was a friendly person, and still working, so her connections were many. We made it in early before the many that came. Was long for me as usual, things have to be said. Hard bench, and my back screaming, well I just thought at least I'm still here and alive. Betty was a beautiful person, she will be missed by many. Before it started, Chris a friend sat with us, and I had time to catch up with her, was nice, Lois also sat with us, was nice to see her, she said she liked all the pictures from our trip. Adel came and snuck in close to Polly, and they had a yak while we waited for things to proceed.

When the ceremony ended we all filed over to the hall next door, and were greeted in by Betty's children, and husband Walter. I noticed how we all look around for people we know, and can connect with, sit with talk with. As you age don't things change. I talked with Chris about how we used to go to parties, and dances, and she said now more funerals. A little food, a little coffee, we all talk about Betty, and in a more fun way we remember the good times, and reconnect with people we haven't seen for many years.

I saw Cindy in the entrance, a person I haven't  talked with for awhile, she was talking with Sandy, someone I haven't seen for awhile either. Boy did Sandy ever look good. Cindy and I started to talk, and Sandy left for the hall, and Cindy and I had such a good talk. Her son and mine are fiends, and there was just lots to share. Was nice to connect. Cindy had cancer, and is finished the treatment for now, and started back to work part time, she looked good. I found out where Ted, her son and family were living, and will make time for a visit when we are in town sometime soon. Ted just moved back, as he works in Alberta, like many from BC did when no work here, but now they are moving back. Cindy did a good job of raising her kids I told her, she came back with how Chris was so nice, I did a good job too. I did my best, now as I look back, life was good and still is.

Polly tells me as we were about to leave that we had an invite to her friend Chris's Moms hose for a drink after with the family. We went, and had a few good laughs about the old days when Chris and Polly were growing up, and all the antics that happen in our younger years. Was a real fun time, and I got to know them all just a little better.

We did talk much about travel, as we all had trailers, and where they went, and what they saw, and how to camp here and there. Which route to take, and what to watch out for. I guess this will be our next turn in life, we will learn all about how to do this traveling efficiently, and once we get good at it we may then loose interest? I don't know but I see a pattern here... LOL

Later in the evening we go to the casino to celebrate Polly's Mom, Memere's 96th Birthday...  Wow, 96 years seems like a long time to live, and I tell her as I congratulate her that 100 will be soon, she say I hope so. Some live long, and some go before they have finished what they want to do. Polly and I talk about what we want to do before we run out of options, and we agree, lets do what we want now, before we are finished.

Was an interesting evening, family gather at the table, Memere get cards and presents and makes a announcement when she finishes opening, just how much she appreciates this, "Thank you all for doing this for me!" she says. We all see the earnestness she has in her face. Dinner and cake Polly made, and then Memere gets down to business... Let's go gamble! LOL she still has it, that juice that keeps us going in life. Love it!

Dan and I help her to the 1st machine, and she doesn't do so well, but later she hits a good jackpot, and makes over $300.00 so she is happy, she loves to play the machines. I gamble, Polly Gambles, and we all have a turn at winning through the night, Polly makes almost $200, I make about $80, and we all put most of it back in. but we had fun, and Memere will be talking about the big win for awhile. 

Was a real nice night all in all, and this morning when I write, I still think how things work out, for reasons we don't get, some live long and some just don't. Hope I make it long... and fun, and interesting.

Fall cleaning, outside of our trailer & dumping the sewage

Not a job we want to do, but has to be done. I went to the web first to find out where the closest place to dump was, I found     Don's Camping List of Non-Park Sani dumps 

 Good list of Sani dumps all over BC, and other links to all over North America.

This place was recomended in Ladysmith called "Wash me on Ludlow", 

Bosco and I went for a walk there Sunday and got the low down before I went down with the truck and trailer. I talked with the manager, and another trailer owner that was dumping then. Looked easy enough, and had a good place to wash off the top of the trailer.  

I went down Monday with the truck, but left Bosco at home. If you wash dumping is free. The dump station was on the outside of the building, with lots of clearance above and around it. I got the instruction on how the place worked from the manager, she said change could be used, but if I ran out I could use my credit card. You have to pay to put water in your tank to flush the black water out, so not really free, but was not too bad for all I did was about $15. Dumping was easy, and took my time and did a good job of flushing it all out.

Now pull out and into the wash bay. There are stairs to an upper walkway for washing the top of the trailer, this was much easier than getting up on the ladder, and safer too, as a railing for protection. The sprayer was short, but I made it 1/2 way across the roof, so had to pull out and turn around to do the other side. All in all a good place to clean up after a trip.

All winter maintenance done, got the water system filled with anti-freeze the week before and ready for the cold to set in. I put a heater with a fan inside, and am told I only need the fan, but will leave the heat on as trailer is close to our home, so not a problem. I like it dry and warm, never know when we may want to camp close to home!

Can hardly wait to pull it out again and use it. Spring will come soon.

Rememberance Day

Today we had an opportunity to remember all those people that worked toward freedom in our world. I wok early as usual, but having worked late, had to get back to sleep till just before 8am. Polly brought me a coffee, and scared me as she thought I was awake, but I was right out and wok to her close to my face saying "Here is your coffee dear". I sat up after awhile, and Bosco came over and we had our usual talk, and pet. He was quiet as per usual. TV now on and news had the Remberance Day ceremonies on from back east. Was a good show till the broadcaster asked a younger vet "what did it feel like knowing you left others behind overseas... What a question. He started to try to answer, and I turned it off. How do you answer that, gezzz.  

I got up and opened the blinds, and it was a beauty day out, "Yes" I said allowed, I will go to the cenotaph today, I want to be there and see and hear the service. Polly said she has a sore back, and won't  go, I understand, not fun standing with a sore back. I like the service, it makes me think. We all need to be present on this day, and think about how lucky we are having the freedom to choose what we read, what we think, and what we say and do. Today is a great day to thank those that have fallen for our freedoms.

I drove a short distance as I was later than usual, but the traffic was slow so I pulled off at the old gas station close to town, and walked the rest of the way. As I approached the mass of people surrounding the cenotaph 6 planes flew over in formation, I had the camera, but chose to look and take it in rather than get a shot. Wow was that ever nice, Ottawa only had 2 jets, I felt privileged to have 6 beauty older airplanes fly over our small town.

Things got under way as soon as I got into the crowd, and very soon we were all observing the silence. It was so quiet, there was some traffic going by, but mostly I noticed the quiet from the crowd. I stayed in one place with the sun at my back, and a young family beside me with children than didn't really understand what was going on, but they behaved, and they were there. Many people of different ages, and different people, all in one place remembering in their own way. Was powerful.

Soon the quiet was over, and the speeches started and people listened intently, and I'm sure we all thought of what was given for us to be able to gather here today. We listened as people told us of men who went overseas, and never made it home. We heard again In Flanders Fields, and I never get tired of hearing this.

Once the speaking was over, and the wreaths were laid, people started to leave. Charlie a friend from Ladysmith Camera Club came over, and we had a good talk. Was a great day to be outside, and talk and remember.  I told Charlie how much I liked last Saturdays group talk on Nikon cameras, and how I had been trying out a few of the things we studied.

Yes today was one of the real good ones. Now we have a date with friends Americo and Claudette in Lantzville, at the pub for a late lunch, and a good yak. We always have fun when we get together, and today was no different. We were later than they thought we would be, and they were hungry, Americo had to replace food with beer till we arrived, but hugs and kisses, and off we went with our laughing, and stories as we haven't seen each other for awhile, and many things just had to be shared.  The part I didn't want shared was that I had got tickets for us to see Headly in May for Polly's Birthday. Claudette said "how much do I owe you for the tickets?" Oh well, "Happy Birthday Polly" I said, and all was well. We ate, talked, joked, and just had so much fun again, as we always do. Then as we left they had some chanterelle mushrooms for us, and we were off for a walk to the beach, and showed them someplace they hadn't been before. Yep, was a nice day for all of us.  

On the way home we stopped in at Wal-Mart and got a few things, I got some pictures for the weekend as Memere my mother-in-law turns 96, and I told her I would show her pictures from our trip. She likes the printed pictures, so I got 170 pics and she will love to look and hear of our experiences. Next 2 weekends planned, and soon the month will be over, and we will be close to Christmas. Man the year sure went fast.

Halloween is over now, what's next?

We stayed in this Halloween, Polly did buy a bag of candy, but as per usual no children came to the door. Darn we said as we tore the bag open and worked on it ourselves while we watched the weekend marathon of James Bond movies. Was nice to stay in on Saturday, as was another tough week for me. I did make a trip outside to rake up the leaves, and tidy up the front of the trailer, and put the BBQ inside the trailer for storage over the winter. Something done. 

 Weather changed Sunday as we helped put up lights for Ladysmith's Light Up, as soon as we went outside Polly and I knew the winter coolness was in the air. We dressed with extra coats and toques ready for what came. Oh and it did, 1 hour after we started putting the lights on the trees the rain started, it was cold, and windy, but our small 4 person crew kept working and finished our area by 12:30. Soaked and cold we all walked to the 49th where we started, and said bye to our crew, and home we went for a shower before we drove to the senior center for a nice lunch in appreciation for our efforts.

 Was a nice lunch, and sat with people we got to know better, Cliff we knew from  past meeting when we joined the newcomers club when we first moved here. Our talk was around making Ladysmith and attractor for tourists, started with the visitor center, and went to hotels, and trains, and movies... Was a fun conversation. In the end Polly and I were left with Cliff talking about retiring, and travel.  We learned from Cliff what to do, where to go and not, and Polly filled him in on our trip back east, and to Yellowstone. I realise Polly has some of our trips as the best in her opinion, and she tells of them with much exuberance. Love Polly! She has much gusto when she sets to tell about our past trips, and future plans.

We now head out to make a trip to Nanaimo for a movie possibly, and take back a pair of pants I thought fit, but didn't. Got to lose a little more around the girth... LOL   Pant return went ok, Movie we decided to opt out of, and went for a drive down Hammond Bay rd in the pouring rain. Was a good day to stay in the truck, and see all from out the window, dry and warm. We took a turn up Nottingham Dr. and checked out all the roads to the right, all the way up to Canterbury Crescent, and views of Departure Bay, and off to the open water.  Was a nice way to spend  time talking about what we liked about this area, and what we didn't. Always we are planning what's next, and today we knew this wasn't for us. Our plan is more around getting rid of things so we can travel with no anchors.

Back home after getting a few groceries for the week, and Polly decides she wants to just stay in bed the rest of the day, so we do. Bosco was happy to see us, and we all cuddled up in bed and watched some more TV, Watched some of the last game of the world series baseball, and some of what we had recorded. Was a nice way to spend Sunday. Dinner was a cut up what we had in the fridge, and put on plate kinda dinner..  I cooked today! LOL

Now a new week starts, and I feel just a little more rested and ready to continue with what comes.

Life is good, when you consider the alternative!

LOL a friend coined that one, and I often remember. Thanks Gary.

Saturday morning, workplace woes

Working has its challenges once you have a retirement plan set up. I often feel like not going to work, just don't want to deal with what the jobsite has become.  I find it harder to continue in a work place that is changing for the worse as I see it. Discipline is a normal right now, as management has decided on a new path, and this creates an unsettled work place. Safety is the basis for much of what discipline is handed out for. Wear all PPE, and behave in a certain way, regardless if it makes sense or not.

Boss is Boss, so got to do what they say? Right? I am looking at why I just don't like that. Union seems to have little to no influence, and we as workers are trying to figure out what to do when attacked with many controls we haven't dealt with before. This week cameras are being installed everywhere we are and management will be observing us on screens all over the mill and yard. This shouldn't matter, but attach the letter sent out in September about drug testing program set up starting November 1st, as well as our mill being visited at least once a week by safety people sticking their nose in every nook and cranny of our operation searching out that we are all wearing our PPE, as well as other changes they call for.

If we saw positive changes in our work areas at the same time, we might understand, but no investment in our operation, while other mills have millions invested make us all nervous about the future of the mill as well.

Change is something we all have to deal with in life, how we adapt to change is what makes the difference.  I like to go to work and just get to work, without all the BS to deal with, but this just isn't the way, too much crap in the way now. Glad I have just 1 year to go. Can I make it without a huge blow out with a foreman that is a nut ball as far as I can figure. Time will tell... LOL

Enough of the crap, today we will head up to Parksville for a visit with my sister and her hubby, and look in to our timeshare property. Another bit of investment we have to sever from our books before we get free of the locked in bills that hold us back from travel. Joy and Dan have sold their house and are in the process of moving to a new place, haven't talked with them for awhile. Looking forward to a visit.

Trailer is put to bed right now, with heater inside doing a good job of air circulation, and keeping things dry and warm. I feel like packing it up and taking off again right now... LOL  Funny how we now live between the two, home and trailer as we took many things with us that we only have 1 of, so have to get it out of the trailer.    

Need the rest of a weekend, will make a yard clean up today before we go, leaves, and grass still growing... Afternoons next week, that is always better, no idiot boss around, just get the work done, and leave us alone.

Home this week, now what?

We now have a trip under our belt, and have a list to do's for the trailer, and truck. This week has been just getting back to our life and doing all that we have to catch up while gone. Monday, after work, cut the grass which has grown 8-10" since we left, and is thick, and damp in some spots even after the day of sun. I like to mow the lawn, so was nice to do, but a little more work than usual as long, and after 1st day back was tired. I got it done, just in time for the arrival of my sister in-law Lyn, who is here for a couple days. Her Daughter Kristy is having surgery today as she has a collapsed lung, and has had it on and off for a few months now. So is a waiting game till the surgery finishes and we all sigh relief, she is ok.

In the mean time I get cleaned up, and put on shorts and a t-shirt, and start on Margaritas for a start to our evening. We sit outside and talk, may be the last warm evening for awhile, as rain and wind in the forecast. Polly makes a beauty dinner, and Lyn and I stay outside yakin and just enjoying the moment.

I can't remember what we had for dinner right now, but was good as per usual, Polly always makes such wonderful food. The evening was laid back, but worrisome, till we heard from Kristy that she was OK.

Tuesday was sore as work was tougher than I thought on my body, and cutting the grass hard on the legs. Polly was feeling sick, had a fever, and she slept in today.  Polly has an opportunity to return to her old job till Christmas, and she makes arrangements with Bonnie to ride with her to work. Polly and Lyn go visit Kristy today, Polly calls from Kristy's room and I get a chance to talk with Kristy. She tells me of her experience when waking up in recovery, and we all have a good laugh. Nice to hear her voice, and good to hear all is good. Was like I remember Kristy like 10 years ago, she was really funny while telling her story!

Upon return of our trip I have to deal with Electrical problem in Strata, not what I hoped for the strata council stuff, was supposed to be an easy year I was told. Hmm, well all will work out.

Wednesday Polly gets back to work, and I change shifts with Kenny, and get the day to sleep in, I needed it.  Thursday was a tough go but Friday was worse, as had a bad sleep, and agreed to come in 2hrs early too. Glad this week is over.

Polly and I go to the Legion after I have a shower and a snooze. Not too much energy today, I have 1 beer, and no to much into it tonight, kinda numb all over. We go home after winning bacon and eggs in the meat draw. Was nice to see the Friday crew, has been quite awhile since we made it there, been really busy since spring started.

We were supposed to camp this weekend for Thanksgiving, but weather is to rain, and wind, so canceled. I regret it already, but will not miss being camping in the rain. Looking forward to dinner tonight with friends, and no travel sounds good, I still feel kinda numb.  

Light out now, will bring some coffee to my beauty wife, and talk. Life is good...

Oh! Bosco got a haircut yesterday, sure looks good on him. He feels better now I think, nice to be here.

Weekend in Port Alberni

Polly and I had a fast fun family & friends catch-up weekend making our way up Island Saturday afternoon,  1st thing we do is go to Memere's and give Louise a bag of presents in thanks for looking after Bosco. Boy was Bosco happy to see us! Jump, jump, and yip yip, just about coming out of his skin... Kisses and hugs all around, and tell of our trips experiences, and then off to dinner.

Lyn Andrew Dan & George were already at the Westwind pub, but surprise them we did. Was nice to see all of them again after a months absence. Much to tell, and was just nice to settle back in with friends who are family. After all the hubbub about how the trip was and what they had been up to, we finish dinner and are invited by George to Jane and Derricks', for fire and friends night, and request from Jane, Andrew please bring your guitar!

Well was a nice way to return, and couldn't help but think how interesting it is to be in USA early this morning, and travel half the Island to spend the evening with a small group of friends was surreal. Looking into the fire I was kind of mesmerised as I listened to the conversation, and thought to myself how wonderful our life is.

After one couple leaves we are about to leave, and the heavy request for Andrew to sing comes," sing one before you go", "can't leave without a song". Well Andrew did what he does, and did it very well. Nice calm songs, and very well done, just what the evening called for in my opinion, and all loved it.

Back to Lyn's for sleep, and was needed as was early start, and late night. Got up early just as dawn was starting, and went for a walk with Bosco as He was needing a good long walk, and so did I. Was a beauty morning, sky was a deep red reflected on the clouds that were making their way over Mount Arrowsmith. Air was cool, but not cold enough to get out a heavy jacket. We walked, Bosco sniff and pee, and me I just relished a nice easy walk, feeling comfortable back where I recognise all I see.

When we get back to Lyn's, Polly still in bed, I make coffee which Lyn has made up for us, with cups set up, and coffee loaded in the coffee maker. Nice of her, Thanks Lyn. Polly gets up, and we drink and talk, and make up our plan for the day. Ted and Cindy's for a visit is my request, as we have been talking about this since we left Port after the long weekend. Make the call and yep they are up for it, and we pack up, leaving Andrew and Lyn sleeping.

Our visit with Ted and Cindy was very good, as we had hoped for. Smiles all around, and holidays planned. We had heard some bad news before we left, so wanted to check in, and all is good, after much stress. Was very nice to catch up with them.

Now off to Visit with Jet and Dax, and get Jets Birthday present which we look forward to every year as we take them to the store and he picks out his own present, which is better than us making an un informed choice for him. Polly and I learn more about what they are into this way, and conversation is fun. He picks something not Minecraft for a change, then off to the J&L Drive in for a burger and fries. This is where we learn more about what they are up to, what they like and don't, and what is important to them, as well as have a few laughs.

Off to Catherine's for another birthday, her "40th" and a card and some $ for her, and a visit with Catherine, Taylor and Jessie, and a short Hi to Jayden. All is better here than last time I was over, hoping they will make things better in the future.

Now a last visit with Memere, and a snooze for me before we make our, but way home. Kristy is our next stop but she isn't home so we drop a card, and off we go out of town. We are now heading for Qualicum for a visit with my sister Joy and her husband Dan, and a card for her Birthday. We had a nice visit, and Joy liked her card. Birthdays all caught up now, and had a chance to tell all about what we have been up to, and find out what others have been up to. I wonder how we will do this when we are on our longer journey?

Off to work now...

Trips end is here, was a fun time, now time to get back to reality. Work Monday.

We made the Port Angeles ferry just in time we thought, after a beauty drive from Little Creek Casino Resort where we stayed 2 nights up the inner coast of Puget sound on highway 101. Water and beaches on our right, and housing like you would see at any place where holiday homes are on the lake, but on the ocean. Beaches were many, and trees were tall, and many cotton woods, maples and others in the fall colours. Lakes we passed, and estuary's at the mouth of rivers and creeks, made this drive one we will make again for sure.

We approached the ferry terminal, and wow we are earlier than we thought, NOT! 3pm, and ferry at 4... We thought. Well I looked at the schedule a couple days ago, and was sure 4pm was the ferry, and is was, for arrival of the LAST ferry from Victoria. No return ferry till 8:20am. Another lesson!

OK now what? We drive up the main road a ways, and park off the main road, and take a walk around the down town looking for one last present, as well as info about where to stay tonight. Polly gets her present, and I get some advice, Wal-Mart for the night it is. Polly has some concern re safety, but after we drive up we realize it will be good.  We walk in the store and ask to stay, and yes was the answer, 1 night, and please park on the outsides of the lot, out of the way of trucks. We did just that, and had a good dinner, played a couple games of poker, which I lost, and off to bed.

Early rise, 5:30am pack up, and off to the ferry terminal for 7am loading worked well. Got a coffee at a small place, on the ferry loading road where the woman could hardly turn around inside the very small wooden building full of coffee making tools and products. We were surprised at $1.00 for a cup of the best coffee we had tasted for a long time. Nice...

The ferry loaded fast after we paid and lined up in the lot, and was a breeze for us to get on even with our 30ft 5th wheel trailer. Polly and I were happy to be heading back to the Island, and went up for breakfast on the boat. Hmm, we decide after paying too much for 2 coffee and 2 breaky sandwiches, that we will make our own when waiting next time.

The boat rocked gently at first, then rocked like heck for about 1/2 hour till the skipper changed course. Now we can relax and enjoy the rest of our trip. Sunny, calm and warm now, wow couldn't get any better. Leave with the weather, and arrive back with same as we left with.

We unload with the same ease, and make our way through the border with no hassle, and of we go through Victoria, up Island to Ladysmith. As we make our way through down town we hear a clunking of the trailer hitch on stopping, and accelerating for about 10-20 mins. then was ok again, have to look into what caused this.

Get home, and park, take off trailer, and get mail in order, visit with John and Carol, to get involved in a problem in our strata, and back to reality... LOL All good, will take care of this next week. Now off to Port Alberni to see family, and friends, and celebrate Birthdays we missed, and just catch up.

We made it! We made it with no breakdowns, accidents, or arguments. Polly and I loved this trip, and are still on for our BIG TRIP plan. Will take the time now to get ready for the BIG ONE!  

Today we go home, looking forward to seeing our family tomorrow.

What a fun trip Polly and have had, from Ladysmith to San Francisco and back in 23 days, still not enough time to see all we would like, but was a good test for our truck and trailer, as well as for Polly and I. We now have a list of things we want to modify, or repair so we are ready for the longer trip next year.  Has been fun for us learning all we have about getting a site, booking ahead, or taking what comes.  How to choose, a site, and park, level, what has to be done as we get all that needs to be hooked up, and jacks out, slide out, and then usually, make dinner, or lunch, depending on the time.

As I write this I am sitting in our trailer, listening, and watching traffic go by, mostly logging trucks,  and want to turn on the TV, but also don't. Yesterday we heard on TV of another shooting, this time in Oregon, in a town we went by on our return trip. I want to know more about what happened, I want to turn the TV on, and at the same time I just want to not think about it.  We were in Shelton a small town north of here  yesterday afternoon, visiting there museum, talking with the man that is curator as his phone rings. Polly and I continue to look around, the man then hangs up the phone, he sighs, and says was my wife, another shooting, we tell him we know. Bad news travels fast I say he agrees, and we all shake our heads.

 I turn on the TV, and hear more about what happened, and how many people died. I hear the police are getting better at quickly engaging the shooter, and ending the shooting by shooting him. I am glad to hear the police make faster engagement, and ending this quickly. Now what? The gun free zone is now discussed, we should all have guns, then it would be safer! Geez, Now they talk about how many of these shootings there has been in the USA, and why it seems to happen more here than in other countries... I feel for the people immediately affected by this, I also think these are the people that will have to make changes in how the states treats guns in their country. Me, I go home to Canada, and hope I will never have to be close to something like this.

A reporter now comes on and says we will talk about this, react to this, and think about it for about 48 hrs, then we go on... Geez, I write no more of it.

We are at a RV Park provided by the casino, and have all we need, and want, Electricity, Water, Sewer,  Cable TV, and of course entertainment, Casino... Polly likes the casino, I like cards better, Polly the slot machines. This casino has more to offer, a golf course, which we won't use, and a pool , and hot tub which I used yesterday, and will again today. Internet (wifi) is slow to nonexistent, so as before we will make a change on how we hook up next trip. A data plan on our phone, and wifi booster for the parks that do have wifi. We stayed 2 nights, and had a good rest from driving yesterday, now ready for the final trip back to our island.

The Oyster Festival is on the weekend in Shelton, and if we were retired I would say let's stay the weekend, and return next week, as we hear it is a fun festival, many good bands, and food is great. Next year I guess...   

Two days of travel later, now in Talent, Oregon.

We left early, 9am from Marin RV Park, and headed around the marsh for about an hour, next time will look around this area a little more while staying here. Very interesting place. We drove all along the water's edge till we finally got to the Richmond Bridge, which took us north and on to different drier, hilly areas. Then to flat farming areas, and fires off in the distance, not sure if set on purpose, but likely wild fires, in fields. Farms that seemed to go on forever were all along the highway, and most were orchards, some vineyards, but mostly trees of all kinds.

We drove to Corning on the advice of another RV guy we met at the Chinook Casino lot on the coast of Oregon. He said was a good place to spend the night, had services, and was good Buffet! Well dinner was ok, not great, and casino park costs more than others, as you have to play says Polly... LOL we did have fun, but lost in the end. Well not really. Polly went in the casino with me in the morning, me I went to the bathroom, Polly the machines. When I came out, Polly had won over  $100.00. Nice so I said let's go!  She didn't want to, but thanked me for haulin her outta there with some $ in her pocket.

We pack up the trailer, getting better all the time at this, and off we go to our next place I have looked up on line. I find it works better than just winging it and taking a chance on what you find. We are tied to wifi when it comes to the internet this trip, but I think better to have data on our phone next time, hard to plan with no good internet from place to place.

Along the way we make good use of the rest stops, as makes the trip just a little nicer then pushing it and making time. We also stopped at a Camping World RV supply for a good look around, got some ideas for what we might want, and what we could make. Got some good info from a salesman about Honda Generators, will probably buy 2- 2000 watt for boondocking, as get more power  3800 watt, vs less than 3000 with the 3000 watt, and comes with an RV plug, and I can lift them better as only 40 lbs he said. About the same price, $2400.00. I tried a lift, and yes will be OK for me. Was good to stop in here as on line just isn't the same,you have to see the stuff, and get a better sense of what you want, and compare products, not just use someone's opinion on line!

The drive to Talent was nice, flat, and wide highway, and was a real pleasure after the coasts narrow, bumpy, windy roads. The views were worth the drive on the coast, but nice to relax on this road now. Close to the end of our trip today, got into some hills, and one hard pull up a long hill that made the truck work hard. I kept the revs at around 2000, and made sure not to loose momentum, while not pushing it too hard. Passed 1/2 dozen big rigs, when full they just couldn't make it up as fast. Now the coming down is different, I can see why Kevin, the guy we bought the truck from said, "got to have an exhaust brake", I will investigate this a little further in the future.

All in all we did good yesterday, didn't get here as soon as we thought as we stopped and had lunch (and a snooze), and didn't push too much, as we know not fun if push, push.

We arrive in Talent, Oregon about 4pm, and get a place at American RV Resort, and make an easy back in, leave the truck attached, and setup in such a short time. Polly and I give a high five, as all went well, and quick. Nice to feel like we are improving at the park, and set up. We crack a beer, and Polly says she wants to cook up the spaghetti sauce for tomorrows dinner, so off I go to look around the place.

This place is a little down trodden, but organized spots, with most sites people live full time here.  I saw a few things out of the ordinary, and had to laugh to myself, one trailer had Ginney hens walking around like chickens in the front yard, and a few were very old trailers. Some in good shape, most not. The pool was empty, and paint peeling, and by the looks of it has been for a few years. Tennis courts were unused for many years too, the place was a RV Resort, but now just making some bucks to stay afloat it looks like.

Maple like trees planted all around, and a rose garden like I haven't seen for awhile, blooming and beautiful. Washrooms were older, but had linen instead of paper for towel. Nice... Electric, Sewer, and Water is all we need, no TV, but Polly found a real good radio station, 95.7 KBOY, and it played some AC-DC first up, so we listened to this all evening.  What a good station.

No internet so will have to wing it today, unless we stop at a casino, and get some wifi, Oh and Polly would make a few more bucks... LOL

Bye, Bye San Francisco! Back on the road again.

What a great time we had in the big city. Walked our shoes off the first day, and used the bus more the next two. Fisherman's Warf was a bit of a letdown, more commercial then we remember from 21 years before. Bushman was still there, but different  guy as the other guy died. Walked to Coit Tower and saw the city from the view points. Lunch at the Stinky Rose Garlic restaurant was great, private curtained booths were a nice touch, and food was real good. We met our friend Sarah at the Oriental Pearl Restaurant for dinner, was real nice to spend time with her, and share a real good meal.

Went to the mission district 2nd day on recommendation from Sarah, was interesting to see what people that have less live like in this big city. Went through an alley that has many paintings expressing ideas about many things. Went to Delores Park, didn't expect what we saw even though had been told the night before, I forgot that gay people was what we would see. And we did, many of them sitting, laying, and just hanging out on a huge grassy hill. I didn't notice almost all men, Polly had to tell me. Looked like a celebration about to start, so many people hanging out in one place.

 AC-DC was a blast, even better than we thought they would be, packed stadium, and loud! After the walk to the bus was off a little, went too far one direction so had to back up a little, but made the bus any way. Polly and I feel just a little unsure in the city, some unsavory characters hanging around bus stops. All went well, got home at 1:30, latest night through the whole trip.

Last day we got off the ferry and were surprised to be in the middle of a market setup for Saturday morning. We shopped and got a few things, and shared the best piece of Peach/Raspberry pie ever, then off for a walk along the Embarcadero till we got to Fisherman's Warf, now bus to the Golden Gate Bridge for a walk on the bridge, and a few pictures. Back to China Town, where Polly can buy a few things she wanted, and we stumble on the same Oriental Pearl Restaurant, so dinner and a ferry back.    

Was a fun trip, Polly and I will be back again. The place we stayed, Marin RV Park, was the ideal place to stay as close to the ferry, which we took every day back and forth to the city, and a nice clean well run park. Had a pool that we enjoyed the first day, but were too busy to use again. Met people from Texas, Denmark, Australia, Holland, was interesting talking with so many people from different places.

We were right at water's edge in a different way, walk to the outer edge of the park, and you climbed a small hump to an old unused train track, and on the other side of this water and a marsh from the delta of the river beside us, with a view of the city in the distance. From here you could see the ferry make its way in and out of the dock, and you could see San Quinton Prison too. Beside the trailer park was a boardwalk over the marsh with a community of homes on stilts that bordered the river, and sat on the marsh. This is where I took my last walk in the early morning the day we left. What a beauty place to visit early, many people live here, and has all services, Gas, Elect, Sewer, Tel, and Cable, just like a subdivision in any town. The birds were always around too, feeding on small bugs, and fish in the marsh, some were white long legged, and some grey, and some black and white. Felt tropical with the warm air, and much different birds, and palm trees all around the city.   

Have to say was a great time here in San Francisco. All we wanted and more, just couldn't see all we wanted to, so have a reason to be back!

Healdsburg to San Francisco

We left early yesterday, and made the trip at a good time, as I think traffic get busier as the day moves on. By noon we made our way to Marin RV Park, on the sunny side of the bridge, as they advertise.  With help from Polly and our GPS, we made it to within 2 blocks away, then it said we had arrived on left??? What, no place on the left, was a highway! Hmm, quick decision time, in middle of intersection, ok, turn right down short road, and regroup. Park, and ask someone where this place was? Yep should have just kept going on the road, place was 2 blocks further on the right. OK, Now turn around again... Practice makes perfect... LOL

As I try to make the turn around, and man comes out from the garage, and looks, and walks up to me and I roll down the window and he says "GPS Huh!"  LOL, he says it happens about 2-3 times a month, at least you don't have a car, un hook, and hook back up...  I just had to laugh. All this with an American drawl accent. Got turned around with Polly's help, and off we went to our new home for the next 4 days.  

Check in was easy, but long as all we had to learn about the place and transit to and from the city, places to see and rules of the park, which I usually break right away. Now the tough part, back into our site! Was not too hard, just a few back and forward, (well maybe a few more) with help from Polly again, may have to take out that back up camera we bought before we left and try it next time.

All went well, no bangs, and now setup again. We are getting better at this, but today I did stop when Polly said lunch.

After lunch, I went out and had a look around, and saw the pool, now I know what's next. Polly  puts on her suit, me I always have mine on, she takes some laundry, and we make our way to the laundry room, then to the pool.

As we cross to the pool I get a comment from a man waiting in his van, and he says I got a shirt like that! I look down at his plate, which says Beautiful BC. Dam if he wasn't from Gibson's, BC and just did same trip as us. Of course had to have a talk with him.

Pool time, now this is so nice, water was warmer that the river, and just so clean, was a salt water pool. Yep I could get used to this. Of course we met others at the pool, a man his wife and 2 daughters from Denmark, and he wanted to know what a motor home was worth here. He was pointing to one  by the office. I say between 150, to two hundred, he says a million? Noo, thousand. He is surprised, as where he lives a car, a small one is 100 thousand. Wow, well glad I live here.  They were nice to talk with, he is a construction worker, her a butcher. Both had 4 weeks vacation, and first time to USA.

We stay here tonight, no big plan, dinner and get to talking with neighbours from Texas, who have just been to Alaska, and back along the coast. They did stop outside of Vancouver, and took their jeep off the motor home and went to Victoria for a day.

We talked about BC, Alaska, and Texas, they live just outside Huston, so had much to talk about. Hope to talk with them again.

Nice to be in one place for awhile, I will enjoy retired travel better, as don't have to move so often so quick. The evening was warm, and today we look forward to seeing the sights of the city, and meeting up with our friend Sarah Montaro for a chat, and visit as she works close to China town.

Healdsburg California

Was an interesting town to visit, like most small towns there has been a transformation from what was to what is. This town has come full way around, and will continue to be redeveloped as people with "Deep Pockets" as is said, have moved in and are redeveloping this small town to a new style. The down town has so many art galleries, and restaurants we didn't know which one to step into. I did make my way into a gallery that was interesting, and way over priced in my opinion. Also went into another that had wood tables, and other wooden things made of "Reclaimed Trees" not ones cut by faller, ones that had just dropped. I didn't comment, I just looked around, and saw what was there for $5,000.00 per table. A slab of redwood, cut from the center of a log say 5' long and 3' wide covered with glass, and metal legs. Man did I get into the wrong business...

We looked over the park in the center of town, and checked out a few clothing stores, which Polly said same as me, just way too much $ for us. We also took a walk around the older neighbour hoods close to down town, picked a lime off a tree, and enjoyed what the town was before. Old architecture, and beautiful wooden homes, some with curved glass, don't see that from the past often. Went in a old stuff kinda place, and saw many things I remember from when I was younger being displayed... Gee I guess I'm old stuff now too... LOL I looked around for awhile at what was displayed till I overheard someone ask about what the building housed before, and the lady said Machine Shop. Hmm now I stopped  looking at the stuff, and started looking at what the building was made of. There was many rails on the beams bent around in curves that people would have moved heavy iron parts around the shop. The old beams were heavy wood, and the floor was smooth finished cement, Yep Machine shop for sure.  

Somehow it feels kinda graveyard like walking through a town that has gone through this transformation. A working part of the area, transformed to hmmm well different. Next door was a sign on another building and I told the woman it would be a nice building for a collector. She said it had been sold, an art gallery was opening there.  

Polly and I did have a nice day, and enjoyed our walk, now to look around a few wineries in the countryside, and back to camp.

Eureka to Healdsburg California through the Redwoods

What a beauty drive that was, sometimes windy and really narrow in some places, but was nice to see the huge redwood trees are still alive in what seemed like huge amounts. Polly and I took a turn off 101, and went to what was a small town, Pepperwood. On our way there the road wound through the huge redwoods, and we stopped off the road in Humboldt Redwoods State Park to check out the trees up close. Like what we see in MacMillan Park closer to home, but  much bigger around. We met a couple visiting here from  Michigan, they had camped the night in the forest, in their tent. They were on a 2 week holiday, and were trying to see all they could of the west coast too. We talked for about 1/2 hr, and went or separate ways, was nice to hear what they liked and saw on their trip.

Soon we were over the mountains that separated the coast from the vineyards of Sonoma, and stopped at a campsite close to a town called Healdsburg on the Russian River, called Alexander Valley RV Park. The pictures looked much better than the site, but was a nice warm place to spend a couple nights, and visit Healdsburg.  

Setting up the trailer now is a little more organised, and we are establishing what each will do and when we make our way to complete setup. Choosing a campsite is something that will take some time to get right, taking a good look around once you get there is better than just driving in and then looking around. We did the drive in before we looked, and well that was another exercise in backup... I am getting better at that, not that I want the practice. The whole process, once you have traveled a good portion of the day, you just want to get set up. Easy to jump ahead and make an error while just wanting to get set. We took more time this time once we got the layout of the place, and decided where we wanted to be, then decide exactly where the trailer should be. Level it and then we are on our way to getting all done.

All finishes with a beer, and a talk about what we could have done better, and what we will do next time, as well as... OK What's next?

This time we cooled off in the river, which was more of a creek now as the summer has taken its toll on this area as it has many places this year. Water was colder that I thought it was going to be, but I did get right in eventually. Polly just her legs got cooled, but she was happy to get a little cooler. We had our air-conditioned on for the first time, was nice to have the warm sun, but liked the cool air from the AC. All is working good with truck and trailer, Polly always says knock on wood when she says that.

 

   

Redwood Acres RV park in Eureka was less than we expected.

This RV park was just a strip of serviced sites packed close with people having to share service two on each pipe, with extra sewage dumps in front of the next sites front door. The woman who is the hostess, was very helpful, and did what she could to make our stay good. Pay before you see what you have is a problem. So is it to not to have a place booked and being ready to pull over and stop traveling. We are learning how to get what we expect, and mostly it has to do with how much you pay. We have joined Passport America, as we were advised by others before we started out, and this can be a problem, as the places that honor this discount are sketchy to say the least. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for.

We had wifi after some moving around till we got on the site, bathrooms were decent, but somewhat primitive, and the place is attached to the fair grounds, so Saturday evening was races at the track. Didn't bother us too much, as we stayed inside as was a little cold out. We are learning how to pick a site, and how to make the best out of what we get. We didn't hang around during the day much, but did go for a walk in the morning Sunday before we went to look around Erica and area. Was nice to go

 up to the track and see what was still there after the nights races. One car on a trailer, and a couple with their 3 dogs. We talked with them for a short while, then walked around, and got up close to the track and saw all the rubber chucks from the tires that was shot off the track out of the fenced in area. Stands were close to the corner here. Would have been a rush to sit here during the races, and could have been dangerous as pieces were strewn all around the bleachers.

After our tour of the Eureka, Polly an I came back to our site, and made a couple Margaritas, been enjoying these in the trip, as have found a new mix. We sat in the sun, and talked about what's next, and how nice it was to just sit and enjoy the warm sun, and cool drinks.

Tomorrow off through the redwoods toward Healdsburg, Santa Rosa area.  Planning to stay at the Alexander Valley RV Park, another Passport America place? See how this goes.

 

Today Polly and I went into Eureka city.

We saw the best and worst of the city. Before we left a neighbour in the park said the town was not a great place to visit, go to Arcata, much better place to visit. Now looking at what we saw, I see why he said that. More rubies, and people that had seen the worst in life. Polly and I talked about how they got where they are? I shake my head, and Polly does too. Polly says she feels bad for them, and how did they get there? Abuse when young? I say who knows. Have to deal with what comes, and do yer best, my take on life. Many people as we drive through town are marginalized, and a friend of ours labels them. I see people camping close to Wal-Mart, and where they can get free something. Shit happens, what you do about it has to do with you! My take on it...

What we did see that was interesting, even more a few miles north in Arcata was Hippies doing same as we saw in the 70's... Wow if I had my camera, I would have some 60's pics. head bands, dread locks, and all the garb I call hippie crap. Dancing around, smokin pot, and giving hugs, while ignoring the town next door that could use some help. Gee I guess the well to do hippies are still doin OK! They had a festival as they called it, tents all around the square with many things that didn't sell over the summer, for one last chance to make a buck, while saying love and peace and a hug for your $... LOL

I saw when we left this town they had the university above the town, I wonder aloud how much this played on what was going on? The guy I talked with this morning said there is a separation between people that have education in this town, and others. I wonder what that does here, and all over the California, gee the world?! He also said that he had the same experience when going to small towns, and rural areas, he was helping people that had children that needed special help. They would say you are not from here, and would reject him, as he was not  from their town, area!  

Yes I Learned again today, and will continue. I also learned I can cook a sirloin steak like I did last night, with thin strips, on a shish kabob that was tender, and tasty. I also learned that salmon on the BBQ is great in tacos, soft tacos. Mmmm I like this dinners late,  and Margaritas in the late afternoon, in the sun is just the best. Polly and I are happy to know we are so happy, and are doing what we want, before we can't.  

Depoe Bay was a beauty, staying put for a couple days here in Coos Bay at Lucky Loggers RV Park.

What a drive that was, nice weather to start, but a windy road, and made a wrong turn to start, and made it a little worse going into a place with tight turn around, that I had to get Polly out to make the turn. After that we made good progress and saw many beauty beaches, but windy, bumpy roads made for quite a day, by the time we got here Polly and I were ready for a beer, and a review of went good, and what didn't... LOL we do well together, GPS helps, but Polly and GPS, may be best! Difficult to keep eyes on the road, trailer and directions. We are learning, no bang ups so far.

The stop at Depoe Bay was great, we stopped early, and walked a ways, but was best place to pull in. Many places you can't get into with a truck trailer combo. Whale statues, and whales in the bay was a nice touch. There is a whale interpretive center, and was a good view of the bay from there, as well as good to look at the displays of whale parts, and explanations about whales. Got to see one boat make its way into the harbour, but was a small boat, still good to watch.

We managed to go into a candy making store on our way back up the street, and of course had to buy some made in Depoe Bay salt toffees, Mmmm.  When we got back to where we had parked, car behind, and car in front! Dam I thought, but by the time we were about to leave, the car in front pulled out, and Vola, we were off with no pain! That was nice.

Now we get into the windy roads, and narrow, well just hope that further down from Coos Bay we get better roads. We pull into Lucky Loggers RV, and see that it is close to full, good we called ahead. 2 spots left, and we could have had one facing the water, but chose the pull through anyway, easier, and now I didn't want any frustrations. Back and forth a few times, and OK good enough. Not, after blocking front and taking truck off, realized couldn't get truck in, so up and on it goes again, now Polly guides me to take all the site to the line, and OK, now was good. Learning all the time right now. Set up, and plug in, and beer. That feels good to stop for awhile. BBQ is out, dogs on and lunch is served. Polly did make quick lunch, and now a nap for the old guy.

After nap, went to look at an RV Super store they call themselves. More $ than I wanted to spend for some stuff we needed, so off to Wally World. Polly went for the groceries, me off to the RV stuff. I got talking with a guy that needed a water filter, as I did, and he told me he is a vet from Vietnam War, and wow, he had much to say. He was nice enough, but had many things to say about war, and what it was like coming back. I heard about this, but never talked to someone who was treated badly. I can understand people being angry at that war, but to take it out on the men that fought, well that is just stupid. He was so angry with Jane Fonda, and all in that war he says are as well. I have to look up why that was so bad. Yep he was interesting to talk with, and could have talked more, but Polly came and so did his wife, and all went south! I got the filter he recommended, and a hose extension for the sewer, and a jack and flares for in case we get a flat. Oh and I met a Canucks Fan in an auto store here in Oregon, got to love that! No team here so he is a of our team. Nice...

Today we took a walk to town, and will again, as got cards for many birthdays to send, end September, and beginning of October. Got  the sewer hose on, and working, and got the water filter on, and working too. All is good here in Coos Bay, Lunch and a snooze now.

Long Beach Washington, to Lincoln City, Oregon. Chinook Winds Casino

We started the day with a drive to look around the north end of Long Beach peninsula, as we had spent most time south so far. Was a beauty morning to go for a drive. Rain on and off, with sun mixed in. As we traveled north, we saw the area in the center of the peninsula, was mostly 1-2 acre lots, and beach side had access, and other side was often less developed, and rural settings. As we got to the town at the far end, we saw more single lots on the road close to the beach, houses looked like subdivision most places, just on beach, and had protection from the winds, plastic deflectors on sundecks, to ward off the winds.

As we got close to the wild life refuge/park at the end of the peninsula, we took a road that led to the other side of the peninsula, to where they harvest and grow oysters. Where the workin folks of the area live. We ran right into history of this place we didn't expect, an oyster shuckin place, where they were about to start their day. This place had been around for many years you could tell, and so was the whole neighbourhood. Homes that had been here since the late 1800, and early 1900's. Was nice to look around here in the early morning, before people started moving too fast, not like they did here!

Polly and I talked about what this place reminded us of, and how well maintained it was, like a historical place, then we started to notice signs on the fences, and yes it was a designated historical place, here in the middle of nowhere, and we were wondering how we ran into this, as we hadn't seen anywhere in all we had read, about this place. But as we got back on the main road, there was a little sign telling you about it. Oysterville, was a nice treat for us before we packed up, and left.

Got fuel in this little town Ocean Park before we left, diesel was cheaper here than anywhere so far, $2.49 cash, or $2.54 on card. All in all a good drive before we left Long Beach.

Cranberry RV Park is where we stayed for the 2 nights on Long beach was mostly still asleep when we got back, except Gary, whom we met the afternoon we pulled in. He hangs his hand out the window of his motor home, and looks around the park, he knows all that goes on, and was really friendly. Gave us a bag of ice to make Margaritas that first day we pulled in, so we didn't have to drive to get it. He also gave us a package of his fresh caught salmon for our dinner. He has old cars, like most people here do, a 55 Chevy, that he has no place to work on right now. Like many he had a job, that quit on him, before he wanted it to. His wife works here now, and soon he will collect his pension, till then he will fish, and enjoy what he has.

Terry the park manager was real nice, gave us some local info, and helped me with getting parts to repair the water valve on the toilet. The evening before we left Terry and her husband pulled up beside Polly and I in their car as we sat and enjoyed a margarita in the afternoon sun.  They had just got back from a Dr. appointment, her hubby wasn't impressed, didn't like what he was told to do... Like most of us, don't want to make a change as we are used to doing what we do, the way we want to. Before they left, Terry's hubby dropped a couple beers on our table, and said enjoy. Nice people, and we will remember or stay here.

While Terry was gone, Julie came over, she helped when Terry was gone, as park hostess. We had a good talk as she kept looking around corners as who was coming and going. I am learning that some people are here for a short time, and some are here as this is it, no house will be there's again. Circumstances have been dealt late in life, and this may be it! Sickness can really make things shitty, we just don't know how shitty till the day comes, then it is too late to change it. My learning going forward is take care of myself, and do what I want to before I fall by the wayside. Polly and I are on the same track when it comes to doing what we want, before we expire!  LOL, I like that way of saying done, finished, the end... LOL

Today we are off to Depoe Bay, one of my favorite places on this coast, one of the shortest distance between open ocean, and the harbour. Bridge goes right over the inlet that boats have to maneuver. Then we will visit Newport, and check out the Aquarium there, touted to be 1 of the best around.

Now for a walk on the beach before we leave.

Deception Pass Park and Campsites

Today we went to Deception Pass State Park, to have a look around. Bought a day pass, and had a good look around at the light house, and the beaches. Beautiful views, and park is nicely done up, paved mostly, even trails. We took a few pics, and drove through, walked a trail to the North light house. Went to campsite area and took a good look at where we would have stayed, and what to expect if and when we return in the future. Nice paved parking spots, and close to beach sports more untidy than back from the beach a ways. Would have been nice place to stay if we were to just enjoy the park, but this time through we wanted to look around Long Beach.

Eureka! No not the city, but a small celebration, Polly and I went for a drive to Warrington today, and picked up a part we needed for our toilet, a water valve that makes it so we can leave it on and turn on the hot water tank. Installed the valve, and put toilet back on and we now have a complete operating water system again.

The trip to Warrington was interesting. I have had a tough time sleeping lately, and wake way to early, so when we were driving over the bridge I was having a tough time staying awake, Polly kept saying "are you OK?" but yes is all I said, and on we went. After we got the part, and returned I was OK, and when home I installed the valve, and no nap. Had a good time in the late afternoon, sitting out in the sun talking with Park Host yakking, and having a few beers. We followed the sun moving in our chairs, till it was time to start dinner. Salmon BBQ and salad... Nice.

Morning now, and had a good sleep till 6am. Today we travel to Lincoln City or there about.

Cape Flattery Trail

 Today we took a hike to the furthest north westerly part of Washington State. What a beauty drive there, all along the water's edge that separate Vancouver Island and Washington. Sunny, warm and sunny as we head from Forks to Neah Bay, Mostly second growth Spruce Fir Hemlock forest, with much Alder overhanging the road at times. I really love how this shades, and gives the tunnel effect to our trip.

Neah Bay was as expected, maybe a little bigger, an Indian reserve with some disorganization, and some newer places. There were yard, garage, and other sales all the way, we found out that it was an organised peninsula sale day, sell yours and buy someone else's is what we were told. We didn't participate, as we are working at reducing our stuff!

Bumpy, but paved road from Neah Bay to trailhead to Cape Flattery was a nice drive, many signs all the way saying no drugs, or Alcohol here on the reserve, as well as many letting you know AA meeting's available. Beauty drive here, and parking was easy, as people are leaving often. Polly has a pee in "the worst smelling toilet she has ever been in" not impressed. Me I will pee behind a tree somewhere.

The trail was just dam perfect, dry mostly today, and wide at the start through older forest, with light filtered in through the canopy. As we got further narrow boardwalks walks of thick, split cedar boards were built, and well built. No broken boards, and well done, with some 90degree corners.  Made for some interesting photos. As we approached the water's edge, we were treated to some of the best views, foggy edges, with clearing spots, and sun making its way through. Polly always concerned I go too close to the edge, but I was careful, and she was ok with my looking.

Trails end was a 20' by20' viewing deck, with a steep, set of steps.. Well more like a ladder, that had huge spaces from step to step. Not really good for older people. Once on the deck though was a beauty view of the immediate waters, but fogged in toward the light house on the island close by. Talking to one person there I was told they had a viewing of an Orca about 1/2 hour before, so some action. I was saying how not many birds, and all of a sudden a immature Bald Eagle sores over us, about 20' above, was really nice! All in all was a nice walk on a beauty day, fog treating us on and off to varied, beauty views.

Our trip back was nice, looking forward to the best burger around, I was told by a man at the hardware store in Forks. On the road to La Push, we stopped at Three Rivers resort restaurant that many in the area stopped in at, and were treated to a great burger, and a show when someone ordered the wolf man burger, that you had to howl to be able to get it. Twilight is huge here around Forks, and we saw many places that made a big deal out of it. The movie made the area a draw for lovers of the movie.

After our burger we headed to the beach al La Push, and soon were treated to many cops in trucks, stopping people for Speeding? Signs posted were 25mph, so easy to make the mistake and go too fast. La Push was a nice place, but trying to mix a commercial marina for fish boats, and all the trucking of stuff needed, along with a resort area didn't work for us. We took a few pics, and off we went before we got a ticket.. Tired now, wanted to be home, we went past Mora rd, and though to look at Rialto beach, but time to be home. Next time will have to check this out.

Wind was coming up, and I was worried as we left the awning out , and didn't want to have that problem. A beer and Guacamole and Nachos was the plan, and get ready to leave tomorrow. After lowering the awning to deflect the wind, I fueled up, and made sure we had most all ready to go tomorrow, just in case rain was here in the morning.

As we were getting ready, we got a message that we couldn't get on our cell, now I had a different job, get the phone working, with no service. Well that wasn't  fun. Between trying to talk with new neighbours, and going back and forth to the office down the road a couple blocks, to get wi-fi, I missed the sunny evening I was looking forward to enjoying. Finally got service, but now not clear, so good the neighbour had service, and asked if I wanted to use their phone.  The message was from the next RV park we would stay at, so good we got that cleared up.

Poker that night Polly got the jump on me, and beat the pants off me, so off to bed. Another fun day, and travel to Long Beach tomorrow.

 

First weekend in USA, Forks Washington

Thursday September 10, 2015. Our 21st wedding anniversary. I didn't get a card, dam forgetful. No excuses, I didn't make the effort to make sure I had one ahead of time. I wake for work, and Polly has a card for me, and I have to admit... No card from me. Not a good start, but my wife Paulette has a way of letting go of my misgivings. I open the card and Thank her, give a kiss, and I Love you, and off to work.

Beauty day, looks like a nice weekend to start our trip. After work Polly and I finished packing the trailer, truck is hooked up, and off we go to Victoria, for a night on the dock being ready for the Coho Ferry to Washington State next morning. We found out about this option waiting for the ferry on a previous trip to USA. A couple that were off south for the winter told us they stayed the night, they let you get in after the last ferry leaves for the day, and stay in your trailer for the night right down town, on the dock, in the harbour, right where you can walk around the downtown, go for dinner, and a walk, and go back to your trailer if you are waiting for the first ferry in the morning.

 Nice, first camp night free, well almost free. Had to pay the huge fare for the ferry, but no extra for the night we stay downtown in Victoria. What a beauty night too, just one problem, I forgot my camera at home! How did this happen? Well as with the card, no excuses... Also forgot the GPS, but remembered when we were leaving Ladysmith, so turned around and got that. LIST, I said I would make one, we had one, but checking the list again before we go is a must! Things get taken out of the trailer, used and before you go not put back. Sure is allot to pack for a trip.

Funny how my mind works, I am up early as per usual as I type this here in Forks WA., I get up for another cup of my great coffee and start thinking of what other things I need to do before we leave here this morning. I unplug the cell phone that is now charged, then back on task. Mmm coffee is warm, and good. 4:44am, love early morning quiet.

The evening was just beautiful, pub dinner and a walk. Lights on the Parliament buildings, and on the Empress Hotel, we walked up to the Strathcona hotel, looking for a last drink place, but instead went back to the pub we had dinner in, had a last call drink, then off to our trailer for the night. Many people in Victoria asking for change, a variety of reasons given, so many I could write a book on them. Maybe when I retire I could beg for money... I don't think so! Couldn't handle all the rejection...

The morning bright, cool, and damp. All the dew had collected on the water side of the trailer, and showed the outline of the ribs of the trailer while still shaded. First time I had noticed this, will make sure to look for it again, and take a picture, could come in handy in the future, maybe. Took a short walk around the dock, sure is nice being up before people start moving. Quietly the birds start, then a few cars go by, and trucks for delivery's, and soon the place comes alive again. Was a nice place to stay for a night, this we will do again for sure.

Breaky at a small place right across the road from the ferry, and soon we were off to the States. The boat ride was warm, sunny, with calm seas, and good food on this ferry. Better than B.C. Ferries quick fare. Clam chowder, with many clams, breakfast left me still a little empty. Polly had less, a bag of chips.

Soon we were at the Port Angeles terminal, and off we go to the small town of Forks, right after we get a once over by the boarder guards, who take our unpackaged, unlabelled vegetables. Tomatoes, Peppers, Green Onions, hmm like it's a crime. Anyway off we go through PA, on the 101, our highway we stay on to San Francisco. First stop is Crescent Lake, for a quick break, and a swim. Nice unplanned break, met 4 young girls on their holiday, from Chicago, two went for a swim, that got me wanting to, so yep I did. Sure was nice, just what I needed on a warm day. Polly stayed on shore, and took a pic for the girls, while I laid back and enjoyed the cool, clean and refreshing water. Leaves are all changed here, even more than on the island.  

The trip was a little bumpy, and windy around the lake, but was beautiful with the trees arching over the road most of the way, like we were going through a tunnel, except with broken light all the way. I love this time of the year,  was a great time to be married, a great time to honeymoon, and now a great time to travel for our anniversary every year.

Bridges, now here is a challenge, there are many narrow bridges here and some with Logging trucks going across at same time as we were. No accidents so far, but defiantly a challenge, especially the one just as we approached Forks! Looking for the 101 RV park is when I remember that I forgot to write the address down for Polly, so she could put this in the GPS, and have us warned of the turn. No problem, we turned into the shopping store across the road from the RV Park, and shopped first.

That was interesting, should have shopped in PA, I think it would have been much cheaper. Now to the RV Park. Right across the road, and looks older, but nice. Get to the office, and no one there. our name and welcome rules taped to the door, with about 7 others. OK we are in #44 pull through. Again a first, set up in a pull through. Polly and I work at this together, finding the best spot, paying more attention to level this time. Once parked and trailer stabled with front jacks, Polly starts her getting ready and I finish unhooking, and hooking up what needs to be done. Now Polly gets the chairs out, and beer is in hand, sun is warm, and so are we. Polly finds the shade, I enjoy the sun. We talk, and joke about what the trip was like, what we could do better, and drink a few beer. LIST, gee that keeps coming up in our conversation. We will build one, and check it 2 maybe 3 times before we leave, and to be sure we will still forget something.

Dinner tonight is Hot Dogs, with some spicy buns, sure is good, Polly chose the buns, and was a good choice. Now we hear, and see fireworks. Hm, not dark yet, what's up. Ahh we see the lights! Friday night lights! Football game, OK well time for a walk after dinner, let's go over and watch the game. We walk to the field, and watch the local high school team beat the heck outa the visitors, till we get tired, then before 1/2 time, we leave. The game was interesting, but the cheer leaders were the best to watch. Right up front of the stands, and the locals were so practiced, and did the standing on shoulders, and all in sync. Polly kept saying "they sure put allot of money into their football program. Was nice to watch, but tired, and went back to camp, had another beer, while we listened to the fans shout, and cheerleaders cheer, and fireworks going off every 15 mins or so. Now into the trailer for poker, Polly wants to lose! LOL