August came to an end with some early fall weather -- woke up on the 25th to a 47 degree morning and spent most of the day in a sweatshirt with the space heater going! By late afternoon the temps were desperately trying to make it to the 70s but failed in the attempt. Normally Iowa has some scorching days in August and September, but this has been an unusual spring and summer. Of course, my sister is happy with the cooler weather. The kids have started back to school and with classes pre-K through grade 5 in her school, hot sweaty kides are not conducive to good learnin'!
Nearly each morning I heard the flock of geese heading to the marsh which made the feel of autumn in the are much closer to reality.
Finally found a 'black box' so I can get my ol' TV ready to switch to HD. Can't say I'm really impressed. Now I keep loosing signals -- I really do dislike technology. Oh, the picture has improved, but I guess I'm just old fashioned. I still prefer my old analog 'bag phone' that never lost a call to these new digital things. Guess it's time I 'get with it' and come into the modern age....but just don't understand why we try to fix something that ain't broken!
Spent lots of time cleaning all of the little hidden spaces and corners. I had so much stuff from the truck stacked here in the RV and it needed to get back to the truck. It sure is nice having the truck home!
There is a place on the slide-out that must have a leak -- on the back wall -- by the window -- during heavy rains, I noticed the water has been running down the outside wall and window and not channeled away from the wall. I found some damp carpeting after the last rain storm but thought the window hadn't be closed securely -- that may not have been the problem. Hopefully, the RV service place will have time to get me in for a day or two to fix some stuff that was damaged during the spring high winds - the antenna for one! Also would like some of those high-rise caps over my roof vents so I can keep them open during rainy days. Just little odds and ends.
Since I hadn't been using my charcoal grill very often -- too much trouble stoking it up for one person -- I opened the wallet and bought a small eclectric grill. Have used it nearly every suuny day since! Actually, I'm using it more like an outside oven -- saves heating up the RV.
For days, I tried to locate an odor in the RV -- except for my nose, it had escaped me! Thought the dog had buried something under the chair or sofa -- but ended up to be a moldy cucumber in the fridge -- can't understand why I didn't notice it when I opened the fridge. Guess I need to clean and defrost it more frequently!
Put a phone call through to Ed and Linda at the RV park in Gatesville to make sure they saved me a space. I'm ready to go home -- emotionally ready -- not phsycally ready -- the longer I stay in one place, the more I have to pack up!! I'm getting a real good case of "hitch itch" -- 4 months in one place is too long -- I love it here -- after the weather settled down, it has been damn near perfect. But Texas is calling -- I can hear it calling my name.
As the month came to an end, the storms and winds were fewer and farther between, but I did wake up one night to the sound of wind blowing out of the west and hail pounding down on the RV. When I got up to close the windows, I noticed it wasn't raining or hailing -- it was the sound of the acorns blowing out of the trees and slamming into the top and side of the RV and truck....the joy of parking in an old oak grove!
One chilly morning I realized I had forgotten to make bread for the birds the night before -- so I opened a box of Jiffy Mix and added some beans and corn to it -- they love it spiced up with some cinnamon! The left over corn and beans became corn and bean chowder -- another advantage of the cooler weather -- good chowder and soup weather.
Since arriving in Iowa, I have become a "Culver's Addict." That is the restaurant with the "byte with a bite" sign on the door -- and I made really good use of their WiFi hotspot until I got setup with the WiFi in the park. Wednesday is fried chicken night and I always feel so miserable when I leave there! Come to think of it -- Bea and I seat out so often, I have eaten way too much on this trip. But eating out is so much fun -- no cooking, no dishes to wash! My kind of meal!!
The early hours of August 28 brought another thunder-boomer. Lost power -- lots of thunder and lightning --not much wind or rain. Did find out that there is no water in the park when the power goes out! Evidentially there isn't automatic alternative power for the well and pump. Of course, I hadn't refilled my fresh water tank after we emptied it to use the water to wash the RV. Lesson leaned!
Thank heavens I rememered to pick up Richard's gooseberries! Brenda's husband is the first (and only) person I met in Texas that knew what gooseberries were -- and liked gooseberry pie! So, I ordered a case of canned gooseberries to take home to Brenda (there are only 8 cans to a case) -- but now Brenda will have to make Richard his gooseberry pies -- at least 8 of them!
August ended with a cookout at my sister's and a Labor Day weekend cookout with Kathy and Jim.
The weather is terrific for this time of year -- but always on my mind are my friends down on the Texas Gulf Coast and hurricane season. Looks like they are starting to roll in one right after the other.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Friday, August 22, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Iowa in August 2008, Part III
I woke up t0 56 degree weather on August 17.... 62 degrees by noon - will need a sweater to set outside in the breeze! My Favorite Thing! Another terrific day -- a little rain and some "above the ground" tornadoes in the area late in the afternoon. Lots of wind in the early evening.The picture was taken by the Marshalltown Times Republican newspaper. These 'rope' tornadoes come in groups -- guess they don't like to travel alone!
Woke up on August 19 to someone on the radio talking about the Big Treehouse in Marshalltown. Sorry I missed what they had to say -- the greater Des Moines Tourism group was discussing things to do during a "Stay-cation" in the Des Moines area. So many vacations have been shortened due to fuel prices. The popularity of the Treehouse is amazing.
Started making breakfast and no propane! Damn! Hate it when that happens first thing in the morning! Well, considering I didn't crawl out of bed until nearly 9AM, I guess it was BRUNCH! I mess with propane so seldom, I'm always glad when I can remember how to flip tanks. I really need to take a magic marker and mark my tanks so I know which direction is open and which is closed. I should develop a little 'propane check list' for such things. I have a check list in this RV for everything else!
The park is almost full again -- still a lot of road and construction crews. New neighbor moved in with a 5th wheel -- moving back to the area from Bolulder, Colorado. Heavens! Can't imagine moving here from Boulder! Of course, this is where his family is.
I finally took my ice maker out of the box and plugged it in -- I'd heard the horror stories about the noise they make. I was surprised. It was on the picnic table right next to me; I was reading. Other than the sound of the water moving from the reservoir up to the ice maker, the noisiest part of the cycle was the clunking of the cubes into the plasic holding basket. Of course, I wasn't making big cubes. I put it on the smallest size cubes so it would cycle through quicker and I could make sure it was working.
I think I could tolerate the ice maker inside. Not really any need for me to keep it running since I'm not having wild parties and I don't have a big family. Now I need to find a place for it to "live." Of course, I still haven't found a place for the grill to "live" -- what's the hurry! As soon as I get the truck back, that problem will be solved!
Forgot to do the dishes before I went to bed so had those to do in the AM -- of course, just me and the critters -- there aren't many dishes. I had all the critter dishes to wash before I could feed them. They were not happy having to wait. Coffee is made so I guess the day has sarted.
Going to try using my electric grill as an oven -- picked up some ground ham at the market the other day to make ham salad -- then, I decided to make a ham loaf. My sister brought me some really nice tomatoes and banana peppers that her friend Jan had sent to me. A ham loaf is the perfect place for them! I enjoy grilled vegetables, so I'll put some of them on at the same time. If I can figure this 'oven' thing out, it will save heating up the RV with the oven.
Bea came by on the 19th with chicken sandwiches....just enjoy visiting with her and being outside -- that's what picnic tables and sisters are for!
August 20th - great news today! I may have a truck in a few days. The engine work is complete and they just have to check the rattle in the rear end. YIPPEE! Bet Cathy's dad wishes he had never sold me that truck -- two accidents, engine and rear end problems! That was his baby -- he maintained that thing like a gem.....then Helen got ahold of it!
I haven't been out and about sight seeing -- wonder if I would have done more if I had brought my scooter - probably not. I have the scooter lift on the back of the RV since I cannot tow the RV with the lift on the truck. But when I wanted to go somewhere and take the scooter, I would have to move the lift to the truck and hook up the electric -- then move it back to the RV to hit the road. It may be more trouble than it is worth. Will have to work on that.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Iowa in August 2008, Part II
Things are going along great on August 12th. Life is good! These late night hours watching the Olympic games are gonna kill me! I'm crawling out of bed later and later. Guess my critters are in the 'retired' mode, too -- they remain quiet and don't wake me up!
Of course, I cannot blame all of the 'late night hours' on the Olympics. I have spent many hours roaming around the internet like it is my own personal library and travelogue. I have really developed an interest in listening to old time radio shows and reading e-books.
I had a telephone conference call bird club meeting with the Temple (TX) bird club regarding the fall mart and bird show. I sure do miss those lunch meetings! Good friends -- Good food! But, like many things, the price of fuel keeps people from traveling. The members of the Temple group come from all over Texas and we would meet quarterly for our meeting, lunch and just good time fellowship. http://www.texasbirdbreeders.org/
On the 14th, Bea stopped by the RV on her way back into town from a meeting. She had seen a tornado on the way back. Numerous funnel clouds were around Marshalltown -- sirens going off -- still have power! But, I'll tell you, I'm really getting 'spooked' about the wind and torndado stuff -- I noticed I really get "tense' when it happens now. Ever since the RV next to me got blown around a few storms ago, made me apreciate my heavy ol' rig. I could see his 5th wheel just wobble back and forth. I wondered if it would tip over. He had one of those really nice Montana rigs with 3 slides and the winds lifted up the rear end and set it back down! Made a believer out of me!
I've packed my "get the hell out" bag AGAIN - keys, flashlilght, radio, wallet, cell phone -- my power pals are charged and we are huddled here for another tornado warning. I'll sleep in clothes one more time.
The guys in the pop-up next to me went into town when the storm started. They came home about midnight -- about the same time Holly came out of hiding -- there's my "all clear!"
According to the news, 7 'rope' tornados were spotted around Marshalltown - none touched down. Sure did do some rockin' and rollin' -- but, one mystery has now been solved. Periodically, I hear strange sounds around the RV -- like something is hitting it -- almost sounds like it is being pelleted with hail, even when we aren't having storms. Well, I'm in a grove of bur oaks! The acorns falling off the tree and hitting the RV produce the mystery sound!
Speaking of sounds, it is near perfect for sleeping around here. Love to hear the symphony of locusts playing their lullaby at night. Locusts, distant train whistles, breeze through the trees -- doesn't get any better than that!
The morning after the storm, Lil Bit and Holly decided there would be NO sleepin' in! Don't know what they wanted to do, but we got up! Critters fed and time to go outside, take a walk-around the RV for damage, drink my coffee and read the paper!
Shopping bags of pop cans are piling up! They do recycling here so I have bags and boxes for glass, tin cans, newspapers, #2 plastic, etc, etc, `etc.! I could pitch the soda cans into the recycle bin, but if I take them back to the store, I get my nickel deposit back for each can/bottle. Gotta save those nickels!
Iowa sweet corn came in late, but now there is plenty. I have too much! It is so sweet and so good! I bought some at a farm stand and then picked some more up at the store. The birds and I can't eat it all before it gets old -- will pack some up and cart it off to my sister!
My 'running buddies' from Rockport are retiring from the bird part of their bird business. They will stilll have their toys and products. It is an adjustment when the birds are gokneo. Of course, I had the advantage of parting with the birds and the house at the same time. I relaly miss hand feeding the babies though and I know Elke will too. www.rockportroost.com
Jeannie, my double yellow head Amazon, needs a new home. He is only a morning and evening screetcher, and it never bothered me at the house -- but the RV is smaller and a different story. I'd rather keep him than have him bounce form home to home. I'll figure out some way to deal with him -- parking in bigger parks or something -- he doesn't both ME as much as I really worry about the neighbors with the lots in RV parks being so small and the neighbots so close. When he gets in his screetching modes, I hesitate to open windows and the door.
Bea is working full time now but the kids don't come back to school until the end of the month. I'll plan on leaving here the 24th of September. That will get me back to Gatesville on Friday the 26th. Need to make an appointment with my friends Lee and Mary Jane to come help me unhitch in Gatesville! Need to remember to pay my extra month's rent here, too!
I'll be back in Gatesville for my friend's son's wedding. She sent me the website of the photographer that took the engagement pictures. They are so like Marty! Just the kind of pictures I would expect --- barns, trees, tractors!
Still no truck -- the diesel guy had some kind of technical school this week -- maybe they will finish it up next week. Sure put a crimp into the plans I had.
August 16 and I wake up to 52 degree weather. None of us wanted to crawl out of bed --pull the comforter up over my head and stay put! Even ol' Holly crawled out of her sleeping spot and crawled under the covers. Great sleepin' weather! A week of sunny 80 degree weather coming up. This is just a wonderfully boring do nothin' kinda place! I knew if I put up with enough crappy weather, it would be worth it. Is this Heaven? No this is Iowa!
I found a portable counter top ice maker -- my little freezer just can't keep up with the ice cubes for my ice tea. I think this will work out just fine!
Bea has been behaving herself -- hasn't given me any trouble! You know how baby sisters can be! I really hated having to depend on her for transportation until I got the loaner van. I was doing hand laundry so I didn't have to call her to take me to the laundromat! She was washing my jeans and t-shirts -- talk about service! She would pick them up, wash and fold them and deliver them back to the RV! But it was her idea that I stay a little longer since I wasn't going to PA -- it will give TX a chance to cool off a little. So I guess I haven't been driving her nuts either!
Lil Bit and I grilled chicken and veggies outside -- she just sets staring at the grill -- reminds me of that old RCA Logo of the dog setting there looking at the old Victorla!
The middle of August, 7 PM and it's already down to 64 degrees -- looks like another quilt night.
Of course, I cannot blame all of the 'late night hours' on the Olympics. I have spent many hours roaming around the internet like it is my own personal library and travelogue. I have really developed an interest in listening to old time radio shows and reading e-books.
I had a telephone conference call bird club meeting with the Temple (TX) bird club regarding the fall mart and bird show. I sure do miss those lunch meetings! Good friends -- Good food! But, like many things, the price of fuel keeps people from traveling. The members of the Temple group come from all over Texas and we would meet quarterly for our meeting, lunch and just good time fellowship. http://www.texasbirdbreeders.org/
On the 14th, Bea stopped by the RV on her way back into town from a meeting. She had seen a tornado on the way back. Numerous funnel clouds were around Marshalltown -- sirens going off -- still have power! But, I'll tell you, I'm really getting 'spooked' about the wind and torndado stuff -- I noticed I really get "tense' when it happens now. Ever since the RV next to me got blown around a few storms ago, made me apreciate my heavy ol' rig. I could see his 5th wheel just wobble back and forth. I wondered if it would tip over. He had one of those really nice Montana rigs with 3 slides and the winds lifted up the rear end and set it back down! Made a believer out of me!
I've packed my "get the hell out" bag AGAIN - keys, flashlilght, radio, wallet, cell phone -- my power pals are charged and we are huddled here for another tornado warning. I'll sleep in clothes one more time.
The guys in the pop-up next to me went into town when the storm started. They came home about midnight -- about the same time Holly came out of hiding -- there's my "all clear!"
According to the news, 7 'rope' tornados were spotted around Marshalltown - none touched down. Sure did do some rockin' and rollin' -- but, one mystery has now been solved. Periodically, I hear strange sounds around the RV -- like something is hitting it -- almost sounds like it is being pelleted with hail, even when we aren't having storms. Well, I'm in a grove of bur oaks! The acorns falling off the tree and hitting the RV produce the mystery sound!
Speaking of sounds, it is near perfect for sleeping around here. Love to hear the symphony of locusts playing their lullaby at night. Locusts, distant train whistles, breeze through the trees -- doesn't get any better than that!
The morning after the storm, Lil Bit and Holly decided there would be NO sleepin' in! Don't know what they wanted to do, but we got up! Critters fed and time to go outside, take a walk-around the RV for damage, drink my coffee and read the paper!
Shopping bags of pop cans are piling up! They do recycling here so I have bags and boxes for glass, tin cans, newspapers, #2 plastic, etc, etc, `etc.! I could pitch the soda cans into the recycle bin, but if I take them back to the store, I get my nickel deposit back for each can/bottle. Gotta save those nickels!
Iowa sweet corn came in late, but now there is plenty. I have too much! It is so sweet and so good! I bought some at a farm stand and then picked some more up at the store. The birds and I can't eat it all before it gets old -- will pack some up and cart it off to my sister!
My 'running buddies' from Rockport are retiring from the bird part of their bird business. They will stilll have their toys and products. It is an adjustment when the birds are gokneo. Of course, I had the advantage of parting with the birds and the house at the same time. I relaly miss hand feeding the babies though and I know Elke will too. www.rockportroost.com
Jeannie, my double yellow head Amazon, needs a new home. He is only a morning and evening screetcher, and it never bothered me at the house -- but the RV is smaller and a different story. I'd rather keep him than have him bounce form home to home. I'll figure out some way to deal with him -- parking in bigger parks or something -- he doesn't both ME as much as I really worry about the neighbors with the lots in RV parks being so small and the neighbots so close. When he gets in his screetching modes, I hesitate to open windows and the door.
Bea is working full time now but the kids don't come back to school until the end of the month. I'll plan on leaving here the 24th of September. That will get me back to Gatesville on Friday the 26th. Need to make an appointment with my friends Lee and Mary Jane to come help me unhitch in Gatesville! Need to remember to pay my extra month's rent here, too!
I'll be back in Gatesville for my friend's son's wedding. She sent me the website of the photographer that took the engagement pictures. They are so like Marty! Just the kind of pictures I would expect --- barns, trees, tractors!
Still no truck -- the diesel guy had some kind of technical school this week -- maybe they will finish it up next week. Sure put a crimp into the plans I had.
August 16 and I wake up to 52 degree weather. None of us wanted to crawl out of bed --pull the comforter up over my head and stay put! Even ol' Holly crawled out of her sleeping spot and crawled under the covers. Great sleepin' weather! A week of sunny 80 degree weather coming up. This is just a wonderfully boring do nothin' kinda place! I knew if I put up with enough crappy weather, it would be worth it. Is this Heaven? No this is Iowa!
I found a portable counter top ice maker -- my little freezer just can't keep up with the ice cubes for my ice tea. I think this will work out just fine!
Bea has been behaving herself -- hasn't given me any trouble! You know how baby sisters can be! I really hated having to depend on her for transportation until I got the loaner van. I was doing hand laundry so I didn't have to call her to take me to the laundromat! She was washing my jeans and t-shirts -- talk about service! She would pick them up, wash and fold them and deliver them back to the RV! But it was her idea that I stay a little longer since I wasn't going to PA -- it will give TX a chance to cool off a little. So I guess I haven't been driving her nuts either!
Lil Bit and I grilled chicken and veggies outside -- she just sets staring at the grill -- reminds me of that old RCA Logo of the dog setting there looking at the old Victorla!
The middle of August, 7 PM and it's already down to 64 degrees -- looks like another quilt night.
Iowa in August 2008, Part I
The truck has been in the shop since June 7 -- they finally brought me a loaner 7/31. I figure someone said or did something since the owner of the place delivered it to the RV park and spent some time explaining to me what all the delay has been. Seems Cummins Diesel folks are quite "picky" when it comes to getting warranty work completed. As he said, "They pretty much demand perfection." (Sounds good to me!) They couldn't get he compression right so Cummins is shipping a new head! WHEW -- Glad I'm not footing the bill.
My loaner is a Dodge mini-van -- I feel like a "soccer mom" driving the thing around! One of those vehicles with no front end. After driving my truck, not having much sticking out in the front drives me nuts! But, I'm not complaining -- at least I have something to drive!
Li'l Bit and I spent a couple of days in bed. My meds occasionally cause some problems. And the best place for me is to be in bed -- or close to it -- I tend to fall alot when that happens. I do get a lot of reading done! And what did we do before computers and laptops!
The RV park is full. There are several in for a family reunion and the guys working on the repair projects since the spring storms are still here. Different groups of workers come and go but they are still working.
Summer finally hit Iowa -- it is HOT - not Texas Hot -- but Iowa Hot and Humid. Good for corn and tomatoes! It was 72 degrees when I got up at 7:30AM. Too Hot! Supposed to be this way until about the middle of the week. Of course the Iowa State Fair starts this week and fair week is supposed to be HOT HOT HOT! Heat index is to be about 105 degrees. I've been using the air conditioning for the last couple of days. And tomorrow is to be hotter. At least they are having some storms up north of us so we do have some cloud cover.
After all the rain we have had this spring, I had to go water my plants and while I was out, feed the birds. Took forever to clean the hummingbird feeder -- I think every ant in the state of Iowa found it! The bottle was just yukky! With this heat, Li'l Bit and I don't spend as much time outside.
Had pizza buffet with my sister and some of her friends. Ate way too much -- always do at buffets. They had a nice salad bar, fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans - just too much good food. Now I'll be miserable all night! Will have to remember as I'm tossing and turning tonite that I did this to myself! Why did I listen so well when my mother reminded me "clean your plate." And why do I still hear my father telling me "eat everything, there are starving children in China...."
On the 4th, Li'l Bit and I crawled out of bed at 5:30 AM -- not sure what woke me up but let Li'l Bit out to 'water the grass' then decided to stay up. Holly and li'l Bit have been fed. The birds got peanut butter on corn meal pancakes to keep them quiet until I get around to feeding and cleaning cages. Gotta get the kitty litter out today. It is a lot more noticable when the windows are closed. It's really rough trying to maintain a zoo in 32 feet of RV! So this is a typical morning, except for the 5:30 AM part!
The weekend is over and the folks next door are moving out. Reminds me of life in military housing -- looking out the window every morning to see where the moving van is -- here, you look for who is hitching up!
Oh, I heard from the realtor on the house. They are just about ready to put it back on the market. I don't think I will go back to see it when I get to Texas -- that part of my life is over.
By August 7th, the allergies are BAD!! I thought it was going to be a 'good air' day until I took Li'l Bit out and came right back in! But, I REFUSE to close up and use the air conditioning when the temps are good. After I load up with allergy meds and inhalers, Li'l Bit and I will be outside a lot to catch up on what we have missed the last few days because of the heat. Time to tend to the 'garden' again!
Back to spending time outside and Mary, the owner, stopped by for a chat -- she had several visitors to the Treehouse this AM and some more this afternoon. I'm really amazed at the amount of people she takes through on tours. There are families or groups here morning and afternoon on most days.
Fox News was here the other day and did a spot on the Treehouse on the news -- I missed it. Don't always get many stations here on the antenna.
Nothing much going on -- just outside, outside, outside. Really need to water plants again! Maybe I'll hear something on the truck this week. I was hoping to get the truck back and taking a road trip to Maquoketa IA - my hometown - having lunch or a nice visit with Rita -- but don't know if I'll be doing that -- will just depend on the truck.
My loaner is a Dodge mini-van -- I feel like a "soccer mom" driving the thing around! One of those vehicles with no front end. After driving my truck, not having much sticking out in the front drives me nuts! But, I'm not complaining -- at least I have something to drive!
Li'l Bit and I spent a couple of days in bed. My meds occasionally cause some problems. And the best place for me is to be in bed -- or close to it -- I tend to fall alot when that happens. I do get a lot of reading done! And what did we do before computers and laptops!
The RV park is full. There are several in for a family reunion and the guys working on the repair projects since the spring storms are still here. Different groups of workers come and go but they are still working.
Summer finally hit Iowa -- it is HOT - not Texas Hot -- but Iowa Hot and Humid. Good for corn and tomatoes! It was 72 degrees when I got up at 7:30AM. Too Hot! Supposed to be this way until about the middle of the week. Of course the Iowa State Fair starts this week and fair week is supposed to be HOT HOT HOT! Heat index is to be about 105 degrees. I've been using the air conditioning for the last couple of days. And tomorrow is to be hotter. At least they are having some storms up north of us so we do have some cloud cover.
After all the rain we have had this spring, I had to go water my plants and while I was out, feed the birds. Took forever to clean the hummingbird feeder -- I think every ant in the state of Iowa found it! The bottle was just yukky! With this heat, Li'l Bit and I don't spend as much time outside.
Had pizza buffet with my sister and some of her friends. Ate way too much -- always do at buffets. They had a nice salad bar, fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans - just too much good food. Now I'll be miserable all night! Will have to remember as I'm tossing and turning tonite that I did this to myself! Why did I listen so well when my mother reminded me "clean your plate." And why do I still hear my father telling me "eat everything, there are starving children in China...."
On the 4th, Li'l Bit and I crawled out of bed at 5:30 AM -- not sure what woke me up but let Li'l Bit out to 'water the grass' then decided to stay up. Holly and li'l Bit have been fed. The birds got peanut butter on corn meal pancakes to keep them quiet until I get around to feeding and cleaning cages. Gotta get the kitty litter out today. It is a lot more noticable when the windows are closed. It's really rough trying to maintain a zoo in 32 feet of RV! So this is a typical morning, except for the 5:30 AM part!
The weekend is over and the folks next door are moving out. Reminds me of life in military housing -- looking out the window every morning to see where the moving van is -- here, you look for who is hitching up!
Oh, I heard from the realtor on the house. They are just about ready to put it back on the market. I don't think I will go back to see it when I get to Texas -- that part of my life is over.
By August 7th, the allergies are BAD!! I thought it was going to be a 'good air' day until I took Li'l Bit out and came right back in! But, I REFUSE to close up and use the air conditioning when the temps are good. After I load up with allergy meds and inhalers, Li'l Bit and I will be outside a lot to catch up on what we have missed the last few days because of the heat. Time to tend to the 'garden' again!
Back to spending time outside and Mary, the owner, stopped by for a chat -- she had several visitors to the Treehouse this AM and some more this afternoon. I'm really amazed at the amount of people she takes through on tours. There are families or groups here morning and afternoon on most days.
Fox News was here the other day and did a spot on the Treehouse on the news -- I missed it. Don't always get many stations here on the antenna.
Nothing much going on -- just outside, outside, outside. Really need to water plants again! Maybe I'll hear something on the truck this week. I was hoping to get the truck back and taking a road trip to Maquoketa IA - my hometown - having lunch or a nice visit with Rita -- but don't know if I'll be doing that -- will just depend on the truck.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Iowa in July, Part III
The story of the truck gets better every time I call. Cummins Diesel has specific tests that need to be completed. Sounds like it is going to be another week or two. Good thing I have my sister to take me around -- but I really hate to keep asking her.
Li'l Bit, Holly and I made a mad dash to get back into the RV and close the windows and crank up the air conditioning. They were doing arial spraying in the fields across the road. Not good for crappy lungs! Yes, I managed to get Holly into a collar and I didn't lose too much flesh in the process. And with the collar and a leash, she went outside to her little nylon mesh 'cat house.'
Getting close to the end of July and finally, nearly a week of no really bad weather! Oh, there was rain and there were storms, but Li'l Bit and I managed to get outside every day.
Bea and I were invited to a cookout at the Tree House. The owner's grandson (now an elementary school principal here in town) started building a tree house in the maple tree behind his grandmother's home about 30 years ago. The treehouse is now 12 levels, more than 55 feet high, more than 7,000 square feet of floor space. Complete with music, bridges, walkways, a spiral sairway, a kitchen, running water, grill, swings, picnic tables, ceiling fans, lighting, etc, etc, etc. Quite an experience! http://www.bigtreehouse.net/treehouse.html
I've decided the breadmaker has to go -- haven't used it in the RV once. They have a big Good Will store here -- I'll take it there -- I also have some cookware and a bunch of kitchen utensils that I haven't used. As soon as I get the truck back, I'll sart loading the stuff up and take it to them. I want to make room for a protable countertop ice maker - I need to dump about another 40 pounds of stuff to make up for the weight of the ice maker. Of course, if I'd dump that 40 pounds from ME, I'd probably feel better!
July is coming to an end and the humidity has set in and the heat is coming -- to get into the low 100s by the end of the month. Li'l Bit and I go outside and do our 'outside' thing (short walk, drink coffee, read the paper) in the morning now before it gets too warm. And the corn field across the road has tasseled and is putting off pollen. But, it is nice to have the time to watch the flowers bloom and listen to the grass grow -- life is good!
Bring on the allergy meds and here comes August!
Li'l Bit, Holly and I made a mad dash to get back into the RV and close the windows and crank up the air conditioning. They were doing arial spraying in the fields across the road. Not good for crappy lungs! Yes, I managed to get Holly into a collar and I didn't lose too much flesh in the process. And with the collar and a leash, she went outside to her little nylon mesh 'cat house.'
Getting close to the end of July and finally, nearly a week of no really bad weather! Oh, there was rain and there were storms, but Li'l Bit and I managed to get outside every day.
Bea and I were invited to a cookout at the Tree House. The owner's grandson (now an elementary school principal here in town) started building a tree house in the maple tree behind his grandmother's home about 30 years ago. The treehouse is now 12 levels, more than 55 feet high, more than 7,000 square feet of floor space. Complete with music, bridges, walkways, a spiral sairway, a kitchen, running water, grill, swings, picnic tables, ceiling fans, lighting, etc, etc, etc. Quite an experience! http://www.bigtreehouse.net/treehouse.htmlI've decided the breadmaker has to go -- haven't used it in the RV once. They have a big Good Will store here -- I'll take it there -- I also have some cookware and a bunch of kitchen utensils that I haven't used. As soon as I get the truck back, I'll sart loading the stuff up and take it to them. I want to make room for a protable countertop ice maker - I need to dump about another 40 pounds of stuff to make up for the weight of the ice maker. Of course, if I'd dump that 40 pounds from ME, I'd probably feel better!
July is coming to an end and the humidity has set in and the heat is coming -- to get into the low 100s by the end of the month. Li'l Bit and I go outside and do our 'outside' thing (short walk, drink coffee, read the paper) in the morning now before it gets too warm. And the corn field across the road has tasseled and is putting off pollen. But, it is nice to have the time to watch the flowers bloom and listen to the grass grow -- life is good!
Bring on the allergy meds and here comes August!
Iowa in July, Part II
Linda, from the RV park in Gatesville, called. I told her I'd be back sometime after Labor Day. Ed and Linda have become great friends and I'm looking forward to getting back to see them. I think Bea is getting used to having me here -- she asked if I didn't want to stay longer in September if the weather was good. Currently my reservations are until just after Labor Day. I'll wait and see what my medical appointment schedule looks like.
Some goldfinches have been here gathering up the hair I comb from Li'l Bit. I put it in the flower pot and they can easily find it there. There must have been close to a dozen out there the other day looking for more hair. Li'l Bit has skin problem and needs all of the hair she has! Can't let the finches have ALL of it!
Four inches of rain in 45 minutes on the 18th...complete with winds from the northwest. EXCITING. For awhile I thought I was riding out a hurricane -- just a little hurricane -- only lasted about 45 minutes but it definitely got my attention.
Sure, I'll come to Iowa again next summer -- after all, even with the rain and humidity, it is still a good 10 degrees cooler here, day and night, than it is in Texas. This crazy weather pattern has been horrible. Certainly it cannot do this TWO years in a row!
I thought I had a leak somewhere at the base of the toilet or in one of the pipes. The carpeting in the undercompartment was damp around the handle that opens up the sewer line. It didn't smell like sewer, but it wasd damp. I left the compartment open all day to dry out -- now I think it was just damp from the pounding rain we had the other night. Maybe the seal around that compartment door is getting old and dry.
The guy next to me in the Montana 5th wheel moved out yesterday. That leaves me with the illusion of a really big front yard!
The Des Moines Register's (the state's main newspaper) RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) starts with the back ties of the bikes in the Missouri River on Iowa's western border - - and seven days later, after riding about 500 miles across the state, the riders put their front tires intotheMisissippi River. Doesn't sound like much of a vacation to me! This year they ware coming across the middle of Iowa and iwll be riding within a few miles of Marshalltown.
It isn't a competition - just a fun ride -- brought nearly 20,000 folks from all over the world. The families and supporters follow in vans, campers, and RVs. Some ride for a day, some do he whole thing. Some have a 'mission' and are raising funds for charities, others are just out for a family bike ride. It has become quite a tourist thing. The towns designated as night stops have a real carnival atmosphere, food, concerts. It is quite the event here in Iowa.....and the tradition continues even though there is still damage control to do from the tornados and flooding.
We had another long line of wind and thunderstorms come through the 20th. We are still getting slammed every 2-3 days. I was setting at the picnic table when the sirens went off! Another damn tornado -- I'm tired of this! I'm just gonna set here at the table and holler, "Calgon take me away!" -- when the damn thing barrels across the field -- it if gets that close, I'm sure I will scream out some obscenities and go wherever the wind takes me!
I heard the sirens again about 3AM. I had my "get out" bag and my radio going. Got up and checked the radar on the laptop and "in my expert opinoin" it didn't look like it was going to last too long and was probably much worse northwest of Marshalltown. So I just went back to sleep with one ear open -- I did hear the people from the pop up across the drive going into the shower room -- oh, and I was sleeping in shorts & t-shirt again, just in case!
According to the news in the AM , the tornado never touched down. Lucked out again! Wonder how many times I can beat this weather. Lots of trees down and power out south of me but I'm high and dry and everything still working! I may be getting tired of thise but I sure dont want that central Texas heat! It cannot be said that I am a 'fair weather' traveler!
Newspaper article: REGISTER STAFF REPORTS - JULY 21, 2008
Storm Brings Power Outages, Winds to 100 mph
More than 200,000 customers of Iowa's two largest utilities were without power on Monday afer a line of severe thunderstorms roared across the state with winds as high as 100 mph. The storms moved from west to east, ripping up trees and power lines in its path.
RVs coming in -- construction workers working on the power lines from the last few storms and flooding. Also getting workers in here that are repairing the roads and bridges.
By the end of July, Li'l Bit was getting progressively worse with her rash and scratching -- and she just looked miserable -- all since her little wild hemp plant was weed-whipped down! Bea made an appointment at the vet -- no, my sister doesn't have any critters. Still don't have my truck and I know that Bea is NOT an animal lover! I had a carrier ready, but she said Li'l Bit could set on my lap. Li'l Bit likes Bea and she slowly inched her way over to rest her head on Bea's leg!
On the way home, Li'l Bit was getting kinda 'antsy' -- Bea asked if she needed to get out -- I explained we usually go for Dairy Queen after she goes to the vet. She probably thinks she is going to get ice cream. Surpise, Surprise!! Bea stopped at Dairy Queen to get Li'l Bi a treat! WHEW -- is my sister mellowing?
Some goldfinches have been here gathering up the hair I comb from Li'l Bit. I put it in the flower pot and they can easily find it there. There must have been close to a dozen out there the other day looking for more hair. Li'l Bit has skin problem and needs all of the hair she has! Can't let the finches have ALL of it!
Four inches of rain in 45 minutes on the 18th...complete with winds from the northwest. EXCITING. For awhile I thought I was riding out a hurricane -- just a little hurricane -- only lasted about 45 minutes but it definitely got my attention.
Sure, I'll come to Iowa again next summer -- after all, even with the rain and humidity, it is still a good 10 degrees cooler here, day and night, than it is in Texas. This crazy weather pattern has been horrible. Certainly it cannot do this TWO years in a row!
I thought I had a leak somewhere at the base of the toilet or in one of the pipes. The carpeting in the undercompartment was damp around the handle that opens up the sewer line. It didn't smell like sewer, but it wasd damp. I left the compartment open all day to dry out -- now I think it was just damp from the pounding rain we had the other night. Maybe the seal around that compartment door is getting old and dry.
The guy next to me in the Montana 5th wheel moved out yesterday. That leaves me with the illusion of a really big front yard!
The Des Moines Register's (the state's main newspaper) RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) starts with the back ties of the bikes in the Missouri River on Iowa's western border - - and seven days later, after riding about 500 miles across the state, the riders put their front tires intotheMisissippi River. Doesn't sound like much of a vacation to me! This year they ware coming across the middle of Iowa and iwll be riding within a few miles of Marshalltown.
It isn't a competition - just a fun ride -- brought nearly 20,000 folks from all over the world. The families and supporters follow in vans, campers, and RVs. Some ride for a day, some do he whole thing. Some have a 'mission' and are raising funds for charities, others are just out for a family bike ride. It has become quite a tourist thing. The towns designated as night stops have a real carnival atmosphere, food, concerts. It is quite the event here in Iowa.....and the tradition continues even though there is still damage control to do from the tornados and flooding.
We had another long line of wind and thunderstorms come through the 20th. We are still getting slammed every 2-3 days. I was setting at the picnic table when the sirens went off! Another damn tornado -- I'm tired of this! I'm just gonna set here at the table and holler, "Calgon take me away!" -- when the damn thing barrels across the field -- it if gets that close, I'm sure I will scream out some obscenities and go wherever the wind takes me!
I heard the sirens again about 3AM. I had my "get out" bag and my radio going. Got up and checked the radar on the laptop and "in my expert opinoin" it didn't look like it was going to last too long and was probably much worse northwest of Marshalltown. So I just went back to sleep with one ear open -- I did hear the people from the pop up across the drive going into the shower room -- oh, and I was sleeping in shorts & t-shirt again, just in case!
According to the news in the AM , the tornado never touched down. Lucked out again! Wonder how many times I can beat this weather. Lots of trees down and power out south of me but I'm high and dry and everything still working! I may be getting tired of thise but I sure dont want that central Texas heat! It cannot be said that I am a 'fair weather' traveler!
Newspaper article: REGISTER STAFF REPORTS - JULY 21, 2008
Storm Brings Power Outages, Winds to 100 mph
More than 200,000 customers of Iowa's two largest utilities were without power on Monday afer a line of severe thunderstorms roared across the state with winds as high as 100 mph. The storms moved from west to east, ripping up trees and power lines in its path.
RVs coming in -- construction workers working on the power lines from the last few storms and flooding. Also getting workers in here that are repairing the roads and bridges.
By the end of July, Li'l Bit was getting progressively worse with her rash and scratching -- and she just looked miserable -- all since her little wild hemp plant was weed-whipped down! Bea made an appointment at the vet -- no, my sister doesn't have any critters. Still don't have my truck and I know that Bea is NOT an animal lover! I had a carrier ready, but she said Li'l Bit could set on my lap. Li'l Bit likes Bea and she slowly inched her way over to rest her head on Bea's leg!
On the way home, Li'l Bit was getting kinda 'antsy' -- Bea asked if she needed to get out -- I explained we usually go for Dairy Queen after she goes to the vet. She probably thinks she is going to get ice cream. Surpise, Surprise!! Bea stopped at Dairy Queen to get Li'l Bi a treat! WHEW -- is my sister mellowing?
Iowa in July,2008 Part I
The hummingbirds have found the feeder. And the month started with a yard full of bunnies out running in the morning. I think that must be what Li'l Bit sniffs so diligently when she goes outside. I must admit, it is much more pleasant than the skunks of a few weeks ago!
Bea and I wnt to Tama to the casino -- didn't do any gambling -- but we sure pigged out at the buffet. They had a huge salad bar complete with my favorite boiled shrimp! After grazing on a huge plate of salad greens, off to the main stuff. My eyes were much bigger than my stomach when it came to the selection of meats. I didn't even look at the veggies - figured I had them in the salad! Then came the dessert area -- a huge pastry counter that had everything possible. I settled for a small piece of cheese cake and I can't pass up bread pudding! Left all of those decedent chocolate cakes and whipped cream stuffed pastires. Will have to go back again so I can try some of those 'low calorie' delights!
The weather has been perfect for the start of the month. But, as I'm setting outside, the wind is picking up -- storms will be back by the afternoon with the afternoon heating and a cold front moving in. Then, it should straighten out for the holiday weekend. All of the bad weather may have been worth it -- I am certainly enjoying the 50-60 degree sleeping weather and the 70-80 degree days. Beautiful weather.
Even though the weather has ben really nice, I have had to close the windows and turn on the air conditioning -- they are frequently spraying for mosquitoes. They have been just horrible after all of the floods.
The night after the casino 'pig out ,' Bea and I met some of her friends at Culver's Restaurant -- they have wonderful sandwiches, always have a soup of the day, and Wednesday is fried chicken night. Just what I need after the big buffet at the casino the night before -- well, all of the rich food has finally caught up with me!
This is Iowa -- pork country -- the other white meat! Found some great pork steaks from the Amana Colonies; they will cut to order. Saves me money since I can by for one and not for a family. Not a lot of freezer space in the RV!
They also have a nice deli and some really great specials on cooked pasta dishes which are probably cheaper than I could buy the stuff and make it. I have also found some terrific grilling spices and herbs. Just something different than those available in Texas.
The floods about wiped out Iowa's spring sweet corn. What managed to survive is coming in late. There wasn't much sweet corn for the holiday -- brought some in from Florida! What's the Fourth of July without sweet corn!
Dodge service finally got to my truck. Fortunately it is all warranty work -- rack & pinoion problem in the rear and piston messing with the ocmpression. Will have to order parts.
There is no paper delivery in here. My sister and a friend of hers save their newspapers for me -- so I'm getting the news a day or so behind -- but who cares! Li'l Bit ad I really enjoy setting outside reading the papers, drinking coffee. Life is really rough! Li'l Bit sets no-so-patiently by the door when she hears me pour that first cup of morning coffee.
Bea is flying to Virginia to spend some time with a friend. She leaves July 16 and gets back on the 21st. Means I can run and play and not get caught! And she is leaving me her car!
As he month goes on, the weather is getting more like an Iowa summer and it has hit with a vengence! Temps into the 90s and the humidity is creeping up. Great for the corn! Woke up to a 72 degree early morning so I knew it was going to be hot and humid for the rest of the day. Thunderstorms, rain, hail and possible tornados on the way! Oh, well, -- there have been lots of nice days since the last storm.
Now the weather comes one band of bad weather at a time -- then a few days of nice weather -- we aren't getting that constant pounding, night after night, of wind and rain. Night before last the sky opened up and dumped between 5-6 inches of water in a couple of hours and dumped some large hail just south of here. Needless to say, in the AM, the creek behind the RV park was up and out of its banks again. They have the power plant in town cleaned up and back on line. At least the town didn't loose power when the plant went off the grid.
Love the laundromat here -- potted plants, carpeting, clean machines that WORK, big screen TV in the lounge -- snack machine, soda machine -- and they both work! The lady working there not only does all of the cleaning and dusting and carpet shampooing, she opens the door for you and helps you carry your stuff out the the truck! I'm spoiled!! It reminds me of a bookstore cafe -- everyone setting at little tables drinking coffee or soda and reading!
Bea and I wnt to Tama to the casino -- didn't do any gambling -- but we sure pigged out at the buffet. They had a huge salad bar complete with my favorite boiled shrimp! After grazing on a huge plate of salad greens, off to the main stuff. My eyes were much bigger than my stomach when it came to the selection of meats. I didn't even look at the veggies - figured I had them in the salad! Then came the dessert area -- a huge pastry counter that had everything possible. I settled for a small piece of cheese cake and I can't pass up bread pudding! Left all of those decedent chocolate cakes and whipped cream stuffed pastires. Will have to go back again so I can try some of those 'low calorie' delights!
The weather has been perfect for the start of the month. But, as I'm setting outside, the wind is picking up -- storms will be back by the afternoon with the afternoon heating and a cold front moving in. Then, it should straighten out for the holiday weekend. All of the bad weather may have been worth it -- I am certainly enjoying the 50-60 degree sleeping weather and the 70-80 degree days. Beautiful weather.
Even though the weather has ben really nice, I have had to close the windows and turn on the air conditioning -- they are frequently spraying for mosquitoes. They have been just horrible after all of the floods.
The night after the casino 'pig out ,' Bea and I met some of her friends at Culver's Restaurant -- they have wonderful sandwiches, always have a soup of the day, and Wednesday is fried chicken night. Just what I need after the big buffet at the casino the night before -- well, all of the rich food has finally caught up with me!
This is Iowa -- pork country -- the other white meat! Found some great pork steaks from the Amana Colonies; they will cut to order. Saves me money since I can by for one and not for a family. Not a lot of freezer space in the RV!
They also have a nice deli and some really great specials on cooked pasta dishes which are probably cheaper than I could buy the stuff and make it. I have also found some terrific grilling spices and herbs. Just something different than those available in Texas.
The floods about wiped out Iowa's spring sweet corn. What managed to survive is coming in late. There wasn't much sweet corn for the holiday -- brought some in from Florida! What's the Fourth of July without sweet corn!
Dodge service finally got to my truck. Fortunately it is all warranty work -- rack & pinoion problem in the rear and piston messing with the ocmpression. Will have to order parts.
There is no paper delivery in here. My sister and a friend of hers save their newspapers for me -- so I'm getting the news a day or so behind -- but who cares! Li'l Bit ad I really enjoy setting outside reading the papers, drinking coffee. Life is really rough! Li'l Bit sets no-so-patiently by the door when she hears me pour that first cup of morning coffee.
Bea is flying to Virginia to spend some time with a friend. She leaves July 16 and gets back on the 21st. Means I can run and play and not get caught! And she is leaving me her car!
As he month goes on, the weather is getting more like an Iowa summer and it has hit with a vengence! Temps into the 90s and the humidity is creeping up. Great for the corn! Woke up to a 72 degree early morning so I knew it was going to be hot and humid for the rest of the day. Thunderstorms, rain, hail and possible tornados on the way! Oh, well, -- there have been lots of nice days since the last storm.
Now the weather comes one band of bad weather at a time -- then a few days of nice weather -- we aren't getting that constant pounding, night after night, of wind and rain. Night before last the sky opened up and dumped between 5-6 inches of water in a couple of hours and dumped some large hail just south of here. Needless to say, in the AM, the creek behind the RV park was up and out of its banks again. They have the power plant in town cleaned up and back on line. At least the town didn't loose power when the plant went off the grid.
Love the laundromat here -- potted plants, carpeting, clean machines that WORK, big screen TV in the lounge -- snack machine, soda machine -- and they both work! The lady working there not only does all of the cleaning and dusting and carpet shampooing, she opens the door for you and helps you carry your stuff out the the truck! I'm spoiled!! It reminds me of a bookstore cafe -- everyone setting at little tables drinking coffee or soda and reading!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Attitude -- You Gotta Have Heart!
When an F-5 tornado slammed into Parkersburg, IA, the people of Parkersburg and the surrounding area didn't wait for the goverment to come help. Within a hours after the storm, they had two major problems -- (1) too much volunteer help and (2) supplies and monies from the surrounding area were coming in faster than they had the system and facilities to accommodate them. There is a lesson to learn here!
Seeing the surrounding schools, competitors during sports seasons, picking up brooms, mops, shovels, and rakes, loading onto school buses and going in to help the town clean up the schools gives a whole new meaning to 'sportsmanship.' About 40 track students and adults from the Knoxville/Pella, Iowa area had a 'run for tornado relief'.' They ran the 127 miles to Parkersburg, collecting donations in their bright orange backpacks along the way. This money was presented to the Aplington/Parkersburg School District for athletic supplies and equipment. They lost everything in the tornado.
Yes, there was some looting and yes, the National Guard was sent in to protect the area, but you didn't see anyone standing on rooftops cursing and blaming the government. You may see it tomorrow, but not today! Haven't been more than a handful of arrests for looting or fighting throught the whole tornado - flooding spring here in Iowa.
The high school coaches are voluneering their football, basketball, wrestling teams to sandbag -- guess that kinda insures you have a place on the team in the fall!
And, on top of all of this, the NCAA Track and Field events were being held in Des Moines during the floods. They had to move the teams out of the hotels downtown. But, in the midst of all of the flooding, they completed all events. A runner from Arizona said she was quite in awe of what she was seeing. She said she never saw so much water in one place! Other athletes from schools out of state volunteered to fill and carry sandbags after their track events.
I guess it isn't quite the same situation, but to see the difference in attitude between this and what we have seen during some other weather events is amazing -- there is such a volunteer effort. Some help is actually being turned away and sent to other locations.
The storms that came across the state slammed into a Boy Scout Camp on the Iowa/Nebraska border. The camp took a direct hit and 4 scouts were killed. According to the news, there were many young heroes at that camp. Most of the trees and debris blocking the lanes into camp were cleared by the scouts -- they located the maintenance shed, grabbed the chain saws and went to work. One of the rescuers commented that many of the victims had been given some first aid by the time they got there. Those young men need to be rewarded for their efforts and heroism.
After all of the flooding, storms, rain and more flooding, most of the people still have a sense of humor. Oh, yes, they are depressed and tired, but they still find the sunny spots and the humor! And they just keep volunteering to help others even when they have watched their home submit to the river.
One lady commented, as she was looking at her home with 4 feet of water on the first floor, that she lived through the 1993 flood that they called the "100 year flood" -- she thought this must be the '115 year flood' since it came so soon after the other. Others, looking over their destroyed property tell you, "This is the price you pay for a view of the river."
Oh, they are getting tired and cranky, but they are still volunteering to help. The schools donated buses (and that's a lot of diesel/gas expense!) to haul volunteers from parking lots (used as meeting places) and take them where they were needed to fill and pile sandbags.
Iowa certainly hasn't let the floods get them down -- Des Moines was scheduled to have an Olympic-trials Triathlon event -- but the area was under water -- so they moved it to West Des Moines and have been running, biking and swimming all weekend. Thousands are in town for that -- half of the motels, hotels, restaurants are still out of commission but they are having the triathlon! AND, the Iowa Speedway is having a scheduled Indy Car Race -- some of the roads to the speedway are washed out -- but the race is going on! Free tickets and transportation are given to some of the people still in shelters and all of the events are asking for donations for the food pantries as you enter. Then they pass the bucket and collect $$$ for the Red Cross or some other church charity that is sending people in to help with clean up. Amazing -- many are still under water and will need their money, but in the meantime, they are donating to the "cause" and helping others until they can get to their own place.
There have been numerous fund raisers and radio-thons to raise money. Seems strange to be asking those that have lost so much to give -- but they do and they are!
A radio station in Minnesota had a "Send It South" radio-thon to raise $$$ for Iowa -- and all of the minor league baseball teams that can get to their fields to play games are passing the bucket at the games for donations. Can't go anywhere without some kind of can or bucket to collect your change.
Hey, I'm impressed -- they seem to have it under conrol -- some areas have tents or awnings set up with counselors and pastors to help with the emotional stuff. Sounds like they are trying to cover all of the bases.
The media was providing near 24 hour coverage. Crawling along the bottom of the TV screen was a constant list of phone number and locations for assistance. I'm sure valuable lessons were learned from the Big Flood of 1993 and more lessons will be learned this year. When it comes again -- and it will come again -- the volunteer efforts will be there and the work will get done.
Although the flooding and severe tornado damage that occured in Iowa this spring is no longer on the news, the heartache and recovery work is on-going.
Seeing the surrounding schools, competitors during sports seasons, picking up brooms, mops, shovels, and rakes, loading onto school buses and going in to help the town clean up the schools gives a whole new meaning to 'sportsmanship.' About 40 track students and adults from the Knoxville/Pella, Iowa area had a 'run for tornado relief'.' They ran the 127 miles to Parkersburg, collecting donations in their bright orange backpacks along the way. This money was presented to the Aplington/Parkersburg School District for athletic supplies and equipment. They lost everything in the tornado.
Yes, there was some looting and yes, the National Guard was sent in to protect the area, but you didn't see anyone standing on rooftops cursing and blaming the government. You may see it tomorrow, but not today! Haven't been more than a handful of arrests for looting or fighting throught the whole tornado - flooding spring here in Iowa.
The high school coaches are voluneering their football, basketball, wrestling teams to sandbag -- guess that kinda insures you have a place on the team in the fall!
And, on top of all of this, the NCAA Track and Field events were being held in Des Moines during the floods. They had to move the teams out of the hotels downtown. But, in the midst of all of the flooding, they completed all events. A runner from Arizona said she was quite in awe of what she was seeing. She said she never saw so much water in one place! Other athletes from schools out of state volunteered to fill and carry sandbags after their track events.
I guess it isn't quite the same situation, but to see the difference in attitude between this and what we have seen during some other weather events is amazing -- there is such a volunteer effort. Some help is actually being turned away and sent to other locations.
The storms that came across the state slammed into a Boy Scout Camp on the Iowa/Nebraska border. The camp took a direct hit and 4 scouts were killed. According to the news, there were many young heroes at that camp. Most of the trees and debris blocking the lanes into camp were cleared by the scouts -- they located the maintenance shed, grabbed the chain saws and went to work. One of the rescuers commented that many of the victims had been given some first aid by the time they got there. Those young men need to be rewarded for their efforts and heroism.
After all of the flooding, storms, rain and more flooding, most of the people still have a sense of humor. Oh, yes, they are depressed and tired, but they still find the sunny spots and the humor! And they just keep volunteering to help others even when they have watched their home submit to the river.
One lady commented, as she was looking at her home with 4 feet of water on the first floor, that she lived through the 1993 flood that they called the "100 year flood" -- she thought this must be the '115 year flood' since it came so soon after the other. Others, looking over their destroyed property tell you, "This is the price you pay for a view of the river."
Oh, they are getting tired and cranky, but they are still volunteering to help. The schools donated buses (and that's a lot of diesel/gas expense!) to haul volunteers from parking lots (used as meeting places) and take them where they were needed to fill and pile sandbags.
Iowa certainly hasn't let the floods get them down -- Des Moines was scheduled to have an Olympic-trials Triathlon event -- but the area was under water -- so they moved it to West Des Moines and have been running, biking and swimming all weekend. Thousands are in town for that -- half of the motels, hotels, restaurants are still out of commission but they are having the triathlon! AND, the Iowa Speedway is having a scheduled Indy Car Race -- some of the roads to the speedway are washed out -- but the race is going on! Free tickets and transportation are given to some of the people still in shelters and all of the events are asking for donations for the food pantries as you enter. Then they pass the bucket and collect $$$ for the Red Cross or some other church charity that is sending people in to help with clean up. Amazing -- many are still under water and will need their money, but in the meantime, they are donating to the "cause" and helping others until they can get to their own place.
There have been numerous fund raisers and radio-thons to raise money. Seems strange to be asking those that have lost so much to give -- but they do and they are!
A radio station in Minnesota had a "Send It South" radio-thon to raise $$$ for Iowa -- and all of the minor league baseball teams that can get to their fields to play games are passing the bucket at the games for donations. Can't go anywhere without some kind of can or bucket to collect your change.
Hey, I'm impressed -- they seem to have it under conrol -- some areas have tents or awnings set up with counselors and pastors to help with the emotional stuff. Sounds like they are trying to cover all of the bases.
The media was providing near 24 hour coverage. Crawling along the bottom of the TV screen was a constant list of phone number and locations for assistance. I'm sure valuable lessons were learned from the Big Flood of 1993 and more lessons will be learned this year. When it comes again -- and it will come again -- the volunteer efforts will be there and the work will get done.
Although the flooding and severe tornado damage that occured in Iowa this spring is no longer on the news, the heartache and recovery work is on-going.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Iowa in June 2008, Part VII
My attitude on June 27 is SCREW THE WEATHER! Over 5 inches of rain yesterday! Do you know what that did to the rivers and creeks around here AGAIN! There isn't any place for the water to go -- it just goes wherever it wants to go! More rain expected later today and tonight -- then again tomorrow -- maybe some sun by Sunday.
There is a BBQ champioinship cook-off going on in town. There are over 100 RVs and smokers and cookers set up at the fair grounds. They started coming in Thursday. Most have tents or some kind of awning they set up -- well, I bet the wind got them last nite -- winds were 15-25 mph sustained with gusts up to 50 mph. I hope the rain holds off long enough so they can get things up and going.
The weatherman says the storms will last until the 'sun goes down and we loose the afternoon heating' -- well, he was WRONG -- it stormed through the night and finally slowed down about 4 AM. I'm really tired of this -- and there is more of the same coming. I guess, because there were so many really pleasant days about a week ago and Li'l Bit and I so enjoyed just being able to be outside -- this being 'cooped up' in the RV with the winds whistling and blowing is about to drive me nuts! Can you believe -- June 27 -- and I'm wearing a sweater!
The truck goes in 7/7. That is the soonest they could look at it -- only one diesel mechanic -- this isn't Texas Truck Country!
I'm not accomplishing any of the little jobs I wanted to do -- I think I'm just bored, lazy and have a rotten attitude. If I can't go outside and play I'm not going to work inside!!
The month ends with a prediction of nice weather "tomorrow but more rain on Wednesday and Thursday. Then a nice holiday weekend." And here comes July -- as my attitude waivers with the weather, the people in the State of Iowa stay strong.
There is a BBQ champioinship cook-off going on in town. There are over 100 RVs and smokers and cookers set up at the fair grounds. They started coming in Thursday. Most have tents or some kind of awning they set up -- well, I bet the wind got them last nite -- winds were 15-25 mph sustained with gusts up to 50 mph. I hope the rain holds off long enough so they can get things up and going.
The weatherman says the storms will last until the 'sun goes down and we loose the afternoon heating' -- well, he was WRONG -- it stormed through the night and finally slowed down about 4 AM. I'm really tired of this -- and there is more of the same coming. I guess, because there were so many really pleasant days about a week ago and Li'l Bit and I so enjoyed just being able to be outside -- this being 'cooped up' in the RV with the winds whistling and blowing is about to drive me nuts! Can you believe -- June 27 -- and I'm wearing a sweater!
The truck goes in 7/7. That is the soonest they could look at it -- only one diesel mechanic -- this isn't Texas Truck Country!
I'm not accomplishing any of the little jobs I wanted to do -- I think I'm just bored, lazy and have a rotten attitude. If I can't go outside and play I'm not going to work inside!!
The month ends with a prediction of nice weather "tomorrow but more rain on Wednesday and Thursday. Then a nice holiday weekend." And here comes July -- as my attitude waivers with the weather, the people in the State of Iowa stay strong.
Iowa in June 2008, Part VI
Just when I brag about paradise and heaven, June 26 brings rain, rain, rain, wind, wind, wind -- but no tornado warnings. We really don't need the rain! The creeks and rivers are just now going back into their banks. So I'm inside with my weather radio and Dopplar weather radaloop on my computer screen! Here we go again!
With all of the wind and weather I've been through this spring, I'm really glad I have this ol'heavy RV that is made of so much metal. I often complain it is next to impossible to get a good cell phone or WiFi connection inside the heavy metal tube I call home, but I don't 'wobble' in the wind like the one next to me. I can look out my window and see some the the new lighlt-weight RVs really shaking! WHEW -- I'll keep this ol' out of date, heavy contraption for awhile!
Jeannie is more content in his cage than out -- I get less screaming from him when he is inside the cage -- so I let him out for a short time in the AM and then put him back. When the screaming starts, I tell him, "Go home Jeannie" and he responds "go home, go home." He seems content in the cage for several hours -- then he comes out for a short time and the PM and back to the cage for "night-night."
Of course Tinga wants to be out all of the time -- and that little monsgter has learned to get behind the screening and hides. She has also learned how to turn on the light on the wall behind the sofa!
Zamba, the Grey, just seems content to do anything! That is the most even-tempered, mellow Grey Parrot I've ever seen.
Li'l Bit was quite upset when the came to mow -- they came back and took the weed-eater to her little wild Iowa hemp plant that she was eating! No wonder Li'lBit is so mellow! And she still has all of her fur. Maybe I need to sprout hemp seed and keep a pot growing -- I can call it an herb! Maybe Li'l Bit's vet will write a prescription for medicinal marijuana! RIGHT!!!
With all of the wind and weather I've been through this spring, I'm really glad I have this ol'heavy RV that is made of so much metal. I often complain it is next to impossible to get a good cell phone or WiFi connection inside the heavy metal tube I call home, but I don't 'wobble' in the wind like the one next to me. I can look out my window and see some the the new lighlt-weight RVs really shaking! WHEW -- I'll keep this ol' out of date, heavy contraption for awhile!
Jeannie is more content in his cage than out -- I get less screaming from him when he is inside the cage -- so I let him out for a short time in the AM and then put him back. When the screaming starts, I tell him, "Go home Jeannie" and he responds "go home, go home." He seems content in the cage for several hours -- then he comes out for a short time and the PM and back to the cage for "night-night."
Of course Tinga wants to be out all of the time -- and that little monsgter has learned to get behind the screening and hides. She has also learned how to turn on the light on the wall behind the sofa!
Zamba, the Grey, just seems content to do anything! That is the most even-tempered, mellow Grey Parrot I've ever seen.
Li'l Bit was quite upset when the came to mow -- they came back and took the weed-eater to her little wild Iowa hemp plant that she was eating! No wonder Li'lBit is so mellow! And she still has all of her fur. Maybe I need to sprout hemp seed and keep a pot growing -- I can call it an herb! Maybe Li'l Bit's vet will write a prescription for medicinal marijuana! RIGHT!!!
Iowa in June 2008, Part V
As the sun breaks forth on the 15th, Li'lBit and I go for a walk -- without boots, rain slicker and umbrella! I work outside -- put up the flag windsock, finish potting and repotting the plants. I have a small herb garden planted and hanging on the back of the RV. I have a tomato plant and a pepper plant by the steps. Mom's old cracked cookie jar now holds a geranium and some ivy and has a home on the picnic table. The bird feeders are up.
Li'l Bit and I spend most of the recent nice days at the picnic table -- I call it my "office" -- I set there and do paperwork -- try to get stuff in order and bring my diary up to date. Found a 'shade' for the computer screen that works quite well to reduce the glare. Li'l Bit and I enjoy listening to the radio, I have my ice tea in the afternoon, my coffee in the morning. Li'l Bit has her little lawn chair so she doesn't have to lay on the grass with her sensitive skin! The grill is assembled -- Life is Good! We are Retired & Lazy!!
It gets into the 50s at night and up to the mid-70s during the day...gradually moving into the 80s. Mybe some "scattered showers" Thursday afternoon and Friday. The rain predicted for Thursday and Friday started out as a "Rain Event" (meaning watch out for
more flooding!) -- but has gradually been downgraded.
I tried to get Holly into a harness so I could take her out, but the 'one size fits all cats' is too small for the fatty! I know I cannot take her outside with just a collar on - - she will slip out of that in a minute! She really wants to go out--sets by the door all the time Li'lBit and I are out. Breaks my heart not being able to bring her out. This is the look I get - daring me to try that harness!!! Gotta love that cat!
Sunday my sister's friend brought her daughter and we washed and waxded the RV. Most of the black streaks and heavy dirt is off. Since the park runs from a well, it is too much pressure on their pump to have water running continuously with a hose for washing RVs and vehicles. I still have the water in my holding tank and that needs to be changed anyway. So we fill our buckets from the holding tank.
Bea had her Summer Soltstice luncheon -- no dancing naked around the bonfire -- just a nice lunch with friends.
More RVs coming in -- soft ball tournament in town. Life goes on even with tornados and flooding!
I'm having more trouble breathing here than in Rockport but so far it isn't as bad as in Gatesville -- don't know if it is because of all of the pollen from the trees or from all of the moisture/mold/green slimy stuff left over from the flooding. It is just difficult for me to walk any distance without the walker. I'm OK breathing if I'm just setting or doing light stuff, but when I start moving, I just about crap out!
Of course it may not have been a wise move to stay in an area with so many trees! But I sure do enjoy the shade and the breeze and when we get these nice sunny, breezy days -- just another day in Paradised! You know the movie -- Is this Heaven? No, this is Iowa!
Li'l Bit and I spend most of the recent nice days at the picnic table -- I call it my "office" -- I set there and do paperwork -- try to get stuff in order and bring my diary up to date. Found a 'shade' for the computer screen that works quite well to reduce the glare. Li'l Bit and I enjoy listening to the radio, I have my ice tea in the afternoon, my coffee in the morning. Li'l Bit has her little lawn chair so she doesn't have to lay on the grass with her sensitive skin! The grill is assembled -- Life is Good! We are Retired & Lazy!!
It gets into the 50s at night and up to the mid-70s during the day...gradually moving into the 80s. Mybe some "scattered showers" Thursday afternoon and Friday. The rain predicted for Thursday and Friday started out as a "Rain Event" (meaning watch out for
more flooding!) -- but has gradually been downgraded.I tried to get Holly into a harness so I could take her out, but the 'one size fits all cats' is too small for the fatty! I know I cannot take her outside with just a collar on - - she will slip out of that in a minute! She really wants to go out--sets by the door all the time Li'lBit and I are out. Breaks my heart not being able to bring her out. This is the look I get - daring me to try that harness!!! Gotta love that cat!
Sunday my sister's friend brought her daughter and we washed and waxded the RV. Most of the black streaks and heavy dirt is off. Since the park runs from a well, it is too much pressure on their pump to have water running continuously with a hose for washing RVs and vehicles. I still have the water in my holding tank and that needs to be changed anyway. So we fill our buckets from the holding tank.
Bea had her Summer Soltstice luncheon -- no dancing naked around the bonfire -- just a nice lunch with friends.
More RVs coming in -- soft ball tournament in town. Life goes on even with tornados and flooding!
I'm having more trouble breathing here than in Rockport but so far it isn't as bad as in Gatesville -- don't know if it is because of all of the pollen from the trees or from all of the moisture/mold/green slimy stuff left over from the flooding. It is just difficult for me to walk any distance without the walker. I'm OK breathing if I'm just setting or doing light stuff, but when I start moving, I just about crap out!
Of course it may not have been a wise move to stay in an area with so many trees! But I sure do enjoy the shade and the breeze and when we get these nice sunny, breezy days -- just another day in Paradised! You know the movie -- Is this Heaven? No, this is Iowa!
Iowa in June 2008, Part IV
They have had to evacuate the Riverside RV park and there was a big group of RVers in for a convention.' They were moved to a parking lot at a vacant grocery store.
Bea is still high and dry -- her sump pump works alot, but at least she isn't suffering any water damage. In fact, the entire town, with the exception of water in basements, seems to have lucked out. A few closed roads getting into town and now that water has been going down.
There isn't anything on TV but 24 hour coverage of the flooding. It has been so severe in some places that they have had to evacuate the hospitals -- they are constantly calling for sandbaggers. It would be a good way for me to get a lot of good exercise if the lungs would handle it!
The had a levee breeched in DesMoines and were evacuating people at 3AM. The National Guard and city workers have spent hours building another levee behind the area to hold back the waters. Trucks and trucks of dirt hauled in and earth movers pushing it into place, sand baggers by the hundreds. And after all of that work, they had to evacuate those workers at 8:30AM -- the river was breaking through again. The river in that area had already crested and was going down -- but the pressure on the levees just couldn't hold.
Some of the flooded areas aren't looking for any relief for several days. They have closed a large portion of Interstate 80 due to flooding and the detour adds about 110 miles to the trip. It has been reported that over 36,000 people have been evacuated from their homes. Several smaller rural communities have been evacuated -- the entire community is under water. This will probably be the demise of some of these small towns.
June 15th brought more tornado sirens about 3AM but just ended up being a lot of wind -- no rain or hail -- so the rivers held. By daylight, the sun was shining -- life is good!
Cedar Rapids is allowed to take showers! Many communities were on "water only for drinking" to keep from over loading the sewer systems -- no showers, laundry, etc. Today they started an odd-even policy -- if your address is an odd number, you do laundry and shower on odd dates. If your address is an even number, you do laundry and shower on even dates -- Hey, if it works for snow removal maybe it will work for laundry and showers!
There are 99 counties in Iowa and 83 of them were considered disaster areas due to flooding. Iowa isn't a very big state and there are 9 major river basins (all ripe for floods) -- the rivers flow into theMississippi or into the Missouri Rivers.
Bea is still high and dry -- her sump pump works alot, but at least she isn't suffering any water damage. In fact, the entire town, with the exception of water in basements, seems to have lucked out. A few closed roads getting into town and now that water has been going down.
There isn't anything on TV but 24 hour coverage of the flooding. It has been so severe in some places that they have had to evacuate the hospitals -- they are constantly calling for sandbaggers. It would be a good way for me to get a lot of good exercise if the lungs would handle it!
The had a levee breeched in DesMoines and were evacuating people at 3AM. The National Guard and city workers have spent hours building another levee behind the area to hold back the waters. Trucks and trucks of dirt hauled in and earth movers pushing it into place, sand baggers by the hundreds. And after all of that work, they had to evacuate those workers at 8:30AM -- the river was breaking through again. The river in that area had already crested and was going down -- but the pressure on the levees just couldn't hold.
Some of the flooded areas aren't looking for any relief for several days. They have closed a large portion of Interstate 80 due to flooding and the detour adds about 110 miles to the trip. It has been reported that over 36,000 people have been evacuated from their homes. Several smaller rural communities have been evacuated -- the entire community is under water. This will probably be the demise of some of these small towns.
June 15th brought more tornado sirens about 3AM but just ended up being a lot of wind -- no rain or hail -- so the rivers held. By daylight, the sun was shining -- life is good!
Cedar Rapids is allowed to take showers! Many communities were on "water only for drinking" to keep from over loading the sewer systems -- no showers, laundry, etc. Today they started an odd-even policy -- if your address is an odd number, you do laundry and shower on odd dates. If your address is an even number, you do laundry and shower on even dates -- Hey, if it works for snow removal maybe it will work for laundry and showers!
There are 99 counties in Iowa and 83 of them were considered disaster areas due to flooding. Iowa isn't a very big state and there are 9 major river basins (all ripe for floods) -- the rivers flow into theMississippi or into the Missouri Rivers.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Iowa In June 2008, Part III
UNBELIEVABLE -- The weather radio tower has drown! On June 11th, I get this informational note from the National Weather Service:
The Marshall County/Marshalltown National Weather Service Radio transmitter tower is out of service due to the water being over the building in Marshalltown near the Alliant station. YOU MUST reprogram your radios to either the Des Moines NWS NOAA radio frequenty or the Montezuma radio frequency.
June 12th was anoher rockin' and rollin' night. I was a little more worried than other nights since the transmission tower for he weather radio in Marshalltown isn't functioning. I didn't have the security of knowing the radio would go off and warn me! Still going to bed dressed in shorts and a t-shirt and my little "get the hell out" bag next to my bed.
In the morning, the water from the creek was back up into the park.
The Marshall County/Marshalltown National Weather Service Radio transmitter tower is out of service due to the water being over the building in Marshalltown near the Alliant station. YOU MUST reprogram your radios to either the Des Moines NWS NOAA radio frequenty or the Montezuma radio frequency.
June 12th was anoher rockin' and rollin' night. I was a little more worried than other nights since the transmission tower for he weather radio in Marshalltown isn't functioning. I didn't have the security of knowing the radio would go off and warn me! Still going to bed dressed in shorts and a t-shirt and my little "get the hell out" bag next to my bed.
In the morning, the water from the creek was back up into the park.
To the right is the side of the old lodge (white building) and my "go to" spot for bad weather.
The beige building is one of the 'tourist' cabins from the days of the Lincoln Highway when this was a cabin and campground. The cabin is being renovated.
You can see the water from the creek coming up beind the buildings. My RV is located just across the driveway from these buildings.
I'm turning green with moss, grey with mold and I smell like a slim-covered backwater!
Even Li'l Bit doesn't want to go out. A new hobby is watching the flood reports along with the Doppler Radar. The media is doing a terrific job of keeping people informed on flood stages, river levels, road closures, etc. and relaying information on where to go to get help.
The major flooding is off toward Waterloo, Cedar Rapids and Iowa Ciy. Des Moines is flooded quite heavily. Fortunately there isn't much serious flooding in Marshalltown. The roads going into town have been run over by the river to the north and the creek to the east. I can get into town and there doesn't seem to be any flooding to disrupt the business district and the stores are open.
June 13th brings more night winds. The winds start to blow and the RV rocks back and forth and the rain is pounding from all directions. Like a scared child, I just lay in the bed with the covers over my head, holding onto my Li'l Bit, listening to the radio for weather alerts, scared to death! I've done all I can do!! I have my 'get out' bag by the bed. My power-pals are full charged. I'm afraid to cry -- I might not hear a change in the wind and rain outside.
So, you ask -- why didn't I hook up and move out? Where? I'd have to go nearly back to TX to get out of the Iowa/Missouri/Kansas/Oklahoma section where all of these storms form. Going east wouldn't help -- flooding is worse out that way. Wisconsin and Illinois and Indiana are getting hit. I'd rather be here where I know someone if I have to blow away!
God has had enough chances to come get me, so I guess I'm stuck here!
June 13th brings more night winds. The winds start to blow and the RV rocks back and forth and the rain is pounding from all directions. Like a scared child, I just lay in the bed with the covers over my head, holding onto my Li'l Bit, listening to the radio for weather alerts, scared to death! I've done all I can do!! I have my 'get out' bag by the bed. My power-pals are full charged. I'm afraid to cry -- I might not hear a change in the wind and rain outside.
So, you ask -- why didn't I hook up and move out? Where? I'd have to go nearly back to TX to get out of the Iowa/Missouri/Kansas/Oklahoma section where all of these storms form. Going east wouldn't help -- flooding is worse out that way. Wisconsin and Illinois and Indiana are getting hit. I'd rather be here where I know someone if I have to blow away!
God has had enough chances to come get me, so I guess I'm stuck here!
Iowa In June 2008, Part II
It just won't quit! The winds have not gone under 20 mph with this last band of storms. I'm tired -- this drill seems to go on night after night! By now, 20-30 mph winds feels almost like a 'breeze' to me! It's really blowing now and the RV is rockin' but it is different during the day when I can SEE what is going on! More storms to come through tonight.
All of the rivers and creeks are out of their banks in central Iowa so I'm not sure where this water will go. In Des Moines, the rivers are so far out of their banks the city sewers are running full and blowing off the manhole covers! We should get some of those oil pipeline guys from Texas to lay a pipeline from central Iowa to Texas -- they can have all of the run off flood water they want!
Bea is resigned to the fact that I will go to Judy's if it gets bad. She has stopped calling to say she would come get me so I could go to HER basement! But believe me, she still calls me when she heads to the basement to make sure I'm up and moving!
The animals are OK -- Holly runs and hides in her hiding place up behind the bed long before the storm gets here. And she stays there until it is all clear! Li'l Bit hides out down by the side of the bed under the old rugs and blankets I have stored down there or at the head of he bed under all of the pillows. Neither of them move until it is clear. I have learned that when Holly leaves her hiding place and comes to bed, it is definitely "all clear."
By now the birds are used to being strapped in under their bankets. I have taken all of the swinging toys out of their cages and at night, when I put themqin the cages, I wrap them up with an old comforter and secure it with bungi straps.
I am either going to be dead or an expert at riding out storms and winds in RVs. I think I'm going to write a book on inclement weather RVing -- or maybe why the hell I haven't moved the RV out of this crap! I need to get back to Rockport so I can REST!
When I was in Rockport, Li'lBit and I used to go to the beach and just set there and enjoy the view and the fresh air -- I'd take a book and thermos of coffee, and in general, I would act Retired & Lazy! In Iowa I nap in the afternoon so I can watch the weather radar at night. When there aren't any warnings, Li'l Bit and I go to bed early and really sleep! I don't even stay in my clothes if the weather is good! See how wonderful things can be! Life is Good!
There is a swing hanging from the tree behind me and that swing has been bouncing and flopping all over. Occasionally, the winds will be so strong, that swing will just be suspended straight out like some invisible giant is hanging on to it. Good thing it is on chains - don't think rope would hold it in the winds.
June 7th was the first night in over a week I actually slept in 'jammies' -- I know that is more that you care to hear! But I wasn't totally 'off guard' -- I took the weather radio and my "get the hell out in a hurry" bag to bed with me. June 8th and I'm back to seeping in clothes with my weather radio and 'escape' bag.
All of the rivers and creeks are out of their banks in central Iowa so I'm not sure where this water will go. In Des Moines, the rivers are so far out of their banks the city sewers are running full and blowing off the manhole covers! We should get some of those oil pipeline guys from Texas to lay a pipeline from central Iowa to Texas -- they can have all of the run off flood water they want!
Bea is resigned to the fact that I will go to Judy's if it gets bad. She has stopped calling to say she would come get me so I could go to HER basement! But believe me, she still calls me when she heads to the basement to make sure I'm up and moving!
The animals are OK -- Holly runs and hides in her hiding place up behind the bed long before the storm gets here. And she stays there until it is all clear! Li'l Bit hides out down by the side of the bed under the old rugs and blankets I have stored down there or at the head of he bed under all of the pillows. Neither of them move until it is clear. I have learned that when Holly leaves her hiding place and comes to bed, it is definitely "all clear."
By now the birds are used to being strapped in under their bankets. I have taken all of the swinging toys out of their cages and at night, when I put themqin the cages, I wrap them up with an old comforter and secure it with bungi straps.
I am either going to be dead or an expert at riding out storms and winds in RVs. I think I'm going to write a book on inclement weather RVing -- or maybe why the hell I haven't moved the RV out of this crap! I need to get back to Rockport so I can REST!
When I was in Rockport, Li'lBit and I used to go to the beach and just set there and enjoy the view and the fresh air -- I'd take a book and thermos of coffee, and in general, I would act Retired & Lazy! In Iowa I nap in the afternoon so I can watch the weather radar at night. When there aren't any warnings, Li'l Bit and I go to bed early and really sleep! I don't even stay in my clothes if the weather is good! See how wonderful things can be! Life is Good!
There is a swing hanging from the tree behind me and that swing has been bouncing and flopping all over. Occasionally, the winds will be so strong, that swing will just be suspended straight out like some invisible giant is hanging on to it. Good thing it is on chains - don't think rope would hold it in the winds.
June 7th was the first night in over a week I actually slept in 'jammies' -- I know that is more that you care to hear! But I wasn't totally 'off guard' -- I took the weather radio and my "get the hell out in a hurry" bag to bed with me. June 8th and I'm back to seeping in clothes with my weather radio and 'escape' bag.
Iowa In June 2008, Part I
June started with a really great weekend -- considering all of the tornado warnings, hail and winds we had the prvious week. Terrific sunny, warm and breezy days. I managed to get most of my plants transplanted, hopefully I will have peppers, tomatoes and some herbs soon....and Holly will have her fresh catnip!
Been in Iowa 2 weeks and still haven't had a Taylor's Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich nor have I had a breaded pork tenderloin sandwich...what kind of Iowa girl am I?
While walking the dog on June 4th, it was damp and getting a little foggy across the field -- all of a sudden, out of the north sky, I heard the honking of a flock of geese -- headed SOUTH!!! Am I missing something here? This is JUNE -- aren't they flying south a little early?? I think there is a wild life area just south of me -- but after all of this crazy weather, seeing a large flock of geese going south did give me pause to think!
The RV is still only 1/2 unpacked. I think that is a good sign I can get rid of some more stuff! This on-again-off-again rain, wind and hail is about to drive me nuts! Raining? Hell, we are flooding! Rivers and creeks are 5 feet above flood stage. Just down the road in Ames, they had to get front end loaders out to get the people out of WalMart, the parking lot was flooding so fast they couldn't get to their cars.
When it isn't storming, the park is really pretty with all of the landscaping and the oak trees. I enjoy the shaded, grassy lots and the open quiet spaces. And it really is quiet considering the old original Highway 30 goes past the front and there is a very busy train track going past the park on the back side. But with it being in such an open area, the sound has penty of place to go so it isn't irritating. And, on Friday night, they have stock car races at the local track just down the road.
I enjoy the sound of the train going by every few hours. But I told my sister that does create a problem -- the weatherman said a tornado sounds a lot like a train - I'll never know what hit me -- the tornado or the train! Well, trains have whistles -- guess I'll listen for that! I do like it here -- just wish this weather would stop being so hazardous. The place is peaceful and I'm looking forward to the summer here.
By June 5th, the storms were back. I watched the weather radar on TV and on the computer until we lost power about midnight. Looked like most of the stuff was going around us, so I went to bed -- in my clothes! Had my phone, wallet, flashlight and keys in a bag right at the side of the bed. About 1AM or a little later, my weather radio went off announcing an identified on the ground tornado in Marshall County (that's me!) -- then I heard the guy next door start up his truck and heat out -- he hides out in town at the concrete block car wash. I'm afraid to go to town at night because the waer runs over the roads so often during the storms. He has a 4x4 truck. My dually isn't a 4x4 -- I have enough trouble seeing at night without trying to do it during a storm.
That night I had to go to the owner's house -- Judy came out knocking on my door telling me to come over -- I had just gone to bed thinking the storm was dying down -- WRONG - tornado spotted in Marshall County was 1/2mile south of us. We went through this drill two nights in a row.
About 1:30 AM I was back in he RV. Winds blew so hard they actually blew leaves up under the louvered windows in the back and I had hem closed! The winds had blown up the roof vent in the kitchen area and I had water all over the floor -- carpeting was wet under the dining table, my laptop was on the table and soaked -- fortunately it was closed and off. I'm sure that is what saved it from really going 'belly-up' on me. Took most of the day to dry out and get back on line and working.
The kitchen counter was full of standing water and the toaster was wet and 'died.' Guess I'll have to break down and get a new one. After all, that is a really expensive Dollar Store $5 toaster -- they don't get much better than that!
Major damage to the outside was avoided. There was just insult added to the 'injury' that the RV sustained in Texas.
On June 6th we lost power for a few hours. Tornado went about 9 miles south. It's really strange -- according to the storm spotters (you gotta be crazy to be driving TOWARD the sorm!) the tornado was suspended, didn't hit ground. Several semis were flipped down on the interestate.
My new nightly routine is watch weather radar, keep the TV on for alerts. Gather up cell phone, wallet, flashlight, keys and put them in a bag so I can have them all handy. Then, when it looks like most of the bad stuff is dying out or staying away, go to bed, but take the bag, the weather radio and leavemy clothes on! I make sure I have both of my power pals fully charged and them them at the side of the bed. This is Crazy!
Li'l Bit and I have leanred to nap during the day so we can stay up for the night sorms. Day sorms are easier for me -- I can see what is happening!
Weatherman was telling us we would get a nice sunny, warm, dry weekend -- well, pitch that idea out! More storms coming for the next 6-7 evenings. Sunny, warm, humid during the day -- rock 'n' roll at night. All of the rivers are way above flood level and many roads are closed. Puking cat, trembling dog, wet carpet, water-logged computer -- Are we having fun yet?
Rivers and creeks are out of heir banks. Cenral Iowa is seeing the worse flooding they have seen since the Big Flood of '93. My sister came out to pick me up so we could grab a sandwich and the water is so high along the roadway, you cannot see the fences or gates in some of the fields. The creek is out of its bank and backed up into the tent area of the RV park.
Severe weather just keeps rolling in from west Texas, coming up through Oklahoma
, Kansas, Nebraska and slams into Iowa - then it just keeps rollilng across the state. TEXAS -- would you keep his stuff down your way for a few days so I can rest!
And they don't spreadout -- one storm right after the other, day after day.
This is the tpical "find
Helen in the RV in Marshalltown" weather pattern of storms that barrel across the state
Been in Iowa 2 weeks and still haven't had a Taylor's Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich nor have I had a breaded pork tenderloin sandwich...what kind of Iowa girl am I?
While walking the dog on June 4th, it was damp and getting a little foggy across the field -- all of a sudden, out of the north sky, I heard the honking of a flock of geese -- headed SOUTH!!! Am I missing something here? This is JUNE -- aren't they flying south a little early?? I think there is a wild life area just south of me -- but after all of this crazy weather, seeing a large flock of geese going south did give me pause to think!
The RV is still only 1/2 unpacked. I think that is a good sign I can get rid of some more stuff! This on-again-off-again rain, wind and hail is about to drive me nuts! Raining? Hell, we are flooding! Rivers and creeks are 5 feet above flood stage. Just down the road in Ames, they had to get front end loaders out to get the people out of WalMart, the parking lot was flooding so fast they couldn't get to their cars.
When it isn't storming, the park is really pretty with all of the landscaping and the oak trees. I enjoy the shaded, grassy lots and the open quiet spaces. And it really is quiet considering the old original Highway 30 goes past the front and there is a very busy train track going past the park on the back side. But with it being in such an open area, the sound has penty of place to go so it isn't irritating. And, on Friday night, they have stock car races at the local track just down the road.
I enjoy the sound of the train going by every few hours. But I told my sister that does create a problem -- the weatherman said a tornado sounds a lot like a train - I'll never know what hit me -- the tornado or the train! Well, trains have whistles -- guess I'll listen for that! I do like it here -- just wish this weather would stop being so hazardous. The place is peaceful and I'm looking forward to the summer here.
By June 5th, the storms were back. I watched the weather radar on TV and on the computer until we lost power about midnight. Looked like most of the stuff was going around us, so I went to bed -- in my clothes! Had my phone, wallet, flashlight and keys in a bag right at the side of the bed. About 1AM or a little later, my weather radio went off announcing an identified on the ground tornado in Marshall County (that's me!) -- then I heard the guy next door start up his truck and heat out -- he hides out in town at the concrete block car wash. I'm afraid to go to town at night because the waer runs over the roads so often during the storms. He has a 4x4 truck. My dually isn't a 4x4 -- I have enough trouble seeing at night without trying to do it during a storm.
That night I had to go to the owner's house -- Judy came out knocking on my door telling me to come over -- I had just gone to bed thinking the storm was dying down -- WRONG - tornado spotted in Marshall County was 1/2mile south of us. We went through this drill two nights in a row.
About 1:30 AM I was back in he RV. Winds blew so hard they actually blew leaves up under the louvered windows in the back and I had hem closed! The winds had blown up the roof vent in the kitchen area and I had water all over the floor -- carpeting was wet under the dining table, my laptop was on the table and soaked -- fortunately it was closed and off. I'm sure that is what saved it from really going 'belly-up' on me. Took most of the day to dry out and get back on line and working.
The kitchen counter was full of standing water and the toaster was wet and 'died.' Guess I'll have to break down and get a new one. After all, that is a really expensive Dollar Store $5 toaster -- they don't get much better than that!
Major damage to the outside was avoided. There was just insult added to the 'injury' that the RV sustained in Texas.
On June 6th we lost power for a few hours. Tornado went about 9 miles south. It's really strange -- according to the storm spotters (you gotta be crazy to be driving TOWARD the sorm!) the tornado was suspended, didn't hit ground. Several semis were flipped down on the interestate.
My new nightly routine is watch weather radar, keep the TV on for alerts. Gather up cell phone, wallet, flashlight, keys and put them in a bag so I can have them all handy. Then, when it looks like most of the bad stuff is dying out or staying away, go to bed, but take the bag, the weather radio and leavemy clothes on! I make sure I have both of my power pals fully charged and them them at the side of the bed. This is Crazy!
Li'l Bit and I have leanred to nap during the day so we can stay up for the night sorms. Day sorms are easier for me -- I can see what is happening!
Weatherman was telling us we would get a nice sunny, warm, dry weekend -- well, pitch that idea out! More storms coming for the next 6-7 evenings. Sunny, warm, humid during the day -- rock 'n' roll at night. All of the rivers are way above flood level and many roads are closed. Puking cat, trembling dog, wet carpet, water-logged computer -- Are we having fun yet?
Rivers and creeks are out of heir banks. Cenral Iowa is seeing the worse flooding they have seen since the Big Flood of '93. My sister came out to pick me up so we could grab a sandwich and the water is so high along the roadway, you cannot see the fences or gates in some of the fields. The creek is out of its bank and backed up into the tent area of the RV park.
Severe weather just keeps rolling in from west Texas, coming up through Oklahoma
, Kansas, Nebraska and slams into Iowa - then it just keeps rollilng across the state. TEXAS -- would you keep his stuff down your way for a few days so I can rest!And they don't spreadout -- one storm right after the other, day after day.
This is the tpical "find
Helen in the RV in Marshalltown" weather pattern of storms that barrel across the stateTuesday, August 12, 2008
America's Main Street
In 1940, NBC Radio introduced a Saturday morning dramatic show, “Lincoln Highway.” Sponsored by Shinola Shoe Polish, it featured stories of life along the highway. It left the air in 1942, but not before bringing the stories of the Lincoln Highway into homes all over America.
The Lincoln Highway is a slice of Americana. As you travel the old highway, there remain some of the eye-catching gimmicks used to attract travelers. Today, in Marshallown, the old Highway 30, going through town, still has motels and diners reminiscent of days gone by. Cecils Cafe still has the chicken with the top hat on top of the building advetising FOOD and the Flamingo Motel sports its nam
esake pink bird in front near the highway for all to see.
esake pink bird in front near the highway for all to see.
Monday, August 11, 2008
May in Iowa - 21- 31 May 08
I arrived to rainy and chilly weather so just did the basic set up -- it was too cold and too dreary to be messing with awnings....I may not need them since I am in the shade. Supposed to be the same all weekend -- I thought I was going to freeze to death! Temps are a little below normal for here but they didn't get rid of the snow until a few weeks ago....long winter for them! I'm really glad I kept the sweat shirts out! Goes into the 40s a night and only to the mid-50s during the day. A lot of Memorial Day plans will be ruined.
Of course all of this sure beats the heat, humidity, hail and wind storms I left in Texas! Oh, but little did I know what was in store for me!
All is well in 'retirementville'! The critters and I traveled quite well -- I slept like a baby the first few nights after the 3-day trip and with the 40 degree sleeping weather! There will be no holding me down now - with a little planning, I guess I can go just about anywhere I want to go -- as long as I can afford the diesel! $4.499 was the most I paid for diesel on the way up -- but that, too, would soon change. Averaged just over 12 miles per gallon on the trip.
Bea and I went out to eat so I could pick up WiFi in the restaurant. Downloaded emails - back to the RV to answer them - back to the restaurant the next day to send and download again. I can see I'll be a regular at Culver's restaurant and Staples parking lots until I can get on the WiFi at the park.
Went to the Alltel phone store -- broke down and ordered the conductivity kit I need to use my cellphone as a dial up modem. Darn thing is cosing nearly $60 but at the price of diesel, I'll burn that much driving back and forth every day to get on the internet. I will have unlimited download for $25/month. Amazing how dependent I've become on the internet since I've been on the road.
I'm not sure what is going to be planted in the field aross the road -- farmers are behind with planting -- fields too wet. I can tell you, however, they were out spreading manure today -- the aroma was quite intense for an hour or so. And I'm sure it will re-intensify when the rains come back. Oh, it's great to be back in the country -- the good ol' smell of "farmer's gold!" My kitty liter doesn't smell quite so bad!
The train goes down the track behind the park frequently during the day and night. It seems I hear the AM and PM trains the best. When I hear one the evening, I'll go to bed -- when I hear the one in the AM, I'll get up -- YUP -- sure saves looking at the clock!
Have had to turn on the furnace in the AM -- these darn damp chilly windy mornings make it really hard to roll out of bed. It's the 25th of May and finally temps getting into the 70s -- but then the thunderstorms, winds and hail will be back when the sun goes down. Welcome to central Iowa in the spring!
I'm anxious to get the bird feeders out and pot a few plants, herbs and flowers.
I really think I'm going to like it here -- there isn't anything to do at the park -- not even a laundry. I'm in the middle of nowhere -- about 3-5 miles from town. Surrounded by fields, woods and farms. Parked in a wonderful grove of bur oaks -- which will lead to another exciting experience as time goes by. The park here is small -- 12 spaces and some tent sites. The town is big enough to have what I need -- WalMart, KMart, a Dollar Store and a Farm Supply -- what more does anyone need! And, since I've visited my sister here many times, I'm comfortable getting around town and finding things.
Li'l Bit and I spend most mornings outside. Getting out flower pots and bird feeders from the under-storage area. If it doesn't rain I'll get my herbs repotted. They traveled quite well in the shower, but I'm going to have to figure a way to haul them in the back of the truck and not have them blown away after they will have all summer to grow.
Also need to look for a sewer hose -- found I have a hole in this one....not sure where I got that.
The tornados must have followed me from Texas -- horrible weather May 25. 50-60 mph winds blew constantly for over an hour -- just horrible sounds. The rear end of the of the RV is pointed west, so when the winds comes blowing across the field, I don't do a lot of rockin'n'rollin' since I'm not taking side hits. A walk-around in the daylight shows all survived but I do need to find some kind of brackets for the back flap on the RV -- those flimsy aluminum things just don't hold the weight of the flap in high winds. I suppose I could just go out and close the flap when the weather gets bad, but then I don't have any light coming in the back part of the RV -- and the thought of his old fat body up on a ladder in the winds and rain really doesn't appeal to me.
I ran from winds and tornados in Texas and the damn windy, hailing , tornado weather followed me. It is the end of May and we are supposed to have crummy weather all week and then maybe some sunshisne NEXT week.
I feel bad for the farmers -- the ground is so wet from the late spring snows and no warmth or sun to evaporate the moisure, the fields are bare -- they can't get out and work them -- wonder if they will manage to get any crops in so there is enough time to grow and harvest them.
Stopped at the garden shop in town to pick up a few things and the lady tha waited on me was from my homeown in Iowa (Maquokea) -- I graduated from high school with her younger sister -- now how is that for making a small world even smaller!
On May 29 I was up at 11PM watching the weather and trying to keep up with my weatherbug radar loops -- tornado, high winds, hail and flood warnings until 3AM -- It has been raining and cold and windy since I got here - maybe I need to come up a little later next ear.
The weahermen have been telling me fibs! They tell me it will warm up and be sunny -- WRONG! 52 degrees at 2PM the end of May doesn't sound like warm and sunny to me. The tornado 5/30 wiped out parts of Attica IA, about 50 miles south of my location -- last weekenda tornado wiped out Parkersburg IA -- about 40 miles norheast of me. Ever since I've been here we have had severe thunderstorms, hail and tornados nearly every evening. I'm spending most of my inernet and TV time watching doppler radar -- I say up waiting to see when it is 'safe' to go to bed -- then sleep with clothes on. Horrible midwestern spring!
The creeks are out of their banks and some of the rivers are 5 feet above flood state. The back half of the RV park is under water. Roads are flooded going into town. Welcome to Iowa!
And more storms are coming........
........AND SO WE GET BLOWN RIGHT INTO JUNE!
Of course all of this sure beats the heat, humidity, hail and wind storms I left in Texas! Oh, but little did I know what was in store for me!
All is well in 'retirementville'! The critters and I traveled quite well -- I slept like a baby the first few nights after the 3-day trip and with the 40 degree sleeping weather! There will be no holding me down now - with a little planning, I guess I can go just about anywhere I want to go -- as long as I can afford the diesel! $4.499 was the most I paid for diesel on the way up -- but that, too, would soon change. Averaged just over 12 miles per gallon on the trip.
Bea and I went out to eat so I could pick up WiFi in the restaurant. Downloaded emails - back to the RV to answer them - back to the restaurant the next day to send and download again. I can see I'll be a regular at Culver's restaurant and Staples parking lots until I can get on the WiFi at the park.
Went to the Alltel phone store -- broke down and ordered the conductivity kit I need to use my cellphone as a dial up modem. Darn thing is cosing nearly $60 but at the price of diesel, I'll burn that much driving back and forth every day to get on the internet. I will have unlimited download for $25/month. Amazing how dependent I've become on the internet since I've been on the road.
I'm not sure what is going to be planted in the field aross the road -- farmers are behind with planting -- fields too wet. I can tell you, however, they were out spreading manure today -- the aroma was quite intense for an hour or so. And I'm sure it will re-intensify when the rains come back. Oh, it's great to be back in the country -- the good ol' smell of "farmer's gold!" My kitty liter doesn't smell quite so bad!
The train goes down the track behind the park frequently during the day and night. It seems I hear the AM and PM trains the best. When I hear one the evening, I'll go to bed -- when I hear the one in the AM, I'll get up -- YUP -- sure saves looking at the clock!
Have had to turn on the furnace in the AM -- these darn damp chilly windy mornings make it really hard to roll out of bed. It's the 25th of May and finally temps getting into the 70s -- but then the thunderstorms, winds and hail will be back when the sun goes down. Welcome to central Iowa in the spring!
I'm anxious to get the bird feeders out and pot a few plants, herbs and flowers.
I really think I'm going to like it here -- there isn't anything to do at the park -- not even a laundry. I'm in the middle of nowhere -- about 3-5 miles from town. Surrounded by fields, woods and farms. Parked in a wonderful grove of bur oaks -- which will lead to another exciting experience as time goes by. The park here is small -- 12 spaces and some tent sites. The town is big enough to have what I need -- WalMart, KMart, a Dollar Store and a Farm Supply -- what more does anyone need! And, since I've visited my sister here many times, I'm comfortable getting around town and finding things.
Li'l Bit and I spend most mornings outside. Getting out flower pots and bird feeders from the under-storage area. If it doesn't rain I'll get my herbs repotted. They traveled quite well in the shower, but I'm going to have to figure a way to haul them in the back of the truck and not have them blown away after they will have all summer to grow.
Also need to look for a sewer hose -- found I have a hole in this one....not sure where I got that.
The tornados must have followed me from Texas -- horrible weather May 25. 50-60 mph winds blew constantly for over an hour -- just horrible sounds. The rear end of the of the RV is pointed west, so when the winds comes blowing across the field, I don't do a lot of rockin'n'rollin' since I'm not taking side hits. A walk-around in the daylight shows all survived but I do need to find some kind of brackets for the back flap on the RV -- those flimsy aluminum things just don't hold the weight of the flap in high winds. I suppose I could just go out and close the flap when the weather gets bad, but then I don't have any light coming in the back part of the RV -- and the thought of his old fat body up on a ladder in the winds and rain really doesn't appeal to me.
I ran from winds and tornados in Texas and the damn windy, hailing , tornado weather followed me. It is the end of May and we are supposed to have crummy weather all week and then maybe some sunshisne NEXT week.
I feel bad for the farmers -- the ground is so wet from the late spring snows and no warmth or sun to evaporate the moisure, the fields are bare -- they can't get out and work them -- wonder if they will manage to get any crops in so there is enough time to grow and harvest them.
Stopped at the garden shop in town to pick up a few things and the lady tha waited on me was from my homeown in Iowa (Maquokea) -- I graduated from high school with her younger sister -- now how is that for making a small world even smaller!
On May 29 I was up at 11PM watching the weather and trying to keep up with my weatherbug radar loops -- tornado, high winds, hail and flood warnings until 3AM -- It has been raining and cold and windy since I got here - maybe I need to come up a little later next ear.
The weahermen have been telling me fibs! They tell me it will warm up and be sunny -- WRONG! 52 degrees at 2PM the end of May doesn't sound like warm and sunny to me. The tornado 5/30 wiped out parts of Attica IA, about 50 miles south of my location -- last weekenda tornado wiped out Parkersburg IA -- about 40 miles norheast of me. Ever since I've been here we have had severe thunderstorms, hail and tornados nearly every evening. I'm spending most of my inernet and TV time watching doppler radar -- I say up waiting to see when it is 'safe' to go to bed -- then sleep with clothes on. Horrible midwestern spring!
The creeks are out of their banks and some of the rivers are 5 feet above flood state. The back half of the RV park is under water. Roads are flooded going into town. Welcome to Iowa!
And more storms are coming........
........AND SO WE GET BLOWN RIGHT INTO JUNE!
The Lincoln Highway comes to Rock Valley and Shady Oaks
I've found the prettiest place in Iowa, and here I'll live and lay my bones." Henry Anson 1851
The bur oaks of Shady Oaks are over 200 years old and through history have welcomed travelers in need of rest.
Long before the Lincoln Highway came to central Iowa, the community Of Rock Valley developed in the area where the Brush Creek merged with Timber Creek to flow on to the river. Before Rock Valley, the Native American Tribes of the area knew it for hunting, fishing and resting. Today the bur oaks of Shady Oaks serve the same purpose -- a rest stop for weary travelers.
First came the grist mill, followed by the Methodist Mission, the community evolved and the school was built. The grove of bur oaks on the stage coach run between Marengo and Fort Dodge was the center of activity for the Rock Valley community -- it was the place where travelers rested for the night, the area where the citizens waited while their grain was milled. It was the center for church and school activities. The bur oak grove would eventually be the first campground and cabin camp west of he Mississippi River and continues today serving those traveling the Lincoln Highway.
In 1851 Henry Anson took advanage of the government land acquired through the Treaty of 1842 with the Sac and Fox tribes. He would build a town between Linn Creek and the Iowa River. With the help of Johnny Green, a Potawatomie Chief, the land was settled, the railroad came and the town flourished. Marshalltown, according to the Lincoln Highway Association's 1916 "Official Road Guide to the Lincoln Highway," was 1,207 miles from New York City and 2,124 miles from San Francisco. Shady Oaks is 3 miles east of Marshalltown. The trip from New York City to San Francisco was "something of a sporting proposition," and would take 20-30 days averaging 18 miles per hour.
The guide suggested motorists buy gasoline and supplies at every opportunity, not knowing where the next food, fuel and rest would be. They were advised to wade through water before fording it with their vehicle and to avoid drinking alkali water which "can cause serious cramps." The guide advised motorists travel with a full set of camping gear and select sites early. Equipment recommended included chains, shovel, axe, jacks, spare tires and inner tubes, a set of tools for vehicle repair. The motorist could expect the trip to cost no more than $5 per person per day.
In 1940, NBC Radio introduced a Saturday morning dramatic show, "Lincoln Highway." Sponsored by Shinola Shoe Polish, it featured stories of life along he highway. It left the air in 1942 - but not before bringing the stories of the Lincoln Highway into homes all over America.
There were few amenities for those traveling the Lincoln Highway in the early years. A few hot cramped hotels in the cities or a camping site along the road. The grove of bur oaks at Shady Oaks was one of those spots. Eventually a gas station and diner would be added.
In 1925 the section of the Lincoln Highway in front of Shady Oaks was paved. By 1941 Shady Oaks Cabin Camp played host to nearly 6,000 travelers. Eighteen cabins, a meeting room building, a lodge, beautiful landscaping and a rock garden greeted visitors. Today one of the cabins is being restored, most are gone. The log meeting building and the lodge remain serving different purposes. Transformed into an RV park, it is Iowa's oldest privately owned campground and has been in continuous operation for over 80 years. In 1996 the stand of bur oaks was recognized as famous and historical trees in Iowa.
The bur oaks of Shady Oaks are over 200 years old and through history have welcomed travelers in need of rest.
Long before the Lincoln Highway came to central Iowa, the community Of Rock Valley developed in the area where the Brush Creek merged with Timber Creek to flow on to the river. Before Rock Valley, the Native American Tribes of the area knew it for hunting, fishing and resting. Today the bur oaks of Shady Oaks serve the same purpose -- a rest stop for weary travelers.
First came the grist mill, followed by the Methodist Mission, the community evolved and the school was built. The grove of bur oaks on the stage coach run between Marengo and Fort Dodge was the center of activity for the Rock Valley community -- it was the place where travelers rested for the night, the area where the citizens waited while their grain was milled. It was the center for church and school activities. The bur oak grove would eventually be the first campground and cabin camp west of he Mississippi River and continues today serving those traveling the Lincoln Highway.
In 1851 Henry Anson took advanage of the government land acquired through the Treaty of 1842 with the Sac and Fox tribes. He would build a town between Linn Creek and the Iowa River. With the help of Johnny Green, a Potawatomie Chief, the land was settled, the railroad came and the town flourished. Marshalltown, according to the Lincoln Highway Association's 1916 "Official Road Guide to the Lincoln Highway," was 1,207 miles from New York City and 2,124 miles from San Francisco. Shady Oaks is 3 miles east of Marshalltown. The trip from New York City to San Francisco was "something of a sporting proposition," and would take 20-30 days averaging 18 miles per hour.
The guide suggested motorists buy gasoline and supplies at every opportunity, not knowing where the next food, fuel and rest would be. They were advised to wade through water before fording it with their vehicle and to avoid drinking alkali water which "can cause serious cramps." The guide advised motorists travel with a full set of camping gear and select sites early. Equipment recommended included chains, shovel, axe, jacks, spare tires and inner tubes, a set of tools for vehicle repair. The motorist could expect the trip to cost no more than $5 per person per day.
In 1940, NBC Radio introduced a Saturday morning dramatic show, "Lincoln Highway." Sponsored by Shinola Shoe Polish, it featured stories of life along he highway. It left the air in 1942 - but not before bringing the stories of the Lincoln Highway into homes all over America.
There were few amenities for those traveling the Lincoln Highway in the early years. A few hot cramped hotels in the cities or a camping site along the road. The grove of bur oaks at Shady Oaks was one of those spots. Eventually a gas station and diner would be added.
In 1925 the section of the Lincoln Highway in front of Shady Oaks was paved. By 1941 Shady Oaks Cabin Camp played host to nearly 6,000 travelers. Eighteen cabins, a meeting room building, a lodge, beautiful landscaping and a rock garden greeted visitors. Today one of the cabins is being restored, most are gone. The log meeting building and the lodge remain serving different purposes. Transformed into an RV park, it is Iowa's oldest privately owned campground and has been in continuous operation for over 80 years. In 1996 the stand of bur oaks was recognized as famous and historical trees in Iowa.
Original cabins from the Shady Oaks Cabin Camp. Visit http://www.bigtreehouse.net/ to see more pictures of the early campground and some of the renovation work being done on one of the original cabins.
Walkway to The Big TreeHouse
Nestled in a tree at Shady Oaks is the Big Treehouse. For Mick Jurgensen, the treehouse is a hobby. For the rest of us, it is an amazing project and story. Started in 1983, this 12-level structure is more than 55 feet high with more than 7,000 square feet of floor space. Complete with music, electricity, telephone, microwave, refrigerator, running water, grill, 12 porch swings, the Shady Oaks Museum, a spiral stairway leading to the top, a security system and much more, this is truly an amazing accomplishment. It has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers and on the Discovery Channel. 
Picnic tables and setting areas in The Big TreeHouse
Pictures of the treehouse from Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce.
Three generations of the Gift-Jurgensen family now own and operate Shady Oaks. Mary Gift, her daughter, Judy Jurgensen, Judy's son Mick and his wife Liz. They ARE Shady Oaks -- they not only maintain the property, but they are the keeper of the flame of its history.
Mary Gift has documented much of the history of Shady Oaks and the area in a book, Quarter Mile Link.
Friday, August 1, 2008
The Lincoln Highway
Just north of the four-lane Highway 30, on the Old Lincoln Highway going into Marshalltown, Iowa and nestled in a large grove of bur oak trees sets Shady Oaks RV Park and The Big Treehouse. This is home for the summer.
As roadways were improving and increasing there appeared no logical plan for naming or numbering the roadways other than a series of colored bands painted on utility poles. By 1925 numbers were being used and the named highways were starting to loose 'character.' The Lincoln Highway Association was also in decline. But prior to going out of existence, on September 1, 1928 thousands of Boy Scouts from the communities along the highway installed small concrete markers with an imbedded medallion showing the bust of Lincoln and the inscription, "This highway dedicated to Abraham Lincoln."
The Lincoln Highway started in 1912 as a coast-to-coast rock highway - a graveled road from New York City to San Francisco -- to be finished for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. The highway was the dream of Carl Fischer, the man responsible for the Indianapolis Speedway and the man who turned a swamp in Florida into Miami Beach. Henry Joy, President of the Packard Motor Car Company came up with the idea to name the roadway as a memorial to Abraham Lincoln.
The plan provided that the road would be completed by the communities along the route. The communities would provide the equipment and labor and for their efforts would receive free materials. To raise funds for the road, donations were solicited from auto manufacturers and companies providing automative-related products. The public could join the association for $5. And the Lincoln Highway Association came to be with Henry Joy as President and Carl Fischer as Vice President.
On July 1, 1913 the coast-to-coast highway was officially named the Lincoln Highway. It spanned nearly 34,ooo miles from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. I will not go into the politics of which towns and states were either included or excluded on the route, but as the first road across the US, it was "Main Street Across America."
As roadways were improving and increasing there appeared no logical plan for naming or numbering the roadways other than a series of colored bands painted on utility poles. By 1925 numbers were being used and the named highways were starting to loose 'character.' The Lincoln Highway Association was also in decline. But prior to going out of existence, on September 1, 1928 thousands of Boy Scouts from the communities along the highway installed small concrete markers with an imbedded medallion showing the bust of Lincoln and the inscription, "This highway dedicated to Abraham Lincoln."
In 1992 the Lincoln Highway Association reactivated dedicated to preserving the highway and promoting events along the route. http://www.lincolnhighwayassoc.org/
Heading North - May 19-21, 2008
Up bright and early May 19 -- pulled out of "Camp Wally World" for my appointment at Gatesville Tire. They were ready. New tires all around on the RV -- I'm ready to go -- headed north before noon. A decent start time since I wanted to get through Oklahoma City before rush hour. I hate the way I-35 turns north through town -- seems like they could straighten that or at least make it easier to cut across several lanes of traffic in such a short distance! I probably fretted about that more than I needed to!
Through OK City -- No Sweat! Arrived at the Guthrie OK "Camp Wally World" late afternoon. To the service desk to get permission to park for the nite - picked up odds and ends for supper and breakfast -- WalMart always makes a few pennies off of my overnights! Fed and watered the traveling circus and hit the sack! Not much to do cramped up when the slide is in and on the 12 V batteries. Computer batteries are only good for 2 hours and I save the Power-Pals for the C-PAP -- still not sure exactly how long they will last. I do enjoy several old radio shows I have on CDs -- but other than picking up a local news station to keep up with the weather forecasts, there isn't much to do when spending the nite at Wally World! It isn't like I can get Holly and Li'l Bit in a rousing game of poker or something!
Space is cramped with the slide in -- but I'm sure that would improve if I toss out some more of this stuff! The water pump worked just fine, the fridge switched to propane and held everything frozen or cold.
Pulled out of Guthrie shortly after sunrise. Things are lookin' good! No problems with the first leg -- looking forward to the rest of the trip. After pulling onto the Interstate, I thought the truck was sounding "a little loud." When I stopped for fuel, I mentioned it to the trucker next to me....he laughed and said, "Ma'am, diesels are loud!" But as he listened he thought I might have a little extra 'knocking' and suggested I get it checked when I got where I was going. I thanked him and pulled back onto the Interstate.
Stopped at several rest areas along the way so LI'l Bit could water the grass! Gave me time to check the critters in the RV. I keep a thermometer in there so I can watch the ups and downs of the temps and all is well. The birds act as if the swing and sway is OK with them...usually singing or chattering when I open the door. Holly just takes to her hiding space beside the bed and waits unil the thing stops! Li'l Bit shallows out her sleeping place in the middle of the bed!
Made Cameron, MO at a reasonable hour. Watched the mileage on the truck and didn't notice any loss of milage with the 'knocking.' Again - get permission to spend the nite at WalMart, pick up a few things to munch on and shut myself in for the night.
Much more relaxed now knowing how the Power-Pals are going to work and provide sufficient power thru the night. The batteries in the battery-operated fan and in the radio are holding up much better than I thought. The Power-Pals are recharging completely from the truck's cigarette lighter in just a few hours. WHOOPPEE!! Knowing this makes me one Happy Camper!
The last leg of the trip - the shortest leg -- Cameron MO to Marshalltown IA. If I take my time, I can still be there by mid-afternoon. I sure do appreciate the WiFi hotspots at the Iowa Rest areas! Finally had a chance to download my emails. And those RV decals over the gas station logo signs are a big help when looking for a fuel stop!
I planned on taking 235 around Des Moines (afterall, I had sent my sister out for a test drive and to get me exit numbers) but I missed the exit so stayed on I-35/I-80. Wasn't as much of a problem as I thought -- I didn't hit it during rush hour! Called my sister -- let her know of my progress -- she would meet me at the intersection of the "Diagonal" (Hwy 65) and Hwy 30. I would follow her to the RV Park.
There she was! What a sight for 'tired eyes' - or, in my case, one tired eye! She pulled in front of me and off to Shady Oaks RV park we go. Her friends, Ben and Pat, were there to back me in and help me set up. So here I am in Iowa for the summer -- arrived tired and happy -- these 3 days on the road for an ol' fat lady hadn't been so bad!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Hail, Hail Rock 'n' Roll - Spring in Central TX
PART 3 OF 3
I guess May 9th brought the scariest night for me. I'm glad that it was a short storm. It only lasted about 15 minutes -- but that was enough for me! I was so involved with watching the storm on radar, I forgot I had all three parrots out. All of a sudden, I had all three of them on the dining table 'begging' me to put them up! It just rolled in at once and was over as fast as it got there. 70 mph straight line winds -- knocked out the power - toppled utility poles -- took down some of the trees in town square, one block away from the RV park. It was quite the rock'n' roll -- like an eathquake for a few minutes -- rattled the RV enough that it sent the cages toppling to the floor! The cat immediately ran into her riding space and stayed there until morning and Li't Bit stuck to me like velcro! Linda and Ed came by when it was over to make sure we were all OK.
The sounds and lights from outside brought an eery sensation inside - I'm sure every emergency and utility vehicle from Gatesville and surrounding communities were running with lights and sirens. The pulsating glow of the flashing yellow, blue and red lights from the vehicles running up and down the streets resembeled an unfinished artists canvas reflecting from the windows and on the walls. No sense in even trying to check for hail damage until the AM.
Daybreak made visible the exetent of the damage. Major power lines in town are down, trees and utility poles uprooted, snapped off and laying across the streets. Johnnie and Brenda both stopped by to make sure things were OK - how do folks get along when they don't have good friends!
As far as I could tell, the only damage was a few marks from hail on the front end of the RV. The trailer next to me took the brunt of the storm. So the side of my RV and the truck were protected by the trailer. I told my neighbor that was a 'right neighborly' thing for him to do!
Through the power outtages, I found that the Power-Pal I have to run my C-PAP will run for 7 hours if I use the 12V adaptor cord. I was concerned about having my CPAP when I'm on the road overnight and not hooked up to shore power. I had tried it out on several occasions and found that using standard 120V plug I only got 4 hours - it would take two Power-Pals to get me through the nite.
The wings on the TV antenna are bent, but the main pole/support seems to be OK. The carpet in the bathroom is wet. I'm sure it was just the roof vents flapping and flopping all nite and the rain blew in - will have to see about getting some covers over those vents.
Due to all of the power outages during the storms, I found that my Power-Pal would provide electricity for my C-PAP for 7 hours using the 12 Volt cord, but only 4 hours using the regular cord. That's a great piece of news. That means, with my two Power-Pal units, I can easily stay on the road and not worry about having power for the C-PAP at nite! Sure doesn't take much to make me happy!
I'm not sure if I'll ever get used to being in the RV with the winds and the storms, but little did I know that this was just a 'dry run' and 'practice session' for what was to come in Iowa this spring!
I guess May 9th brought the scariest night for me. I'm glad that it was a short storm. It only lasted about 15 minutes -- but that was enough for me! I was so involved with watching the storm on radar, I forgot I had all three parrots out. All of a sudden, I had all three of them on the dining table 'begging' me to put them up! It just rolled in at once and was over as fast as it got there. 70 mph straight line winds -- knocked out the power - toppled utility poles -- took down some of the trees in town square, one block away from the RV park. It was quite the rock'n' roll -- like an eathquake for a few minutes -- rattled the RV enough that it sent the cages toppling to the floor! The cat immediately ran into her riding space and stayed there until morning and Li't Bit stuck to me like velcro! Linda and Ed came by when it was over to make sure we were all OK.
The sounds and lights from outside brought an eery sensation inside - I'm sure every emergency and utility vehicle from Gatesville and surrounding communities were running with lights and sirens. The pulsating glow of the flashing yellow, blue and red lights from the vehicles running up and down the streets resembeled an unfinished artists canvas reflecting from the windows and on the walls. No sense in even trying to check for hail damage until the AM.
Daybreak made visible the exetent of the damage. Major power lines in town are down, trees and utility poles uprooted, snapped off and laying across the streets. Johnnie and Brenda both stopped by to make sure things were OK - how do folks get along when they don't have good friends!
As far as I could tell, the only damage was a few marks from hail on the front end of the RV. The trailer next to me took the brunt of the storm. So the side of my RV and the truck were protected by the trailer. I told my neighbor that was a 'right neighborly' thing for him to do!
Through the power outtages, I found that the Power-Pal I have to run my C-PAP will run for 7 hours if I use the 12V adaptor cord. I was concerned about having my CPAP when I'm on the road overnight and not hooked up to shore power. I had tried it out on several occasions and found that using standard 120V plug I only got 4 hours - it would take two Power-Pals to get me through the nite.
The wings on the TV antenna are bent, but the main pole/support seems to be OK. The carpet in the bathroom is wet. I'm sure it was just the roof vents flapping and flopping all nite and the rain blew in - will have to see about getting some covers over those vents.
Due to all of the power outages during the storms, I found that my Power-Pal would provide electricity for my C-PAP for 7 hours using the 12 Volt cord, but only 4 hours using the regular cord. That's a great piece of news. That means, with my two Power-Pal units, I can easily stay on the road and not worry about having power for the C-PAP at nite! Sure doesn't take much to make me happy!
I'm not sure if I'll ever get used to being in the RV with the winds and the storms, but little did I know that this was just a 'dry run' and 'practice session' for what was to come in Iowa this spring!
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