September 24, 2012 It's been awhile

Well I have started back to work since the last post. I worked 4 days one week and 3 the next week. The work helps me stay out of trouble!! On Saturday the 15th of September we took Kristi and the kids to Disney on Ice. It was at the Fairgrounds in OKC and wow the traffic was miserable! We had to hike pretty fast after we finally got parked and then up the stairs to the top row! Next time I buy tickets it will be closer to the bottom -- not the nosebleed section. Also Cotton Candy was $12.00 for a small bag and it had a plastic princess headband--cheesy!! We only got one. Next we went to Outback for Steak to celebrate Kristi's birthday. We called ahead for seating and still waited 20 minutes to get seated. The food was good but the service was slow-- I guess they were just that busy!! It was Saturday night in the BIG TOWN! So this past Saturday we went to Ponca City to watch old cars Draggin Grand. All the cars from the car show turn out and drag a downtown street. We enjoyed it!! It was a beautiful evening!. We were actually going to take the RV up to Kaw Lake and spend the week-end but I had allergy trouble on Friday and Saturday morning Steve's back hurt -- so hopefully next week-end we will roll out the RV for a few nights. Sunday was spent watching Football--Dallas won and Denver only got beat by a few points. Today I helped Steve put in a steel frame (replacement) in the return air so we can use a standard size AC filter. Job well done by Steve!! Then he went to the chiropractor and I finished my book. I also listened to a webinar about blogging (for dietitians) to help grow your business. I think I just love to blog about travel and what we have been doing for now. OK - signing off -- gotta figure out what to fix for supper.

9/7/12 Friday Time is passing so fast!

Well on Friday the last day of August - Kristi, Austyn, and Logan came to our house for the week-end. Saturday came and we got all dressed up and went to Enid for Pam & JC's 50th wedding anniversary party. It was a great party! I served cake and got to visit with family and friends I hadn't seen in quite a while!! FUN!! Then on Sunday we stayed home and took it easy. Labor Day (Monday) we did laundry... man that never ends, especially if you want to wear clean clothes!. Tuesday, September 4th we drove to Enid and rode with Pam to take Marsha back to the airport. We had lunch at Zio's on Meridian in OKC. I had toasted ravioli and some tastes of lasagna & spaghetti from my sisters and Steve. They have great bread there and we filled up on that. We all ordered water to drink because we think paying $2.00 for iced tea is ridiculous!! On Wednesday - Steve & I went to Stillwater to buy some shoes and get groceries at Walmart---tiring! The next day (Thursday) we drove back to Oklahoma City for another appointment for Steve at the VA. He should be all caught up now! Today is Friday and so far we have done very little! The plan for me is to go to work Monday! That will be exciting since I have not been in so long. Hope I remember how to do that! Not sure what we will do this week-end. We will try to get up one or two mornings and clean out the RV from the trip. Because we still haven't done that! I think I am putting it off because if I go out there and work -- I will just want to load up and go again! Well I am signing off for today.

8/28/12 Since we got home...

Tuesday (8/21)after we got home we went to Enid and rode with my sister Pam to OKC to the airport to pick up my sister from New Jersey. Nancy met us for supper at On the Border - it was about 9:30 when we got back to Perry. Wednesday 8/22/12 - We stayed home. Thursday -8/23/12 We went to Enid and shopped at Dillard's for some new, fancier than jeans and TShirts clothes. These will be worn at the 50th anniversary shindig! Friday - Home???? Saturday 8/25/12- We went to PF Chang's in OKC and met Pam, Marsha and Nancy and Kristi, Austyn, and Logan to celebrate our birthdays (Pam & Mary Sue). Then we went to Target, Dillard's and Macy's!! Quail Springs Mall... We were there! Sunday - 8/26/12 My birthday: I got older!! A day of rest, recuperation and Laundry (it never stops!!). I had nice cards and phone calls!! Monday 8/27/12 - Went to Enid and picked up Marsha. Then we drove to Woodward to see Aunt Mary and some of our cousins - Karen, Steve and Jon. Had lunch at Big Dan's in Woodward. It was a great visit! Tuesday 8/28/12 - Steve and I went to Oklahoma City to the VA for his appointment. Got back to Perry at about 1:30 PM. Been hanging around the house. Also we went to La Macarena in Perry for Fajitas!!

8/20/12 Monday Homeward Bound

Left Hebron NE and drove almost to Salina, KS where we had lunch at a rest stop. Then we drove south some more and kept driving south, through Newton, Wichita and before we knew it we were back in Oklahoma and then Home -- about 6:30 PM.

8/19/12 Sunday Homeward Bound

Got in the RV and pointed it east on I-80 with the Ipod jammin out tunes. The semi-truck traffic is heavy on this interstate. Had lunch in the RV. We decided to turn south near York, NE and head down US Hiway 81--good four lane--less traffic. We at at the Iron Skillet at York and it was not great--not worth writing home about. Steve was in the groove with his driving so he stayed at it till almost dark-thirty. We found a city park at Hebron, NE (paid$5) for 30 amp electric and it had a dump site. It was a CCC camp-from 1934 to 1941 and then held German POW's from December 1943 to November 1945. Interesting! We were told by some RV'ers in Albuquerque that they like to stay in Nebraska because there are a lot of these city/county parks that don't charge much. So we tried this out. We were glad we did because there was only one or two other RVs there -- pretty much had the place to ourselves. It also had a nice bathroom and shower if we would have needed it.

8/1/12 - Saturday - Homeward Bound

Up about 8:30. Rolled out of the park about 10:00 AM. Got gas-not much traffic on I-25 in Northern Wyoming!! We saw lots of snow fence, pronghorns. Thinking we might stay at the Fam Camp in Cheyenne - but there is a low clearance so we will probably go elsewhere. Measured the RV and is is 11'2" - the clearance at the FamCamp in Cheyenne is 11'6". We might be OK but since we weren't sure we decided to turn east on I-80 and head east for a while. We stopped at Sidney, NE and stayed overnight at Cabela's RV park here -- FHU for $30/night. Ate at the restaurant (Buffalo Point)-next to the lake. The food was good but a little bit pricey!! Sidney Nebraska was a Pony Express stop -- they have a little memorial here and I took some pictures.

9/17/12 Friday - Exploration cancelled

Well we had a slow start today...We finally got around about 11:30. We went to town and had pizza at Pizza Hut then got ice and were ready to head out on a mountain/forest drive. We pulled a pretty good grade in the pick-up and smelled something weird. Steve checked it but couldn't really find anything. We decided to go back to the RV since we didn't know if the pickup was OK or if we would have cell service to get help if we had trouble on the mountain. We just hung out. Steve looked at the computer for what could possibly be wrong with the pickup - but he didn't come to any conclusions. We hooked the pick-up to the RV so we would be ready to go in the morning.

8/16/12 Thursday Heading South

Before we left Cabela's we used their free dump station. Then we were on the road. It was nice and cool this morning. We stopped at the Battle of the Little Bighorn and took a tour. A Crow native (lady) gave us the tour and tried to explain the battle - but it was confusing. I read the brochure and it was confusing. I guess all battles and wars are confusing. We had stopped one other trip, but couldn't find a place to park that time. This is also a national cemetery. The Crow Indian fair was going on but we didn't go back for it , since we are trying to head home. We got to Buffalo , WY and stayed at Deer Park campground about 3/4t to 1 mile east of I-25. This is a cute town and we wanted to explore the forest west of here so we decided to stay an extra night.

8/15/12 Wednesday And So It Begins (The trip home)

When we got up this morning it was pretty cool--maybe about 45 degrees and it had been raining quite a bit. Our chairs were soaked, so they went in the back of the pick-up. We did load some of the wet wood in the RV bin and hope it dries out on the trip home. Before we left we drove up to the forest office and I bought a sweatshirt with Lewis & Clark National Forest - Neihart Field Office embroidered on it. Next, we drove the RV and pick-up to King's Hill. It was a very cool, misty, magical morning. We got to I-90 and drove to Cabela's in Billings, MT, where we stayed overnight in their parking lot. We went in and looked around but didn't buy hardly anything.

8/14/12 - Tuesday Exploring

We got up about 9 today and decided to drive up to Sluice Boxes State Park. By the time we got there it was hot but we looked at Belt Creek and walked down the trail. When we got back to the water the dogs waded in and cooled off. Made a few phone calls while we were on the hill and had a signal Called about a piece of property - 5 acres with a little 2 room shack and Belt Creek in front of it. They wanted $120,000 for it. WOW! Steve said we could visit lots of places for that price! We stopped at the forest office and I inquired about camp host jobs--she told me who to contact. We also got a flyer about cabins that the forest rents--she said most have electricity. We had a burger at the cafe in Neihart (Bob's Bar, Hotel, and Restaurant and one gaming machine). We drove to Kings Hill to look at the cabin there but someone was staying there. So, we drove up a forest road to the top of the mountain. This road was pretty bad, steep, rutted and very narrow. Steve & I both were a little scared because we didn't know if we were going to find a place to turn around--luckily we did and back down we went, which was also a little scary. Then we came back to the RV and took a nap. When we got up we appropriated some firewood from King's Hill Campground, saw another deer, then came back and made a fire. We cooked chicken, potatoes and corn. Then we sat around the fire til almost 10:00 PM when the wind came up!! Decided we would go on in and get to bed. Great Day but a little scary on that forest road.

8/13/12 Monday - To the Forest

We did the usual morning routine plus straightening, unhooking from utilities, hooking up the pickup then headed south on 89 to the forest campground, Many Pines near Neihart, MT. We got to the campsite (#12) about 12:30 PM. We backed in the RV and had a sandwich for lunch. Then we walked down by Belt Creek and mosied along. After that we drove to King's Hill and went to the Fire Lookout. Some forest people were there working so we didn't tarry long. Then we saw a big deer on our way back to the highway. Next we went to Steve's old campsite (forest Road 267) and checked out 2 or 3 places and walked by the creeks there. It was so pretty. The water runs clear and sparkles in the sunlight and the trees are gorgeous! After that we returned to our campsite,made a fire and cooked steak and potatoes--yummy!! Later on we made S'mores for National S'mores Day. Great Day in the Forest!

8/12/12 Sunday -Nothing Special

We got up a little late and just goofed off--decided not to drive to Ft. Benton. We will save that for another trip. Went on base and got groceries at the commissary, washed our sheets and I read a book and caught up the blog. Tomorrow back to the forest for two days then start the trek home. Some other things we didn't do: Eat at the salad place again, eat at Prime Cut; failed to go back and feed the ducks, didn't make the Paris Gibson (founder of this city) Museum, and didn't check out the Charles Russel Museum for a second time. This will give us things to do next time we return!! Have a great day!

8/11/12 Saturday Westward Ho and Car Races

After we got around today we put cold drinks in the ice chest, gassed up the pick-up and washed it and headed to Augusta, MT. It is touted as a Trailhead to the Bob Marshall Wilderness. We had hamburgers at Chubby's (in Augusta). As usual there are at least three bars (Saloons) in this small town. We think people in Montana might drink a lot!! Not sure - we haven't really seen any of them falling down or anything. We drove toward the Nilan reservoir and a few miles past it- got near the base of the mountains but not to the trees because it was about 2:30 PM and we wanted to come back to town to the car races. We saw 6 or 8 deer and some antelope on this drive. There are huge ranches and some irrigated farmland (hay) out here also. We saw one place where there wer3 8--10 huge John Deere tractors parked. Also saw a big Charolois Cattle ranch. We got back to town and went to the Car Races at Electric City Speedway. Steve loves the car races sine he had a race car and raced when he was stationed here. It was a great day!!

8/10/12 - Friday

Took it easy this morning because Steve had a headache. Did some routine chores and just piddled around. Always walk the dogs several times per day. Then in the late afternoon we did laundry and got that caught up again. Just really didn't do anything special. Sometimes that is nice.

8/8/12 Wednesday

Woo Hoo!!All of Steve's meds arrived!! I think we just stayed around the camp site til evening. The went to town for some souvenirs to take home. We did walk the trail from our campground to the Middle Fork of the Flathead River (dogs not allowed). It was steep going downhill and back up but we made it. Saw some rafters on the river. Good Day.

8/7/12 Tuesday - Glacier Wildlife

After doing chores (Steve cleaned air conditioner vents and cleaned out the pick-up) we left for Glacier National Park. We packed a light lunch and cold drinks to take along. National Park food is expensive and not always the best tasting. So we headed to Glacier. It was sunny and pretty warm til we got into the trees by Lake McDonald. After driving we finally found a pullout where we could eat lunch on the tail gate of the pick-up. We drove on taking lots of pictures of the falls and mountains. About the time we got to Two Dog Flats we saw a coyote, but didn't get a picture. Then we went out the St. Mary's entrance/exit and got ice cream. By then it was about 4:30 PM so we headed north to Babb, MT and Many Glacier. When we turned off the hiway toward Many Glacier we saw a young black bear cross the road. He was so hot, he was panting like a dog. Also NO picture - because we were too slow or he was too fast. Then there were free range cattle in on spot. After that there was BEAR jam. A momma Grizzly with a cub eating huckleberries. She put her head down and grazed on them like a cow would graze on grass. We sat quite awhile and Steve took pictures with his camera -- but my Iphone did not get a good close-up. I had been driving and we finally finished our tour of Many Glacier and drove back to St. Mary's entrance. Since I was driving the pickup got up to 70 MPH twice today!! LOL When we got to Logan's pass we saw the mountain goats. We took several pictures as they had babies that were cute. They did not mind the tourists taking pictures -- in fact it seemed as if they were posing for the best shot. I have pics of these I will have to add later. We got close to home and ate pizza at Glacier Grill and Pizze at Coram MT. Then home to the RV about 9:30. No closed gates. I was not dizzy today. Great Day!

8/6/12 Monday - Back to Missoula

We called the VA first thing this morning. Talked to someone who said all Steve's (oral) meds were sent to the RV Park at Missoula, MT. I had called the RV Park Saturday and they said there was nothing there for Steve. So I called them back today (Monday) and they said yes he had 2 packages there. After we shampooed the carpet in the RV we drove back about 140 miles one way to get them. Took us most of the day. At least the drive was pretty and on the way back we stopped at Museum of America near Polson. Steve really liked it and I did too. It would take about 3 - 4 days to see all the stuff they have there. It is quite a collection. When we got back to the RV we ate soup and Cheese & Crackers. The we watched our Yellowstone DVD and went to sleep. Also I was not dizzy today - Yea! I have quit taking Claritin every day to see if that helped and I believe it has.

8/5/12 Sunday - Driving North

Today we headed north to Hungry Horse MT. MOst of our drive was on the east side of Flathead Lake. The lake is awesome!! It is the biggest fresh water lake East of the Mississippi. We saw a lot of Flathead Cherry groves and fruit stands selling the cherries. They are $1.25/pound here. We got to Canyon RV and Campground (Escapee price - little less expensive) and unhooked to get into our site. They call Full Hook-ups 30 amp electric, sewer, water - does not include 50 amp or cable TV. In fact no cable to even pay extra for. The WIFI is good here. Lots of dog rules here. Staying 4 nights in order to get Steve's shots. Later we drove into town and found the chocolate -covered huckleberries and had supper. Then we drove to Hungry Horse Dam and reservoir. We got home about 9:30 PM and the gates were shut but not locked--Thankfully--as no one said anything about shutting gates when we checked in.

8/4/12 Saturday Easy does it - Blodgett Canyon

Today we took it easy for awhile -- Steve wasn't feeling too good. We even went back to bed. Later we went to town for a hamburger and then drove to Hamilton, MT (south of Lolo) and checked out Blodgett Canyon in the Bitterroot National Forest. It was a nice drive. There are interesting mountains there and Steve found a clear stream at the trailhead. Some of the photos of the mountain compare it to Half Dome in Yosemite. It is better to google it and look at their images as I did not get great pics. Then we went back to the RV, showered and worked on the blog. We move to Hungry Horse, MT tomorrow.

8/3/12 Friday - Sight seeing

We slept in til about 8:30 or 9:00 this morning and Steve's headache was better today than yesterday. I called for a place to stay up by Glacier and made reservations for Sunday - Wednesday (8/5/1/2- 8/8/12) so I could then call the VA at OKC and order Steve's shots. We will be at Canyon RV Campgrounds and cabins at Hungry Horse, MT - hope it is as nice as this place. Then I checked with the office here and got one more night -- so we will leave Lolo, MT on Sunday 8/5/12. Later, we went to town and ate a nice salad for lunch at the Hayloft Restaurant, saloon and casino--restaurant was separate from the other stuff. Next we stopped at Traveler's Rest National Historic Landmark. It has bee archeologically confirmed that Lewis & Clark camped here in 1805!! Rufus got in Lolo Creek and layed down on his stomach. He looked cute and I took his picture.

Back in the pickup to head west to Lolo Hot Springs and Lolo Pass. It was a beautiful drive with trees and clear running water. We stopped and checked out Lolo Creek forest campground, the visitor center between Montana and Idaho. I had a nice visit with a volunteer lady who is from Dallas and volunteers in August and September for the last three years and she gets a free forest cabin for 3 1/2 days per week of volunteering. Then we checked out the Powell Idaho Ranger Station and Forest campground. This campground has electricity at sites in one loop, asphalt roads and it looked like a shower at one bathroom. It would also be a nice place to be camphost. On our way back to Lolo MT and the campground we stopped at DeVoto Memorial Grove where there are beautiful majestic red cedars 400 - 500 years old. It is said they can live up to 2000 - 3000 years if conditions are right. Then we headed back to the RV and had some soup and cheese & crackers. Tomorrow more sight seeing! I have always been interested in the Nez Perce Tribe since we owned Appaloosa horses years ago and wanted to go on the trail ride they have every year. This is one of the history spots we stopped at today -- Ft. Fizzle. The Nez Perce basically got behind where the volunteer army had set up to stop them and escaped. It is interesting to me to read some of these postings.

8/2/12 Thursday Where Should We Go Now?

Well we got up and got dressed and ate breakfast. Kristi and Logan were not feeling too good this morning, Austyn seemed to be better, but they finished packing the car and started for home. It was sad when they left. Steve and I disconnected the utilities and hooked up the pick-up--We left the Butte KOA about 10:30 AM (Don't stay there if you don't have to -- it is very crowded). We drove to Missoula and were not sure where to stay -- but I had looked up a site called the Square Dance Center and Campground about 2 1/2 miles west of Lolo, MT. Lolo was about 8-10 miles south of Missoula -- so we called and they said they could accommodate us even though it was going to be a big square dance week-end. We just love this place--it has beautiful trees, friendly folks and not all crowded up. Our site is 30 amp Electric and Water (No sewer) but there is a dump we can use. The setting is awesome. We took the dogs for a walk to Lolo Creek as soon as we got set up. Then later we went south of Lolo and explored Bass Creek recreation and campground (forest service)--asphalt roads--could be a good place to spend a few nights without hook-ups if we want, or to be a camphost at. Then we walked the dogs on a nature trail at this same recreation place. This area is beautiful and the temperature is great for walking -- plus the elevation is about 3200-3500 feet. Then hamburgers for us and the dagos at McDonald's and home to bed. We did not need the air conditioner--just the fan for sleeping.

8/1/12 Wednesday - Car repair

Steve and Kristi got up early and took the car in for a check-up. Then they went to Wal-mart to pick up a few things. After they returned Kristi and I did laundry. I was still feeling somewhat dizzy at times. The car needed brake pads and rotors turned and w tires on the back. That was done in a timely fashion at the GMC dealership in Butte. We then took the car for a test drive to Anaconda MT -- and it seemed to be driving great. We ate supper at Chef's Garden - Italian food and had ice cream at Dairy Queen. Then we drove around Butte a little bit and looked at some of the mansions. When we got back to the RV Kristi and the kids packed their stuff for departure tomorrow -- kinda sad they are leaving.

7/31/12 Tuesday -Austyn's Birthday

We got up and around, ate breakfast, walked the dogs, cleaned up and fixed our hair. I was dizzy, but this morning we went to the Mineral Museum at Montana Tech in Butte, MT. It was very interesting and the guy answered a lot of questions. We got some pretty rocks for the kids and Kristi got some fossils for her classroom. This is a tree that has butterflies made out of gem stones.

Then they took me back to the RV to rest since I was dizzy. Kristi and the kids returned with Austyn's Birthday cake and Wilcoxin Ice Cream (Moosetracks)!! We ate that and Austyn opened her presents and we had a little birthday party for Austyn's 10th birthday.

Later we went to Sparky's Garage for supper, but Austyn got sick at her stomach, and I was still nauseous So Kristi and Steve tried to eat while the rest of us ate soup. Kristi had to leave early with Austyn because she was sick. Logan was so cute-- he said it is not good for the birthday girl to get sick!! We agreed!

7/30/12 Monday - Move to Butte

Well we left Helena this morning after loading and getting some propane. Then we were on the way to Butte, MT--South down I-15. This was a short, easy drive. This afternoon Logan, Steve and I went to Wal-mart while Kristi & Austyn took a nap. Then we took a nap while Logan, Austyn and Krisit went swimming. Then we ate at Fiesta Mexican-- great service and the food was pretty good. We got home and took a walk on the nature trail by the visitor center next to the campground. The dogs and us really enjoyed it.

7/29/12 Sunday - Game Room

Well nothing too exciting this morning. We did some checking and found a game room called a Ton of Fun. We all played some air hockey -- I think Steve won the most games. We played a few other games then we got ice cream somewhere and drove around Helena. We took the kids to a playground also and drove by the Capitol building.

We cooked out chicken and baked potatoes and sat outside the RV taking it easy except Steve who worked his tail off washing windows!

7/28/12 Saturday - Gates of the Mountain

After we all got up and showered and cleaned up and looking pretty, we went to the Gates of the Mountains. It is a two hour boat ride on the Missouri River. The tour guide was very informative and entertaining. We learned a lot about the area.

I would highly recommend this if you are near Helena, MT.

Steve and I went to Walmart for supplies, groceries and medicine. Later we cooked out on the grill and played with the dogs and kids this evening. This was a great day!

7/27/12 Friday - Leaving Great Falls

As usual we got up and around. We took the RV for gas then hooked up the pickup. We left for Helena, MT this morning. It was a short drive (70 miles) south on I-15.

Arrived at our destination -Lincoln Road RV Park. We got the utilities hooked up, this site is smaller, tighter but the grass is nice. Steve and I took the kids for a drive to York--found a nice playground where they played and we were going to look for a ghost town but went back to the RV instead. Besides Logan said there is no such thing as ghosts--very logical. For supper we ate Pizza at Bullman's Wood Fired Pizza and then had frozen yogurt at Frozen Moose Yogurt (like Orange Leaf in Stillwater).

7/26/12 Thursday - Shopping

After breakfast - we went to Scheel's sporting goods, Big Lots, and JC Penney's. Didn't buy much of anything. Then Steve, Logan and I went to lunch at McDonald's and home to take it easy. Austyn and Kristi did laundry. After supper the kids blew bubbles and later we went back to the Duck Pond-it was fun and relaxing.

7/25/12 - Wednesday - Ryan Dam

After getting around and having Breakfast and Lunch at the RV we went to Ryan Dam. It is about 12 miles NE of Great Falls on the Missouri River. There is a display of the modern day electric cook stove there because they produced a lot of electricity at this dam and wanted to show off the electric stove. They don't allow pets on the island so if it is hot -- leave your pooch at home. The bridge really sways... gives you a funny feeling. We took it easy the rest of the evening and made S'mores. Again we walked around at the Famcamp.

7/24/12 Tuesday Catch Up Day

We got up and around. I called two veterinarians and got Rufus an appointment on the second call. Steve & I took him to the vet for an exam and refill of his meds. Back to the RV. Then we did laundry--It was hot in the laundromat uptown and Steve about passed out on me. After that we cooked on the charcoal grill and then went to Gibson Park and fed the ducks and geese. We also took picture and looked at the flower garden, an old cabin and skate park. Great Evening.

7/23/12 - Monday -Sights

We got around and went to Giant Springs State Park and Roe River (shortest river)- it flows into the Missouri River, which is the longest River in the US. By the way I still do not know the difference between a river, creek, and stream.

Then the kids played in the park and got a free poster. After that we had lunch at Salad Creations. Later we went to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center (Wonderful)and the kids earned Jr. Ranger badges. It is an amazing facility and Steve & I had been there previously - so glad the kids got to see it. We all got in free because of Steve's Access pass. It was very informative and I really enjoyed for the second time.

Then back to the RV--we are pooped but still need to do things. Steve & I went to Wal-mart for food supplies and Kristi did some more laundry. Then we cooked hamburgers and hot dogs on the charcoal grill outside. We walked the dogs and the kids ran around. Rufus is having trouble seeing again so we will try to get him into the vet tomorrow. The Famcamp here at Malmstrom Air Force Base is nice but no frills. Great restrooms, has a small laundry and plenty of space. Could use more trees and a fire pit would be nice. Also next time we need to get a site that puts the front of the RV facing west --maybe.

7/22/12 - Sunday Rest

We slept in late (10:00 AM) today. Then went to Denny's for breakfast. After that we went to Ulm, MT to the First People's Buffalo Jump State Park. We saw a great demonstration inside the building, a tipi and lots of other interesting stuff. We also bought souvenirs. Then we went to the CM Russell museum for Arts & Crafts for the kids and music for the adults. Back to the RV to rest and ordered Pizza. After eating we walked a trail at the famcamp and Steve took some beautiful sunset pictures. Also had a little rain storm about suppertime./

7/21/12 Saturday - Great Falls & Car Races

Today we loaded up our stuff and drove from the forest campground (Many Pines) to Great Falls. We got a site at the Fam Camp on Base and every took showers, did some laundry and got cleaned up (a much needed task!!) We ate supper at Chili's then went to the car races which was a roaring good time. When Steve was stationed here at Malmstrom - he raced a car every week - so it is very important to him to get to return to the races. We enjoyed them a lot. Then home to the RV for Bed.

7/20/12 Friday Forest

We got up to a soft rain this morning then had breakfast. Kirsti and I went back to sleep--after lunch Steve and I went to Neihart for a few m,ore supplies. This afternoon Steve rested and Austyn and I made God's eyes. Then we started supper outside but it started raining hard so we moved inside. Then after it let up some we took a walk and made fire for S'mores. Then bed.

7/19/12 Thursday - Forest

We had a morning fire (by Kristi). Then we decided to change campsites to be closer to Belt Creek. That took most of the morning. Then we had lunch. Kristi and I drove to Belt-- just goofing around plus we got gas at Belt and checked Steve's old campsite and Ponderosa RV Park at Belt. We decided to jut go ahead and go into the Fam Camp at Malmstrom in Great Falls on Saturday. We saw security services (Air Force) moving something in a convoy on our way back -- we had seen one guy in a hummer manning a machine gun on our way to Belt along with a Blue Security Services pick-up. They were moving something big -- I think it was a nuke!! Anyway - we were on our best behavior so as not to get shot!! LOL We took a rest in the afternoon and then cooked Steak, potatoes, and beans for supper and also had strawberries and blueberries. We sat by the fire and took it easy after we ate.

7/18/12 Wednesday Drove to the Forest

So we got up about 9:00 or so and got disconnected and we drove up Highway 191 (Gallatin Road) along the Gallatin River, passed by the Big Sky ski resort. We stopped along side the road and had lunch in the RV. Then we drove to Bozeman, MT where we stopped at Walmart for supplies and gas, then to Livingston, MT and North on 89 N (King's Hill Scenic Drive). We got to the forest kinda late and decided on a campsite. Kristi put up their tent, Steve mad a fire and I made Hamburger patties so we cooked them outside and had some chips and went to bed. We were tired!!

7/17/12- Tuesday Last Day in Yellowstone

OK - we got up and did the morning routine and left for Yellowstone NP at 10:15 AM trying to beat the crowd. As soon as we got inside the gate we were in a traffic jam (some kind or wreck--not an animal jam). We finally go to Old Faithful about 12:30 or 1:00 PM. Steve & I and dogs got a parking place right away but not Kristi--so Steve & I drove the car around while Kristi and the kids went to get the Jr. Ranger badges. Then we had a picnic lunch and bought souvenirs. Next we drove to West Thumb Geyser Basin, then Fishing Bridge, then LeHardy Rapids. We saw and elk at the Upper Falls. We went through Canyon Village and saw bison on our way. Then we went to Norris and left the park--We got stuck in another traffic jam to get out. We ate at a Mexican Restaurant, got some cash and went to the RV. We were pooped out!

7/16/12 Monday Yellowstone Day 3

We got up late and had some showers and left late. We went to Yellowstone NP--saw a bison. Drove through Firehole canyon and saw magnificent falls. We saw an elk around here. The Upper Middle and Lower Geyser Basins were too full for us to park. So on to Old Faithful. Parking lot was extremely full, finally got a place to park the Pickup. Kristi & Austyn weren't there --finally got a text through to them and we got together with them and went to the Visitors center. We found out when Old Faithful would erupt. Also found information to answer questions for the Jr. Ranger badges. It poured down rain and we couldn't go outside to watch Old Faithful. It didn't look as awesome as we remembered from 2003. We are going back tomorrow. We are all tired so we went to W. Yellowstone - got supper and ice cream. After we got back to the RV we walked by the lake and then drove to Beaver Creek (a forest campground) -- it was further west of here and had some really nice scenery. Got to bed earlier. The prices in W. Yellowstone, MT are high for groceries or eating out. McDonald's here doesn't even have $1.00 hamburgers (for the dogs) - they are $1.79 each!!

7/15/12- Sunday - Day 2 Yellowstone

We got up and packed stuff and disconnected the RV. Then went to town (Livingston, MT) and got gas then hooked up the pickup. Then we drove back through Yellowstone from the North Entrance. We stopped at the Artists Paint Pots--quite an ordeal with the RV trying to park it because regular cars were parked in the area for oversized vehicles. Finally got it parked and walked a long ways to see these colorful geysers. We finally got back out and got to West Yellowstone, MT, stopped at the grocery store. We got the RV set up and had supper. Then we had a great campfire built by Steve and made S'mores. We stayed up late then went to bed. This is a beautiful area -Hebgen Lake.

7/14/12 Saturday - Yellowstone Day 1

Well we got up a little late today--went to McDonald's for breakfast, then started our trek to Yellowstone. We stopped before we got to Gardiner and checked out the river and walked the dogs and skipped rocks. When we got inside Yellowstone NP we stopped at Mammoth Hot Springs and heard a ranger talk during the rain. Really nice. Then we saw 9 bison. Next we drove and saw beautiful rivers. Then we drove to Canyon Visitor Center and got information for the kids to work on a Junior Ranger badge. After that we continued driving an saw a mother black bear with 2 cubs!! This was a highlight for us as we had not seen one before in Yellowstone. We drove a long ways and got back to the North Entrance where we saw a whole herd of Elk. Then we had pizza at Gardiner, MT and saw more deer and elk on the way home.

7/13/12 - Friday

We slept in late then moved to the other RV park--took it easy and went in to shop. Went to town where I could get a signal and called several RV parks finally found a vacancy for 3 nites at Hebgen Lake for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Kristi and the kids got here!! -- Yea!! So We took it easy and ate at the cafe near the RV park - had great ice cream. The ice cream is home made here in Livingston, MT - Wilcoxin. They also sell it in Yellowstone National Park. Then we visited and went to bed.

7/12/12 Thursday

We did our morning routine. then we drove to the gas station andngot gas, dumped the RV sewer at Flying J then hooked the pick-up up to the RV. We drove down I-90 until we got to Deer Creek, MT where we ate lunch in the RV. Then we went to the car museum and spent an hour looking at beautiful old cars--very enjoyable--then we were back on the road. We drove east on I-90--saw a lot of pretty scenery, went over the continental divide and stopped at Bozeman--but there was no room at the RV park where we stoped so we drove on to Livingston and stayed at Osen's RV Park.

7/11/12 Wednesday National Bison Preserve

We got up late and then did our usual morning routine. Then we drove to the National Bison Preserve at Moiese, 33 miles North of Missoula. We had a Hamburger for lunch and Steve and I split a Huckleberry shake that was awesome!! We saw antelope and bison but no elk. It was a great drive , then back to the RV for a nap!! woo hoo! We got up and ate Leftover pizza. Then we bravely went to Walmart to re-stock!! Of course we got sprinkled from the RV park's sprinkler system. We did not really appreciate that.

7/10/12 Tuesday - Chores

Today we slept in. When I got up the front air conditioner wasn't putting out cold air!! I turned it off so when Steve got up we checked it-- It was froze up so we thawed it out and cleaned the filters. We also got the laundry around and it took $18.00 in quarters to do 4 loads!! We ate salad at McDonald's then back to do chores. We took the laundry to the RV laundromat and I stayed with it while Steve did a new contraption with the filters on the air conditioners. We also swept the rug. When we were finished we went back to town and had pizza (Very Good) at Bridge Pizza. After that we drove to the Carousel for Missoula and Brennan's Wave to walk and watch the Kayakers. The carousel was being worked on so no ride. Then to PetCo-- I bought a thundershirt (calming shirt) for Zoey to see if it will stop her barking. Now back at the RV and ready for bed! Hopefully sight-seeing tomorrow.

7/9/12 Monday- To Missoula, Montana

Well we got up early again so I could call the VA for Steve's shots. Left the call back number and when the lady called back she took the address but said the shots would not go out til Tuesday due to their workload - which did not make me a Happy Camper!! I put in a call to Steve's PA and complained--unsure if that will help--talked to the nurse who said she would tell the PA. I also called the Gunnison CO hospital regarding the bill from last summer and Tienbaso's nurse to order cholesterol medicine. Anyway we left Spokane and drove across the Idaho line and went to Cabela's for some retail therapy (shopping). After that we got back on the road and headed east on I-90. It was a beautiful drive with trees, mountains and the Clark Fork River. We enjoyed it thoroughly, except for the construction projects that had the orange sticks inside the lane where we had to drive. I kept leaning over towards Steve so he wouldn't hit them. We stopped at the Lincoln's 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar and Cafe at Haugan , MT for lunch (salads and slow service). It has a nice story-- the owners have 3 generations working and all the Silver Dollars on the bar and wall are donated by customers and still belong to them. It states that families return year after year to visit their dollar. Then we drove on in to Missoula, checked in and set up the RV. We are staying at Jim & Mary's RV park--very pretty , lots of flowers, sprinklers and a lady who won't put her White Westie on a leash! We went to town for supper at the Montana Club--the food was OK, the prices were high and the service was extremely slow!! First and last trip there!! Back to the RV and bed

7/8/12 Sunday --Long Drive

We got up really early today to drive over 300 miles to Spokane, WA. It got very hot in the afternoon, over 100 degrees! The country changes to desert looking rolling hills. The heat was not something we wanted and of course the generator kept dying, so that the air conditioner wasn't running. So we stopped in a big parking lot after Umatilla, WA and Steve checked the buttons--he finally got it started and changed the altitude adjuster and got it running. But by this time it just did not cool off as much as we would have liked. I had Steve wear his cool vest and we put cool rags around our necks to help out. When we got to Spokane the country side view was much better. We went to the Fairchild Air Force Base Family Camp, but they were full. It is a really pretty base--we wished we could have stayed there. Since it was Sunday we couldn't call ahead to find out they were full. We left the base, got gas and stayed at Overnight RV Park-- not the greatest. IT did have 50 amp electric so we ran both air conditioners and got cooled back off. The RV was pulling hard to the right and we didn't know what was wrong but after we got gas and drove a few blocks some one flagged us down and we pulled over--he sa id the wheels on the pickup weren't turning (right & left)freely. Steve checked and the windshield cover had caught in the pickup steering wheel and kept the wheels from turning freely. We had tried a new technique (didn't work right). After he took it off no more problems pulling to the right. We hooked up the utilities--even that was a problem because Steve had to add an extension hose to the sewer for it to reach. Finally got that done and went to bed. Some days are more troublesome than others. This was one of those days!!

7/7/12 Saturday - Alternator and Klickitat River

Well after we got up and around Steve put on the alternator and the belt (easier typed than done)!! We had lunch and left to see the Klickitat River.

This is one of the places I have been wanting Steve to see since the first time we tent camped in Colorado(2002). So off we went. I had been to a camping spot on the Klickitat River with my Mom, Dad and sister Nancy when I was about 12. Dad's cousin, Ralph Stout took us there, caught a steelhead trout (that we packed in dry ice and took back to Woodward). Nancy & I were going to wade in the River but it was too cold. Steve and I had a great time investigating and trying to find the spot. The river is a wild and scenic river with NO dams. They have a trail for hiking, biking or horseback riding that goes along the river for 31 miles. Wish I was in good enough shape to hike or bike that. Then we drove to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery. It is a beautifully landscaped park along with a fish hatchery--so nice--we walked around, took a few pics then back to the RV.

7/6/12 Friday Driving a little more

Got up and did our usual chores. Then we were on our way to The Dalles, OR. We went into the visitor's center and learned a little about the dam. The Columbia River is magnificent and we were in awe!

We couldn't find an RV park here so we were able to get in at the KOA at Cascade Locks, OR-- we got there early and decided to try to explore some of the area, but as luck would have it the pickup would not start. I went up to the office and asked if they could give us a jump. The guy brought a battery charger over and told us to use as long as needed. We got the battery charged and pickup started, then drove to Hood River to a NAPA parts store--they checked the battery and it was OK but the alternator was not good. So we got a re-built alternator, new belt, a portable battery charger and a bottle jack (part of the jack in the pickup was missing). Finally got back to the RV , had supper and went back to bed.

7/5/12 Thursday 6 Weeks on the Road

We left camp about 10:30 AM after the usual chores. We drove through really nice scenery until after Bend and Redmond, OR--then it looked like the high desert--except in the valleys and low spots where there was irrigation. On the driver's side (West) were the Cascades Mountains--we got some really nice views of them. We stayed at the Hunt RV Park (Fairgrounds) Tygh Valley, OR.

7/4/12 Wednesday Independence Day

Happy 4th of July. We took it easy today and hung out around the RV. We decided to go look at some falls up the road but didn't have any luck finding them. It was a nice drive though and we saw another lake--Lake Lamolo. We saw a deer in the trees--But no BigFoot!. Then we came back to the RV. We fixed hamburgers, had a campfire and watched fireworks over Diamond Lake. The fireworks were great. After the sparkle you could hear a roar that sounded like a jet. I guess it was an echo from the mountains.

7/3/12 Tuesday - Crater Lake

Today we got around and drove to Crater Lake. Steve was very excited when he got his first glimpse--It is a magnificent blue color and is the deepest lake in the US. We drove the Rim road and stopped several times to take pictures--there is a lot of snow still on the ground here. We stopped at the visitor's center for lunch. It was not the greatest food and expensive for sandwiches, chips and Steve also got some chili. It is ran by Xanterra. They have the cutest gifts and souvenirs--but also pretty expensive-so we just got T-shirts again. We are trying not to get more STUFF because there is not much room for anything more in the RV. LOL We have driven the RV 2,527 miles since we left Perry. We have driven the pickup many miles sightseeing. We have visited 6 national parks in just under 6 weeks: Mesa Verde, Grand Canyon, Sequoia-Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, The Redwoods and Crater Lake. We missed several due to the hotter weather, but that is OK because we will have more things to see on another trip. Ate at the Diamond Lake Resort Cafe-It was OK but nothing to write home about. We had a campfire and turned in early.

7/2/12 Monday - Driving Day

Leaving for Crater Lake today. We left Crescent City, CA about 11 AM and drove up 199 through the Redwoods along the Smith River. The scenery was breathtaking and the road was a little unnerving for me on the passenger side. Much of this part of the drive was 35 MPH or less. No passes (no mountains) just very curvy with no shoulders and few guardrails. There was a rest stop before we got out of California so we stopped for lunch and let the dogs walk. Then we went through a tunnel. Soon after this we were in Oregon!! The rest of the drive was good--it was very pretty and scenic and also wider in most places. It had a few areas of 35 to 40 MPH and some 45 MPH, but it was a much easier road. The Rogue River was wide and deep--looked clear. We took 199 to Grant's Pass, OR then I-5 to Gold Hill, drove up 234 to join OR Highway 62 all the way to Diamond Lake RV park. It is just north of Crater Lake National Park. We got here about 5 PM. They led us to our site and after we parked we went back to the Office for firewood which they delivered to our site. Next we ate pizza and had a campfire! Great Day! This place is nice and COOL, but does have mosquitoes!

7/1/12 Sunday Laundry

Easy going today, got the laundry around and went to the laundromat--only 2 washers work at the RV park. At the laundromat it cost $3 per washer!! Note to self: DO NOT do laundry on Sundays at a Laundromat--TOO BUSY! Anyway we finished that, washed the pickup and went back to walk on the beach. We rested then when I got back up I was dizzy and sick at my stomach--decided that it was sinus drainage and took medicine but still didn't feel a whole lot better. Went to bed about 10:30 PM. Short post.

6/30/12 - Saturday - Coastal Redwoods

We took it easy this morning, when we got around we decided to drive to Stout Grove--Big Beautiful Coastal Redwoods. It was a very enjoyable drive. We also stopped at Walmart and got stuff--Back to the RV to rest. When we got up we went on a nice drive on Pebble Beach Road, walked the dogs and took pictures. We saw information about Castle Rock which is a protected spot for sea lions and such. Then looked at the Battery Point Lighthouse. It glowed in the dark and was so pretty. We also watched the moon above the ocean. Then bed.

6/28/12 Friday - Repairs & Moving On!

Well we got up at 7 AM-did the usual morning routine, then drove the RV to Leon's Automotive to get the exhaust checked. After we got there we found out they couldn't look at it till lunch time--so we drove the RV and Pickup to the mall parking lot and waited for the repair shop to call us. While waiting we watched the different people walk and look weird. I took a nap before lunch today!! Then we had our lunch in the RV. After lunch we took the RV to the shop--It didn't take them long to fix it. The guy replaced two nuts and it was all better!! They only charged us $41.00 to fix it. Plus they found Steve's spark plug socket. Great--Back to the mall parking lot to hook up the pickup and get meds for Mary at Walmart. Walmart was in a mall in this town. Then we stopped and got gas and headed North to Crescent City CA. We made a stop at the beach and watched the waves roll in. Steve picked up rocks and sand and the dogs played. It was very relaxing. Back on the road, drove the curves and through the Big Coastal Redwoods--a nice drive-- cool weather 60 degrees. We got to Crescent City, CA and pulled into a city owned RV park--Shoreline RV Park & campground and got a Beach front view--NICE!! We ate at the Harbor Grotto (late - about 8 PM) and returned to the RV. Steve took some pictures of the moon shining on the water--lovely! Then showers and bed. Pictures another night. I am behind and just trying to get the typing done tonight then will try to download pics tomorrow.

6/28/12 Thursday Eureka, CA (Weird)

Today we got up at 5:30 AM, dressed, walked the dogs, had breakfast, unhooked the RV from the utilities and then started on our way. We drove up highway 101--a nice 4-lane road with smooth curves and no big grades.

We got to the repair shop (Leon's Automotive) at 9 AM and a guy checked it and said to come in early tomorrow morning because they couldn't get it in today. So then we got an RV spot at Redwood Acres Fairgrounds RV Park. The place did not look too good but it is $20/night vs $38.50 -- OK we will stay here. We decided on a spot that didn't look too muddy and unhooked the pickup from the RV and hooked the RV up to utilities. We had a little snack--then went exploring. We went to a wildlife refuge--No Dogs Allowed-- so we turned around and left. It was for birds anyway--not seals and dolphins and good stuff....LOL Then we went to the beach!!

After that we came back to the RV for a well-deserved NAP since we got up so early!! Later we went to Applebee's for supper. We have seen huge numbers of people with backpacks, bikes, on corners begging, etc. This place may be a haven for homeless folks or others who are economically challenged. I think they also have a high population of druggies (tweekers, & potheads, etc) here after I checked that out on the internet. The town has some cute Victorian houses but we will be getting up the road as soon as the RV is fixed!

6/27/12 Wednesday Redwoods Sight Seeing

We decided to sight see today--did not get up early. We went to the Drive Through Tree first to check it out and bought a souvenir (wooden truck with log).

Then we went to Garberville, CA and had lunch at Woodrose Cafe. I had a beautiful salad -- almost too pretty to eat.

We also saw a Hemp House (medical marijuana) here and a few flaky looking people. Then we drove up the Avenue of Giants (Redwoods) admiring the redwoods which are magnificent. Steve got tired so I was allowed to drive (about once a week I drive the pickup). We stopped back in Garberville for groceries and called a muffler repair shop in Eureka CA to make arrangements for possible repair of exhaust leak and then back to the RV. Steve made a fire and we had grilled fresh corn on the cob, chicken and fresh strawberries--YUM! We went across the street and I took a picture of Steve and a carved wooden bear that also had overalls. I think Steve & the bear look really cute!! Then another campfire, hooked the pickup to the RV and early to bed.

Oh I almost forgot, We have been hunting for Bigfoot and may have found him!! LOL