The Adventures of BillyMax

JAN 9-15

2012-01-15T11:30:00.002-06:00

Guess I can’t complain about spending $13 for the roast. Monday I was still eating off of it. Monday brought some much needed rain. My lungs aren't nearly has happy as the rest of me about it, but they so desperately need the rain down here! Been up since about 4 AM listening to the bands of rain come across. Wonder how much SNOW they got in north TX!

Living in the ol' folks RV park, I have come to a definite conclusion. Some ol' ladies can get by with wearing jeans; others should just forget it! They need to stay with their cute little seersucker pedal pusher sets!

Met Deryl & Elke at Jaliscos for supper. Love my combo loco platter, always enough for 2-3 meals, depending on how many chips I eat first!

Temps started dropping FAST and the winds really picked up. Was over 70 degrees at 4:30, at 7:30, it was 55 degrees! Definitely going to be soup weather.

Bought one of those roasted chickens from WalMart awhile back. Ate some of it, froze the rest. I pulled the breasts off to save for sandwiches and put all the bony left over parts in the crock pot with some chicken bullion, carrots and celery. Didn’t have any potatoes - I survived! I made some dumplin’s!

Woke up Tuesday AM to 43 degrees - 18-20mph winds - wind chill 34. Why do I always run out of propane in the middle of the nite! Out in all that wind in my jammies flipping tanks! Sure am glad I just have to open and close the knobs and flip the little lever and run back into bed!

I didn’t even try to walk up to Ladies coffee in the AM – not in that wind.

I do so enjoy my lunches in town with Donna when she comes in during the week. Tuesday HuDat's, 11:30 and Kathy met us. She pulled in from Iowa just about a month ago. Not staying in this park this winter so I don’t see her often. Glad I like the food at HuDat's! Brought home enough shrimp, veggies and fried rice for supper. Still had stuff from Jalisco's the night before. Ended up putting the soup from the crock pot back in the freezer. Can’t say I’m not stocked up with soups for the winter!

Propane guy comes to the park on Tuesday and Friday so I was right there waiting for him with my empty tank...and right behind the propane truck was Cleo on his bicycle -- as soon as my tank was full, Cleo put it in the compartment and hooked it up for me! YIPPEE! Bring on the cold!

WEDNESDAY 11TH Ah- F*#&!!!! Woke up coughing and hacking. Sorry folks but this is getting damn depressing. Thought I was on my way to recovery! 45 sunny, not too windy degrees. No plans for today. Really need to start making a list...can't seem to keep up enough energy to get my little jobs done around here. That's kinda funny - always have enough energy to go out and EAT!

Lots of sirens headed north on the highway when I had the dogs out in the AM - figured it must be a fire, private vehicles with 'whoopy' lights like the volunteers have. Just a parade of vehicles but with the fencing, can't always see what the vehicles are. Heard on the news it was a major accident, 2 trucks head on, 3 died, burned beyond recognition. I did learn one thing - loud-mouth Caleb, the dog that barks incessantly at other dogs and people on bicycles, doesn't howl or bark or whine at sirens! That's a point in his favor!

Made it up to 78 degrees but another cold front was on it’s way. Weather alert for 30 mph winds from the north gusting to 40. Moved my plants under the RV.

By Thursday, I was extremely glad I had plenty of propane! With the winds constantly blowing from the north, the furnace was going non-stop! The extra room I get with the 3 slides is really nice - unless it is cold and windy! No way to stop the wind from blowing in around those slides!

45 degrees, winds sustained at 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. At least the sun was out but it didn’t get above 50. What kills me is the darn wind. It was all I could do to catch my breath outside with the dogs - not so much congested as the wind just sucks the air out of me. Another good day to stay in and on my list of stuff to do was find my tax stuff and get it all in one place.

Guess who had to go out and empty the sewer in this wind and cold! While I was out there the wind chill went right down to the bones so I decided not to even try to make it to the Friendship supper. And to think, I was raised in the midwest and used to live in Chicago! I've turned into a real WHIMP!

Happy Friday the 13th! 32 sunny degrees but very little wind. Definitely had to get up and get moving and get some laundry done! Too cold to go naked! Left here in the AM with the furnace going and came home a couple hours later and opened the vent and the front door.

Took the last of my Christmas money and ordered a Kindle e-Reader. I have looked at ‘em (and the Nook and the i-equipment) but just can’t get used to reading books on the computer (I have an e-reader program on my laptop.)

BUT… I've heard from another 'recipe collector' there is a way to transfer word doc and PDF file recipes to the Kindle. Sure is cheaper and more versatile than that MyDemy thing I was thinking about. Cooking in an RV can be “cramped” experience! I think that is a nice way to put it! There isn’t even enough counter space for a cookbook! So, I’ve been printing off recipes as I need them, but what a waste – I just toss the paper when I’m finished – not enough storage space to keep them all, so I end up reprinting the next time I need it. Can't wait to get it and see if it is going to be as good as I hope for saving recipes!

January Recipes

2012-01-15T11:04:00.003-06:00

SWEET POTATO PEAR SOUP (Adapted from Recipe Lion)
1 TBSP margarine
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 C chopped carrot
1/4 C chopped celery
3 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 pears, peeled and diced
1/2 TSP dried thyme
1 TSP paprika
5 C vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1/3 C coconut milk
2 TSP maple syrup, or to taste
2 TSP lime juice, or to taste
salt and pepper to taste

In a pot, heat margarine on medium heat. Add onion, carrot and celery and sauté for 1minute. Add sweet potatoes, pears and thyme and sauté for about 2 minutes. Add paprika and broth. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes or until sweet potato is soft.

Puree in a blender or food processor until smooth. Return to pot. Add coconut milk, maple syrup and lime juice. Simmer for 5 minutes. If soup is too thick add a little extra broth.

Season with salt and pepper, adding more syrup or lime juice as needed.

MOZZARELLA EGG ROLL STICKS
12 Wonton or Egg-Roll Wraps, at room temperature
12 Mozzarella String Cheese
Marinara Sauce for Dipping
Small bowl with water, optional

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Take one wrap (less likely to break and ooze cheese all over if room-temp and slightly wet) and lay on flat surface like a diamond. Put cheese stick in middle, corner to corner (or slightly below).

Take the bottom corner and fold it up over the cheese stick and stick to other side of wrap tightly. You can add a few drops of the water to make the wrap stick better.
Carefully fold over the right and left corners of the wrap onto the cheese stick to completely cover the cheese. (the wrap will tear if not at room temp) Roll up the wrap.

Bake at 400 for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until golden brown.

Fried Directions:
Wrap cheese as described above.
Heat 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add in half of the cheese sticks. Roll/stir sticks around for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown, and remove from heat. Repeat with remainder of wraps.

NOTE: I find they do not brown too well in the oven (watch closely) and often the cheese will start to "leak out." But the taste is still good! I will probably try an "egg wash" (egg white with a little water) brushed on the rolls the next time to see if that improves the 'browning." Any left overs can be warmed in a pan with a little non-stick pan spray and be just as good!

INSTANT MARGARITAS (Makes 8)
1 lime, cut into 8 wedges
1/4 C sugar
2 pints lime sorbet
1/2 C tequila

Rub the lime wedges around the rims of 8 stemmed glasses.
Place the sugar on a small plate. Turn each glass upside down and dip the rims in the sugar to coat.

Place 2 scoops of sorbet in each glass and pour 1 TBSP tequila over the top of each.
Serve with a spoon

JAN 1-8 -- HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012

2012-01-15T10:48:00.002-06:00

January 1, 2012 – Happy New Year!
Spent Monday in bed hoping to kick this lung stuff and really getting sick and tired of being sick and tired. Down in the 30-40s at nite, sunny but not much above upper 50s during the day – windy. Fortunately I have lots of soup made up and in the freezer & fridge - sure do like my new fridge! Kids and I nap a lot and seem to go to bed earlier and earlier every evening. It's so much easier to breathe when I am doing nothing but sucking oxygen going thru a face mask! Watched some parades and bowl games, fixed some creamed fish to pour over my left over biscuits.

Still having hard time breathing if I do anything more energetic than set and do nothing! Just wish I had some energy. I get up to do one thing and I’m outta air - oh, well, it will come back eventually - it always does....just seems like it is taking longer -- but we are in another 'cold snap.'

Headed into town on Tuesday to pick up meds and some essentials. 47 sunny, not too windy, degrees but chilly enough to keep me from walking up for ladies coffee. Met Donna for lunch at Whataburger, then went to visit Deryl & Elke; hadn’t seen them since they got out of the hospital on Christmas.

Wednesday I woke up to 62 sunny and not-too windy degrees and coughing again - just when I thought I had it under control. I think this is aggravated by allergies. Will definitely be glad when the road construction is over out front. They have all of the graders and sand/gravel trucks working in front of the park and it doesn’t take much wind to blow it in my direction. Would have been nice to have the windows & door open. I finally just decided to kick on the oxygen, put on the c-pap and go to bed!

I’d love to find some chicken breasts with SKIN on them. I hate buying a whole chicken and cutting it up myself. That’s what I like about shopping Fareway in Iowa, can buy just the breast fresh with all the skin!

Thursday was 60 not-too-sunny degrees, but not too much wind. The graders seem to start earlier and earlier, running up and down the road, on the nice days. I just stay in and stay closed up! Turned foggy later in the day so I avoided huffing and puffing up to the activity building for the pot luck. Had made a chicken casserole to take but divided into 3 portions and froze it!

Friday was another 60 degree day and I WANT BEEF! Going into town while I've still got energy! I need BEEF! Even tho I don't think much of Texas beef, I need BEEF! Also need to take my garbage out and stop and pick up mail. Ended up costing me $13 for a small roast! Oh, well...I'll just have to stretch it out!

Stopped at the little Euro Pizza wagon on the way home and got a slice of their Tuscan Veggie pizza - YUMMY! Nice size slice with lots of chunky veggies and feta cheese. Ate it while setting in the traffic line up waiting for the "pilot truck" to take us on down the road! So much for lunch!

I've been craving pickled beets/onions/hard boiled eggs for a couple of weeks! No, I’m not pregnant! I think it is ‘cuz I’m loosing all sense of taste between meds, respiratory treatments, etc., and I need some thing with strong tastes. I could give up all other foods for those things! I hadn't made them in years. I found they taste nearly as good if I just buy a jar of pickled beets and add the eggs and onions; saves me all that standing at the stove, cooking and stirring!

When I was working home health, I could never understand how the 'little old folks' could eat the same thing over and over, day after day - I know now! I'm one of them!

Oh, Saturday was definitely NOT a good day at my place. Couldn’t get the ball games! Local NBC affiliate is fighting with Time Warner and we can't get NBC on cable. I even brought the TV from the trailer back to the RV so I could hook it up to my antenna (TV in RV needs digital converter box.) No luck; not sure if it is the antenna or the connection, but I caught the games the old fashioned way – on the radio! And what a treat that was – got to use my imagination – and I could do it in bed with the oxygen going!

Saturday I was starting to feel human. Even sat outside for awhile with the dogs; nice weather - 65 sunny degrees, no wind. Sunday I walked up the hill to church without my walker! It's probably about 1/2 block and the hill isn't much - but enough that I notice it! Even managed to huff and puff up the hill for the ice cream social Sunday evening. Maybe I should have avoided the ice cream – by Monday, I was back in bed!

Dec 16 - 31 Cough, Sneeze, Sniffle

2011-12-31T20:19:00.002-06:00

Friday the 16th was 56 windy degrees in the AM. Time to dig out the box of oatmeal!

Blood sugar 134 - not bad for the morning after potluck! BUT, I took plain steamed veggies and a couple of the guys brought baked fish. Must have been some good fishin' that week! Of course Tony brought his wonderful chicken & dumplin' soup and Carole brought her wild rice and mushroom soup. Even avoiding the standard pasta and noodle casseroles, I still had plenty of carbs! AND, Pat brought her 'to die for' bread pudding with lemon sauce for dessert. So much for my diet last nite! But I did enjoy the fish and the soups.

Lady's lunch was at the I-HOP down in Portland. I bummed a ride with Connie, just didn’t feel like driving the truck to Portland – was supposed to rain and didn’t want to drive home in the rain! I'm getting to be a real Whimp when it comes to driving unless I have to - especially now with all the road construction!

What an experience. We waited until they could get tables together - like they didn't know we were coming! Took forever to get our food - people being seated long after we were there were fed and gone before our food came. I had the Senior Sampler breakfast platter. It was good - can't complain about the food or the price - but the service sucked. Would recommend it for groups of 4 or less! I'll go to IHOP again IF I'm down that way shopping - just won't go with a group - they don't handle groups well!

Propane guy didn't have his truck so couldn't fill bottles, only motor homes.

Al delivered the Christmas box from my sister. I had checked my mail before we went to lunch - guess UPS didn't get here until late. I didn't even have my tree up and I had presents! I opened the “kids” gifts. Li'lBit loved the treats and Caleb loved the balls. He took one over to Li'lBit and dropped it in her bed. She picked it up and dropped it back out! Guess she didn't want to play!

Tinga was asleep so she didn’t know she had presents until later! Holly just wanted the treats!

Why the hell does everyone take the skin off of chicken breasts? I want chicken breasts WITH THE SKIN! That's why I like Fareway in Marshalltown IA! Here I usually end up getting a whole chicken and cutting it up myself! Hate that - all I want is the breasts. I’ll peel the skins of myself AFTER I’ve cooked them! Oh, Well!

59 sunny degrees on Sunday. Hard to get in the Christmas spirit! Just can’t seem to catch enough “good air’ to walk up the hill to church and for the ice cream social.

I stayed close to bed all day Sunday and didn't finish the cookies so Monday was cookie baking time! I promised 2-3 dozen cookies for the cocoa and cookies after caroling Monday nite. No, I don't go caroling!

Made some really good cheddar salmon chowder for lunch.

I was so proud of Caleb; he didn’t even carry on like a barking mad dog when the carolers came by Monday nite!

Tuesday I finally decided to crawl out of bed and go to lady’s coffee even though something blew thru during the night when the rains came. Allison brought the best nut rolls and poppy seed rolls to the coffee. They are absolutely to die for!

Definitely NOT a good air day! 68 dreary damp humid degrees. At least it wasn't the 50 mph winds and foot of snow they had predicted for the panhandle. Propane truck is back and I got propane! Bring on the cold! I’m ready!

Cold front came roaring in with wind chill in the lower 50s - gettin' kinda windy out - still dreary and damp. I stayed in with a cup of tea and a piece of saffron cake (Thanks to my brother! Sure glad he keeps that tradition!) My place smells like Christmas and all is well with the world! I certainly didn't expect THREE loaves! I feel like Aunt Louise (my mother’s aunt) - wrap it tight in aluminum foil, put it in the refrigerator, and take a little piece out at a time! She could make one loaf last all year long! I don't think I have the will power to stretch it out over a year!

Wednesday Dec 21 Happy Solstice to all and to all a Long Night! 58 degrees but we did have sun and not too much wind. Weatherman says it is to continue getting colder until after Christmas. Glad I have propane, sweaters and plenty of blankets!

I'm going to have to find some heavier flower pots so my poinsettias don't all blow over every day!

That crazy Caleb likes to eat the acorns that fall on the ground. He will even dig up the ones the squirrels bury! Guess he has been a scavenger for so long, he still thinks he has to eat that way! I'm surprised he is as good as he is when I'm feeding in the AM. He doesn't get too piggy. He'll let Holly & Li'lBit eat, but he sometimes is a little short on patience and must think they eat too slow!

Thursday the 22nd, 52 degrees, wind chill 47. At least we didn’t get the snow that fell in the pan handle! Gonna be a damp, humid, dreary kinda day today. Good day for me to stay in. My lungs just aren’t ‘rebounding’ like they usually do. Put some lentil/barley soup in the crock pot for Hanukkah. Ready in time for supper, I fixed some potato pancakes and apple sauce.

Friday I took the left over steamed veggies and added them to a creamed soup base. I found a small pack of shrimp, cooked them up and put them in my cream of veg soup. I'm set for the cold weather now!

Dec 24th my friend in town ended up in the hospital awaiting surgery to ream out his carotid arteries. To make matters worse, his wife was limping around on an infected foot. Definitely not a Merry Christmas at their place!

My oyster stew was in the crock pot and ready for when I got home from the gift exchange and candle light service at the activity building.

Amy's little girl, Maddie, 8 yrs old, is home from the hospital for Christmas but had to return to have her spleen removed on Tuesday. Not a cheery What I Did On My Christmas Vacation!

Christmas Day, still dreary and chilly. Headed up to the activity building for Christmas Dinner, didn’t go up for church. Really took a chill being out in the dampness/rain Christmas Eve so stayed in bed Christmas morning. Probably should have stayed home Christmas Day, too. By Christmas nite I was really ‘down and out!” Came home, went to bed, slept until 6PM, got up, drank some tea, and went back to bed! It sure is rough getting OLD!

Monday 26th, definitely should NOT have gone to dinner Christmas day since it was still damp and chilly, but you know me - never pass up a meal!

I didn't go up to coffee on the 27th. In the 40s and I just didn’t want to go OUT. A week of 40-50 degree weather and rain/drizzle/fog burns up the propane! I just switched tanks Christmas afternoon.

Tuesday was propane day - left my tank with a check on it at the front of my RV. I just didn't feel like staying outside and waiting for him so crawled back in my bed planning on checking it later and putting the tank away. All of a sudden I heard clunking sounds and my storage door opening and closing! Cleo had come down to make sure I got my tank in. I had trouble connecting my last tank and he had helped me, cap just wouldn't screw on straight! So when he saw my tank setting out, he just came by and put it in, connected it - I'm ready to go...just how spoiled is THAT!

Wednesday was a nice 60 degrees and sunny day. Needed to get out and get some fresh air – as my mother used to say – get out and get the stink blown off! Went to lunch with Kathy, Dan, Bobbie and her friend, Bobbie's daughter, Jim, Ed, Donna, and Vickie. Quite the bunch - but we certainly increase the cash intake for lunch! We met at the Lunch Box. I love their Reuben sandwich. I had a cup of their tomato basil soup (excellent!)

Stopped at WallyWorld and picked up dog & cat food (and kitty litter!) - Essentials! Went by Castaways and found a $3 blender, a nice Cabin Creek grey/tan tweed looking linen jacket and two pan lids to go with 2 pans I don't have lids for, but I do now! Got out of there for less money than lunch.

Stopped by the office and picked up my mail. I keep forgetting I've sent change of address in on some things and now I need to remember to check my mail box at least a couple times a week.

YIPPEE! Keith and Pat got in just before Christmas. Marv & Bev showed up about 6:30! They are down the end of my street and Marv has to back all the way down there. Most folks that have to back down the street do it ever so slowly and have a person walking down ahead of them. Not Marv, he backs it up in one swift shot! So good to see them.

Thursday I was back to staying close to the oxygen and my bed. I'm beginning to wonder if all the road construction in front of the park has something to do with it. Just had to head off to the laundry – it was either that or go naked! Then back home to suck up on oxygen and hit the bed. I even drove to the laundry room, just hard to catch a decent breath when I’m walking. Didn’t even wander up to Friendship Supper.

Friday 60 degrees and dense fog. Feeling better today but the cough is back! The fog makes it a little rougher trying to suck in heavy air!

December 31st 64 foggy, foggy, foggy degrees! Feeling better - even with the fog - except I just can't keep going too long! I've really gotta talk to the doc about getting my portable oxygen back. I’ve tried it without, but it is just too much effort, and too painful for the lungs, to exert myself to do anything on ‘bad air days.’

It’s New Years Eve but no celebrating here at my place! They are having a pizza party and game night at the activity building, but I'm still fighting the lung crud. I'm feeling lots better, but it is humid and foggy (and not supposed to get any better tonite!) so I'm staying in and WARM!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Here Comes Christmas; Dec 1-15, 2011

2011-12-22T15:22:00.002-06:00

Dec 1st I was in no hurry to get going. Off to the northwest, it looked like a 'blue Norther' was comin' in..of course it was 69 humid degrees so I didn’t think it would bring much snow! We reached our high for the day at about 7 AM – it was all down hill from there! December was off to a ‘nippy’ start and I was still fighting a horrible head cold or sinus/allergy thing, but I do each time I move so I guess I just need to stock up on meds ahead of time!

I did scalloped taters and ham for the Thursday nite Friendship supper. Over half were gone so I turned the left-overs into ham, potato, cheese soup. Aren’t crock pots wonderful!

The flock continues to flock. The tables at the pot luck suppers are getting full. The coconut cream pie lady is back and the Caesar salad lady is back! AND the carrot cake lady is back. I had to decide between coconut cream pie and carrot cake; settled on carrot cake!

Friday the park served breakfast for the Good Samaritan volunteers (a group in Rockport that does things for the needy.) Allison treats them to a breakfast just as a "thank you" for what they do. I volunteered for the fruit bowl bunch, so I took kiwi and bananas. The men do the biscuits, gravy, pancakes, scrambled egg part.

Rainy Friday but we are still about 12 inches behind in rainfall for the year and the prospect for next year doesn't look much better. The weatherman said, "if it ain't dead by now it will be by next summer." Thought that was a cheery thought for the holiday season! Know anyone that wants horses? They are practically giving them away at the livestock auctions; people just can't afford to feed them.

Blood sugar 135 in the AM after the pot luck; a little too much potato casserole, rice casserole, pasta casseroles! And Carrot cake!!

By Saturday, I still hadn’t decided if I was going to do decorations inside or outside. Bob and Gelene got here a couple of days ago. They always have a wonderful outside Christmas display. Many in the park do. It is really pretty in the evening when the lights come on.

Saturday breakfast in the club house is always a fun thing. Just nice to be served, not have to cook and do dishes! And there is always time for another cup of coffee and some good time with friends. I was still coughing and sneezing but this, too, shall pass (I hope!)

Caleb is doing is own thing! I just can't seem to get him house broken, but he is doing better and occasionally remembers to use Li'lBit's pee papers. He is doing better in the crate. Still whimpers and whines a little, but settles down. I was gone for over 2 hours the other day and my neighbor said she didn't hear him! And, about the only time he barks is when he sees Holly, the crazy cat! They still don't get along! Of course, Holly isn't willing to be friends, either! Oh, and he still carries on like I’m skinning him alive when we are outside and he sees another dog. There has got to be more puppy in this character than the vet thought!

Monday the winds picked up about 4 AM, cold front was a comin! Didn’t get out of the 50s all day. A couple warm dry days would definitely help this coughin’ & sneezin’!

Hadn’t seen a lot of Deryl & Elke. They were busy making ‘trailer runs’ back and forth from Louisiana. They do a really nice job renovating those FEMA trailers. But they were back in town for a day or so before heading out again so we met at Moon Dogs down on the beach. Had a good hamburger and sweet tator fries. Brought my fries home; I had pigged out on chips and dip before they brought the food!

My High School class is having our 50th reunion in June. I will be in Iowa for the summer so I’m thinking I might take the trailer over since it is a 3 day thing. Haven’t found any local pull-thru's and Horseshoe Pond only has electric hook ups. Still mulling it about in my brain! They have a shower house so they must have a water faucet somewhere! I can carry enough water for showers and flushing and just take a jug or two for coffee, etc. I'll decide when they get the plans more finalized for the reunion. I just don't want to drop $80+ a nite to stay in a motel! And, what to do with all the critters for 3 days.

42 degrees at wake up on Tuesday; didn’t get into the 30's (as predicted) over night. One more 'cold front' nite to go. Furnace is working and I still have propane.

Guess who was outside at 5AM Wednesday switching propane tanks! YUP! Woke up at 4:30 and it was COLD! Got up, kicked up the furnace. The blower come on; no heat! Tossed on some clothes and hit an outside windchill of 27 degrees! Came in and started the furnace, the coffee and put some crock pot candy (peanuts and almond bark.) Talk about a dumb move - I had to be at doc's office for fasting lab at 7:30…dumb! Dumb! dumb! Making candy before fasting lab! How Stupid!

3 dozen gingerbread and 2 dozen sugar cookies frosted and ready to go for the cookie tasting. We all make a cookies and instead of exchanging them (like most Christmas Cookie get-togethers) we set around and drink coffee and visit and taste a few. Then they are put in the refrig to have a selection for other events going on at the club house. Then, we resupply/supplement whatever is left and finish them off with cocoa the evening of caroling in the park. Rough life!

It made it all the way up to 43 degrees with a wind chill of 39! Guess I'm not far enough south! By the time it made it up to 49 sunny degrees, the wind had died down and I opened my front door. My house still smells like chocolate candy and cookies! I'll be on a sugar and caffeine high until sometime tomorrow, I'm sure.

Chilly nites – tea weather! Found a new fun tea at the grocery – Eggnog Tea by Biglow. It is spiced like egg nog but doesn't taste like egg or milk. It's whiskey! Takes me back to my drinkin' days, the warm feeling you could get in your nose/sinus from straight whiskey! Well, that 'warmth' in the nose/sinus - that's what it is with this tea!

Up and moving at 7 AM Thursday morning. Coffee's made, kids all fed and watered! But Tinga can’t come out until AFTER I've taken my meds. I set them in a little dish on my desk and she thinks they are hers! WRONG!

Only went down to 46, again the predicted freeze didn't come, but I was ready! I had filled a couple of jugs with water - just in case!

Got a call of Bobbie; she is in town from NM, going to spend a couple months here.
Lunch with Bobbie and Dan at Panjos. Had a great lunch - love to visit and eat! Didn't bring any of the pizza home, either - we sat there for so long drinking ice tea and visiting, all the time munching, the pizza just disappeared!

Stopped at WalMart and picked up some $5 poinsettias to decorate the front of the 5th wheel; it was time to take down the pumpkins, gourds and Indian corn!

Pot luck at 6PM. Plenty of desserts; just what I didn't need, but Jeanetta brought her home made cheese cake and I had to have some of that! YUMMY!

Nice morning Friday 56 degrees! Amazing how chilly 56 degrees can feel after a stretch of 70 degree weather and how 'balmy' it feels after 40 degree weather!
Yesterday’s pizza for lunch and potluck (with 2 desserts) left me with a 154 blood sugar. I can see it is time to make a trip to the fish market!

Need to catch the propane guy today. Hope he has his truck with the nozzle for filling the smaller tanks. His truck has been down for repairs and the one he has been driving only has the nozzle for the motor homes. Not a problem for me YET – still have a relatively full tank and I can haul my empty down to the station if I really get desperate!

Sunday and I miss the Sunday table at Johnnies! There are some things in my life that just cannot be replaced and her Sunday table is one of them!

Caleb and Holly are still feuding! But he is doing better about house breaking and I walked to the office building without putting him in his crate; still had a house to come home to, that is definitely an improvement. He wants to play with Li'lBit but she just doesn't play anymore. So now I have squeeky toys all over the place -- anything to keep him occupied! Li’lBit had her toys hidden all over the place and I think he has found everyone of them and piled them in the middle of the floor.

This is a strange December here in the park. I used to come down the Monday after Thanksgiving and the park was nearly full. There are still empty spaces; it seems so strange. I guess people aren't traveling with the price of fuel....of course, several aren't coming due to health problems (happens at this age, you know!) and some will be down after Christmas.

All summer long I copied casserole recipes so I'll have something different to make to take to the suppers. Everything is always potatoes, rice, noodles, pasta -- and my blood sugar is sky high the next day. So...thought I'd find something different. I've been taking steamed mixed vegetables (using different seasonings or a light sauce or just plain olive oil on them) and they are really going over. So, I'll just continue taking that.

Didn't crawl out of bed until nearly 8AM on the 12th! By the time I had the critters taken care of, it was time for meds and coffee - I still hadn’t gotten out of my jammies! Didn’t have anywhere to go so stayed in them most of the day! Felt GOOD! Finally got started on Christmas cards and a few decorations up.

Met Deryl & Elke at Jaliscos Monday evening. I love the combo plate! Can make about 3 meals out of it!

Time to get the Christmas grocery list ready – definitely have to get oysters (for stew) and fresh and dried mushrooms for cream of mushroom soup.

67 humid degrees Tuesday. Not a good air day. I did a quick breathing treatment and then went up to the coffee. Good thing I went - forgot I had told them I'd bake cookies for the caroling and hot chocolate nite! I'd better start gettin' it together and make a list – even forgot to sign up for Lady’s lunch on Friday!

Caleb is really a nuisance! He wants out all of the time. When I'm home it is in and out and in and out - of course, Li'lBit thinks that is wonderful. Li'lBit brought him the rest of her squeaky toys (the ones he hadn’t already found!) He’s not happy about it but he lets her eat first in the AM - it's just Holly that still has her feline nose in the air

8AM the 14th had my appointment with the doc about my labs. I was ready for my butt-chewin’! After a summer in Iowa and Thanksgiving at Johnnies – and I haven’t been hangin’ out at the fish market like usual, I was sure I’d be getting one! Lab was good, cholesterol was good, didn't loose any weight but didn't gain any either. That's it, see her again in 3 months! There is a big sign outside her clinic "accepting new patients." Wonder if that means her patients are dying off, I don’t consider that a good sign!

After the doc appointment, went into town to the UPS store and it wasn’t there. The space in the mall was EMPTY! Drove on down to The Mail Box to see who they used – ahhhh…UPS!

Back home by 9:45, 68 degrees, sunny. Worked some more on Christmas cards -- kinda hard to get in the mood with 70 degree sunny weather!

Pan fried chicken - didn't bread it, just browned and steamed in the fry pan. Put the meat and juices in the crock pot – added noodles later – good soup! Then it was nap time! Still fighting the stuffy nose/sinus – definitely allergies and the allergy meds zonk me! Caleb isn't much into this "nap" thing. Thinks he has to bring all of Li'lBit's squeeky toys up on the bed and then play with them…WRONG!

68 degrees, humid and dreary on Thursday the 15th. They keep predicting rain and all we get is dreary drizzle. Friendship supper night. Still taking steamed vegetables. As long as they go over, that’s what I’ll be taking.

December Recipes

2011-12-22T15:17:00.001-06:00

Tomato Soup
32 oz canned diced tomatoes (different flavored/seasoned tomatoes create interesting flavors)
9 oz chicken broth
1 oz butter
2 TBSP sugar
1 TBSP chopped onion
1 pinch baking soda
2 cups cream or half/half – I use ½ half & half and ½ milk

Mix together every thing but cream, and simmer 1 hour. Warm the cream before adding to the hot tomato mix.

Lentil Soup
1 lb. lentils
6 TBSP olive oil
28 oz can tomatoes, crushed or puree
1 large onion chopped fine
3 cloves garlic
1 stalk celery
2 carrots
1 lb sausage (can use left over diced ham)
1 can broth - beef, chicken or vegetable (about 14 oz)
2 bay leaves
1/2 TSP rosemary
2 Quarts water
1 can broth - beef, chicken or vegetable (to be added later in the recipe)
salt and pepper to taste

Barely cover lentils with water and boil gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and drain in colander. Put olive oil in pot and saute onion and garlic until onions are firm but cooked. Add meat and brown. Add vegetables and saute another 5 minutes. Do not cover.

Add tomatoes, water, broth, bay leaves, and rosemary. Heat to a gentle steady simmer for 25 minutes. Stir occasionally. Add lentils. Stir to coat well. Add second can of broth and pepper to taste. Cover pot. Adjust heat to cook at gentle, steady simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If necessary, add more water. When lentils are done, add salt and oregano.

Salmon Cheese Chowder
3 tablespoons butter- I use olive oil
1/2 C diced celery
1/2 C diced carrot
1/4 C finely chopped onion
2 TBSP flour
1 2/3 C chicken or vegetable stock
2 C diced potatoes
12 to 16 ounces diced fresh salmon or canned flaked salmon*
1 C peas – I use frozen
2 C half & half - I use 2% milk
2 C shredded Cheddar cheese – or any kind of cheese you prefer.
1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
salt and pepper, to taste

Heat butter over medium-low heat. Add celery, carrot, and onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until celery is tender. Stir in flour until well blended. Stir in chicken broth. Add potatoes. Cover and simmer, stirring frequently until potatoes and carrots are tender. (about 15 minutes. Takes me a little longer since I prefer my vegetables in chunks a little bigger than ‘diced’.)

Add the salmon and peas, cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add half-and-half (or milk,) along with cheese and parsley. Cook, stirring, until cheese melts and the soup just begins to bubble.
Salt and pepper to takes.

*If using canned salmon, drain off some of the packing water.

I have also made this using left over fried or baked fish and tuna! When using tuna, I leave out the potatoes and serve it over toast, biscuits or rice.

Thanksgiving in Gatesville; November Comes to an End

2011-12-16T15:45:00.004-06:00

Went to bed the 16th with the temp 88 degrees - woke up on Thursday 17th to 54 degrees and WINDS. Decided to take my time with the last minute loading to see if the winds would die down some before I hit the road. Definitely needed my hoodie!

Plans were to have the trailer hitched up and on the road by noon and to be into Gatesville before dark. Deryl and Elke came by the storage place to help me hitch up and I was on the road well a head of time. Made it to Gatesville about 5PM - some problems with the same wheel. Paranoia took hold and I slowed down to about 30 mph for the last 60 miles or so. Would stop in every little town and pull over and check the wheel hub to make sure it wasn’t getting to hot. Pulled into the RV park in Gatesville with plenty of day light – Fred was right there to help me level and unhitch. Can’t believe how easy the travel trailer is compared to that 5th wheel.

Trying to get the critters settled in the trailer was a chore; Caleb did not like the trailer! Poor thing had been running free for months; then held in a kennel here in the park; then moved my my 5th wheel, now to the travel trailer - all in the matter of a couple of weeks.

I had moved Li’lBit and Holly into the trailer after we got on the road. Had left a leash on Caleb while in his crate - just to make it easier to get him out for potty stops. He traveled in his crate on the front seat really well...except he chewed his leash in half - TWICE! Little trouble maker.

Holly and Li’lBit soon re-established their trailer territories and then in came new baby brother, Caleb to upset the apple cart. We survived!

Temps were down in the 40s the nite I pulled in. Flipped on the furnace. It put out massive amount of heat and noise! With the furnace in the area where the bed is, I knew I was not going to let it run all night! There were more important things to do. Had to get out to Johnnie’s for coffee! I'm so thankful for Johnnie's coffee pot. And I'm thankful for her and her family, too! They 'adopted' a total stranger (and one from the NORTH!) and made me part of the family!

Woke up the 18th freezing my rear end off! Trip to WalMart for a small electric space heater, some sweat pants and a heavy hoodie. Now I’m ready.

Caleb went to the vet - probably 1-2 yrs old, definitely has some rat terrier or Jack Russell Terrier along with a 'healthy dose" of Chihuahua genes. Had his shots, heart worm tests, ‘well-baby' check-up and he passed!

After spending $$ on him at the vet and making an appointment to get him sliced and spliced, guess who ran off as soon as we got home! Fred, the manager here at the RV park, tossed his coat over him and brought him back! WHEW! That is one runnin' pup!

What a difference a day makes. Woke up on the 19th to 71 degrees! Sure glad I ran right out and got that space heater, my hoodie and a pair of sweat pants!

My Verizon modem (hot spot) died and if I couldn’t find a 'free wifi" I’d be without a computer (internet) until I get back to Rockport! There were several WiFi connections available in the area, but they needed a password. I finally got in on the Court House Annex. It didn’t ask for a password so I guess it was OK to use it. It was driving me crazy, dropping off every time you turned around. So, off to WalMart to pick up a Virgin Mobile Pay-as-you-go USB modem thingy. Not the speediest connection, could get pricey if I download videos, play games, etc....but for email and facebook, it will be OK until I can get my Verizon hotspot thing squared away.

Oh, and I must say, I am thankful that Bush's Chicken has tight-fitting lids on their large ice tea cups. Absolutely nothing spilled when I tipped it over on my laptop. Good lids or I’m really quick – not sure, but tragedy was averted!

Ol' Caleb is like a double-edged sword! He is just the sweetest, most affectionate dog -- and THEN....he definitely has a temper when he can’t run out the door! Whole bunch of spitting, snarling, gnashing of the teeth! And this, too, shall pass. (I hope!)

Didn’t want to leave Caleb in the trailer while I was gone visiting and coffee-drinking, the spaces are too close for his whimpering and whining! So, he went with me everywhere and lived in his crate in the truck while I was running errands and visiting. Certainly glad the weather was cooperative to carry a critter in the truck. He does well in the crate; I finally learned to take his leash off while he is in there! And, I'm very proud to announce that Tinga has learned to whine and whimper like Caleb!

Guard Cat Holly, with one eye open, controls the coming and going on Li'lBit's dog steps leading up to the bed. Caleb waits patiently for Holly to fall asleep! Crazy Critters. I think it is nice that my critters are color coordinated with the furniture in the trailer!

On November 21, I was thankful for some really nice folks in this world. Went in to have the lights checked on the truck - kept getting the 'lamp out' light. Just as they went to print up my bill, the computer went down and froze up. The service manager said, "it's only a bulb, have a nice Thanksgiving!" WOW! Then headed to the Verizon Store to pitch a fit about my WiFi I just bought last summer. No problem! After checking it, my 3G Wifi replaced with a 4G MiFi - no cost to me! Double-WOW!

The 23rd Caleb went in for his "mind altering surgery." He's had a rough day! This is the quietest I've seen him since he's been with me! But oh, is he a cry baby! Whine, Whine, Whimper, Whimper. (Not sure how much was him and how much was Tinga!)

As usual, with my stays in Gatesville, I thoroughly enjoyed lunching and visiting with everyone. There are so many folks I want to see and usually not enough time to see everyone. Brenda and I had a hard time getting together with her schedule, but we did manage! Oh, and bummer! Swindall’s is CLOSED! One of my favorite places to meet folks!

Just before Thanksgiving we got wind gusts over 30 mph. I was in my LITTTLE travel trailer - NOT my 5th wheel! Give a gal a break!

It was terrific seeing all of Johnnie’s family at Thanksgiving. She always has a houseful and way too much food! So, guess where I went for lunch the next couple of days!

Hitched up and headed back to Rockport on the 28th. Stopped by the tire place in Gatesville (I did business with them for years so I'm comfortable with their assessment!) No problem with tires or wheels – must have just been excess lubrication that I noticed on the trip up from Rockport.

I will admit, I stopped a little more frequently just to check wheels! This time I came in with all wheels intact! Makes a big difference in the trip when you can drive on all the tires! Unloaded critters, food, and the essentials and called it a day. Ron was here to help me back it into the space. I’m storing it in the back lot here at the RV park. Already miss Johnnie's coffee!

It is nice having the trailer so convenient. I can unload, load, clean, fix up, etc at my convenience! Getting back into the Rockport routine, I headed up to Ladies Coffee Tuesday AM. 55 degrees but sure felt colder. Guess that north wind doesn't help! Holly was sick so I spent time cleaning up kitty puke! She does this each time we move. Just upsets her delicate condition, I guess!

Came home from coffee so plugged up my head hurt! That's what happens when you have to scrape windows to hitch up on Monday and 1/2 way thru the day have to turn on the A/C in the truck! Or maybe it is just the feeling of finally being home.

Made a bunch of split pea/ham soup before I left to go to Gatesville and froze 1/2 of it. Guess what went into the crock pot! Made it up to 65 degrees, winds died down, sunny.

Wed 30th 57 degrees. Lucky me, with the plugged up head, the 'cold front' got stalled somewhere along the way! Met with Donna and her friend Vickie at Panjo’s for pizza. Vickie is from Oklahoma and travels alone with her dog and work-camps. Her and Donna are both out at the Wild Life Refuge north of town.

Pot luck on Thursday. Love pot lucks! Friday AM we served breakfast for the Good Samaritans, a local non-profit group that does stuff for needy here in the county. I was on the fruit bowl list and in charge of kiwi and bananas! Doesn't THAT sound exciting.

More RVs coming in. Gayle and Jeanetta were here when I got back from Gatesville, Gelene and Bob, from Ankeny, made it in and Cleo and Bonnie are here - the flock is flocking! Good seeing them.

Nov 14 - 16 Meet the New Man in My Life -- or - Don't Tell My Sister!

2011-12-13T15:29:00.002-06:00

Meet the New Man In My Life! Trial run....he has to get along with Li'lBit (wagging her tail and excited!), Holly (has already introduced him to her claws and hissing!) and Tinga (she hasn't said anything yet!) Little guy was found wandering out in the highway by the RV park. You can see he HAD a collar on at one time. Don't tell MY SISTER!

I'm not really a terrier person. They tend to be hyper and yippy and most aren't fond of parrots! So we will see. I'm used to my little laid-back LilBit so don't know how we will do.

The owner of the park caught me walking into church to tell me she had a dog for me....then after lunch, she is knocking on my door with "my dog!" Allison does have a persuasive way about her! And I have been selected!

He found the food and water bowl immediately and in the process he found Holly's claws and got a healthy swat, as only Holly can give! Gotta get used to the 'energy' of a Terrier and the yipping. I'm used to OLD dogs! If he survives the next few days (or maybe that should be – if I survive the next few days), I'll bring him to Gatesville and have Dr Clay take a look at him. He's still 'in tact!'

He was evidentially a man's dog. When Tony, the owner of the park, came by to see him, Caleb just went crazy and wanted to go with him. Every time he hears a man’s voice outside, he scratches at the door and whimpers and whines. Things are gonna have to change if he stays here. At least he blends into the color scheme of the RV! A Decorator Dog!

He is actually smaller than Li'lBit. Stands about the same height, but a much smaller frame.

I feel so sorry for him - he is trying (or wanting) to get somewhere - he lays by the door whining/crying. Then he will get up and scratch at the floor by the door. He hasn't been roaming free too long - he is clean. Will be interesting to see how "crowded" it gets when we move into the 23 ft trailer in Gatesville!

I watched the papers for a week for ‘missing’ ads, called the paper and the human society – even called the dog catcher to see if anyone is missing him. Guaranteed he won’t be a “HE” for much longer if he stays here! He is also a 'climber" - wants to be on your lap and then to your shoulder. This one is definitely a climber - he has been on every surface in the RV -- I've gotten to the point where I just carry a rolled up newspaper with me!

According to the local paper, this dog has been reported 'Found" several times starting Nov 5. He is either an escape artist or after awhile, whoever finds him lets him go. Shelter is full, not taking any more dogs. We went around to the local vets to see if they recognized him or if he had a microchip. No Luck. While we were out, drove around town, up and down the streets to see if he alerted to any neighborhoods. Nope! He rides well in the crate in truck. Does well in a crate in the truck. BUT…when we came back, he peed on the carpet (right after we came in from a short walk!) Right now it is a meeting of the minds - I'm not sure which "will" is stronger - HIS or MINE!

There is a 'separation anxiety' problem; he shreds papers when left alone! Not sure if it is a constant problem or just 'new home' problem. He also scratches at windows, screens and doors and tries to ‘escape’ when I leave. Crate Training in the house is definitely in order!

Named him Caleb....figured he came here on a Sunday, he needed a good Old Testament name so went on line to a list of Hebrew names and came up with Caleb (faithful -- and a little further down, 'faithful dog! Wishful thinking on my part!)

Every day I find more of his bad habits -- starting to understand why someone may have dumped him. But I have my hands full with his "problems!" I'm getting too old for this!

Monday 14th went to Pepitos with Deryl & Elke; love their veggie quesadilla!
More rigs coming in every day - taking longer and longer to get back inside when I take the dog(s) out! Just have to talk to everyone! Out of nowhere the sky got black, winds whipped around from the south and is gusting 25-30 mph! I thought I was back to spring in Iowa!

Wed was pack-it-up day. Didn’t have to take much…clothes, any food that would spoil, the critters and the laptop! I had asked Jeannie if she would water my plants so I don't have to take them.

Panic time – couldn’t find the keys to the travel trailer and I was due to ‘move out’ in less than 24 hours! Drove myself crazy looking for them....then remembered I had left them when they were repairing the RV and maybe just never picked them up.

I finally let Tinga out to free-fly, first time since Caleb moved in....he alerted immediately to her when she took off flying around. I cracked the rolled up newspaper that has become an extension of my right arm on the kitchen counter once - he went to 'his corner' under a dining chair (next to his crate) – Good Boy!

On the road in the AM!

November 7 - 13 Just another week in paradise!

2011-12-13T14:49:00.002-06:00

Monday Nov 7 75 degrees - didn't crawl out of bed until nearly 8AM. Had some problems with coughing and sneezing the nite before so decided to take an allergy pill before I went to bed! Maybe I need to do that more often! I don't even remember waking up during the nite! Of course, I woke up so 'groggy' I needed an extra pot of coffee just to get going! Went into WalMart to get my RX and they didn't have them all-- so I got to go back to WallyWorld! Lucky Me!

I called the RV park in Gatesville and made reservations from Nov 17 until the Monday after Thanksgiving so I can have Thanksgiving with Johnnie and her family. And I do miss her coffee and our visits!

Monday nite was the Reprise from the ‘welcome back’ dinner - left over potato salad, puddings, brisket sandwiches and beans. Stuff is always better the second time around! I managed to WALK up to the activity bldg without walker or oxygen. As long as there are some empty spaces, I stop 1/2 way and take a breather at the picnic table. It's not quite so bad coming back since it is down hill! It isn't much of a hill, but I notice it!

Several rigs a day are coming in - the flock is flocking!

Went into town Tuesday to pick up meds...the saga continued! Stopped to pick up some veggies for soup in the crock pot, went to see Deryl & Elke and arrange for them to help me hitch up on the 17th for my trip to Gatesville. Meds weren't ready at WalMart, told me after 1PM! Went to HuDat's for one of their combo lunch specials; brought home enough for a couple more meals! Went back to Walmart, their med courier had not gotten in yet! So I got to make another trip to WalMart on Wednesday! This is really getting old! I decided to call before I made another trip!

Wed 9th 63 degrees sunny, WINDY! Winds 20 mph gusting to 40! High went into the upper 60s, then all down hill for a couple of days. Got a pot of veg-beef soup in the crock pot so I'm ready for the cold!

Definitely considering changing pharmacies – too much of a hassle at WalMart. Wednesday they only had 1 of the three ordered! Next time I'll ask HOW many Rx are ready instead of just saying are my prescriptions ready.

This past summer they wouldn't fill my finger stick strips - something about the RX being out of state - but it sure didn't make any difference on the others. They only filled my RX by the month so when I got back down here, I had 2 months remaining on the prescription - but the WalMart down here couldn't fill it down here 'cuz it was last filled in Iowa and "Iowa owed me the rest of them!" This is the first time I've had so many 'goof ups' in a row - Iowa and here.

Out of bed at 6AM Thursday to get my beans going for the pot luck tonite! REAL baked beans! I gotta make my baked beans before Dick and Lucille get here from Michigan – Lucille makes beans ‘to die for’ and I definitely don’t want mine setting on the table next to hers!

Didn't get down to the 40s - woke up to 54 degrees, sunny but windy. Had some rain during the nite. Not a good soaking rain like we need but after last summer we will take whatever drops we get.

So far no real cold snaps - have only kicked on the furnace for about 30 minutes one morning. That's the way I like it - save that propane!

Can't wait to see my blood sugar in the AM - everything at potluck was pasta, rice or beans! Oh, and I had caramel apple bar for dessert - but I passed on the whip cream!

A pleasant surprise on wake-up Friday. The weather man had predicted lower 40s or upper 30's and 'possibly' some frost on the punkin in the outlying areas. Aahhhhh....53 sunny degrees seemed so pleasant! Even Li'lBit was eager to go out and she doesn't like the cold!

Friday was Veterans Day and I didn’t accomplish a darn thing except set on my butt and watch TV. The movie Patton was on followed by The Longest Day and then my favorite war movie Tora Tora Tora! Just a real couch potato! Did manage to get some cabbage/beef soup made. AND, got my black water tank emptied without any problems. Whatever had it 'plugged' is evidently gone or at least out of the way! Started with the heat going in the AM to warm the place up and by noon I had the door open! Welcome to the TX gulf coast!

The park hosted the Aransas County Tea Party rally at the activity bldg Saturday. A local radio preacher and the local congressman were the speakers. Nice, polite, attentive bunch until three Cain supporters came in intent on raising a "little cain." Don’t know why they had such heartache with what was going on, afterall, Cain is conservative. But some folks just need their 15 minutes of fame!

Saturday and WalMart STILL didn’t have all of my meds. I bet next time I order everything a month early!

Sunday 13th – Church, laundry, clean out the truck so I can get it loaded Wednesday afternoon.

Recipes

2011-11-06T12:12:00.002-06:00

Corn Chowder Crockpot
6 slices bacon cut into small pieces
2 Cups potatoes, diced (you can peel them if you want)
2 10-oz. pkgs. Frozen corn kernels (or 2 cans)
1 Can cream-style corn
1 Medium onion, chopped
1 Rib celery, chopped
1 Small red or green pepper, diced
NOTE: I add 1 can of chicken broth. If I want to thicken it a little, I will add a few instant mashed potato flakes.

In a skillet, fry the bacon until it is crisp. Remove the bacon, save the drippings.
Add the onion and potatoes to the drippings and saute to soften. Drain.

Put everything in the crock pot; stir well. Cover. Cook on Low setting for 4 to 7 hours. If it looks to thick - add water or chicken boullion/broth. If it looks to think, stir in a few instant potato flakes.

Carrots with Herbs and Apricots 6 Servings
Note: Goes great with baked or grilled fish
8 Carrots, sliced
9 dried Apricots, sliced or chopped
1 TBSP Butter or Margarine
1 TBSP Brown Sugar
1 TSP Dill or Dill Weed
1/2 TSP crushed Fennel seed
1/8 TSP Ground Mustard

Cover carrots and apricots with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook until carrots are tender but still crisp (about 5-8 minutes depending on thickness). Drain. Add the remaining ingredients and stir until butter is melted.

First Week in November - The Flock Is Flocking!

2011-11-06T12:02:00.002-06:00

First of November I woke to 71 degrees – leg and hip moving pretty good – managed to get the laundry done before they started giving me trouble. Turkey leg in the crock pot had the RV smelling like Thanksgiving! Put it in the crock pot with a wild rice/brown rice mix, added some walnuts and cranberries - I'm such a gourmet!

Kathy sent me some tourist magazines and info from Iowa – guess it is time to start planning my day trips for next summer! I know Bea will be sooo happy when I tell here where WE are going!!

76 degrees, sunny and muggy on the 2nd of November! Been sleeping lots better. Wake up about 1 AM - take some advil or aspirin and end up sleeping til nearly 7:30! YIPPEE!! Rest is good!

Met Donna for lunch at Apple Dumplin'. 1/2 of an egg salad sandwich and cup of baked potato soup! OK, so most folks don’t go out for lunch to order egg salad – but I love egg salad! Brought an apple dumplin' home for supper. Price is still $2.75 but they seem to be getting smaller every time!

Stopped at the veggie stand and pick up stuff for soup - cold front's comin'! Corn chowder in the crock pot. Still warm enough for Li’lBit and me to spend the afternoon outside.

Thursday 57 degrees - wind started blowing about 2 AM and really blew! Had to get up and close my vents and windows and find a blanket! It is NOT January and I refuse to turn on the furnace, so I baked a pie, put a chicken casserole in the oven, baked a batch of cookies and put a pot of soup on the stove! Good thing I have a bigger freezer in this new refrig so I can freeze some of this stuff! If it's still chilly tomorrow, I'm going to run out of freezer space!

Got a little rain but just enough to streak the windshields! Looking to the north, if I was further north, I'd think we were in for a hellofa snow storm - huge dark 'blue-norther' coming in - doubt there will be any snow when it gets here! Winds are still going 20-30mph. Have my hoodie on. Heard on the news there was a horrible apartment fire in Rockport – buildings totaled and 2 deaths. The winds just took control of the blaze. How very sad!

Went out to get the space heater from the under-compartment and take off the empty propane tank (the one I thought I had filled before I went to Iowa in the spring!) SURPRISE…when I disconnected the propane tank, it felt too heavy to be empty. Put it back in place, hooked it up again – hhhmmmm… it’s nearly full! Guess there was something wrong with the connection.

Got a little drafty around the new fridge. There is about 1” top and bottom that has direct flow to the outside thru the refrigerator vent. I cut a piece of gray foam pipe wrap to fit there - will put it in at nite or when it is really windy from the north.

Typical Texas gulf coast day - cooked all morning to warm the place up. Then, by afternoon I had the door and a window open!

Friday Li'lBit and I didn't get out of bed until 8AM and probably not then except Holly was scratching in the kitty litter! Tinga was a good girl and keeping quiet until she heard me ask Li'lBit if it was time to get up and then she starting wanting to 'come out' and mimicing my morning cough. She has that cough down pat. Tested out the furnace to make sure it works. It does.

What a difference an hour makes – went into town with a jacket - came home and opened the door and a couple of windows! What a difference a month makes – my electric bill was over $50 less this month than last month!

Saturday was the welcome back supper at the park. Tony and Allison provide some really yummy brisket, potato salad, pinto beans and dessert.

Sunday church, laundry, and ice cream social. Rough life here in the RV park! Before I went to bed I turned my clocks back (!) and put a turkey leg in the crock pot on low with some left over broth I had in the freezer. Diced up a little onion and grated a carrot or two and added that. When I woke up Sunday AM, the place smelled wonderful. Dumped a box of stove-top style stuffing mix in the broth before I went to church. Came home, opened the door and it smelled like a holiday! Immediately went to the fridge, took out some cranberries and mixed them with a little orange and sugar and put them on the stove. Oh, how wonderful it smells in here today!

Daily more and more are coming in – ‘the flock is flocking’ – nice to see the familiar faces. Praying for safe travels to all the others enroute!

It's Soup Time

2011-10-31T13:58:00.001-05:00

Scallop Dill Chowder (6 servings)
1 slice bacon, diced
1/2 cup each diced onion and diced celery
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 cups clam juice or fish stock
6 small red potatoes
2 cups reduced fat (2%) milk
2 cups fresh bay scallops
1 tsp. dillweed

Heat bacon in stew/soup pot over low heat. Add onion, celery, thyme and bay leaf; cook until vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes. Dice potatoes and add to pot with clam juice. Simmer until potatoes are just tender, about 10 minutes. Add milk, scallops and dill; heat thoroughly. Remove thyme and bay leaf. Adjust salt and pepper to taste

Butternut Squash Soup
3 cups butternut squash, cubed
3 potatoes, cubed
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn
1 can black beans, drained
1 can white beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, diced
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tsp cilantro
cayenne pepper to taste
½ tsp ginger
¾ tsp cumin
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 jalapeño, diced (optional)

Combine all ingredients in crock pot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Optional: sprinkle with a small amount of fresh cilantro and a fresh shaved parmesan before serving.
NOTE: I use any kind of beans I have on hand -- especially like garbanza beans in this.

October Comes to an End

2011-10-31T13:41:00.003-05:00

Sunday, Oct 23 I'll be glad when SUMMER heat finally leaves Texas! We had a couple of days in the 70s and then back up in the upper 80s and 90s! I’m ready for cooler weather.

Lowe's delivered the 9.6 cubic foot fridge/freezer that fits into the space. Can’t believe they delivered on a Sunday morning. Monday would be the day I get a working refrigerator back!

The printer is still working so I guess I got it downloaded OK. Only expense left before I head to Gatesville for Thanksgiving is the truck wheels and brakes. WHEW!

Saturday it was either fall on my butt or step on Li'lBit while going down the steps! After I fell, I went over and did laundry and walked to the office building for my mail, thought I could 'walk it off' – guess it didn't work! I'm OK -- just another one of my fat lady stumbles!

Monday 24th Off to a late start - had one of those nites - wide awake at 2 AM and couldn't get back to sleep – can you say back pain and stiff!

Refrigerator installation day! Stuff out of the refrig and picked up from the floor so they can get one out and the other one in! It's in - it's cooling and I didn't have to loose my shelf above the refrig! Now to get the stuff put away.

Everything in the freezer was thawed - still cold but thawed. None of it smelled sour or spoiled but it is all thawed. I cooked up all of the meat and put it back in the freezer cooked. At least I wouldn't loose it that way and since it's been thawed (for who knows how long!) I don't want to re-freeze it. All I lost was 1/2 pound in shell fresh shrimp; pint of oysters and 2 pork chops (but they weren't Iowa chops so no big loss there!) Not bad, huh!!

Definitely NOT going to like the black fridge!! Already have fingerprints all over it!

Tuesday the frig was still working and the thermometer said it's 40 degrees! The manual said it would take about 24 hours to reach 38-40 degrees so I guess it is doing its job! So glad to have one more 'stumbling block' and bill out of the way! Wonder what I’ll do with my time now that I'm not making and bagging ice all day!

Hair and nail appointment with Sharon, stopped by post office and Wal-Mart.
Feels so good to have a GOOD hair cut and my nails done - still no acrylics -- Sharon is just 'babying' my real nails. I think I like the hand and arm massage most of all - sure does work out the arthritis in the knuckles!

Must have spilled some meat juice somewhere. I can smell a 'rotten meat' smell. Have no idea where it is; isn't in the fridge. Maybe it leaked down from the old fridge and is back under the refrigerator space. Guess I might have to live with it and a can of Lysol spray until it stops smelling. Sure is giving me the sneezes!

Wednesday hip and leg started acting up again and I just decided to stay close to home, bed, and the heating pad. I couldn’t move; too much activity on Tuesday, I guess. Missed lunch with Donna, didn’t get the truck in for the wheels/tires. Oh, well, There’s Always Tomorrow!

I think my freezer freezes cold enough that I can keep a small container of ice cream in there! YIPPEE! The ammonia freezer doesn't freeze solid enough for ice cream.

Managed to get out of bed Thursday, take Li'lBit out and I could still move so took the truck in. Stopped at the gas station and picked up a breakfast taco and coffee to go. I was prepared for a lengthy stay at the tire place – breakfast, coffee and my book! 9:20AM and I was home -- already 80 degrees! WHEW! Thank heavens the cold front is coming thru sometime that evening!

Nothing wrong with my brakes or tires. They rotated the tires and told me to have the brakes checked again in the spring before I head north. There is some sign of wear, but not enough to change them now. $25 and I was outta there! My savings account liked THAT bill!

Stopped at the grocery and got some stuff for salads - hadn't been keeping that kind of stuff without the refrig…and picked up some ice cream. So much for my blood sugar!

Put on a pot of my "let it cook forever in the crock pot" soup -- weather man said a cold front's a-comin'! The soup is just one of those can of tomatoes, can of green beans, can of beef broth, chopped onions, carrots, celery, green peppers - whatever veggies I have in the fridge. Seasoned with a pack of Liptons dry vegetable soup mix (or onion soup mix!) Can cook forever in the crock pot and taste better each time! Sometimes I make it with V-8 juice instead of the beef broth -- or sometimes 1/2 and 1/2 or sometimes chicken broth -- whatever I have handy. And now that my freezer is working, I can freeze some of it in baggies and I won't have to be eating it for a whole week! And, since there isn't any meat in it - I can add a few frozen meat balls or left over chicken or whatever -- good soup!

Halloween came early here! My sister always remembers a card and a gift! You know the kids and I enjoy it!

Friday 28th Brrrr...what a difference a day makes. 90+ degrees by yesterday afternoon and wake up to 57 degrees and 25 mph winds from the north! Heard the winds pick up last nite - closed the windows in the bedroom, but didn't get up to close those down stairs. They are closed now! Li'lBit went down the stairs to go outside, sniffed the air and turned around, came back in and peed and pooped on her papers! DAMN! Have no idea who spoiled that dog! Must have been her Aunt Bea!

I did go out to see if any of my plants had tipped over or blown away, but they are fine and I’m sure my mums will be much happier in this weather than what we have been having!

Saturday was another chilly morning! 52 degrees but not as windy at Friday. Immediately put a pot of squash stew on in the crock pot. Enjoyed the cooler weather AND the soup! I love soup and I love crock pots and the two just go so well together!

Sunday and Church are special here at the RV park. Still fighting the leg/hip pain so didn’t run over and do the laundry. A little hand washing will carry me through. And, besides, that's what showers are for, right - a place to hang your laundry!

Monday the 31st Happy Halloween. Found some good buys on ham hocks, fresh chicken breasts and turkey legs at the grocery – It’s Soup Time!

Oct 16-22: The Black Cloud Continues – or – The Case of the Disappearing Savings Account

2011-10-23T09:49:00.003-05:00

Sunday Oct 16 started with 79 degrees and kinda sticky. Li'lBit is driving me nutz with her in and out! I guess she is feeling better. Church and WallyWorld on the typical Sunday schedule. As usual, the social event Sunday evening is the Ice Cream Social even if the crowds are kinda skimpy. I think there were 8 folks there! More “Winter Texans” are arriving nearly every day.

So glad to have Li'lBit's emergency surgery and the repairs on the trailer behind me, Monday I rode into Corpus Christi with Donna in case she needed a “designated driver” after her eye appointment. The trip was fine – but I sure don't like driving her little car! I can’t remember the last time I drove a CAR! Give me my TRUCK! We stopped at Whataburger for lunch!

Came home to find out I was out of propane - totally out. I filled a tank before I left for Iowa. Maybe I didn't get one connected just right and it leaked out or something! No one was here to use propane while I was gone. Normally I don't leave both tanks open, but I did before I left for Iowa in case of power failure since I did leave my refrig on low; didn’t want to come home to a moldy/smelly fridge! So Monday night was microwave nite! No problem!

Went to empty my sewer tank - wouldn't empty - not sure why - hopefully it isn't plugged - it emptied fine about 2 weeks ago. But then, I noticed that my sewer hose had rotted and cracked (probably from the sun) so it was a good thing it didn't empty! Took the hose from the trailer to replace it. I'm going to have to watch my black tank and see if I just didn't get the gate completely closed and it ran free (which often leads to a real mess as the solids pile up into the black pyramid of death!) If it hasn't been draining all along, it won't be a week before I’ll know it; it will start backing up! Oh, the joys of RVing!

Tuesday AM I found my refrig wasn’t cooling! DAMN! I put a couple of plastic cups I use to make ice for my tea in to freeze -- they were still water in the AM! Maybe this will be my last disaster for awhile!

Cold front came in 72 degrees with 27 mph winds from the north. Didn’t get too much warmer through out the day.

I went to sign for 1 month rent for the trailer. That will keep it stored until I head to central TX for Thanksgiving. Then went out to fill the propane tank! Isn’t this just too much excitement!?

Wednesday greeted me with 60 degrees, 15 mph winds gusting to 25 - all coming from the north – didn’t need my A/C! I did open some of the windows, however, the door was left CLOSED! And I did a closet check for my ‘hoodies’ to make sure they were clean and ready to go for the winter....winter? Anything under 60 degrees usually brings out my 'hoodies!'

Met with Dan, Roberta, Jim and whoever else shows up for lunch at the Lunch Box. People that own it used to own Jama's (some GREAT cheese cake!) Basically, a soup, salad, sandwich, chip kinda place. Had a great lunch – good friends and good food – just doesn’t get better than that!

Refrig was working on propane. But that didn’t last long! At least I didn’t loose any food before the repair guy got here. They replaced the 'heating element' -- sounds strange to have a heating element in a refrig! He really wasn’t sure that was going to solve the problem completely, didn’t charge me for the part until he verified it was going to be working.

Well, damn! Can anything more go wrong? My computer installed the latest updates -and now my printer won't work! And, according to the HP website, my printer is not compatible with the new upgrade! What the hell else is going to have to come out of my savings account! I really don’t want to put out money for another copy/scanner/printer – but if I don’t, I know I’ll miss the one I have. Decided I’d pull a Scarlett O’Hara and “think about it tomorrow.’ Annie says, “The Sun Will Come Up Tomorrow!”

Thursday - 68 degrees! BRRRRRR....might need my hoodie!! Went into the 80s by afternoon. I guess summer isn’t finished with us yet. MY REFRIG IS STILL WORKING!!
Off to the vet – Li’lBit’s stitches are out - no charge (FINALLY -- something with No Charge!) of course, I think it was covered in the bill for surgery!

MY PRINTER IS WORKING –YIPPEE! Saved some $$ there! My mind set was NOT to put out any $$$ for a new printer so I just kept plugging away with the downloads available on line. Deleted all of my printer program stuff that was downloaded when I first got this computer, then went to one of the "free" websites and downloaded a HP printer program, again, and again, and again until it finally worked! I think I tried every HP free on line download before I finally got one to take.

AND, while I was waiting for the program to download, I fixed the light over my computer (under that cabinet.) It keeps falling loose. Finally stopped trying to put it back with the same screws - got some 'fatter' screws and greased them up with glue! Aren't you glad I'm not doing repairs on YOUR house!

Thursday morning a rare and record-breaking South Texas earthquake struck northwest of Beeville, about 60 miles northwest of Rockport. The 4.8 magnitude quake struck at 7:24 AM. The U.S. Geological Survey said it was the largest earthquake on record for the area. From 1990 to 2006, at least a dozen small quakes have hit this region. (And I was worried about hurricanes!)

Friday October 21. 77 degrees - kinda cloudy. This was the day that 90 yr old preacher Harold Camping said the world was coming to an end - of course he has been wrong a few times.

I think my black tank is OK. I went out this AM to see if anything emptied when I opened the gate - YUP! Not much - only three days worth of stuff, but it flowed OK. WHEW! Now I can't wait to empty it in another week or so! Doesn't take much to keep me happy! Evidentially I just hadn't closed the gate tight enough and it popped open enough to free-drain. Not good in the black tank! Just had to share my joyous news!

Guess what refrigerator wasn’t working again! I thought that heating element might be the deal. RV place opens at 9AM - I was on the phone! They were here shortly after lunch.

Well, since the world didn't come to an end, I'm going to have to suck it up for a new fridge. Ordered the small 9.6 cubic foot size they have at Lowes in Aransas Pass – within an hour, Lowe’s called to say the fridge would be delivered on Sunday. Hopefully the RV repair guy can get out Monday or Tuesday and pull out the old one and put in the new one. In the meantime, I'm eating out of a cooler! That is just about what my refrig is now, a cooler. Keep making ice (in my portable icemaker) to keep stuff as cold as I can.

I'm going to loose my cabinet above the fridge since the RV size electric is actually 1" taller than the space available after they take out the old one! Storage in an RV is at a premium and loosing some will call for some 'creative' rearranging.

Saturday, I woke up to a cloudy 77 degrees - kinda humid…and in pain! I had fallen down the steps of the RV taking Li’lBit out the evening before. Didn’t want to step on her so I took the plunge, head first into my truck (parked at the foot of the steps) and bounced back to land on my butt on the step! Oh, Agony!!! Thank heavens for Tiger Balm! Did manage to get to the laundry room and over to the office to pick up mail before I really got stiff. Continued making ice for the fridge to keep the food cold (or at least cool!) I’ll really be glad when this whole refrigerator mess is over!

Just a Couple Recipes

2011-10-17T19:26:00.001-05:00

MEATBALLS GRAVY AND NOODLES
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of celery soup
2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed French onion soup
1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
6 pounds frozen Italian-style meatballs
2 (16 ounce) packages uncooked egg noodles 1/2 cup butter

Mix together the cream of celery soup, French onion soup, and sour cream in a crock pot. Stir in the meatballs. Cook on high heat for 3-4 hours.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. In a large bowl, toss the pasta with butter. Serve meatballs and sauce over the cooked pasta.

APPLE CIDER SMOOTHIE
2 cups apple cider
2 cups vanilla ice cream
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
food coloring

Combine all ingredients in blender; process until smooth.

Li'lBit Takes Up My Week! Oct 9-15

2011-10-17T19:12:00.002-05:00

OCT 9 SUNDAY Li'lBit had been acting sick for a couple of days; really listless, didn't want to go outside. Drinking lots of water, not peeing much considering the amount of water she was taking in, very little poop and then bordering on diarrhea. She was some better on Sunday - at least I got a tail wag! But a trip to the vet was in order for Monday.

7:30 AM 80 degrees with 80% humidity. We had some rain (not much)thru the nite - thunder and lightning - still thundering off over the gulf. Typical Sunday morning – first to church, then to the laundry!

Temp dropped into the 70s when the 15-20 mph winds blew in later in the afternoon. Have the windows and door open and the vent fan going! Pouring rain, thunder, lightning – ended up shutting down the computer!

9 of us showed up for ice cream Sunday evening.

Monday -Li'l Bit went outside, peed, pooped (and it looked normal) -- wagged her tail, moves a little 'quicker' but we headed off to the vet. (Can you tell I’m a nurse – these body functions are really important!)

A little humid, 71 degrees but a nice breeze. Red tide warning -- for you that don't live on the coast -- that can cause respiratory problems!! Cancelled any plans I had to go wading in the gulf!

Off to the vet in the AM, lab tests – Li'lBit had surgery that afternoon -- massive uterine infection with tumors. At least, best they can tell, it is all contained in the uterus. The vet said she was hoping, if all went OK, to send her home. She felt, since she is blind, it would be less stressful for her 'in her own bed!" Then she added, 'and since you are a nurse....." It was the hardest thing I've done in a long time - leave my Li'lBit at the vet, a strange vet, not Dr Clay in Gatesville!

Do I need to say, waiting for that call from the vet was all I could accomplish Monday! At 4PM, the clinic called - they had a 'sweet little girl ready to go home!" Vet said appears everything was within the uterus....no exterior tumors or infection!!!

When she got home she was a little wobbly and disoriented, couldn’t find the water bowl or food dish, but she was HOME! 5 days of antibiotics and stitches out in 10 days.

Tuesday I had a morning appointment with Sharon to get my nails done – not having the acrylics this time – my nails definitely need a rest! She is just going to try to 'toughen' up what I have - they are cracking, peeling - just icky - so I don't want to go back to glue and plastic for awhile!

Donna called and wanted to meet for lunch at the Chinese buffet.....off I went. I had already made plants to have a late lunch with Kathy and the gang! WHEW! Food, Food, Food. They have a really great “all you can eat” senior special on Tuesday at The Big Fisherman so a box to go was in order! $2.50 - all you can eat chicken fried steak, fried chicken livers or gizzards. Add a $1.00 ice tea and it makes a cheap meal! Ate the cole slaw and drank the ice tea while I was there. The rest came home in a box for supper. When the Winter Texans get back there will be a line around the building every Tuesday just to get the special. I do not go then!

Raining Thursday AM - started last nite. 76 degrees. Fixed meatballs in sauce and some noodles for the pot luck (Friendship) supper. I'm just a social butterfly with these ol'folks activities.

Li'lBit is improving each day; she finally pooped! Actually, I was starting to worry that she hadn't and had planned on calling the vet if she didn't go today!

Got a call from the RV Service place - trailer is done. I can store it at the RV place for $40/month....I'll do that until Thanksgiving, then bring it back to here after my trip to Gatesville. Total bill is less than $900. I know that's a lot but with the wheel and all, I was expecting more than that.

Between the trailer and Li’lBit’s surgery, the poor savings account took a hit this week!

Li'lBit was a little better every day. She was even setting at her bowl waiting to be fed when I got up Friday AM! 78 degrees, nice breeze....outside with Li'lBit, my book and ice tea most of the day!

Saturday I went to pay for my trailer and arrange to store it there until I head to Gatesville for Thanksgiving. Can’t wait for the trip back to Gatesville – see if I can get there and get BACK without blowing a wheel or some other significant detail this time!

October is Here - Will Summer Ever End!

2011-10-09T19:49:00.003-05:00

October starts with 77 degrees at 7 AM; a really nice breeze without too much humidity. Door and windows open and the A/C OFF (At least for awhile!)

Sunday evening, hitched up the trailer – ready to deliver on Monday. What a gathering we had down at the trailer. After ice cream social, everyone migrated to the trailer. Quite a gathering considering there are so few of us here. Ron and Mackie did most of the work. I managed to back it up all by myself with Ron and Mackie in charge of giving orders and directions. Connie, Jeannie and Chet supervised! With that much help, it sure didn't take long. Chet came over on the golf cart and gave me a ride back to my 5th wheel! No wonder I love this place so!

Had the trailer at the shop Monday AM before they were there to open the gates. John helped me unhitch, gave him the keys and the list of repairs needed and just hope I don't have to file bankruptcy to pay the bill!

Then stopped to pick up important things: milk, eggs, newspaper, garbage bags and dropped of my prescriptions! Spent the rest of the morning outside with Li'l Bit reading the paper and drinking coffee. Sure do lead a rough life!

LinCare came by to drop off a CPAP mask so I'll be getting my CPAP stuff from them now – Medicare Provides! In fact, they put me on an email list to remind me when I'm eligible for new equipment! How's that for being and "entitled senior!"

I broiled my last Iowa rib-eye. Had my last Iowa pork steak the night before. I have one more package of 2 small steaks and then I'm back to eating "Texan!" Of course, I have already stocked up on shrimp and fish!

It only got up to 78 on Tuesday. It’s nice to have the A/C off and fresh air coming in the windows.

Deryl & Elke left Wednesday for a cruise out of Florida so we went to HuDat’s Tuesday evening. Love HuDat’s! After we ate, went back to their place and Deryl loaded my “Vietnamese Chariot” into the back of my truck. He had straightened out the wheel and got it back into riding condition! Now I can learn to maneuver my trike! (The blue trike is what I ‘won” when I hit – fortunately no injuries – a young Vietnamese man headed to the gulf to do some fishing! To avoid a ticket and court appearance, I ‘bought’ the guy a new trike – so I got to keep the damaged one!)

Spent Wednesday outside with Li’lBit messing with my flowers. I babied them all summer in Iowa and had them looking so fresh and full. Then took them to Gatesville where the ‘hot and dry’ nearly sucked the life out of them. Now hoping I can 'baby' them back. I dumped about half of them, cleaned up and repotted the rest hoping for the best. I think the geraniums will recover, some of my herbs and my mint are in the trash! My shamrock plant and the aloe vera survived along with the chives....and those cute little pink flowers that I don't know what they are.

Stopped at the vegetable stand and picked up a small pumpkin, some gourds and Indian corn to set outside in front of the 5th wheel...that's the extent of decorations I do here. Oh, and I picked up a few potted mums.

Been going out after the sun goes down and it cools off a little to ride my chariot. Not too far, just down to the end of the street and back. That’s enough to start! I’m surprised it is so much easier to peddle than my exercycle. I was really surprised my knees weren’t killing me in the AM – did have some leg cramps the first couple of nites, though.

Not much setting outside with the temps still in the upper 80s and 90s, humidity hitting 80% and the sun beating down. As the week ends, I’m wondering if summer ever will! My calendar says it is fall, but that fall weather hasn’t gotten here yet!

September Recipes

2011-10-07T13:00:00.000-05:00

RICE SALAD
1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
4 TBS sugar
1 pkg strawberry Jello
1 TBS mayonnaise
2 cup cooked rice
1 can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup pineapple, drained
12 maraschino cherries (halved) and patted dry
2 cups miniature marshmallows
8 oz. Cool Whip
1 cup chopped pecans

Combine cream cheese, dry Jello powder, 4 tablespoons sugar and mayonnaise and blend until smooth. Add rice, cherries, oranges, pineapple and marshmallows to cream cheese mixture, mixing well. Fold Cool Whip and pecans into mixture. Chill well.

SAUERKRAUT SALAD
2 cans drained sauerkraut
1 cups chopped celery
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 med. onion, sliced
1 3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup salad oil
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup water
Pimento - optional

Mix sauerkraut, celery, green pepper and onion together. Stir sugar, salad oil, vinegar, water to dissolve sugar then add to vegetables.
Marinate 24 hours. Drain thoroughly before serving. Keeps well in refrigerate.

September Comes To An End

2011-10-07T12:41:00.002-05:00

Sunday, September 25th, after church I went to the laundry room - I was the only one there - sure is different here in the "off season!" Sunday evening was ice cream social. Kathy always finds some interesting new flavor! Just 6 or so of us there – crowds will be picking up soon. The Winter Texans will be coming back before long.

I've just about eaten all of the beef and pork I brought from Iowa! Then I'll be back to seafood/fish and chicken! Oh, Dr Maroney will be sooooo happy!

The trailer is unpacked, but now I'm living with bags of 'stuff' all over the 5th wheel, trying to find places for it! Still waiting for parts for the trailer so it still sets down front in the pull thru space.

Monday I woke to 81 degrees. Li'lBit doesn't spend a lot of time outside in those temps. Too warm! Ended up in triple digits. Summer just doesn’t want to let go!

Holly's back to puking after she eats. I think there are some foods she just likes better than others and really eats too fast.

Spent all of Tuesday morning worried about my afternoon doc appointment. I was sure she would read me the riot act - lab values out of whack and I know I've put on the pounds - good ol' Iowa beef, pork and sweet corn! And probably a few too many meals out with Bea!

Well, it wasn't such a bad summer after all! All lab values that are supposed to be UP are UP; those that are supposed to be DOWN are DOWN! Didn’t gain any pounds but didn’t loose any either. She said once it gets cooler I can start walking again!! But the blood pressure was elevated (not too much.)of course I’d worried about my appointment all morning! And after she heard about my last two weeks, she said "work on getting it down!" See her again in three months!

On my way home, I picked up groceries and stopped at the vegetable stand and of course I had to stop at Castaways. I’m looking for some kind of kitchen stand/cart on wheels. Was hoping there was something at Castaway – will have to keep looking.

The 28th of September and at 6AM the temp was 83 degrees - 89% humidity -- WHEW! Li'lBit and I didn't stay out long! Met Donna for lunch at Whataburger. Found a pack of ground ham from Iowa in the freezer. Made it up like a meatloaf with egg and bread crumbs, some seasonings, and let it cook in the crock pot. About the time it was finished, I poured a can of sweet potatoes on top. It turned out quite yummy. But after pigging out at Whataburger with a sandwich and onion rings, I really wasn’t too hungry!

Thursday night Friendship Supper at the activities building doesn’t have much of a crowd! I fixed a sauerkraut salad and a rice salad – thought the rice salad could be used as a desert if there weren’t any – there are so few of us!

Wind, rain, thunder, lightning! I even shut down the computer for awhile! More thunder, lightning and wind than rain, but will take every drop! Thunderstorms down here are a piece of cake! Can't hold a candle to Iowa storms! Of course the folks in the park tease me about worrying about hurricanes and then I go to Iowa to live through their spring and summer storms!

Still waiting on parts for the wheel! Every day I'm "gladder and gladder" I didn't make the decision to have my trailer towed into Victoria!

Connie and Ron got in today. I had a chance to visit with them while they stayed at Shady Oaks in Marshalltown for about a week this summer.

The last day of September and it is 80 degrees at 7AM and 80% humidity - and tomorrow it's OCTOBER! WHEW!

The wheel is fixed 'good enough' for me to get the trailer to the repair place. It’s scheduled to go into the shop on Monday. Will be glad to have that task finished! September comes to an end!

September 19 - 25 - My First Full Week in Rockport

2011-09-24T16:09:00.002-05:00

Monday the 19th 68 degrees, humid, rained some more. Guess I brought the rain with me! Went into town to run some errands. Still living on sandwiches and needed bread, milk, staple kinda things! While down that end of town, stopped in to see Deryl & Elke. Didn't plan on staying and I ended up there about an hour or more drinking coffee.

Picked up a couple more bags and boxes of stuff from the trailer. This would become a routine – a couple bags and boxes, off to the 5th wheel put them away – then back for another trip when it cools down later in the day.

With the sun and the heat during the day, I usually limited my loads to two a day – one in the early AM and one in the evening. Gave me a chance to put stuff away as I moved it. Remember, the idea was to leave stuff in the trailer and not have to move it all of the time! But, since it is going into the shop, want to get out all I can.

Most of my plants are dead or dying! I put them UNDER my trailer while in Gatesville and kept them watered and out of the direct sun.....but I guess the heat and wind just got to them. Maybe I need to stop trying to be a traveling gardener and just buy plants when I get where I’m going!

Wish you could see the migration of hummingbirds here. I had two dead in front of my trailer on Monday. They must be starved by the time they get here. The feeders in the park are constantly full with birds, you can almost see the liquid going down in the feeder. You never see a feeding hole empty.

Thank heavens the park has Wifi – my Verizon wifi thingy is not really dependable! Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t get a signal. Of course, my Verizon cell phone is just about the same; that’s why I keep minutes on an old TracFone.

The air just about has me down; maybe it's just trying to get the dust and smoke from central TX out of my lungs! Everyone here has been really nice about offering to help. But I just can't work fast enough (get enough air to keep up with them!) so I just do a little bit myself.

I love my little trailer, but it sure is nice having a real bed so I don't have to hi-hurdle in and out! Oh, it's nice to be back on a REAL computer, too!

At 5AM Tuesday, the temp was 57 degrees, humidity 69% but that usually goes down as the day goes on. Up early for an appointment for fasting lab. After a summer of Iowa beef, pork and sweet corn, I’m sure all of my lab values will be just terrific!

Li'lBit, Holly & Tinga are back to their old selves. Li'lBit has the hardest time not being able to see. She still acts confused about where she is and runs into things. But I knew she realized where she was when I put her out on her leash while I was unloading stuff from the truck, and she immediately went under the truck -- that's her 'cool' spot here. Tinga made her first 'fly around' and seems to have her bearings back. And Holly? Well, Holly is just Holly. She can always find food, water, kitty litter and a hiding place. Damn I love that ol' cat!

Wednesday, phone service and Verizon Wifi is still ‘iffy.’ Have no idea what is going on. But my day was screwed up the minute I turned on my computer. Yahoo mail and Face Book changed their formats and layouts and that has totally messed with my mind!

Had lunch at HuDats with Donna on Wednesday. Great seeing her! Ate the rice and other veggies while I was there, brought my shrimp and broccoli home. It ended up in a ‘pseudo-siamin’ soup the following nite with Ramen noodles, carrots and peas!

Went to Action RV to see if they knew someone that would come tow my trailer in since it is really ‘listing’ to the right! I’m just not at all comfortable with the idea of towing it thru town and the road construction in the area. They came out Thursday to look at it, will get the necessary parts and repair it here so I can tow it in. Then they will work on it and tend to the storm damage. What a deal!

Checked my email after coming back from lunch with Donna and there was a note from Elke – they were going to the Butter Churn that nite, meet them at their place at 5:10! Just what I needed – another meal out. But I do love The Butter Churn about as much as I love the food at HuDat’s!

When I came in from The Butter Churn, my gut is too full and it was too dark to work at the trailer. That meant a double loads Thursday AM!

By Thursday mid-morning I had hauled all out of the trailer that I going to do! Swept the floor (did not mop - will do that after the repair guys wander in and out), trash out. I'm finished hauling - for awhile, anyway!

Thursday afternoon John from Action RV came by and decided he needed to get some parts. Told me it might be a few days but when I saw a tire on the wheel, I could hitch it up and bring it in. Needs some part they don't carry....NATURALLY! Definitely made me glad I decided to tow it back to Rockport rather than set somewhere in Victoria!

Friday September 23rd was “I Ain't Doin' SHIT” day! I’m tired of lugging, tired of toting, tired of lifting, tired of packing and unpacking! AND, I haven't had my "collapse" day that I usually have after a trip. I took it Friday! Li'lBit and I sat at the picnic table and enjoyed the morning breeze 'til the sun got in our way! And I finally got around to starting a new book.

62 degrees, nice breeze outside -- maybe it's a COLD front! I can only hope!
I did shut off the A/C and opened some windows! I needed to get some fresh air in here - boy, did this smell like an RV when I first opened the door -- cheap wood and paneling kinda smell!

All the critters seem to be back to normal. Tinga is flying all over getting into things -- Li'lBit is going out side, acting like she is peeing, then coming in and using her paper! YUP, we're almost back to normal!

This brings me to completion of my first full week in Rockport. I miss being in Iowa and spending time with my sister and finding the 'garden fairy' has left me more tomatoes and cucumbers and squash -- but it is nice to be home!

An Interesting Trip: Intestinal fortitude versus lack of cerebral gray matter

2011-09-23T19:55:00.006-05:00

Made it back to Rockport about 7PM. Had some problems just south of Victoria. It’s about 300 miles from Gatesville TX to Rockport TX and the last 65 took me about as long as the first 235!

Pulled in for fuel just south of Victoria, pleased that I was making such great time. Trucker next to me hollered that my wheel had lost all its grease. That's not all it lost, the guts of the rear wheel on the passenger side of the trailer were totally exposed! Tire was fine, that wasn't the problem!

Sat there in the truck stop parking lot for nearly 3 hours waiting for a service truck. The repair guy pulled up, got out of his truck and I wanted to give him a hug! By then too late to get any repair work done on a Friday nite in the middle of no-where TX so he took off the tire, we moved all the weight in the trailer to the front to get it on the hitch and off the rear axle. After putting the fear of God in me about making the trip, he sent me on my way. He said he wasn't happy with my decision to go on down the road, it could be done, but....!!!

My alternative was to set there probably over the weekend. Hopefully able to get someone to tow the trailer in and I could go on to a motel with the critters. I don't think so! I came in on 3 wheels (on the trailer) at about 10-20 mph, stopping every 20 miles or so to pull over and feel the lone tire on that side to make sure it didn't overheat and blow out. I seldom got up to 20 mph! I was too scared! It was a white-knuckle ride!

I was about at the half-way point when an official vehicle from the Wildlife Preserve whipped about and got in front of me, hazard lites on. I pulled in behind not know just what was happening. It was my friend, Donna. She work-camps at the preserve just north of Rockport. She saw me and wanted to make sure I was OK. Angels come in all shapes and sizes because I had plenty of them keeping that wheel up so I could get home.

65 miles from Victoria to Rockport at 10-20 mph. Made it a hellofa long day. I pulled into the first available pull-thru slot I found at the RV park. Definitely proof of angels and God taking care of fools.

I put my head on the steering wheel and burst into tears. Then had to make a quick escape to the bathroom to PUKE! Was a wonderful experience. I plugged in the electricity and called it a day. Figured I could "think about it tomorrow," made a big glass of ice tea, threw up again, cried some more and crashed!

Spent the next day fighting diarrhea! Guess that's what happens when all of a sudden the adrenalin stops! I just know that is much more than you really wanted to know about my trip from Gatesville to Rockport!

This was the first time I've ever had to use my Good Sam's RV Road Service plan. Believe me, it was nice to have it! Bless his heart - about 9 PM my phone rang - it was Mr Truck Service Guy Angel! wanting to know if I made it! And, even tho I hate being on the cell phone when I'm driving -- the Good Sam Rep called me every hour until I got in. Now THAT is SERVICE!

Since arriving at Rockport, I’ve spent most of the time sorting and moving stuff from the trailer to the 5th wheel. Contacted Action RV and they will come out and fix the wheel – now waiting for parts. Then I can take it in to them for the rest of the repair work/storm damage from Iowa’s Great Winds!

Saturday Li'lBit and Tinga and I moved back into the 5th wheel and slept in our OLD RV! Holly decided to pull one of her "you aren't gonna put me in that carrier,' tricks so she slept by herself in the trailer! Sunday morning Holly was ready to move!

It is good to be home. Li'lBit is having some problems adjusting to the steps in the 5th wheel. I sometimes think her memory is going with her eyesight. Tinga has made her first 'fly around,' and seems to have her bearings. And then there is Holly, that darn cat, nothing seems to phase Holly -- show me the food, water and kitty litter, I'll find my own place to hide and just leave me alone - love that ol' cat!

Had I not been so tired Sat AM, I could have gone to breakfast at the activity bldg, but I just didn't have the energy! I did make it to Saturday nite ice cream social at the activity building. Friendship supper next Thursday. YUP! I'm home.

Sunday morning church at the activity building, a definite necessity! I needed to send in my praise report for getting here safely! But, it's not Sunday without Brunch with Bea! I miss that!

I think it took Li'lBit until Monday to realize where she was! She kept walking into things and wouldn't come up the steps to the bedroom until I stood on the steps and pointed them out to her by tapping on them. Good thing we have those better doggy stairs. She needs those to get up on the bed. It's a lot of work and she has to struggle to jump to the bed from her little stool.

First couple of days here there was some much needed rain. And, for me, another adjustment to pollens! It's nice to be back with my 'winter family!'

September 10-17 Howdy From Hot Dusty Dry Central Texas!

2011-09-23T19:30:00.003-05:00

Spent a week in Gatesville and never did get used to hot, dry, dusty. Everything is horribly brown and dry, even Li'lBit didn't want to walk on the dead grass for potty stops. She didn't like the crunching under her feet. Every time she would step and it would 'crunch,' she'd pick up her foot and shake it!

All the way from the TX state line, I could see charred and burned areas from the interstate. In fact, two new wild fires started near I-35 in Tarrant County (Fort Worth) as I was coming thru that area and there was a traffic jam of fire trucks and emergency vehicles.

On and off day and nite, sirens headed out of town. There is no second-guessing a grass fire. Instead of sending one truck and have that truck assess the situation and call for additional help if needed, they seem to send ALL trucks, assess the situation and then send back to the stations those they don't need. Another fire roared up just south of Gatesville.

As long as I stayed inside the trailer with the A/C going, I didn't smell the smoke, and I had 'filtered' air with my respirator and oxygen concentrator. But the minute I opened the door and went outside, the smoky dust would cling to skin, clothes, hair – Kinda like spending too many hours in a smoky bar and wondering why your clothes smelled like cigarette smoke and beer!

Sunday 102 degrees - hot, dusty, I want to go back to Iowa! I took Li’lBit out but didn’t walk her. I stood in one spot and turned in a circle and she walked at the end of the leash -- kinda like walking a horse on one of those merry-go-round things!

Went to Johnnie’s for Sunday dinner with her family and she always has my favorite chicken fried steak, taters, gravy, frog eye salad, black eyed pea salad and on and on and on. That lady can certainly set a feast on a table.

4PM still 102 degrees, water from my cold water faucet was hotter than my hot water! I came south too soon!

Monday I woke up to 67 degrees at 6:45 –again went up to 104! At least I can sleep at nite with my vents open and a fan going. Leave the window open a little in the kitchen area -- brings in some of the cooler nite air. I don't have to worry about humidity! Humidity 39% and dew point 41.

Stopped by the County Offices for my tags for the 5th wheel - $121! Gatesville is always my 'pricey' stay! Stopped by the bank to let them know I was still alive and using the on-line banking. I'm sure they know that but like to check in with one of the 'personal bankers' each time I come thru -- just in case I have to call them for some reason.

As I was pulling out to run errands, here's Brenda! So we did breakfast. Morning coffee with Johnnie! Met Tina and her little boy Jacob at DQ for supper and ice cream, then back home.

As soon as the swelling and itching left my eyes, my nose stopped running, my throat stopped itching and I stopped sneezing and coughing it was a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.

I think it is a good thing I decided to move from central TX! I definitely am allergic to Gatesville. Of course the heat and smoky dust doesn't help. I'm leaving this Friday to head back to Rockport -- going to get some of that good salty, fishy gulf. I called them to 'warn them' I'm coming back! Can't wait to get to the gulf coast and smell that fishy, moist gulf air!!

Tuesday 104+ degrees - guess whose truck no longer had a working air conditioner! WHEW!! Guess who was setting at the Dodge Service Entrance at the crack of dawn the next morning!

In Iowa my weather warnings are storms, tornadoes, winds – here in central TX my daily weather warnings are Red Flag Warnings: Gusty Winds And Low Humidity For All Of Central Texas. Winds near 15 mph with gusts to 25+ mph; humidity as low as 10-15%; triple digit temps. Impact: Any Fires That Develop Will Likely Spread Rapidly.

My poor plants were suffering. They get so nice and full while in Iowa. Now they have been outside (and I had them partially under the trailer to keep them out of direct sun) and they are just about dead! I watered them twice a day and it still isn't enough! Of course with the humidity about 15%, there isn't much moisture in the air and triple digit temps most of the time.

Wednesday, $339 later the A/C in the truck was working! Of course $225 of that was labor! I should be in the A/C business. $25 was for "recycle fee' It's still over 100here today - I gladly wrote out the check! Stopped by Johnnie's for some coffee.

Met Brenda for breakfast twice during the week and had lunch with her and Ellen at the Italian place on Thursday. Missed seeing quite a few folks this trip – SGT Broam wasn’t feeling well, just never got around to catching up with Janis and Cindy. Mary Jane and I seem to have a devil of a time coordinating our schedules. And I never made it to Hamilton to see friends up there - and chow down at Storms! Maybe next trip!

About 2 AM Thursday a 'cold front' came thru. Temps dropped about 20 degrees with a little breeze. 67 degrees and a breeze when I woke up -- A/C off, windows open! A much nicer day to pack up and get ready to roll with the cooler temps! Thank You God! He sure does know how to take care of ol' fat ladies!!

Friday, Sept 16, I posted to facebook: Packing up and heading south today - about 5-6 hrs and I'll be back in Rockport. At least it is some cooler - 74 degrees this AM.
Little did I know the adventure in store for me as I pulled out of the RV park in Gatesville that morning!

September 1 - 10 - Triple Digit Temps, Hot Dry Dusty - This Must Be Texas!

2011-09-11T18:34:00.002-05:00

September 1st arrived and I still wasn’t really serious about packing up. Seems the summer just went by way tooo fast! I talked to Fred at the RV park in Gatesville and made my reservations for a week starting September 9. A week of drinking Johnnie's coffee, visiting friends, eating Italian, Bush’s Chicken and chowing down at Swindalls!

But I couldn’t leave Iowa without one more storm! Thought I was going to bed early on the 2nd - then the weather alarm went off -- one more nite of setting up, watching weather radar and waiting for the weather to blow me away! Poor Li'lBit gets into "panic mode" when it storms. It has to be something with the trailer – she was never this bad in the 5th wheel. About 2AM I caught her trying to claw her way out of a window. Poor little thing! Maybe it is something to do with the horrible crashing sound of the acorns pelting the roof. Even I notice it more in the trailer than I ever did in the 5th wheel. More storms the following morning - power out! This is when I REALLY appreciate being self-contained in my little trailer! Of course, if it stays out too long, I'll have to go to the truck to recharge the computer battery!

Bea came by about noon and we headed into Des Moines – power back on, skies clearing. Finally made it to the Hawaiian Grill for my ‘fix’ of Hawaiian foods. Saimin (noodle soup) and Musubi (Spam & rice wrapped in sea weed!) Bea said I’m the only person she knows that would be delighted to drive 50 miles one way for SPAM! Stopped at Hobby Lobby on the way back to Marshalltown. Bea shopped, I leaned on the cart. I should never try to move, especially shop, after I pig out on a yummy meal!

By the 4th, I was looking for my hoodie! Woke up to 54 degrees (and the next morning in the 40s!) Sure wish I could have shared this with my friends that need the cool and wet weather! Sunday Brunch with Bea was at Perkins – eggs, biscuits and gravy, ham, cheese. Just what I needed!

The weather was making it really hard for me to get any work done outside. 68 degrees and sunny --would be perfect for outside work if the winds weren't sustained at 20 mph and gusts to 40 mph! While defrosting the freezer, I took out some chops and brauts to grill so I’d have them to eat on the road – WRONG! No way was I about to take responsibility for a grill and burning charcoal in that wind! Cooked them up on the stove, packed in baggies, popped ‘em back in the freezer – will be great to ‘nuke’ and eat on the road.

Labor Day I got really serious about packing and stowing! Randy was scheduled to come on the 6th to hitch me up. I need to stop carrying so much CRAP! Took my plant hooks, bird feeders, etc. over to my sister's to store until next summer. Think I'll try to convince her to take the bird bath, too! (She did!)

Definite sign I'm moving' - the flag is down and packed. Made my reservations at Homewood KS for Wednesday nite. I'm gettin' there! By the time Randy arrived, I was back from town, cash in my pocket, tires checked and aired....ready to go. I cannot believe how much easier it is to hitch this trailer than that 5th wheel.

Wednesday AM Bea came by to help me with last minute stuff....she always ‘leads’ me out of town. I think she is afraid I’ll get lost and end up sticking around! She just wants to make sure I’m on the road headed SOUTH!

Made it to Homewood KS RV park. Lots of road construction. Why do we have interstates, then narrow them down to one lane or two way traffic? All those warning signs, all those orange cones and I didn't see one soul out there working. I guess it's 'shovel ready' but they don't have the shovels!

I had to "rough it' in Kansas (and again in Oklahoma). My water hose developed a leak (more than just a drip!) But, I've plenty of jugs and filled them up so I'm not going to suffer too much! I do have electricity!

Thursday I headed for Guthrie OK. I must be headed south -- weatherbug popped up -- it's getting warmer! Thursday was my short day - 275 miles to Guthrie OK.

Friday wasn’t so easy - 375 miles to Gatesville. Lots of semis hauling hay south -- huge bales piled high on the trucks. At one of the weigh stations I tried to count as I went by and there were 12 - probably more -- lined up to be weighed. First time I've seen trucks lined up at the cattle pens, too. 3 trucks unloading at the cattle pens in Kansas and 4 trucks in line waiting to unload.

Crossing the Red River and coming down I-35 there was a fire in Tarrant County near Mansfield. Major traffic jam with emergency vehicles and fire trucks coming from all directions. I had trouble with the dust. They aren't doing any (or much) construction in the work zones. The dirt has been graded and now in the wind it is blowing all over the place. At first I thought it was smoke - then realized it was the dust. Lots of charred areas along the interstate. Everything is brown, like the dead of winter – except for the temps pushing triple digits. Going to take some time getting used to hot, dry, dusty! My lungs and body are going to need a major adjustment! Thank Heavens for air conditioning.

On Friday, I arrived in Gatesville about 3:30 PM. Fred and I were unhitching, I looked around and there was Brenda right behind me and she helped me finish setting up! Now That's A Friend! Made it out to Johnnie’s for my coffee fix! Life is good! Total 944 miles - I'm pooped – time to relax!

Saturday I wake up and couldn’t catch a decent breath, my eyes are watering, throat scratching, coughing and sneezing...This Must Be Texas! But it sure was some good sleepin' weather! 58 degrees at wake-up! Met Brenda for brunch at the Mexican restaurant. She loaded me down with three bags of mail, magazines and junk mail! That will keep me occupied for awhile.

August 15 - 31 Summer's Almost Over

2011-09-04T19:48:00.003-05:00

Continuing to enjoy the terrific weather - cool nites for sleeping; cool mornings with hot coffee at the picnic table with Li'lBit, breezy, warm afternoons. Now for the 'not so good' part - whatever is coming in on the breeze is really messing with my sinuses and breathing! Before long I'll find out if it is possible to do too many breathing treatments!

Had planned on making a road trip on Tuesday, but a band of red and orange from the Minnesota border to the Missouri border popped up on the weather radar. Definitely not a day to hit the road so I spent another terrific afternoon with Li'lBit outside. Could have probably made the road trip since the storm kinda ‘fizzled’ before it got here. I may get through that book on Marie Antoinette yet! Thought it was going to be some kind of historical novel easy fun read, ends up closely resembling a history book with all of the ins and outs of the French Revolution making up the biggest part of the book. Not the easy read I thought, but interesting and I soaked up every word!

Another nice day Wednesday the 17th and dinner with Jim and Kathy at Montana Mikes in Newton. As the week went on, the temps and humidity kept going up! Not my favorite weather – and the pollen, the allergies – oh, heavens! I think this is why I originally left Iowa!! The golden rod, ragweed, Spanish needle are all in full bloom and blowing!

It's another beautiful day in the "trailer-hood!" Special on chicken wings at the market - guess what went on the grill. Another day of reading outside and enjoying Li'lBit!

Friday nite stock races are going full speed ahead -- a train just went down the tracks -- all music to my ears! Love those sounds. I usually plan on going to bed early on Friday nites just so I can listen to them. just listen to them!

Oh, I love the sound of a train -- maybe I traveled the rails in another life! Lots of RV parks are near tracks and most folks really don't like it -- but as long as it doesn't derail into my RV, I love the train – and then add the roar from the race track on top of that! Now that makes sleepin' good!

This retired life is a rough life! Sunday Brunch with Bea and gathering up my book, my ice tea, my dog and it's another day doing nothing outside! Don't know how much more of this I can handle! I had fresh from the field Iowa sweet corn for supper -- that's all - just 3 ears of sweet corn! By the way - I did finish the book on Marie Antoinette and now I'm involved in the Green River Murders. Can't say I'm narrowed in my reading choices!

22nd eye doc appointment. Still off my glaucoma meds! YIPPEE! Now if the allergies would just leave my eye alone! He did give me some sample drops that might help with the allergies and the dry eye. If they work, he also gave me an RX that I will be able to fill.

Tuesday: What I learned with my visit with Sandy: 3 hours is not enough time to catch up on 50 years! Facebook can be a wonderful thing – but I sometimes think I’m addicted and I don’t even play the games – but I did “run into” a friend from my church camp days many many years ago! Sandy was from Dubuque, 30+ miles up the road from where I lived in Maquoketa – we both went to church camp in Clear Lake IA and then in Indianola IA for many years. How terrific to be able to make contact with her again and have time to visit! But three hours is just not enough.

Bea and I went to Des Moines with my taste buds ready for some Hawaiian food at the Hawaiian Grill – closed on Sunday! Ended up at Okoboji Grill for rib-eye steak sandwich with sautéed mushrooms and onion rings. Oh, it’s rough being retired!
Applebee’s with Jim and Kathy on Monday and then took the tour of the reconstruction of their home. Their house was severely damaged during the storm here last month. Not only their home, but their beautiful yard. They had so many trees, you couldn’t see their house from the road. Well, you can see it now. But construction and repairs are coming along.

Headed to Maquoketa on the 30th. The planning committee for our 50th class reunion (next summer) had a dinner meeting at the country club. Although I won’t be in Iowa to help with the planning, I ‘crashed’ the dinner meeting to visit with those classmates that were there. Then stopped by Janet's for some more memory-sharing, then back to the motel. Stayed in the same motel with Sigrid, Sherri and Judi – almost like a slumber party but we go to bed much earlier now!

Judi arrived well before we had to be at dinner so we went into the Dairy Queen for a cone. It’s still the same DQ – no inside seating – just walk up to the window and order.

On the way back on the 31st, I stopped at Stringtown Grocery to stock up on my herbs, spices, baking supplies and dehydrated vegetables. Had an initial moment of panic when I saw the “road closed” sign at the intersection where I needed to turn to get to the grocery. After a few not-so-nice words and a minor “temper tantrum” I decided to head into Kalona and go to the bakery and pick up a few things – just so the side trip wouldn’t be wasted. About a mile or two from where I had planned on turning there was a detour sign, “Detour Stringtown Grocery.” Like a sign from heaven. Of course it took me over about 5 miles of good ol’ Iowa dusty gravel roads, but I made it to the grocery and picked up my supplies. Love that store! It was a great trip -- and best of all, my Li'lBit was absolutely DELIGHTED to see me!

So ends August – September is here and I’m headed south September 7th. Time to toss out the junk and pack up what’s left. Oh, I’m such a pack rat!

August 8-14 The Weatherman Kept His Promise!

2011-08-14T22:17:00.002-05:00

Headed into town on Monday - took my laundry just in case the laundromat wasn't full. At 8AM, I was the only one there - other than the owner and his daughter. She's a cutey, probably 7-8 years old. She was 'in charge' of wiping down the front of all of the washers and dryers and she was doing a fine job! I didn't realize just how HOT a laundromat can be when it first opens in the AM, before the A/C kicks in! WHEW! Sauna-time!

After laundry, went uptown to check on some shoes. Love the shoe store here - good ol' fashioned kind - they measure the foot, try the shoes on, bring out a zillion pair until you find the one you want - and you just set there! My kinda store! Walked out with two new pair, one pair of tennies and a nice pair of leather mules that were on the sale rack.

From there it was off to spend some more money on two pair of jeans and 2 t-shirts. Now I'm just about the spiffiest 'trailer trash' in the park!

My sister had conference or something with the school administration/staff all day. Oh, how she "loves" those "bonding' exercises! Figured she'd want to go right home and crash, but we ended up at McDonald's for a sandwich and I got to use my coupon for a free pineapple-mango smoothie - gonna have to go back for another one of those!

Mail man delivered a terrific surprise from my friend in Canada - a Canadian flag - I'll be the hit of the RV park on Canada Day next year! And some treats for Li'lBit. Bless her heart, she just lost the last of her Irish Setters, Grizz, and she thinks of my Li'lBit. A friend I've never met, just know from RVing and the bird world. Love You, Colleen! THANKS!

Tuesday was a perfect weather day! Spent most of it outside with a good book and my good dog! Put some beef ribs and a chicken breast on the grill. Have enough cooked up to last almost a week now!

Wednesday was such a delightful day, I stayed home just so I could set outside and read all day! Wish my eyes would last a little longer when it comes to reading, but doc has changed some of my meds to see how I do without them and I think the answer will be “not too good!” Sure does mess with my reading time! Of course the pollen and stuff blowing about in the air doesn't help.

Li’lBit and I had a great day enjoying 75 degree weather and next-to-nuthin’ for humidity! Bea and I had pizza for supper – I always feel so FULL after pizza! Why can’t I stop at one piece!

Thursday was another beautiful day for being outside. Went to laundry early – forgot I’ve been carrying the dog and cat blankets and rugs around in a plastic garbage bag in the truck since I left Rockport. That job completed, I ran by the store to get some very important items – cat food, dog food, kitty litter, parrot food! Then home and spent a wonderful day in the “trailerhood’ outside reading and enjoying the weather with Li’lBit.

This weather is why I come to Iowa for the summer – well, this weather and my sister! And I am definitely glad I’m not spending the summer in Texas, putting up with 40+ days over 100 degrees and next to nothing for rain. That has to be miserable.

When I came in to fix an ice tea, decided to check my email. A note from a very dear friend from an era long ago (church camp in our youth!) Sandy and her husband will be in Marshalltown later in the month. Oh, it is going to be like waiting for Christmas! I’m sooo very excited.

Friday was another great day for being outside and to top of a terrific day, my sister calls and suggests we go to the Junction and I can get a tenderloin sandwich. YIPPEE – and they have the crunchiest, greasiest homemade fries in the whole world!

Saturday I met Ingrid, her husband and a friend over at the Meskwaki Settlement for PowWow. Had a great time. Before we left we had some yummy Indian tacos. Of course, I had to get a couple fry breads to bring home with me. I have enough trouble with weight, I sure don’t need to be hanging out at the Settlement eating Fry Bread! After the previous nite’s tenderloin and fries, I’m almost afraid to even think the word cholesterol!

Sunday Brunch with Bea was at Hardee’s to try their omelet on a bun. Not bad, but can do without it! I just as soon have one of their breakfast sandwiches. Another beautiful day outside. But it didn’t last too long. Someone somewhere was burning something and it was blowing this way. Ended up inside with the oxygen chugging away. Of course, setting all day in the wind at the Pow Wow yesterday didn’t give the lungs much of a rest!

Weatherman is promised lower humidity and temps this week...and he did a good job of delivering! My time is winding down in Iowa – less than a month and I’ll be on the road again. This has been a fast summer – didn’t get here until June and will be leaving early September.

It's August Already! Aug 1-7

2011-08-07T12:41:00.002-05:00

August 1, Monday 8:02 AM, power went out in the park. Not a day to be without my A/C! Something must have happened out on Hwy 30. Lots of sirens roaring down the highway and the electric company pole/basket truck just barreled down Shady Oaks Road to Hwy 30. Later found out it was due to an accident -- local teen was killed when his pickup met a semi head on.

While the power was off, I went to WalMart to get my Rx and a few odds and ends. Cost me $38+ for my test strips 'cuz Medicare won't pay on a transfer Rx or some other crap - well, they pay on my other meds - guess it's just a diabetic thing. Pharmacist says to get the doc to write an Rx to carry with me. If I’d been quicker on my feet and my brain cells had been working full-speed, I’d have called my sister to see if her doc would have written an Rx for them. Oh, well, will try to remember the next time if it happens.

Stopped in at the local florist and give her my new credit card number since the one she had was the one that was "hijacked!" I like having the card on file with her. Makes it lots easier to get what I want rather than to go thru an on-line florist – and this is a lot cheaper, too! While there I ordered some flowers for delivery to the school for my sister. She was in the middle of registration and the A/C in the building was minimal if it existed or worked at all! Told the florist I wanted something "Bubbly and cool, it registration, you know!" Guess she handled it OK! My sister seemed pleased.

Tuesday was Jim's one year post-surgical anniversary – time to celebrate! Wednesday Bea and I go to That Place with Jim and Kathy! Good food, good friends, fun time!

Definitely needed a new camera. I managed to get my pictures off last Sunday but it gave me nothing but trouble all day. Now, I can't even get it to open so I can delete the pics and get it ready for my next adventure. I only mess around with something for so long before it gets pitched! Techno-junky, I’m not!

Went on line and found I the same camera (only several years improved) for about $70. Off to WalMart I went, for the second time in one week! The camera came in black, blue and pink – guess which was the only color they had left!

Spent most of the afternoon trying to read the instructions. The English version was mingled with the French, Spanish, Japanese, and German! It's not even a booklet - just one of those thin papers folded a zillion times printed on both sides! At least there was a manual on the disc with the software. So I printed out 44 pages! Bet let it be known, this will not, in any way, improve my picture-taking ability!

After two days of registration without air conditioning and with screaming kids (why do parents take their kids to registration with them when they know they will be setting filling out paperwork!) Bea had planned on going home to crash. But, off to Culvers for a sandwich. And I wonder why I always have plenty of leftovers! I thought I’d ‘be on my own’ Monday and Tuesday because of her stuff at school – so I fixed food and planned ahead. Then we end up eating out!

Wednesday I could use my Verizon stuff again! My billing cycle ends on the 2nd of the month. Since I just changed plans a month ago, I was really curious to see how they worked and would the plan really save me money. This month I managed to stay under the limit on both phone and internet so now I can see what the REAL bill is going to be! It did, however take some maneuvering and monitoring. I would periodically check the Verizon website for my usage. By the last week, I was on the computer less and less and definitely not opening or downloading any large files! I use my cell phone more since I talk to my sister every day while up here; we have to plan our go-see-do trips and our eating out excursions! Fortunately, I still had minutes on the Tracfone I’d picked up awhile back when I was “out of service area” for Verizon.

Nice outside in the AM - windows open and the A/C off. Enjoyed having my coffee outside with Li'lBit! When I got ready to come in, she wasn't ready, so left her out on her leash for awhile. She has a spot under the trailer. Probably cool laying there on the gravel in the shade. She has pushed the gravel aside and has a little ‘belly patch” in the dirt.

The "garden fairy" left me some yummy gifts from the garden last nite. I haven't seen Liz for awhile and I really need to thank her! I'm sure she is my 'garden fairy!" On my table in the morning were tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, a pepper. Love my ‘Garden Fairy!”

Busied myself reading about some of the old routes/trails in Iowa - quite a few here in central Iowa so I told Bea I already have my list of routes to travel next summer! I sure enjoyed my journey down the White Pole Road, just wished I'd known so much was closed on Mondays (cafes, diners, etc). May even try a few wineries or breweries tours next summer.

By Thursday, Bea and I were the proud owners of two Groupon coupons - one for IowaStater in Ames and the other for Okoboji Grill in Ankeny. Yummy! Just what we need - more free food! I have no idea how I started getting Groupons for the Des Moines area, but there have been several that Bea and I could use.

Friday we decided to head over to Ames and have lunch at the IowaStater (Yes, it is all one word!) restaurant in the Gateway Hotel, according to their ad, “A casual dining restaurant featuring comfort food with flair.” Not the price range we usually look for when having lunch, but I had my $20 Groupon Coupon. Nice lunch, super waitress (however, I thought if she said “certainly” or “absolutely” one more time I might lose my lunch!) We both had sandwiches (almost enough for two meals.) I substituted the soup of the day, seafood bisque, for the salad or fries. Nice red cabbage slaw. Beautiful presentation. Definitely no room for dessert and I wish I had asked for a doggie bag instead of setting there and pigging out on the whole thing! Glad we went; probably won’t go again (unless we have the coupon!) With the coupon, our meal only cost $4.60 plus tip. I sure can’t complain!

Up early Saturday to go shopping and take Li’lBit for a ride. She loves to ride but it has been too hot to have her in the truck. Just needed a few things, but important things – tooth paste, ice tea, cat food. Thought it was going to be unbearably humid and sticky in the afternoon, but wasn’t too bad. Did have a breeze so I fired up the grill, cooked several brats and some beef I had on hand. Now I have plenty in the freezer in case it gets too hot to cook again! Already has that grilled flavor!

Sunday’s Brunch with Bea was so appropriate for this Sunday since August 7th is “Sister’s Day!” Coupons about to expire at Perkins, so off we went! Had one of their ‘Awesome Omelets,” of course it came with pancakes – one or the other would have been fine both were a little heavy and too much! Then off to the drive-thru car wash for the high-point of the day! Nothing more exciting than the drive thru car wash! Back home for a pleasant day outside with Li’lBit!

Reading the Sunday paper, I came across a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier:
“Blessings on thee, little man,
Barefoot boy, with cheek of tan!
With thy turned-up pantaloons,
And thy merry whistled tunes;
With thy red lip, redder still
Kissed by strawberries on the hill; ...”
Reminded me of my new little friend that lives in the bean field across the way – occasionally I will see him on a sunny late afternoon.

GREEN MOUNTAIN TRAIN WRECK, MARCH 21, 1910, 8:14 AM

2011-07-31T20:29:00.010-05:00

The Search
Not much left in Green Mountain after the storm that went thru here a couple of weeks ago. Of course, I don’t know if there was much left to Green Mountain BEFORE the storm hit, but the devastation to grain storage areas, buildings and barns, and trees it horrible.

Driving thru town, the smell of burning wood and debris is everywhere. People are still trying to pick up the pieces and put it back together again.

Green Mountain ‘town square” is a windmill and water pump in the middle of the street with a little park bench that says “Welcome.” And what is more welcoming than fresh cold well water and a bench to rest on on a hot Iowa summer day.

Checked with a couple of people in town as to the location for a marker for the train wreck. “Nope! Nothin’ like that around here.” Oh, don’t tell me that – that sounds like a challenge to me.

According to what I’d been reading, the wreck happened between Gladbrook and Green Mountain, east of the Marshall County/Tama County line. It’s only 12 miles between Green Mountain and Gladbrook. How difficult can it be to find the spot – even if the train tracks are no longer there – “4 ½ miles north of Green Mountain, just a few yard east of the Marshall-Tama county line,” said the Marshalltown Times-Republican of that date.

With my trusty MapQuest and Google maps in hand, I proceeded up and down some of Iowa’s finest dusty rural graded gravel roads. And by the clouds of dust whirling behind me, I don’t believe we have had one drop of rain here – and I know better! Up one road, down the next. I do appreciate the fact that most of Iowa’s country roads are parallel and perpendicular to each other. Makes it much easier to back-track when I don’t have to worry about which fork in the road to take! Trying to keep water towers in view (so I don’t get too lost), I continue stirring up dust. Making the adventure somewhat difficult is the fact that the gravel roads have names (probably of the farmer that lives on the road!) and my maps have the roads identified with the E-911 geo-code numbers.

Nothing – head up to Gladbrook. Stopped in the convenient store and asked about the train wreck. “There’s no marker but we do have a museum, you can call and make an appointment, they have lots of stuff from the wreck.” (Note to self: Call Gladbrook Museum next week if all else fails.)

If there is no marker in Green Mountain, none in Gladbrook, I’ll just wander on back around the county roads and see if I can find the ‘likely spot’ of the accident.

Heading west out of Gladbrook, I notice a long diagonal line of utility poles – bet they follow the old train bed! Keeping an eye on them, I watch for the Tama-Marshall county line marker on the highway. BINGO! There it is between Abbott Road and Zeller Road and I remember both of those coming out near Green Mountain. Whip a U-turn and head down Abbott Road, that seems like the best bet since the accident was “a few yards east” of the line.

And there it is – the spot where the utility lines cross Abbott Road. Stop and take a picture. Consider the adventure a success and head on back to civilization (less dust and paved roads!)

Heading south on Abbot, less than ¼ mile from where I stopped to get a picture of the lines crossing the road – a spot of mown green grass, a rock, a little flag and a couple of ‘everlasting’ plastic flower bouquets. That’s it. My Gold Mine for the Day!

I left my bouquet of daisies for Bruce’s cousin who was killed in the wreck, leaned back against the truck for a few moments and tried to imagine the carnage, the confusion of that day. Knowing the distance from Marshalltown I had traveled, imagining what it must have been like to travel it with horse and wagon or in the few automobiles available at the time, not knowing what I would find at the end.
What they found at the end was the remains of the Rock Island Nos. 19 and 21 trains reduced to piles of torn metal, wooden kindling and shattered glass along with scores of wounded and dead, bodies mutilated and dismembered, possibly beyond recognition.

The Wreck

The above pictures are archival photos from area newspapers.

On March 21, 1910, 52 people were killed and scores injured as the lead engine of two Rock Island trains suddenly left the tracks and hit a clay embankment. The sudden stop caused the steel cars to telescope into the two wooden cars.

A wreck west of Cedar Rapids, IA earlier in the day had caused the need to detour the Rock Island trains. No. 21, the St. Louis-Twin Cities passenger, and No. 19, the Chicago-Twin Cities passenger, both west bound. The trains were joined and re-routed on the Chicago-Great Western line. Combined, the two trains, pulled by Engine No 820 and Engine No 1009, totaled ten coaches.

Lead Engine No 820 left the track, pulling the other one with it making a deep cut, ten or twelve feet deep, thru a bank of clay. In the wet clay, the engines came to a sudden halt and toppled over. The sudden stop caused the cars behind the engine to telescope into the other cars.

The Colonia, a Pullman with a heavy metal superstructure, was behind the engines. Behind the Colonia, were the smoking car and a ladies' day coach. These two cars, structured primarily of wood, accounted for the heaviest loss of life and the greatest number of injuries.

As the smoking car followed by the ladies’ day coach continued forward, the heavy metal structure of the Pullman cut into the wooden cars, “turning them into matchsticks,” according to one eye-witness. It first cut thru the smoker, turning it to rubble and killing or injuring all in the car, then pushed the smoker into the ladies’ day coach, killing or injuring all 80 women and children in that car.

Bodies from the two coaches were horribly crushed, mutilated, and dismembered and taken to Marshalltown for identification. A temporary morgue was set up at 17 South Center Street. “Up to a late hour this afternoon thirty-two dead had been accounted for, but only four had been identified,” reported the Marshalltown Times-Republican. It was a long slow tedious process.

Center Street, Marshalltown, IA. Today there is no 17 Center St, the appliace store is 13 Center St and the yellow brick is 19 Center St.
No official cause was ever released for the wreck. However, it was reported that “the arrangement of cars was ideal for death. The Pullman crashed back thru the more flimsy cars like paper,” leading to changes in the arrangement of the coaches.

July Comes to an End July 24-31

2011-07-31T20:14:00.003-05:00

Sunday it was the usual, Brunch with Bea - we settled for Hardees. Then a stop at the hardware store for some screws to put my door 'catch' back together. The thing that holds my door back pulled out of the side of the trailer when I went to close the door – wind had caught it as I was opening it and slammed it so hard against the side of the trailer, the catch thingy became imbedded in the door. I guess you know the screws went flyin' and I wasn't about to crawl around in the gravel looking for them. The day wound down with a trip to Perkins for some great caramel apple pie. Life doesn't get much better than all of that!

White Pole Road day-trip occupied most of Monday. Had set my stomach for some really good small town diner home cookin’ but it wasn’t to happen. Don’t travel into small town rural Iowa on a Monday and expect to find much open! So I settled for some greasy potato chips, and RC Cola and a piece of pizza from Casey’s convenient store. I’m sure all of that was on my diet! (Individual blog entry for the White Pole Road trip)

The high point of the day had to be getting into the bank parking lot going the wrong direction. So I’m a tourist! We do things like that to get a good picture! I’m sure the ladies in the drive thru window wandered what that crazy lady in that 1 ton dually was doing driving thru their drive up the wrong direction! That wasn’t the only ‘wrong way’ I had for the day. Couldn’t find Hwy 30 EAST and found myself headed west on Hwy 30 instead. All of ‘cut thrus’ across the median were blocks so as soon as it narrowed to a 2 lane, I found a farm drive, pulled in to turn around when I saw the farmer stop what he was doing and watch me. I just shrugged my shoulders, gave him a really dumb look, which in those instances comes naturally! Waved and pulled back on the highway – headed EAST this time – headed home. Back in town, my sister took her wandering sister to the old Field’s restaurant for a steak sandwich! Best meal of the day!

There was so much to see and I definitely was trying to see too much in one day! And, if I get a chance to get back to pick up some things I missed, I will definitely make sure it isn’t on a Monday! I really want to try that raisin cream pie served at the Menlo Diner.

Along the White Pole Road, there are many references to the “rival” River to River Road – think I’ll get busy researching that and plan a trip!

Tuesday morning started out like any typical AM - Li'lBit wants out. Typical ends there - can't let her out - Tinga got out of her cage - can't open the door with her out. Li'lBit can't wait, diarrhea all over in front of the door. I'm barefoot! Get Tinga in, let Li'lBit out, leave door open while cleaning up mess. Holly runs out the door. Tinga in, mess cleaned, Li'lBit in, Holly in -- and how did your Tuesday start!

So glad my neighbors had moved out yesterday and no one could see me outside in my nite shirt, trying to wipe poop from the bottom of my feet and from between my toes off in the grass. Must have been a wonderful sight!

The RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) hit day 3 of their travels from the Missouri River, across Iowa, to the Mississippi on Wednesday. They were passing through about 20-30 miles from where I’m staying. Thought I’d drive down and park the truck along the route and just wave at the bikers and shout some moral support as they went by – but, we are still under heat advisories and if they want to pedal their bikes in this heat, they are just gonna have to make it without my wave and support! I went and did laundry instead!

Thursday: Time for some Iowa BEEF. Bea and I went to Rube’s Steak House in Montour with Gene and Vickie. Montour is another of Iowa’s great little rural places well off the beaten path that people from all over manage to find when they want some good beef.

Got really serious about watching tropical storm Don only to find it heading to south Texas and then start to fizzle. Not that I wanted a major storm to hit the Corpus Christi area since my 5th wheel is down there, but Texas really does need the rain. Not to be this time.

Friday lunch with Kathy and Bea and some of their co-workers (oops! Kathy’s retired, now!) – anyway it was a great day for a Cap Anson sandwich and some sweet’tator fries at the Tremont Grille.

Saturday AM, while I had Li’lBit out, being lazy, I was holding the door open and just watching her in the grass outside the trailer, Holly decides to bolt out the door for the second time this week. Crazy Cat! Holly, Holly, Holly, Baby Holly, is the repetitive phrase used to ‘lure’ her back. Took awhile, she played her own little game of ‘cat and mouse’ with me – just letting me get close enough to pick her up and then running back under the trailer. Finally, I gave up – hadn’t had my morning coffee and the fog in the air was a little heavy on the lungs. I saw her setting on the picnic table, went to get her, back under the trailer she went. So, I just gave up. Left the door open, fixed her bowl and Li’l’Bit’s bowl, made my coffee – and there she was. Back in and acting like the sweet little kitty she ain’t! I hope this bolting out the door isn’t starting to be a habit!

Once the fog lifted the morning was terrific. Took Li’lBit, my book and my coffee outside and spent the major part of the AM setting outside doing nothin’! Love it when I can be outside and don’t have to stay cooped up in the A/C! The birds must have babies – my feeders are empty more than they are full! I’m filling them twice a day. My sister brought by the local newspaper and my mail that Brenda sent. For someone that is “no mail” or “paperless” on all accounts, etc, I sure get a lot of mail. Of course 2/3 of it goes right in the trash! I guess you never get off junk mail lists!

Sunday Brunch with Bea at Cecil’s Cafe – the home of the chicken with the top hat. Yummy biscuits and gravy with eggs and lots of coffee. Then off to look for dead people – stopped at WalMart to pick up some daisies just in case I found any.

Yesterday a friend was telling me (on Facebook, of course!) that her husband had mentioned the greatest train wreck in Iowa history took place at Green Mountain, Iowa. Green Mountain? That’s just up the road from Marshalltown. You know the ‘history gene’ in me had to jump on that with both feet. So off I went, camera, map and daisies in hand, headed to Green Mountain. (This excursion and the train wreck will have its own blog entry.)

On my way back home after about 100 miles, most spent on Iowa’s wonderful rural dusty gravel roads, I stopped at Taylor’s Maid-Rite and picked up a Maid-Rite and a chocolate malt to go. Nothing says Iowa like a Maid-Rite – the loose meat sandwich you eat with a spoon. A perfect Iowa ending to a perfect Iowa day!

Redfield to Adel to Perry and Home Part 5

2011-07-29T21:00:00.006-05:00

Redfield, originally named New Ireland, is one of the oldest towns in Dallas County, Iowa. The numerous coal beds and access to water power was attractive to early settlers. About a mile south of New Ireland, Colonel James Redfield laid out the town of Wiscotta. In 1864, he purchased New Ireland and soon the narrow gauge railroad come through town. Col. Redfield was killed in Georgia with Sherman in his march to the sea.

Due to the excellent clay found in the area Redfield, “The Town with Two Brick Yards” was known for its quality brick and tile since the 1870s. In 1894, the Goodwin & Myers Brick & Tile Co. began to work the big open-pit shale deposits in the area. The iron in the material turned the bricks a rich red. They were soon called “Redfield Reds.” Eventually the name was changed to Redfield Bridge & Tile Works and their bricks were used in many of the Boys Town buildings. Pioneer Seed Corn Plant in Coon Rapids, IA, and many of the buildings at Iowa State University in Ames are of Redfield face tile.

Millions of drain tiles were also produced. Most were 4 to 12 inches in diameter, however thye could go as large as 36 inches. Today the old brick yard sets empty. A new modern brick yard, the Glen-Gery Brickworks, remains in town.

In 1850, the first sawmill in the area was built on the Raccoon River and ten years later two grist stones were added. Throughout the mill's operation, 1850 to the 1940s, the water powered mill served as a sawmill, flour mill, feed mill, ice house and electric plant.

Now a 26 acre park includes the old mill site and low head dam on west edge of Redfield.

EAST FROM REDFIELD TO ADEL

Originally called Penoach, Adel was incorporated in 1847. Situated on the west bank of the North Raccoon River, Adel had a good supply of water-power for a flour mill built in 1856.

In 1855 there were about twenty-five houses and three stores. However, Adel was along the only county road at that time and the city began to grow.

Local hero and Iowa legend, Nile Kinnick, was born in Adel, July 9, 1918. He was the 1939 Heisman Trophy winner at the University of Iowa, having scored 107 of the 130 points scored by the Hawkeyes that year. As a World War II Navy pilot, he died June 2, 1943 when his plane went down.

Adel prides itself on having some of the only brick streets listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the only town to have both buildings and roads registered as historical landmarks. The recently completed street project involved removing the old bricks, cleaning them and replacing them.

“The Adel project reflects uniqueness because of the nature of rebuilding 100 year old brick streets reusing the existing brick coupled with modern methods of sub-structure and utility work,” said project engineer Jeff Schug of McClure Engineering Company.

“Not only are the brick historically valuable, but by reusing them we saved money and were environmentally responsible because we did not discard the old and purchase new brick. New brick would have cost about $350,000 more and we would have wasted all the old brick,” Adel City Council member and Street Committee Chair Jon McAvoy said.

NORTH OUT OF ADEL TO PERRY

Heading north on Highway 169, in the small town of Minburn, there are two gas pumps. No convenient store, no attendant – just two pay-at-the-pump pumps. You'll also find a grain elevator, church, two veterinarians, library and bank and you can get a free cup of coffee at the bank, the brick church on Chestnut Street, Heartland Coop, or at the library.

Formerly a major railroad junction, Perry, named for a railroad official, was born in 1869 when Harvey Willis, a '49er adventurer who had walked to California and found gold in the "Rush," convinced railroad surveyors to put the tracks on his land. During the winter of 1868-1869, Harvey and his brother John, platted the new town. Train service began in Perry on July 4, 1869.

In 1870 the population of Perry was 70; ten years later it had reached 999; and today boasts 7,633 making it the largest city in Dallas County.

The historic Hotel Pattee, one of the finest boutique hotels in the world,
is one of the few hotels where every room and suite tells its own story. 40 individually themed rooms preserve history, celebrate ethnicity, honor craftsmanship, and pay tribute to the noteworthy sons and daughters of Iowa and the Midwest.

Reconfiguration Arches are a pair of ceremonial arches, located on each end of Soumas Court.

Looking closely at the Reconfiguration Arches, you will see pieces from Perry’s past: wagon wheels, water pumps, tractor parts, augers, tillage disks, piano sounding board, railroad and mining tools and rails, and used pieces of metal donated by local residents. The large, silver-colored arches tell the stories of the men and women that built Perry.

Welded together into four 16,000-pound sculptures, they were created by Albert Paley of Rochester, New York. Local metalworkers from Perry’s metal-fabricating companies helped fabricate the arches.

Walking through the arches, you walk into Soumas Court, a small park in the business district celebrates the people of Perry. Named for George Soumas, son of Greek immigrants, World War II hero, and former mayor, the park is a public space next to the Hotel Pattee.

I have no idea what this building is, but I thought it was an interesting renovation for office space. Looks like it may have been an old gas station at one time.

It was starting to feel like a long day. My eyes were sore from looking at so many interesting views and sites. I still had an hour to go before I got home and could kick back with an ice tea and relax. Hadn't had any 'real' food to eat all day. I learned a valuable lesson: Don't try to be a tourist in rural Iowa on a Monday - nothing is opened. Having set my stomach to be ready for some small town diners and cafes, it had to settle for a bag of Hyland potato chips and an RC Cola and a slice of pizza from Casey's Convenient Store!

North Out of Dexter on the Dexfield Road Part 4

2011-07-28T20:14:00.008-05:00

DEXFIELD ROAD NORTH TO REDFIELD
DEXFIELD ROAD SOUTH TO DEXTER

A few miles north of Dexter is the sight of the 1948 WHO Radio National Plowing Match. The marker tells the story of the Contour Plowing Competition and President Truman's September 18th Whistle Stop Campaign Speech. This speech was considered the turning point in Truman's Campaign. Over 100,000 people were in attendance on that historic day. President Truman estimated the crowd to be about 100,000, using his own "10,000-farmers-per-acre rule."

Keep heading north and there are two more markers indicating the Bonnie & Clyde Shootout Site and Dexfield Park where the infamous Barrow Gang fought against the local posse in 1933.

BARROW GANG CAPTURED AT DEXFIELD PARK (Marker citation)
The abandoned Dexfield Park served as a hideout for the Barrow gang July 20-24,1933. They picked a location for their camp on the high ground south of the park, tucked away in the underbrush it is here they could tend to their wounds from a previous gun battle near Platte City, Missouri. The car was filled with bullet holes and a different car was needed.. Early on Sunday morning Clyde Barrow and W.D. Jones drove northeast to Perry and stole a car belonging to Edward Stoner. Clyde feared his brother Marvin “Buck” was near death and sensed it was time to make plans to leave for Texas.

A local farmer, Henry Nye, discovered the campsite by chance. Bloody clothing, seat cushions and mats were burning in the campfire and on the ground nearby were bloody bandages. Word spread quickly that the notorious gang was camped outside of town. John Love, Dexter night marshall, notified Dallas County Sheriff C.A. Knee in Adel. Upon this description and investigation the law officers were convinced it was the notorious Barrow brothers and the gang. On July 24, about 6:00 a.m. a posse composed of state agents, county officers and local law enforcement attempted to capture the Barrow gang. The road and bridge were guarded in an effort to block an escape. The officers walked in on the gang from the west in an effort to surprise them. The shooting began. The bandits took refuse behind their car and opened fire with pistols and automatic rifles. Clyde attempted to drive one of the cars out of the park away from the lawmen, but was met by gunfire again. He was hit in the shoulder and lost control of the car, running over a stump where the car could not be pryed loose. Clyde got everyone out and headed for the other car, but it was no use. The posse shot out all the windows and tires and ruined the engine. The only thing left was to run and hide. W.D. Jones, or Jack Sherman, as he was also known, was stunned again by a glancing shot. Bonnie Park took shotgun pellets to the midsection and “Buck” was hit again. Leaving “Buck” and his wife Blanche behind, Clyde, Bonnie and W.D. Jones waded the South Raccoon River at the east end of the par, east of Spiller’s Cemetery and appeared at the Vallie Feller farm. Vallie, his son Marvelle and a hired man, Walt Spillers, were doing the chores. At gunpoint Clyde forced Vallie and Marvell to get their 1929 Plymouth ready to go, then ordered the Fellers’ to lift the badly wounded Bonnie into the car. They drove away from their farm and back on the current Dexfield Road heading north to make their getaway through Redfield. The Feller car was abandoned in Polk City, Iowa, bloodstained and with a shattered windshield.

A national Guardsman, Dr. Keller and James Young of Dexter came upon “Buck” and Blanche hiding out behind a fallen tree. This well know picture shows Blanche struggling with police officer John Forbes and Ford Knapp as “Buck” lays seriously wounded on the ground, tended by Virgil Musselman in the undershirt and bib overalls. Dexter cafe owner, Harold Myers is crouching down to the left holding the towel. Dr. Keller, in he fedora, is sanding in the front of the car which was brought up to take the prisoners away. Harley Pearce, Des Moines patrolman, took “Buck” and Blanche to Dexter for treatment at the Dr’s. Chapler-Osborn Clinic. An ambulance was called from Perry, 30 miles away, where “Buck” was taken to the Kings Daughters Hospital where he later died. Blanche was treated and taken into custody, first to Adel and then to Des Moines, where she was booked and fingerprinted. She was sent to Jefferson City, Missouri to stand trial for her crimes.

The only injury to the posse was a slight head wound sustained by Deputy Sheriff C.C. “Rags” Riley.

This location was the beginning of the end of the crime sprees for the Barrow gang. On April 16, 1934, they returned to the Stuart area and robbed the First National Bank. History was made on May 23, 1934, when Bonnie and Clyde were gunned down near Gibsland, Louisiana by Texas and Louisiana police officers, bringing to an end the most notorious desperadoes’ crimes in the Depression years.

W.D. Jones and Blanche barrow served time in prison and were later released.
Historical photo

BEAUTIFUL DEXFIELD PARK (Marker citation)
Between Dexter and Redfield on Rock Island and Milwaukee RR
Connecting link between River to River and White Pole Auto Roads

”Dexfield Park opened in 1915 as was probably the most famous entertainment park in the State of Iowa. It was located between Dexter and Redfield on the south side of the Raccoon River. Everything was dirt roads then and when it was muddy the big hill south of the park was impossible for travel with a car. They were open every Sunday and people came from mils around, including Des Moines. Quite often there would be over 4,000 people there.

The park had a large cement swimming pool fed by the nearb y “Marshall Springs”. There was a long line of drinking fountains on the south side of the pool. The spring water was said to have healing qualities for arthritis sufferers. On the north side of the pool there was a large bath house that rented out swimming suits and towels. West of the pool there was a large open-air dance hall where they held dances on Sundays and also during the week. Many good orchestras played there. You entered the park from the west. There was a long lane and a box office where you paid $2.00 for each one to enter. On the south side of the pool there was a pavilion with a cement floor and a restaurant at the east end and the west end where pop, ice cream, sandwiches, etc. were sold.

My father. Charles Coulter worked at one of these, so our family drove a team and a hack and spent every Sunday at the park. I would have 5 cents to spend and on the 4th of July, I would have 25 cents. Of course, the rides, ice cream, pop, etc., were only 5 cents each then. I spent most of my time at the merry-go-round. Boggess, the man who ran it, would let me ride free as their family always rode out with use in the hack and we always took a basket dinner. On the hillside south of the pavilion, there was a large movie screen, where they showed free movies every Sunday night. Up on the hillside beyond that there was a free camping ground and many people had tents and vacationed there. There was also a ferris wheel, a shooting gallery, and many stands where you threw balls and got prizes for knocking over different things. On the northeast corner there was a bridge and a bayou where you could rent canoes. There was a small zoo with quite a few animals nearby. Up a steep hill on the east side there was a big skating rink where you could rent skates and listen to calliope music.

When I was in school we always went out there for all of our parties. There were also different form of free entertainment and side shows. During my school years, Dexfield was my main source3 of entertainment. The swimming pool was open during the week, so it was used a lot. The main part of Dexfield was covered with sand, so it did not get muddy. When I was in high school, five of us girls camped out there for a week. We had an older lady with us as a chaperone. She would take us on field trips in the surrounding woods and tell us about different plant life and trees. There was no plumbing there so it had outdoor toilets on the hillside. They were filthy, smelled bad and no toilet paper of any kind. With so many people using them, you can imagine what they were like.

On the east side of the swimming pool there was a tall diving tower. On special days an expert swimmer and diver was hired to make dives from the top of the tower. It was quite dangerous. There were many picnic tables on the south hillside for people to use.

Later on the park was closed and this was the scene of the capture of part of the famous Barrow gang in July, 1933, when they tried to escape.

I wish Dexfield Park was still there – it was really quite a place.”
Leone Coulter Wells
Dexfield Park Company Incorporated 1915-1933

HISTORICAL PHOTOS

DEXFIELD PARK TODAY

Five Small Towns from Adair to Dexter, Part 3

2011-07-28T11:43:00.012-05:00

Five small towns along a 26-mile section of an old highway west of Des Moines have come together to bring travelers back into their towns.
Adair, the largest of the 5 towns, population of 7,000, is recognizable from Interstate 80 by its yellow smiley face water tower. Downtown Adair is lined with flags, dedicated to the heroes and victims of 9/11.

Founded in 1872 it was named for General John Adair, the War of 1812. The city sits on the highest point on the rail line and the summit is part of the East Nishnabotna watershed for water to flow into either the Mississippi or Missouri Rivers.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Adair Viaduct is an arched concrete bridge over the rail line on 5th street. Built in 1924, the three-span open-spandrel arch bridge is 205.1 ft long, the largest span is 80.1 ft. The bridge is 24 ft wide.

Trying to find a location to get a picture of the viaduct, I finally pulled into the bank parking lot hoping it would be my best view. I’m sure the folks in the bank at Adair are still talking about that crazy lady with the dually from Texas that drove thu their drive-up the wrong way! I just waved and smiled! I tried several times to get a decent picture of the water tower and then a friendly soul told me where to drive to get in behind the water tower.
Then on down the road to Casey.

Casey, population less than 400, founded in 1868, was named for the Irish foreman Patrick Casey who made camp in the area and was in charge of the railroad construction work for the new Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad.
The brick Main Street is lined with antique stores. Today’s Community Center was the Hardware Store where Jesse James and his gang stopped to buy their rope they used in their Adair train robbery.

Just north of town you can still see the wagon trail long abandoned that runs along the fence line north towards the county seat town of Guthrie Center. A portion of the Mormon Trail of 1846 passed though this area. Unable to get a good picture of the ruts, I could see them, but they are grown over with grass and prairie right now. Looks like they need some 'tending to."

I really need to go back to Casey. I was not able to find Veteran’s Memorial Park built by a Casey youth group that features patriotic murals by Ray “Bubba” Sorensen. How can you not find a park in a town of less than 400 folks. There was no one to ask. Nothing moving in town, nothing on the streets, no businesses open, no one in front of homes. I thought I had entered the Twilight Zone. I think I was the only person and vehicle moving in town at the time! Besides, I understand there is some great pie in the diner in town – but it’s only open on Saturday!

Slayton Rock, one of Iowa's largest fully exposed glacial deposits, weighs over 500,000 pounds, is southwest of Casey. It is 16’ high, 14’ wide, 58’ round. Don and Betty Slayton moved it from a nearby farm field. (Bet they needed lots of help!) After starting down the narrow gravel lane, I decided not to wander any further, kinda rutty and narrow for my dually.

Founded in 1869 by Iowa’s first millionaire, Benjamin Franklin Allen, Menlo has a population of 375. During the same year Allen completed his family home Terrace Hill in Des Moines, which is now the Iowa Governor’s Mansion.

Over the years, Menlo has had several names. Bought for $15 an acre in 1868 by B.F. Allen, the town was laid out on July 8, 1869. Initially, the town was called "The Switch," referring to the railroad. Later it was then called "Guthrie Switch” since it was located in Guthrie county. In 1876, the town dropped "Switch" and was then known as Guthrie. However, when the road to Guthrie Center was built, the name of Menlo was substituted fearing confusion with the similar names. No one seems to know what or who is Menlo!

Welcoming you to Menlo is the Friendly Gas Station Man. In 1934, the Nebraska Neon Sign Company manufactured the image of a service station attendant in a blue uniform outlined in neon lights for the Kalbach Oil Company. The sign was to welcome motorists. He is still on duty in his blue uniformed outlined in red neon waving at the passers-by. He will make you smile, and you just might wave back! I did!

Stuart “Over 1700 Good Eggs and a Few Stinkers” according to their city welcome sign.

Originally called Summit Grove, in 1850 a small group of Quakers from Indiana and Ohio settled in the area. In 1870, Civil War veteran, Capt Charles A. Stuart purchased land in the area. At the same time, the Rock Island Railroad was completed. Captain Stuart and the railroad officials determined that Stuart would be the site of the division station and machine shops. Later the Rock Island Railroad would establish division headquarters in Stuart. The railroad wrote a contract that Stuart would be the division headquarters forever. (Some contracts are made to be broken!)

Through the years he engine house was increased to accommodate 38 engines. There was a large machine, blacksmith and boiler shops. By 1875, a workforce of 94 machinist and shop helpers, 45 engineers and 45 firemen were working in the shops. This was the only shop on the Rock Island Line between Silvis, Illinois and Omaha, Nebraska.

Stuart was a hub of commercial activity… banks, hotels, boarding houses, coal dealers, jewelers, surrey factory, cigar factory, saloons, a brewery, feed, dry goods, drug grocery, shoes, clothing and hardware stores, elevators, flouring mill, livery stables, churches, 2 telegraph offices, attorneys, an opera house, and restaurants. Folks in the area no longer needed to go to Des Moines for supplies.

By 1893, the population reached 2,500. This prosperity would not continue. The Rock Island had built a north-south line from Kansas City to Minneapolis which passed through Des Moines. In 1896, a decision had been made to move the division station to Valley Junction. On September 24, 1897, the Rock Island declared that the “railroad shops at Stuart will be cleaned out by Saturday night.” A total of 400 people left Stuart during the next week. Removal of all of the machinery and buildings followed.

Former Rock Island Railroad Depot is now the town’s last link to its railroad past and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Also on the National Register of Historic Places, All Saints Building, built in 1908 it was partially destroyed by an arsonist in 1995. The former Catholic Church is a rare example of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture in the Midwest. The building has recently been restored as the Saints Center for Culture and the Arts and houses the Learning Museum of Religious Tolerance. (I had to swipe a picture from their Facebook page since mine didn’t come out.)

Stuart is also the location of the last bank robbery staged by the notorious Barrow gang. About a year after their Dexfield Park shootout (more about this in another blog entry) and about a month before they died, Bonnie and Clyde robbed the First National Bank of approximately $2,000 on April 16, 1934. The bank closed in 1944, was converted into the Police Station and now houses offices and shops.

And it wouldn’t be Friday or Saturday nite in Iowa without a quarter-mile stock car track, the Stuart Speedway.

Dexter, population just under 900, founded in 1868, was named for the famous New York racehorse popular at the time. The New York Times referred to Dexter as the “Original One Horse Town”.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Roundhouse was built in the 1916. It currently serves as a community center for a variety of community and social functions such as dances, talent and variety shows, theatrical productions, recitals, plays, wedding and anniversary receptions, reunions, church services, club meetings, dinners, flea markets, fitness and sports activities, and basketball games. With a bleacher seating capacity of 1,000, it was used for sectional tournaments. Because of the excellent acoustics and seating capacity, the building was used for activities including school plays, musical presentations and graduation ceremonies. It continues to be the site for annual events including Cruise Nite in June, community potluck at Fall Festival in August, a Halloween party for kids, a Holiday Bazaar in November, an Old fashioned Christmas in December and monthly bingo.
Plans were drawn for a public building of such uniqueness and size that it was the first of its kind in the US. The architect was Major Matthew Leander King, grandfather of actor Nick Nolte. Constructed of hollow blacks, the 100' x 68' building appears to be round at ground level but, in fact, it is elliptical. The roof is domed without support except at the walls. To alleviate fears that the roof would collapse, during construction cars were driven up board ramps onto the roof.

I had hoped to make a stop at Drew’s Chocolates. In 1927, Helen Drew started a candy-making business from the recipes of relatives in New Hampshire. Today, Drew’s still uses the original recipes and equipment in the same house. It is one of the few, if not the only, candy shop in the country that daily fork dips each delicious piece of chocolate by hand. They were closed! Saved a bunch of calories there!

That ends the White Pole Road. Heading back west thru Dexter, I pick up the Dexfield Road and head north to Redfield. But not without a picture of a good ol' fashioned storm cellar!

White Pole Road, Part 2

2011-07-27T20:44:00.004-05:00

I started my trip down the White Pole Road at the west end, Adair. Stopping first just south of I-80 headed toward Greenfield to see Freedom Rock. Painted annually by area artist Ray “Bubba” Sorenson it is a tribute to the men and women in the military and those that have served. Freedom Rock has its own blog entry.

From Freedom Rock, I headed a few miles west on I-80 and to the Adair exit. And yes, you can see the yellow smiley face water tower from the interstate! Stopping in the Kum & Go to pick up an audio tour tape, I hit the road for the Jesse James Historical Marker just west of town.

A large steam engine wheel and some rails marks the spot where the James Gang pulled off the world’s first robbery of a moving train on July 21, 1873. Thinking $75,000 dollars in gold was on the train, they only got away with about $3,000. There was no gold.

Besides Jesse and his brother, Frank, the gang included Jim and Cole Younger; Robert Moore, whose home was in the Indian territory of Oklahoma; Comanche Tony, a Texan; and Cell Miller.

It was about 8:30 in the evening four miles west of Adair when Rock Island Lines passenger train No. 2 was climbing a steep grade and approaching a sharp curve. Two Pullman sleeping cars, five coaches and an express-baggage car made up the train.
Near the end of the curve the James gang lay ready with a rope tied to a rail they had pried loose. As the train rounded the curve the engineer, John Rafferty, saw the rope tied to the rail and immediately reversed his engine. However, the train ran into the gap and turned on its side, killing Rafferty and injuring the fireman. The locomotive tender and two baggage cars were thrown from the track. The train was wrecked west of Adair and 600 or 700 feet east of Turkey Creek bridge.

The gang came out of the brush firing their guns and causing panic. The passengers were confronted by armed men masked in full Ku Klux Klan gear. Not finding the gold, they robbed the passengers, dumping all of their valuables into bags and rode off with a characteristic rebel yell. They disappeared as quickly as they had appeared and headed for their hideout in the hills of western Missouri where they were fairly safe from lawmen among their friends and relatives.

GOING FULL CIRCLE - WHITE POLE ROAD part 1

2011-07-27T20:34:00.004-05:00

In the early 1900s, Iowa roads were horrible, not much better than wagon ruts. They were impassable for weeks at a time due to snow and mud. During rainy times or heavy snow and melting, farmers couldn’t get to market, no one could get to the rails, the mail sat undelivered for weeks at a time. In 1910 Governor Carroll called for a Good Roads Convention in Des Moines. It was decided that a River-to-River Road from Davenport to Council Bluffs would benefit Iowa. People were traveling more with the growing popularity of the automobile.

Iowa then made history and set a record in road building when ten thousand farmers engaged in building a 380 mile River to River Road out of existing lines of dirt road in one hour flat and not one of them received a penny for his service.

(NOTE: Great part of the state for wind turbines!)
About the same time, small towns between Atlantic, IA and Des Moines had been busy building and promoting a road through their towns that would be less hilly, straighter and shorter than the northern section of the River to River.

In 1910, the original White Pole Road followed the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad from Des Moines to Council Bluffs. Early roadways did not receive government funding. It was up to the people to maintain their road in order to attract more business to their communities. Poles along the route were painted white and auto tourists were encouraged to travel the "Great White Way".

In the fall of 1912, the road was extended east from Des Moines to Davenport. In 1913 the Iowa Highway Commission through the Iowa Highway Route Registration Act had the job of registering trails that were more than 25 miles long. October 6, 1913, The Great White Way Association applied for registration and paid the $5 fee. On July 20, 1914, the association was awarded a certificate making it the first certified route under the provisions of the State Highway Commission's rules.

In 1922, the Great White Way Highway merged with the River-to-River Road and over the years merged with more roadways. In December of 1931, sections of the White Pole Road officially became a part of U.S. Highway 6, which at one point was the longest continuous east-west route in the United States stretching from Cape Cod, Massachusetts to Long Beach, California.

In 1947, Highway 6 officially became the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, as a tribute to Union veterans of the Civil War. In 1965, Interstate 80 was completed and the importance of this east-west highway diminished. By 2003, to save the state some money, a section of highway was renumbered 925 and given to the area counties for maintenance and upkeep. That is full circle – back to the care and nurturing of the residents. It was officially renamed the White Pole Road. Poles along this 26-mile stretch have been painted white and once again it's up to the people to maintain the road and grow their communities.

It's the people who built the original road and today it's the people building it again with tradition and spirit.

Day Trip on the White Pole Road

2011-07-27T20:20:00.003-05:00

Monday, July 25th, I made a 280 mile day trip. I've wanted to take a ride down the White Pole Road ever since I read about it while researching the Lincoln Highway.

My trip started out in Marshalltown, down I-80 with a stop at Freedom Rock, back on I-80 a few miles west and north to Adair. That is the first town (from the west) on the White Pole Road.

From Adair, I headed east on the White Pole Road through Casey, Menlo, Stuart and Dexter. The white poles marking the route end in Dexter. From there I took the Dexfield Road north to Redfield. From Redfield, east to Adel. North out of Adel to Perry and from Perry back to Marshalltown.

Terrific day! Would have been nicer if some of the stores, cafes and diners had been open on Monday. I had my heart, and stomach, set on some good small town diner food, but ended up with a ham salad sandwich, a bag of potato chips, RC Cola, and a slice of pizza from a Quick Stop! My sister saved the day by taking me out for a steak sandwich when I got back into town!

Since I'm not sure just when I'll get the entire trip up on the blog, I didn't want you to think I got lost and kept running in circles!

FREEDOM ROCK

2011-07-27T13:56:00.006-05:00

Located just south of Interstate 80 at the Greenfield exit is a large granite boulder that serves as Ray “Bubba” Sorensen’s canvas for patriotic images. In May, every year since 1999, he has painted murals dedicated to war veterans. The unveiling of the annual artwork has become a Memorial Day tradition that draws thousands of people to the rock.

The huge granite boulder came out of the nearby Schillberg Rock Quarry. It weighs about 56 tons and is 12 ft high. For years it was known as "graffiti rock" and was decorated for high school rivalries, love interests and general graffiti. Only once since the tributes began has the rock been vandalized. Sorenson related the incident to an American Forces Press Service report. The vandalism appeared on his tribute painting for the 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in 2001. “But the perpetrator got a punch in the face from a Viet Nam Veteran for his trouble,’ and the rock has remained undisturbed since.

Iowa Pride Note: The soldier pictured on the rock is Iowa’s own Salvatore Giunta. SSGT Giunta ,Hiawatha IA, earned the Nation’s highest award, the Medal of Honor, for saving the lives of members of his squad on October 25, 2007 during the War in Afghanistan. He received the medal during a ceremony at the White House on November 16, 2010.
After seeing the movie, “Saving Private Ryan,” at the age of 19, Sorenson, a student at Iowa State University in Ames, was motivated to paint the rock. "It was right around Memorial Day, and I was driving by that rock and wondered what it would be like if I actually took the time to go out there and paint it. And so I painted it with the flag-raising at Iwo Jima."

Each year he paints over the previous display with white paint and starts with a blank “canvas.” The designs are drawn freehand on the rock. It takes 1-3 weeks, depending on weather and detail, for him to complete the work. He currently resides in Greenfield with his wife Maria. He is a full-time graphic artist/mural painter/photographer who owns and operates Sorensen Studios with his wife, a photographer. He is not commissioned to paint the rock. The expense comes from his own pocket along with the donations and proceeds from merchandise sold at The Freedom Rock Store on-line.

In 2006, some veterans were traveling to Washington, D.C., to spread ashes of fellow Vietnam vets at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall. Along the way, they passed the rock and asked Sorensen if they could sprinkle some ashes at the base of the rock. He told them that the ashes would just blow away in the wind and suggested that the ashes be sprinkled into the paint and he would paint them directly onto the rock so they would be there forever.

The next year, Sorensen decided to leave the helicopters he painted with the paint containing the ashes. Since then more ashes arrived and the process has become a tradition. That section on the north side of the rock is not painted over. He stated, “I’ve changed the two helicopters into one big one, because I added more ashes. Now we are up to 20 different Vietnam veterans’ ashes are painted into the side of the rock.”

HOT, HUMID, STICKY - BUT GOOD FOR THE CORN!

2011-07-24T19:39:00.004-05:00

The week after the storm was spent waiting for things to recover and get electricity back. Not many places open for a day or two after the storm. Those that had electricity had signs out front "WE'RE OPEN." Some stores were open for business, cash only, since they had no access to validate credit cards, etc. A couple of times Bea and I went out for lunch or supper - no need to worry about what you were wearing - one person was just as hot and sweaty as the next.

Utility companies from as far away as Wisconsin were here working on the utility poles and lines, trying to get them back up and the electricity running again. Excessive heat advisories and warnings were posted to start Sunday the 17th and there were still major sections of the city and the county without electricity. Cooling centers were opened in the little strip malls for people to get out of the heat.

By Sunday nite/Monday AM nearly everyone in this area was back on the grid - and the County Fair got off to a roaring start over the weekend. County Fair means stock car races, demolition derbies and truck and tractor pulls. Shady Oaks is just close enough to the fair grounds to experience the roar of the engines. But that's OK - that's part of Summer In Iowa!

Thanks to my sister, my eye appointment that was rescheduled due to the storm was only postponed by a week. I was concerned about possibly having to wait too late to get a follow up appointment (If needed) before I headed back to Texas in September. Bea can handle anything! And it‘s a good thing she did; I do need a follow-up in a month! Doc pleased that the eye is ‘no worse for the wear’ as he put it and the pressure in the eye had decreased to such a level he took me off of the glaucoma med for one month. Then will recheck the pressure to see if I need to continue it. I’m really hoping that means that there is less ‘active’ infection IN the eye. It was the fluid created by the infection that caused the pressure to increase in the first place. Keeping my fingers crossed!

Starting Sunday 17th, the heat index rapidly rose to the 100+ range. Not much hope for a cooler day when the nite time low only gets to 80 and the wake-up AM temp is 84 or 85 already. I try to accept it as Summer In Iowa and remind myself that all this sun, heat and humidity is good for the corn! And I do love me some good ol' Iowa sweet corn!

Tuesday met some school friends for lunch in Williamsburg. We’ve met at this same restaurant for the last few times and I think they remember us – they keep putting us further back in the corner, immediately set a pitcher of ice tea on the table and then leave us alone after they take and serve our order! Great bunch of folks there at the Landmark Restaurant. Ingrid, Judi, Sherri and I just laugh and giggle and carry on like we were still in high school meeting at the Green Mill for a coke!

My sister, always worried about her ELDERLY sister, decided in all the heat, it was not a good idea for me to drive to Williamsburg (don’t know how she thinks I get around when I’m in Texas!) So, she drove me down. She had planned on going to the outlet mall across the highway, but the heat was stifling so she ‘hung out’ with us. She had eaten lunch before we left Marshalltown, so I told her I’d buy her dessert. What a banana split!! Even tho it was delivered with 4 extra bowl and spoons, a half-full bowl was still sent back to the kitchen when we were finished!

Later that same week we made a trip back to Maquoketa where we were born and raised. Only family left in town is in the cemetery so we drive through, check the graves, say HI to all of them and come on back home. While in town we had lunch with Barb and Sheila. I haven’t seen Sheila since I left home, about 1962! We had a little catchin’ up to do! Always great visiting with friends.

Li'lBit hasn't been doing well. She has a horribly swollen salivary gland on the left side of her neck. Doc looked at it when we were last thru Gatesville and drained some fluid off. He checked it under the microscope and didn’t see anything abnormal. The neck doesn't seem to be bothering her -- she is just out of energy; sleeps all of the time. She has been having some minor seizures or tremors of some sort. They seem to be worse when a storm is coming so I don't know if she can sense the pressure change in the air with the on-coming storm or if the storm just scares her. There are some small dogs that set on your lap and tremble -- that is what she does. She has never done this before. I swear if she could get under my skin, she would. I'll have Doc Clay take another look at her when we get back to Gatesville in September. I know it's hard on her being blind and the new trailer, etc. I'm hoping that is all it is - but she is close to 15 years old.

Li’lBit loves to be outside and with this heat and humidity, we haven’t been spending much time out there. She loves to lay up under the trailer – I think she has a nice moist cool spot under there, but I don’t like leaving her out by herself on a leash. She’s never had to do that before and no sense in starting it now!

I Learned A New Word Today! DERECHO

2011-07-17T16:12:00.002-05:00

It's always nice to know what comes around and kicks you in the backside - what kicked my backside this past week was a DERECHO.

According to the National Weather Service, a derecho is a band of storms that have winds at least 58 miles per hour along the entire length of the storm which is at least 240 miles long and lasts a minimum of 6 hours. This storm must also have high or rapidly increasing forward speed. There can be winds in excess of 100 mph within the storm causing damage equivalent to a tornado.

Wind speed is not constant and varies along the line of the storm. The stronger winds, called downbursts, often occur in clusters. The rotor-downburst causes damage in a circular pattern. Although the winds are non-tornadic, tornadoes can accompany a derecho. They are difficult to confirm due to the damage caused by straight-line winds. The winds are not simply gusts or bursts of wind, they are sustained.

Derechos usually evolve from a bow echo formation. They are a widespread, long-lived, violent, fast-moving band in the form of a squall line. They blow in the direction of the storm's movement. They are similar to a gust front, except the wind is sustained and they increase in strength behind a front hundreds of miles long. The storm sweeps across a very large area, both wide and long causing extensive damage.

They usually occur from May to August and peak during the end of June into July. Most common in the Ohio Valley, Upper Mississippi Valley and the Great Lakes region, they occur during periods of extreme heat, forming along the north side of stationary fronts where the most intense heat and humidity is located.

The term “derecho” was first used by Gustavus Hinrichs in 1888 in paper describing the storms. It was later revived by Robert Johns and William Hirt in 1987. It comes from the Spanish word meaning "straight.”

Having been thru a recent derecho, I believe the correct spelling should be DE-WRECK-OH!

Some Summer Recipes

2011-07-14T20:04:00.003-05:00

CUCUMBERS IN SOUR CREAM
4 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
1/2 Tsp salt
1/2 Cup sour cream
1/2 Tsp sugar
1/2 Tsp vinegar
1 TBSP dill weed (more or less to taste)
Place cucumbers in a bowl and add salt. Mix and cover with heavy plate. Drain off juices. Add vinegar and sour cream. Add sugar and dill. Refrigerate

CHICKEN, BARLEY AND CORN SALAD
Main dish salad
1 Cup medium pearl barley
2 Cups chicken broth
2 Cups frozen corn, thawed and drained
2 Cups small tomatoes
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 Cups chicken, cooked and chopped
1/4 Cup sliced green onions
2 TBSP Dijon mustard
1/3 Cup olive oil
1/3 Cup lemon juice
1/4 Cup chopped cilantro or basil
Salt and Pepper to taste

Cook barley the amount of time directed on the package, using chicken broth for the liquid, drain if necessary after cooked.
Mix with corn, tomatoes, peppers, chicken, and green onions.
Combine remaining ingredients in small bowl with a whisk. Pour over salad and toss gently. Chill before serving.
NOTE: I add chopped cucumber, summer squash or any other fresh vegetables from the garden. Cut back on the amount of red and green pepper if adding additional vegetables.

BEAN SALAD
Two 15 oz cans pinto beans with Mexican spices, drained
One 15 oz can garbanzos, drained
1/4 Cup green onion, sliced
oil and vinegar dressing
Herbs and spices of your choice.
Combine beans and green onion.
Toss with enough oil and vinegar dressing to coat, about 1/4 cup.
NOTE: This is really good topped with some small tomatoes and avocado slices.

Lucky Charms

2011-07-14T19:06:00.004-05:00

Judy Garland, as Dorothy, received ruby slippers from the Good Witch of the North, Glinda. The slippers were magical, by clicking the heels three times and repeating "There's no place like home," she could return home to Kansas.

Of course, returning to Kansas would only get me half way back home to Texas, but in the several years I've had the "red slippers" they have surrounded me with their 'magic powers!'

A couple of years ago, I found a yard ornament, a bunny with angel wings with paws folded in prayer. 'Angel Bunny" has been with me since. But I think this storm just about exhausted her!

She has been cleaned up and is back on duty protecting my trailer.

Between my ruby slippers and my Angel Bunny, along with some truly sincere prayers, I've been one lucky camper when it comes to storms.

Too bad I can't say the same thing for this nest of baby birds! Of all of the damage, seeing this perfectly formed nest, no damage, just fallen from the tree and the three babies dead along side, breaks my heart! I so enjoy the birds and hang my feeders as soon as I get to Iowa. To walk out the morning after the storm and see this in front of my trailer seemed so sad.

I'll Admit It! I Was "Shakin'" Scared!

2011-07-13T20:55:00.010-05:00

Monday July 11 I survived Round 1! Winds in excess of 60 mph. It hit before I could get to the 'safe place' so rode it out in the RV. All I could think of was: Let's get this over with -- right now I think I'm scared! Li'lBit was having a seizure -- guess she is my 'storm alert!' Lost power. Without power, I don’t have water.

Computer battery good for 2 hours; wifi battery for about 1 hour. Weather radio and transistor radio have back up batteries. Both power pals have lost some ‘juice’ just setting, but should be able to get a couple of hours out of each if needed. Fridge goes to propane; lights in trailer are 12 Volt but only one storage battery. Not sure how long that would last.

The storm was a goodie! I could tell by the headlights of the vehicles going down the road that trees and power lines were down. A big branch from the tree behind my trailer decided to fall, fortunately away from my trailer. Park owners came by to check on everyone and said winds in excess of 70 mph when it came thru. South side of Marshalltown took the big hit - no tornado reported at that time-- just winds. Semis blown over.

Later we would find out that the winds were 80 - 110 mph and a tornado did ‘dip down’ in the area, just didn’t touch down. Which probably accounts for the way so many trees were twisted off about mid-way on the trunk and long stretches of utility poles were just snapped off.

Just a little humor in all this mess – it was trash collection day in Grimes. Trash bags and trash cans blown all over – not a pretty mess! Don't imagine it was humorous to the people in Grimes. But when I heard about it on the radio, I really needed a good chuckle.

Just before sun-up we were hit with a second round of winds.

As soon as it was light enough, I was out looking for damage, missing plants and bird feeders! Supposed to have had an eye appointment but without power in the city all appointments were to be rescheduled. Trees down all over in the park - truck across from me took a hit when a huge branch fell. The guys are out with the chain saws trying to clean up as soon as there was enough light. Prayers and my ruby red slippers and my new ‘lucky charm,’ my bunny angle garden statue, saved me one more time!

After my first year up here and surviving a string of tornados and high winds, my sister gave me a pair of little girls red sequined dress shoes so I'd have some ruby red slippers! They are my "lucky slippers!" They go with me everywhere!

Later in the day Bea and I took a drive around the area. Gave me a chance to recharge my computer battery in her car! Can't believe the damage. Trees not only twisted off but also uprooted, roofs gone, trees into buildings, outbuildings completely missing in the country - only a concrete pad and some 'junk' left. An entire roof in a ditch. Metal out buildings didn’t seem to stand a chance. More places are using those canvas/tarp covered hoop buildings and they are also all over the fields and on the ground.

Not sure if there will be any more corn. It is all laying FLAT in the fields. Not a good year - too wet to plant, then to cold to grow, finally gets started with a late harvest and now it is laying flat in the field. Glad I'm not farming this year!

Water and electric back about 7:30 PM. The only damage I have found (so far!) - one shattered bathroom skylight. A little duct tape will keep that until I can get back to TX to get it repaired. Thanks Matt for coming to my rescue. I do NOT get up on ladders and trailer roofs!

I’ll admit it - I was damn scarfed as I was laying huddled on the couch with a quilt over my head, hanging onto Li'lBit have a seizure. Not sure which of us was shaking more! I've ridden out some goodies, but this one just wouldn't quit – then when it did, it came around again! Fortunately I took the wind hits on the rear end of the trailer. Not sure I would have stayed up if the wind had hit me on the side.

Another round of storms predicted for late Monday nite/early Tuesday AM but ‘split’ and circled north and south. A full nite of sleep without weather radio alarms going off or having to get up and watch weather radar! Could have slept all day -- cool with a breeze in the AM (but heat advisory and more storms in afternoon-ICK!) The sound of chain saws and wood choppers work me about 6AM! And, you know, I just cannot hear or see a wood chopper without thinking of the movie Fargo and seeing that guy feed that body into the chopper with only the legs and feet sticking out! But I do love that movie!

Next batch of storms was just about 40 miles down the road and headed this way -- but all was well with the world -- no dark red or bright orange on the radar.
But when it hit, it came with winds and pounding rain. I didn't know those high basket cranes could lower so rapidly! They were trimming out the trees and using one of those basket cranes – never saw so many workers disappear for cover so fast! All that rain, then the sun followed by the heat and humidity . Not good for me, but, oh, that corn loves it! Can you tell I really want my Iowa sweet corn!

Repotted all of my plants Tuesday. As they were cleaning up the park, when they found a empty flower pot, they sat it on my table. All of my plants were left potless laying on the ground around the trailer. Wrapped the roots in paper to try to keep them moist until I could get new pots. Now they have all been repotted -- awaiting the next storm!

My big tote box found its way home. I had stored it (empty) under the trailer, It was missing after the storm. The lid was right there - hadn't moved except it wasn't ON the box! Mick found it down in the creek - over a barbed wire fence. That thing had to have been airborne to get thru all of these old oak trees, over a fence and down to the creek. There isn't a scratch on it! The wind does amazing things!

Wednesday the 13th, major portions of the city still without power. Most popular vehicles in town are those belonging to tree service companies and power companies. Electric crews from Wisconsin seen in town today. Took a chance that a Laundromat would be open so headed off to my regular spot first thing in the morning and, a sight for sore eyes! There it was - doors open and lights on! Within a few minutes every machine, washer and dryer was in use. Folks were bringing trash bags full of wet and moldy smelling clothes, blankets, bedding, and rugs. Watching them, listening to them tell their tales of the storm, again I realize just how lucky I was!

From the sounds of the stories, three small towns near Marshalltown are trying to recover. Haverhill, Garwin and Clutier took major hits. It’s so hard for small communities to bounce back.

July 1 - 10 Maybe I'm not far enough north!

2011-07-10T21:45:00.005-05:00

July started out at 81 degrees at wake-up! Nite time lows never got out of the upper 70s! Thought maybe I didn't get far enough north and I woke up in Texas! Stayed inside with the A/C on reading. I'm into a book by Mary Roberts Rinehart. It's 3 different stories reminds me some of Agatha Christie mysteries. They take place prior to WWII. Believe me, no one worried one bit about being “politically correct” at that time!

Saturday July 2 was not a good day for my neighbor. They left on Friday to go to southern Iowa for the holiday weekend. When I took Li'lBit out in the AM, I noticed water running (I should say gushing!) from under their trailer. Got the water shut off; I'm afraid the damage is already done. They were scheduled to leave Tuesday for a family reunion somewhere west. The park owners got ahold of them and they were back here by noon with their son-in-law to hitch up the trailer and take it back home. Hope there isn’t too much damage.

Sunday was a very pleasant days after a run of ‘scorchers.’ 70 degrees, sunny, nice breeze - Sunday is "Brunch with Bea" and I love every minute I can spend with her.

Seems everyone was out on a Holiday Weekend. 4th of July Bea and I went driving for a place open to get something to eat! Finally decided on the Pizza Ranch buffet. Can’t believe so many restaurants were closed on a holiday like this! Fireworks were set off at the fair grounds just a short distance from the RV park. Had a nice view through the trees without all of the noise!

The rain and storms held off on the 5th and Bea and I made a trip down to see the covered bridges in Madison County and do the 'tourist' thing in Winterset Iowa. Stopped and had lunch at the Northside Café on the square, real homemade pork tenderloin sandwiches and onion rings! Saw a few of the bridges, John Wayne's birthplace, a few other touristy things. Unable to get a good view of the court house as it is under reconstruction. Save that for another year. I really would like to see the inside – hear the woodwork is black walnut! Left Winterset and headed to Ankeny and the Okobogi Grill . I had a Groupon coupon so we saved $15! Great Day! I do love to "go-see-do" -- just have to go slower, see it with one eye, and do a little less! But Life Is Good!

Holly has a new playmate. She waits at the window screen every evening for her tree frog friend! They certainly are noisey little devils!

The 6th was a great day. 68 degrees, not too much humidity,sun is out, nice breeze - drinking some good coffee in my souvenier Northside Cafe coffee mug (a really heavy thick mug that keeps the coffee warm!) Laundry, hair cut and grocery day day.

I am sick and tired of stubbing my toes on the table leg of the dining booth! I’m really surprised I haven’t broken one yet. So early Thursday morning I headed out to get one of those foam swimming ‘noodles’ to wrap around the table leg. Called Bea to let her know I was in town, she had to come into town on some errands and we did brunch at Perkins before I came back home. Brunch with Bea is on Sunday NOT Thursday – I was confused for the rest of the week.

Woke up July 9th and heard them talking on the radio about the steam engine making a run from Kellog to Colfax. That’s just down the road from where I am staying. A steam engine – a real steam engine. So pack my lunch and off I go! The event was some sort of fund-raiser for the Kellogg and Colfax fire departments.

On my way down to Kellogg, I saw a series of Burma Sahve signs. I had to stop and back up to make sure that is what I saw! Not enough shoulder to pull over to get a good pic - will have to get my sister to take me out and drop me off so I can get closer to the signs.

After I left Kellogg, I headed over to Newton, the train track runs thru Newton, but I missesd the train. I did notice that there was a guy selling “Sweet corn picked today” in a parking lot. But the lot was already full of people waiting to buy some so I didn’t stop.

When I got back into Marshalltown, decided to head up the main street to see if there was corn here. And there it was - the wagon in the parking lot by the old BP station. The sweet corn is here! Bought a dozen ears.

Sunday July 10 I'm back on track - It's SUNDAY and I had Brunch with Bea -- no more confusion from having brunch on Thursday! Planned on a simple trip to Hardee's - electricity out in town. Went to LeGrand (BIG breakfasts) - so full you couldn't get into the parking lot. Ended up at the Mesqwaki Casino for their Brunch – ate too much and came home feeling miserable!! And it is way to hot and humid for me to take my lungs outside so it was definitely an inside kinda day!

The Bridges of Madison County Iowa

2011-07-10T18:42:00.006-05:00

Evidence of covered bridges can be found as far back as 780 B.C. in Babylon and back thousands of years in China. In America the first covered bridge was built in Connecticut in 1804. Most covered bridges in the US were built between 1825 and 1875.

Of the thousands built in the 1800’s just over 800 survive. Covered bridges can be found in many regions of the U.S. and Canada. New England and Pennsylvania have the largest collection of standing bridges. They can be found in the mid-Atlantic states, in the south, the mid-West, and the Pacific Coast states.

Why Cover Bridges?

The simple answer is to protect the wood from snow, rain, ice, decay and rot. The cover also kept the interior temperature more uniform and less stess from the sun and summer heat on the timbers. Covered bridges last about three times longer than uncovered wooden structures. Most planks used for the base were oiled to protect them from the moisture from the river or creek below. Covering the bridges kept these planks from becoming slippery in the rain.

Some say they were built to resemble barns so farm animals would recognize them as a farm structure and not stampede as they were driven across high above the rushing waters below. This may also account for the use of red paint for most of the bridges.

Additionally, they served as protection for travelers caught out in inclement weather, a resting place for those wandering town to town, and meeting places for lovers. In many places they served as churches, places for town meetings, dances and other community social events.

Building the Bridges

Wood used for trusses had to be straight and lightweight, preferably found near the building site. Fastenings were made of the nearest hardwood, oak, maple or black locust and soaked in linseed oil for preservation and lubrication. These dowels or pegs were then driven through pre-drilled holes. Today’s renovations use metal hardware rather than wooden dowels.

The completed bridge was laid to rest on top of the temporary structure spanning the water and the final moment-of-truth was the destruction of the temporary with the bridge coming to rest on its supports.

When visiting the bridges, take a walk inside. Imagine the size of the trees needed for the intricate criss-cross framework. Imagine the time needed to lay those timbers, drill the holes, pound the dowels and pegs – without the use of power tools!

The Bridges of Madison County

Perhaps the most famous covered bridges are in Madison County, Iowa. Thanks to the popularity of the book and the movie, James Waller’s The Bridges of Madison County. Only 6 bridges of the original 21 survive today in Madison County.

Madison County was ideal for building covered bridges. Its densely wooded river valleys and limestone bluffs provided the raw materials needed. Major crossings were needed on the North Branch, North River, Middle River, Jones Creek, Clanton Creek, South River, Grand River and their tributaries.

In 1868 Eli Cox contracted with the county to build a bridge on the North River near his homestead. The structure was entirely made of wood. Then with his sons George, John, and Alfred, he built numerous wooden and wooden covered bridges. They milled their own the lumber and built the frame work of solid oak. The piers were built of stone quarried near the bridge sites. The mortar was of sand hauled from the creeks and the lime burnt in the Madison County kilns. Many of his first bridges were not covered since the county did not want to cover the extra cost. One of the first covered bridges that Eli Cox built was the Donahoe bridge over the North River.

Another prominent name in the covered bridge building era was Benton Jones. His best work which still stands, Roseman Bridge, the bridge made famous in The Bridges of Madison County.

Here Comes Summer, June 19-30

2011-07-03T18:06:00.004-05:00

Sunday the 19th, Bea and I went out for breakfast, our Sunday ritual. One of the restaurants here in town just started to offer Sat/Sun breakfast -- actually it is more of a 'sports bar' kinda place. Wasn't a bad breakfast - just kinda pricey. I had a skillet breakfast -- chicken fried steak diced up with hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, scrambled eggs and covered in white peppered gravy. As usual, brought half of it home! It was good, but cannot compare to the Sunrise Café in LeGrand!

I picked up sausage links, brautwurst and some pork chops at the grocery, along with a small bag of new red potatoes and planned to grill them with some herbs, zucchini, green pepper, onion, carrots and whatever else I found in the fridge. But my little electric grill died! Bought it at WalMart about 6 years ago – paid all of $18 for it! You’d think it would last forever! But, my sister rode to the rescue. She had a smalll portable Weber grill she had never used, just setting on a shelf in here garage. Now it is setting on a table by my RV! It’s going to take some re-learning – been awhile since I’ve used a charcoal grill.

Happy First Day of Summer! Weather radio went off 12 times between the time I shut down the TV about 10:30 until I decided to crawl out of bed at 12:30 and watch radar on the computer! Could hear the tornado sirens going off in town. Judy came by twice to see if I was OK! Finally went back to bed about 2AM. The Ruby slippers did their thing again! They sure do work!

Woke up Wednesday morning realizing No Weather Radio ALL NITE! Did wake up a couple of times and hit the 'test' button just to make sure it was still working! Thought maybe the last few nites burned it out!

Went to town to do some laundry, check the grocery ads in the newspaper and pick up a few things from the market. I love the newspaper coupons for the meat market! By afternoon it was getting quite windy and dreary. Too windy, damp, chilly to be outside! I can't believe the wind. Not even blowing hard enough to rock the trailer but it just won't stop blowing! Sounds really eerie! Temps dropped all day with predicted 50s at nite – time to get out a blanket!

Have been letting Tinga out to fly about the trailer in the AM. She is definitely a ‘happy camper’ when she is out and about! She is getting better about ‘going home’ on her own. The command “Go Home” means go back to your cage. She is finally learning that THIS current cage is the ‘home’ she is to go to! I suppose she will have to re-learn ‘home’ when we get back to her other cage!

Made some "dessert" and have that in the freezer - just cool whip, instant pudding mix, powdered coffee creamer. But it's really good and I've had some "sweet attacks" for a couple of days. My blood sugar hasn't been low enough to indulge -- even tho a couple of times in the evenings I was about to get into the truck and hit McDonalds or DQ for some ice cream!

Quickie Anytime Easy Dessert
1 package instant pudding mix (any flavor)
3 cups non-dairy whipped cream
2 cups fat free non-dairy creamer (use dry)
1 cup water
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla (or any complimentary flavor)

Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Mix with a mixer until smooth. Pour into plastic container and freeze 2-3 hours.

Survived another storm Sunday nite. I did some rock'n'rollin' here at the park! Wind wasn't hitting me direct from the west so I got a bit of 'side sway!' Poor Li'lBit decided to have a seizure in the middle of the wind so that kinda took my mind off of the swaying.

Did a 'walk-around' in the AM - everything OK. The power of the wind amazes me -- two big flower pots were blown over and not one single seed blown out of the bird feeder!

Went into Verizon to get a new phone and find out what was wrong with my USB Modem. Signed up for their "over 65" plan -- cut back on the number of minutes I use on the phone since I never went over the amount on my other plan. Should cost me about $10-20/month less. I guess it was time to upgrade. I’ve had this phone for near to 6 years and have to tape the cover on to keep the battery from falling out! And, my Alltel USB modem, the same age as the phone, was starting to drop connections – actually, it was getting difficult to get a good solid connection. I guess it was just worn out. Not sure just how to use this new modem thingy -- seems like it takes a lot of prompts to get it going but I'll just have to get used to it -- teach the old dog some new tricks.

An evening trip to Perkins for salad. Nice to see Gene and Vickie.

Woke up Tuesday 28th unable to believe I slept another nite without a weather radio going off! A sunny outside kinda day! Li'lBit and I will could be found at the picnic table!! Judy mowed last nite and stirred up the skeeters so I had to use a ton of Yard Guard!

I think I know why the previous owners may have gotten rid of this trailer -- it is a pain in the ass getting up in that bed and if I have to get up at nite, it is like jumping out a window! I cannot set on the edge of the bed and put my feet on the floor. I had to get me a two-step step-stool and then I have to use my cane to keep from falling off the stool! What a pain in the butt! But I can live with that! This is the perfect size to tow and bring to Iowa!

Excessive heat advisory for the 29th. I managed to be outside most of the day. I can handle some hot & stuffy when there is a breeze - maybe that's why I get along so well in Rockport . Hot is stuffy is great for the sweet corn and I can’t wait to get my hands on some fresh corn direct from the fields!

June 30th I headed over to Williamsburg to meet with Ingrid, Judi and Sherri – some ‘old folks’ I went to school with many years ago! Sherri couldn’t make it, but Ingrid, Judi and I managed to find enough to talk about to keep us there from about 1PM – nearly 5PM! Love getting together with friends!

Is This Heaven - No It's Iowa!

2011-06-29T16:36:00.006-05:00

My Summer Home, Shady Oaks Campground, Marshalltown, Iowa

My Garden - plants and bird feeders make it feel like home

Rear bed slide out - I think I know why the previous owners got rid of it -- I need a 2-step stepstool and my cane to get up into the bed and back out. Definitely not convenient for ol' folks!

I could spend all day (when not under some kind of spring in Iowa weather alert!) right there at the picnic table with a good book and a glass of ice tea!

June 13-19 I Love My Weather Radio!

2011-06-28T09:28:00.002-05:00

My weather radio hasn't 'shut up' since I've been here! Wish I could send some of this rain to the wild fires in AZ! Seemed to have dodged the bullet again! One of these nites I'll get a full-nite's sleep! Mary & Judy gave me a key to the bathhouse in case I want to go in there when it gets windy/stormy.

Finally had some time outside to try to clean up my plants from their trip and no care since they left Rockport! Some are in really shabby shape!

Still trying to figure out where I'm going to put stuff in this trailer! It is a good thing the weather hasn't been the best for setting outside - at least I don't feel so bad about having to get the work done inside!

Ron and Connie Perkins, friends from Rockport 35 RV, pulled in this week - nice to see familiar faces! They would be leaving Friday - headed to Montana and then on to Oregon. With the Missouri River and some of the other rivers in the Dakotas out of their banks, I wish them safe crossing.

Wednesday, at least the weather radio didn't go off last nite -- well, yes, it did once. Holly walked across it and hit the "WEATHER" button! Imagine – the one nite since I’ve been here that the radio didn’t go off with a warning and my cat sets it off!

Well, I got the pilot lite lit and the oven going. It makes a little noise, maybe needs an adjustment? I'll check it out sometime when I want to cook something. I hate messing with gas. Now I have to figure why my sewer won't drain! SHIT! Yup, that's the part that won't drain. Grey water drains fine. Oh, how I love getting used to the 'quirks' of a new RV !

When all else fails - read the manual. When I read the owners manual earlier, it said "possible 3rd valve on some models." I didn't think anything of it, figured that had to be for the bigger rigs.

On my way into town to get an additional hose and plumber snake (have both in the 5the 5th wheel but that isn’t doing me much good up here!)I decided to look for that third pull-gate. Li'lBit was already waiting in the truck, ready to go for a ride. And there it was. There are two pull-gates on the black water drain that have to be opened. One is 1/2 way under the darn trailer - I was soooo glad no one was there to see me get down on the ground, crawl under and get back up! I've left that one OPEN and only closed the one closest to the drain! I'll have to make a note for myself to remember to close it before I leave. In Gatesville, I thought everything had emptied just fine – being lazy and in a hurry, opened both drains at once and just ‘assumed!” they both emptied. I know now I can get twice the time I thought on my holding tank! So grateful I don’t have to ask my sister to be my “plumber’s helper”

Li'lBit wouldn't come out of the truck when I told her we didn’t need to go to town. She was going somewhere even if we didn't have anywhere to go! So, in to town we go for a ride. Anything to keep the puppy happy!

I've been sucking on my nebulizer since I've been here -- happens every year -- new pollens, humidity, etc. Normally only do nebulizer treatment 2 times a day -- but here I have to do it 4 -- at least until things dry out a little.

Been enjoying eating out (and not cooking!) with Bea – we’ve done Antigua’s, Perkins McDonald’s, Legend’s. If there is one thing Marshalltown has, it’s plenty of places to eat! Friday nite we went with Jim and Kathy to Montana Mike’s in Newton. Really good clam chowder and plenty of food on the plate. Loved the cinnamon honey butter for the rolls. And I love places that serve enough I can ask for a "box." That means at least two meals for the price of one!

Started working out my first road trip. I think it will be to Adele to see the brick streets - down to White Post Road - Adair, Casey, Menlo, Stuart, Dexter, and then back home. Should take most of a day so will have to pack a picnic lunch for me and Li'lBit!

Saturday I headed over to Knoxville KOA to meet with some campers for the Escapees Iowa group. I wasn't thinking about not being allowed to take a non-registered vehicle onto the camping area. The ladies at the office told me I would have to leave my truck at the office and walk in. I didn't bring scooter, walker or portable oxygen so walking in wasn't a possibility in this Iowa humidity! The ladies tried tobe accommodating. They offered me the use of the golf cart. Having never driven one, I didn't want to practice with theirs! They thought, if I could get my truck off the drive-lanes, it would be OK to go in this one time -- but after looking at the width of the lanes, wasn't sure I could get my 1 ton dually off the drive path far enough so I just came on home. But it was a lovely drive and I did enjoy a nice lunch in Newton before I headed back.

First Week In Iowa

2011-06-25T20:43:00.002-05:00

June 9th, I wake up in Iowa - I'm Here! Can't believe after eating nuthin' but chips and cookies and donuts - drinking sodas - going to Wendy's last nite - my blood sugar this AM was 122! What's with this eatin' healthy stuff!

Cool enough here that I won’t need the A/C for awhile. Worked and struggled trying to open windows. I don't think these windows have been opened! Took a bunch of prying to get them open. Can't say they don't seal good!

Needed to get the plants outside and empty the kitty litter. I love having that little bunk house door when it comes to emptying kitty littr! Found my weather radio!

Poor Tinga has been cooped up since Sunday so I finally let her out for awhile. Can't accomplish much if I have to open any doors with her out!

This 23 ft trailer could probably get really small if it rains all summer! Can't get the oven pilot lite to work, stove part works so it's getting gas, just can't get the pilot to work and I'm to old and fat to be laying on the floor messing with gas!

Found a few "ripples" in the ceiling that I didn't see before (but you always see things when you just set and look around!) Not sure if it was a water leak at one time; no signs of it leaking now and there was enough wind and rain, if it was going to leak, I'd be swiing!

Probably should have taken this thing on a 'shake down' cruise before I headed to Iowa! I can live without my oven (as soon as I get to Goodwill and get me a crock pot!)

I've started a 'repair' list for Deryl to check when I get back to Rockport! He doesn't know it yet!

Having computer problems. Can download gmail email (right now anyway!) but unable to get to websites, therefore no Yahoo mail and no Face Book! What a bummer -- definitly need a repair guy.

Haven't done any laundry since I first arrived in Gatesville. Laundry went up. $2 to wash and 25 cents only gets you 6 min drying time! OK I'm done bitching now -- I'm still a happy camper!

Stopped at GoodWill, Couldn't find a toaster or crock pot, did find some small items I needed and they had a plastic set of 3 drawers for $5 so I got that for storage. Goodwill sure went up in their prices. Couldn't remember how to get to Salvation Army, tried to find it but went in circles so went back to Wally World and bought a small crock pot.

The creek behind the park is out of its banks and up to the back road. That must mean Mary's basement is flooded! Lots of limbs and branches down in the park.

I arrived Wednesday about 2:30 -- by 8PM the rains had started -- by 10PM with winds rolled in and it is still going! Last nite my weather radio went off several times between 7PM and 1AM with alerts for winds, hail, etc. One said to prepare for winds in excess of 70 mph coming in behind the front that was passing thru with the rain and hail. Fortunately, the winds weren't too bad - but I sure notice them more in this trailer than in that big 5th wheel!

OOPS! I have a leak -- not a bad one and didn't start dripping until this afternoon and we have had winds, rain and hail last evening, rain and wind all nite and rain most of the AM. It is around the vent in the bathroom. It is the one with the fan in it -- it's not one I had them put the maxi-air covers on but I think there is a cover of some sort over it. Not sure if it is that the vent cover doesn't seal tightly or if I need to get up there and caulk around it -- but I'm sure not going to get up there while it is wet! Not a bad leak -- I just noticed a couple of drips on my head while I was setting on the pot yesterday! Put a towel down to see how bad it was and it wasn't much. Might just be coming thru the vent rather than leaking around it. The winds are strong enough they could lift the vent cover a little. Putting an RV thru an Iowa spring is definitely one way to find leaks!

Something is wrong with the computer. I turned it on and no matter what I tried to do, it tried to send an email to some strange address and then kept prompting me to make a payment for virus protection. In the meantime, I got a couple of emails from people saying they got blank emails from me.

Dropped the computer off at Staples Saturday AM to have it checked, then headed to Des Moines with Bea for some shoppping. While in Des Moines, Staples called to say the computer was ready – picked it up Sunday! The tech said it had been ‘hijacked’ and removed several virus programs. He suggested I change all of my passwords. Bea and I ate at Hickory Parks BBQ in Ames on the way home.

The credit card company called me Sunday AM asking me if I had made a purchase at some on line place - I didn't recognize it and told them I hadn't made any on-line purchases - I was on the road traveling. So they recommended I cancel the credit card and they would issue me a new number. I can’t believe it – credit card and computer both taken over by gremlins! Fortunately both have been found and repaird without any major financial damage.

Since I've had no further leaks at the bathroom vent, I'm hoping it was just the high winds that blew up the vent and let the water in.

And that is my first week in Iowa!

June 6-7-8 On The Road

2011-06-25T19:57:00.003-05:00

Left Gatesville after a visit to Orville’s tire shop. No problems hauling the trailer – in fact, several times I looked back to make sure it was still there. I have a list of fuel stops where I knew I could get the 5th wheel in and out – but didn’t need them. The little trailer pulls in just about anywhere it wants to!

Arrived at Guthrie OK Pioneer RV park mid-afternoon. Hooked up water and electric, cranked the A/C up full blast. It was 99 degrees with a hot dusty wind blowing at 25mph! 16.25 mpg from Gatesville to Guthrie -- not bad!

Tuesday nite - Homewood RV Park, Homewood KS - actually Williamsburg near Ottawa. I guess it pays to stay at the same places each time. When I called for reservations, she told me to ‘just pull in and pick a spot, I’ll settle with you later.” She fell and cracked her foot so probably wouldn’t be at the office.

My sister said they were predicting temps in the 60-70 degree range for the end of the week. Definitely looking forward to that. Been in the 90s for a long time now and nite temps don't get out of the 70s....too warm for this time of year.

I have my morning 'on the road' check list and added stabilizers to it!
Decided to put the stabilizer jacks down; windy up here on this hill in Kansas! 310 miles to Marshalltown! Fortunately Bea told me about the change in the exit from I-80 to the “diagonal’ to Marshalltown. It had been a left exit and I would not have been a happy camper to find myself in the wrong lane to make the new exit!

Pulled into Shady Oaks, Marshalltown, about 2:30 on Wednesday. Randy came by after work to back me in and help set up with utilities. Messed with the antenna and have TV (so I can get the weather!)and just in time. Severe thunderstorm and hail warnings! I had no idea where my weather radio was! Can't survive in an RV in Iowa without a weather radio but I do have my “ruby red slippers’ that Bea gave me after my first tornado season in Iowa!

I'm here -- settling into my summer home! Li'lBit knew where she was -- bounded out of the RV, tail going a mile a minute and running about greeting everyone. We're Home!

June 1 - 6 On My Way to Iowa

2011-06-25T18:52:00.003-05:00

June 1st I took Li'lBit over to her old vet to have him look at that place on her throat. He checked her over really good and aspirating that swelling on her neck to make sure it wasn't anything 'serious!' Said he didn't see any "unusual or abnormal" cells when he looked at it. He feels it's best to keep an eye on it and leave it alone. I'll have him check it when I'm thru town again in September. But while I was there, had him give her the rabies and other shots she gets every year. Spending time in GV really hits the wallet by the time I get all the 'well-baby check ups' on critters and the truck!

Stayed dusty and hot hot hot; didn't even cool down much at nite. The humidity was low, but the dust! WHEW! Dusty hot air really zaps my lungs. It just blew all of the time and swirls in little "dust devils.” I wasn't in town for more than 24 hours before I started having trouble breathing. Good thing I didn't have any plans that included outside activities!

Finally got my oxygen concentrator dug out from the pile of junk, hooked up and started using it at nite. AND, it fits under the table so I don’t have to trip over oxygen tubing running from one end of the trailer to the other! It will have to be moved back into the bunk house area for travel; I can't put the table down while it is under there.

Still can't figure out where I'm going to put all of the stuff I packed and tossed into this place. I’m not going to have to do much grocery shopping other than meat and fresh fruit/vegetables -
=this summer!

Li’lBit is totally blind now from the cataracts in both eyes. She is having a hard time adjusting to the trailer -- but can find her bed, her food & water. And, there is only one step to get outside. But my bed is so high she can't get into it.(I can barely crawl up into it!) She fell off the sofa - scared the crap out of me -- she just stayed there, not moving - she was breathing, but not moving. Must have just knocked her dizzy, she eventually came around, but I made a mad dash to Waco PetSmart to get some doggy steps. Will be interesting to get to Iowa and see if she can recognize the park and the smells up there!

Holly just lays around on the bed at the back window all day - lazy cat! Tinga is not a happy camper -- but is surviving! I think she will be happier when I get her little corner all fixed up for her so she can be out of the cage for longer periods of time.

Seems like I just got to Gatesville and it was time to get ready to get back on the road! Finally got the trailer set up – and then it is time to pack the stuff up again and head to Iowa -- leave out June 6 AM.

Running errands, then to Johnnie's for coffee, lunches with Brenda, or lunch or ice tea in the afternoon with others. That's it! Such a social whirl!

Have started noticing some problems with the trailer – the things you only notice after you live in it for awhile. Do have to figure out something with the toilet holding tank. Trailer is so small, you can smell it, not bad, but I know it is there. It’s really bad when I put on the vent fan in the bathroom. Maybe something blocking the vent pipe? Will check when I get to Iowa.

Kept a close eye on the weather up through Oklahoma and Kansas – seems they have had more than their share of winds and tornadoes this spring. The Missouri River was still within its banks at my crossing in KS City. Reservations were made for Guthrie OK the first nite and Homewood KS the second.

Doesn't take anytime at all to hitch up the trailer so I waited unto Monday AM to do it. With Fred there to help, it was done in a flash!

June 6th off to see Orville and have all tires checked and aired and head north!

A Visit in Gatesville, May 26 - 31

2011-06-23T09:36:00.002-05:00

MAY 26 – moving north day! 6:30 AM and already 78 degrees! Packed up the last bit in the truck and headed to Deryl & Elke’s. Took no time at all to hitch up and move out. Terrific trip – easy trip – Just about 6 hours up Highway 77 and over to Gatesville on Highway 36. Gatesville a little after suppertime. Fred was there to help me unhitch. Sure is easier for me than that 5th wheel. Trailer pulls like a dream -- had to look back to make sure it was there! Coming up with the 5er, I would fill up just south of Temple -- if not, I'd run out of fuel or go in an the fumes! Took just about 3/4 tank towing the trailer -- and I was clipping right along about 65-70 most of the way with the A/C blasting on full/high! As soon as I ran out to Johnnie’s for coffee, I could start trying to figure where to put all my stuff in such a little space!

Friday the truck went into Orville’s for oil change and a check-over. Haven’t had anymore trouble with the oil gauge since I hit the guy on the trike! Guess the impact knocked whatever was stuck ‘unstuck!’

It’s great seeing Brenda again. Brenda and Samantha came into town and we met for supper – and she was loaded down with a big box of mail, catalogues, magazines, etc. Took me most of my time in Gatesville to go through all of the stuff!

Sunday dinner at Johnnie’s – she fixed chicken fried steak, frog eye salad – my ‘coming home’ Sunday dinner! Yummy meal-- not only did she have my favorites - she made one of her 'world famous' chocolate cakes for my birthday. Of course, it didn't seem like Sunday at Johnnies since all of Dori's bunch was gone!

Hadn’t done any laundry for about 2 weeks before I hit the road – brought it all with me and hit the laundromat Sunday afternoon. Nice and quiet(and cool) when I got there; I was the only one there! By the time I left, it was filling up and really getting hot and humid. Speaking of HOT - 97 degrees. Only 30% humidity but that means every little breeze stirs up clouds of dust! Sure glad I moved away from here! I'm already 'feeling' it!

Gonna take me awhile to figure out what goes where, there is so little storage and next to nothing for under-compartments! I know I brought too much stuff, but I was cleaning out the 5th wheel and tossed all of my "extra stuff" into the trailer!

L'ilBit and Holly don't seem too happy with their new home and Tinga is down-right pissed that she is in a smaller cage. Oh, well, it's just for the summer and summer homes are never as big as winter homes! Oh, and I have to get used to my laptop again with this tiny keyboard and this screwy mouse pad thing! I think, when I get to Iowa, I'll probably invest in a mouse and keyboard -- or it could be a long summer for me, too!

Definitely didn't get far enough NORTH soon enough! Still in the upper 90s every day. Doesn't get below 75 degrees at nite! Good thing I have an A/C!
Mary Jane had to come to Gatesville so we spent 1/2 the afternoon gossiping at Swindalls! Brenda came in to visit for awhile. Then went to Ace Hardware to pick up the water filter and electric 'dog bone' I needed. Johnnie’s son Toby is manager and I was talking to him Sunday - can't find a 50 amp to 30 amp dog-bone electric adapter -- my trailer is 30 amp and all the boxes here in the RV park are 50 amp -- Fred had one so I'm borrowing his but need to get one for the trailer. Of course, I have one in the 5th wheel! Have a water regulator there, too. Now I have one of each in each place! Are we talking 'duplicates' here?

RECIPES

2011-06-23T09:23:00.001-05:00

SQUASH CASSEROLE
6 medium summer squash (about 2 c. mashed or sliced thin)
1 small onion, chopped or sliced thin
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
1 can cream of chicken soup (or cream of anything soup)
1 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
2 eggs, beaten
Dash of salt and pepper
optional - - pimentos, green pepper, diced left over meat, or pecans

Cook squash until tender. (Can be nuked in the microwave) Drain well, then mash (or leave sliced). Stir in the butter, then add remaining ingredients. Pour into greased casserole dish. Top with Ritz cracker crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees about 40 minutes

CHICKEN NACHO CASSEROLE
5 cups crushed tortilla chips
4 cups cooked, chopped chicken
2-16 oz salsa
1/4 cup fine green onions
1 can of Mexicorn, drained
1/2 cup sour cream
2 BSP flour
1-1/2 cup Monterey Jack

Preheat oven to 350* and spray a 13x9 casserole dish.
Put 3 cups of the chips in a bowl. Mix all but cheese and chips.
Bake 25 minutes. Top with chips, then cheese. Cook 10-12 minutes.

PINAPPLE CREAM PIE DIABETIC
1-1/2 cup cold milk
1 pkg. vanilla sugar free instant pudding
1 pkg. light cream cheese
1 (8 oz.) can sugar free pineapple, drained

Let cream cheese set out overnight at room temperature. Set milk out to bring to room temperature. In medium bowl, gradually add milk to cream cheese. Mix until smooth. Add pudding and mix; beat until smooth. Add pineapple; mix well. Pour into your favorite ready-made 9 inch pie crust. Refrigerate 1 hour before serving. Serve with whipped topping.

Last Minute Details May 23-25

2011-06-23T08:41:00.003-05:00

When I realized that I was not going to be transported up during the Rapture predicted for May 21, I figured I’d better continue with my plans for my summer in Iowa! Routine ‘getting ready for vacation” chores were being accomplished and checked off the To-Do list. Cupboards clean, freezer defrosted, sweep, vacuum, dust, wipe down, wash up, ice maker put into full swing to get enough ice to chill down the coolers. I really forgot just how heavy that ‘portable’ icemaker is. All refrig/freezedr foods needed to b e packed in the cooler and taken to the trailer. Not having electricity to cool down the fridge in the trailer, I wanted to make sure I had enough ice to keep things cool until I get settled in Gatesville and plugged into shore power.

Out running errands, my oil gauge was going crazy – naturally, I’m scheduled to leave in a week! Stopped to have it checked – seems it is just ‘stuck’ – oil pressuare, etc is fine. Will have it checked when I get to Gateville and have the "Well-Baby" check up on the truck.

Tuesday had my last nail appointment before the trip and it was definitely a case of poor planning. After the appointment, I went to the trailer to move some stuff around to make room for critters and plants. What a mess I made of the nails! Fortunately I had a similar color somewhere but had to wait until I got to Gatesville to find it.

Tuesday nite the RV35 Trailerhood “left-overs” went to the BBQ place to eat. Love going out with the ‘gang.’ Always a great time. Wednesday evening I met with Deryl & Elke at HuDats.

Thursday noon I planned on meeting Donna for lunch at Apple Dumplin’. On the way into town there was a minor set-back. When I got home I sent an Email to Deryl to tell him the blue trike with the bent wheel setting by his boat was the prize I won for hitting the guy riding it! Long story -- everybody is OK - I'm out $250 to buy the guy a new (used) trike -- cop recorded the transaction and included it in his report so there shouldn't be any further problems. The guy kept saying he wanted a new bike over and over again.....looks to me like one wheel and rim needs to be replaced -- but what do I know -- so went to the bank -- counted out $250 smackers in front of the officefr, on tape, and written -- then the guy wanted to know how he was to get his bike home (the damaged one.) He was informed, "Sir, Ms Fahlsing just bought that bike for $250!" Was a little late for lunch with Donna, but soup, sandwich and apple dumplin’ at the Apple Dumplin’ with a good friend is good anytime! Leaving out in the AM.

Now I'm Suffering from Hitch Itch!

2011-05-22T14:44:00.003-05:00

The more I worked at the trailer, the more I love what Deryl did with the ‘remodeling’! The bottom shelf is out of the little wardrobe; I can hang my blouses & t-shirts and not have them dragging bottom. And, he cut off 1/2 the top bunk. It really opens up that space. It's like having another room! I can stand up and get to the shelves behind the wardrobe. It's going to make a nice computer/office area! And it will be really nice for the critter's food/water, Tinga's cage and the kitty litter! Kinda sums up my life - critters and computers!

He left 1/2 the bunk, from behind the bathroom wall to the front of the trailer. It holds 5 plastic totes and I can stack 5 more on top (if I have to!) There is plenty of support since it was a bed, so it will hold quite a bit of weight.

Back at the 5th wheel, my toilet 'flap' won't spring back. And that's the thing that keeps out the "out house" smells and holds the water in the bowl. It had been getting 'sluggish' so I sprayed some lubricant around and that helped for awhile, then it really stuck! At least it stuck OPEN and not closed so I could still use the toilet! $67.50 later and it’s working. Repair guy isn't sure how long it will work! Or, on the other hand, he said working it may 'fix' it. If not, I'm looking at about $200 repair when it messes up again.

Met Deryl & Elke down the road at the Mexican place one evening. Yummy supper! Brought 1/2 my combo plate and all of Deryl's guacamole home! I just love it when people don't like guacamole - more for me!

This move is a good chance to clean my pantry in 5th wheel. I just HATE the little pantry closet. It is so narrow and really deep. Even stretching, I cannot reach to the back. If something gets shoved back there, it gets stuck there 'cuz I can’t see it and forget it. All of that stuff has been pulled out and moved to the trailer so I can use it up this summer before I have to throw it out!

Li’l Bit made a return trip to the trailer. The last time she was over there all she did was stand in one spot and shake! Poor thing. Hard being an old blind dog and having to figure out a new home and new smells! If I'd been thinking, I'd have taken something that smelled like her or Holly! This time I took her "outside" rug and water dish. Could be a long summer for her if she doesn't figure it out! She was better the time. However, I'll need some colored tape or reflector strips for the steps and figure some way to contrast the color of the floor with the furniture. The décor is really bland shades of brown color scheme! She can't judge distance getting off the sofa to the floor. Having vision in only one eye, I can understand that distance/contrast thing! I have the same problems!

Instead of the Tuesday night RV park “left-overs’ supper out, we did a late lunch with Connie & Ron at the Big Fisherman. They left Wednesday for points north. I’ll get to see them later since they will be at Shady Oaks the end of June. Normally, I avoid the Big Fisherman like the plague at lunch time. Lots of good food for a reasonable price and the lunch lines go around the parking lot! When we arrived at 2:30, the place was nearly empty! Couldn’t pass up the fried fish/shrimp/French fries combination and a $1 Margarita! (A VERY small margarita but good!)

Went to the Craig’s Tires - aired tires, checked them, filled all my washer fluids, etc - $5 - wasn't sure I could afford it! They have been good to me about airing up my tires in all the years I've been here so I just keep going back!

Towards the end of the week, the humidity was really too high for me to be working in the trailer. I don't have anymore to haul over – just had hoped to put some of it way since by now there is no organization to the bags and boxes I’ve hauled over there! I’m sure I’ve taken stuff over that I’ll never use, but better to have it than have to go buy it if I need it! Guess I don’t need to tell anyone what a pack rat I am!

Friday, just like the rest of the week, 75 degrees, 93% humidity at 7AM – not much done outside at all! And the A/C in the 5th wheel is really getting a workout!

Saturday we had our breakfast in the activity building. Belgian waffles with strawberries, biscuits, gravy, sausage, OJ, coffee – all for $3. YUMMY! Kathy & Carol put it all together and did a great job.

By Sunday I was down to the last few days before the trip north – and yes, I do have a good case of ‘hitch itch!’ Defrosted the freezer in the 5th wheel in the AM and then put the portable ice maker into service getting ice ready for the coolers I’ll need for the move. Not much food left in the fridge or freezer so I shouldn’t have move a lot.

May Starts off DRY!

2011-05-15T14:50:00.003-05:00

May started with Texas still in a drought situation, wild fires in or near every county in the state, two firefighters killed early on in their efforts to contain the fires. The weather was not quite air-conditioner-needed-everyday, but did have to turn it on once in awhile to get some relief from the hot and dry! Weatherman said we have had more wind than in many years – but I think the wind (when not gusting too high)is a saving grace! There are days that it is too hot to be inside without A/C but it is quite pleasant setting outside in the shade with a breeze. Oh, do I love my patio set and my rocking chair!

When that gulf breeze gusts, it feels like it sucks the air right out of me. After my adventure to the Corpus Christi bird mart, I was still having some respiratory difficulty early in the month. As always, eventually it cleared, life goes on and life is good!

In years past, I have found myself occasionally waking up about 1:30 AM, unable to get back to sleep until nearly 4-5 AM. This complicated matters when I was required to be at work in the AM, but being retired it is just another sleep-in day. I call those awake periods my ‘dream time,’ someone from the other side is calling my name. The amazing thing about ‘dream time’ is that it doesn’t seem to bother Holly & Li’lBit. They can snore right on through the nite, so evidentially no critters from the other side are calling their names!

Tony & Allison (park owners) left after church for points north and east to visit family. Will be gone for a month, so I won't see them ‘til I get back from Iowa. I wish them safe and happy travels.

A cold front came through early in the month - woke up to 64 degrees and nice gulf breeze. Was definitely going to be a nice day to drive to Kingsville, about an hour south of Rockport. Wanted to go to the Kleburg Bank. They were kind enough to grant me the loan for the new-to-me trailer and I wanted to make sure I had it set up on auto-withdrawal payments. It’s been so long since I’ve had to make an actual payment by putting a check in the mail, I’m afraid I’d forget and loose my ‘summer home!’

Nice drive to Kingsville. Nice town. Want to go back and check out a couple of the museums I saw signs for along the way. When I got home about 2PM it was still only 68 degrees! NICE!

Sure glad my sister keeps me in hoodies! I had to put one on to take Li’lBit out one morning. We had a couple of nites with lows in the 40s and that does make for a chilly walk in the AM!

Electric rates are going from 15 cents to 18 cents per KW hour. At least with the temps never getting out of the 60's today - didn't need A/C or the fans! Probably easier to accept a raise in rates on a cool day than on a day when the A/C is running full speed ahead!

Li’lBit needed a return trip to the vet for a follow-up. Her salivary gland is still swollen; I've noticed it comes and goes. Vet says "leave it alone." He doesn't think she needs to be subjected to a bunch of testing and surgery at her age and in her physical condition - UNLESS it gets worse or she is in pain. So we will check it again when I get back from Iowa in the fall.

Tuesday PM is dinner with the RV park “left-overs” at Mack's BBQ. Yummy brisket and lots of it! Should have brought 1/2 home; I was miserable! But when I'm setting there talking and eating and everyone else is talking and eating, I just keep shoveling it in! Came with 2 sides - I had carrot salad and cole slaw. Their potato salad looked more like mayonnaise and mashed potatoes. They had lots of different beans and stuff,but I wasn't in the mood for beans and potatoes. Boy! Am I getting fussy or WHAT!?

My project regarding the move to the trailer is to eat up the food I have here and not be buying more. It is a good reason to clean out the pantry and get rid of a bunch of boxes, cans and jars that have been pushed to the back. It is also a good time to make sure I don’t leave anything here over the summer that will attract crawly little critters while I’m gone.

However, it sure is cause for some strange meals It is giving me a good chance to clean out the freezer, fridge and pantry and toss out a bunch of stuff that ened up pushed to the back.

Stopped at the Dollar Store to pick up a can of spaghetti sauce - I would thaw out some hamburger and get that out of the freezer, use up an onion, the rest of the mushrooms, my green pepper and whatever else needs to be cleaned out of the refrig that will go in spaghetti! - guess what I was eating the rest of the week.

I won’t even go into detail on the use of frozen oysters and stove top stuffing! I have certainly created some unique meals!

While at the Dollar Store, I noticed a nice little footstool, can be used as storage - $10. I think it might work as a base for Li'lBit's steps up to the bed. If not, I'll just use it to put my feet on when I'm lounging on the sofa watching TV! I'm probably going to miss my recliner for awhile until I get used to setting on the sofa. I had the sofa taken out of the 5th wheel to make room for Tinga's cage and my recliner!

Another busy day even for a social butterfly. Donna emailed and said she would be in town, did I want to meet for lunch about 11 at the Chinese buffet -- Of course! Finished visting with her in time to run an errand and then to Panjo's Pizza to meet the ladies bunch - just had ice tea there -- didn't order any food!!! Then went to drop some stuff at the trailer. Came home to loaf around with Li’lBit, a good book, an ice tea and a nice quiet afternoon!

We all met at the flagpole here in the park for National Day of Prayer. It was a very pleasant ceremony.

Thursday was a busy day. Headed to Wally World about 10AM, then to lunch with Roberta and the in-town RV gang. Ate too much lunch! Had a patty melt with onion rings and a cup of lobster/shrimp bisque. Oh, my it was good! Brought the patty melt home for supper! Found a new place to eat – The Sugar Shack. It’s been there all along, I just thought it was a bar – well, it is, but they also have some great food and entertainment on the weekends.

Then off to the trailer to dump a small load and try to consolidate some of the multitude of plastic bags full of stuff I’ve just tossed inside! I managed to get a couple of tote boxes cleaned out and get some stuff organized. I'm not going to worry about putting stuff away until I have time to wipe out the cabinets, etc. I'll do that when I'm in Gatesville. Just want to make sure have floor space for Li'lBit's and Holly's beds, Tinga’s cage, critter food & water bowls and the kitty litter! (the important stuff!)

My cell phone is dying. I'm going to need a new one and when I get one, I'm going to loose my "deal" from Alltel that was 'grandfathered' in when Verizon bought Alltel. So, I’ll not only need a new contract for cell phone service but for my USB modem for the computer.

Went to Wally World, the WalMart here doesn't handle Verizon...sent me to Aransas Pass, about 15 miles down the road. After messing around with them for nearly an hour, the lady was new and waiting for Andrea (by the way, she never returned from lunch!) - only to find out they cannot upgrade/change my USB modem - only the phone. Have to go into Corpus to the Verizon store. I don't think so! I've done a little shopping/comparing -- Verizon is probably not my best deal – but I know Verizon will cover Iowa, central TX and Rockport (if not well, it at least gets reception!) Will check and see if there is still a Verizon store in Gatesville - but I think it was closed the last time I was in town. This is turning into a pain in the butt! I know there is still one in Marshalltown, IA. Will probably just wait ‘til I get there.

Spent Mother’s Day with Deryl & Elke and their family. Nice lunch - nice visit! Humidity was up so it was a do-nothing day when I came home.

Received an email saying that my baby sitter had passed away. How sad. Rhoda had been my baby sitter when I was little and had taught me to play canasta. Made it a sad day.

Busy day in retirementville. Nails done at 1PM, meeting Donna for late lunch at Whataburger, then it's RV park 'left overs' out to eat at Macks BBQ again. Can’t say NO to a Whataburger so I ended up only having ice tea with the “left over” gang.

May 10th my computer died (power failure thing - not a computer crash!) When I got turned back on, all of the email I downloaded from GMAIL to my email program disappeared. I have no mail from Feb 10th on! Have no earthly idea what happened. Hope there wasn't something in that batch I was supposed to answer!

Wednesday lunch group went to Miss Steaks, a little dive up north of Copano Bridge. Used to be Caroline's in an old green dive, now it is Miss Steaks and Caroline has moved to an old yellow dive - not in much better shape - just bigger! But the food is still too much and too good and great prices! Didn’t get home ‘til late afternoon - oh, my - we do get to chattering! Had a good hamburger with cheese and mushrooms, bacon and a 'special sauce' (tastes a lot like A-1 steak sauce!) But it was good! Came with lettuce, tomato on the side, pickles and french fries - really FAT french fries. Ate the lettuce, tomato, pickles, french fries and the stuff that slid off the hamburger (mushrooms, some cheese, bacon)and brought the hamburger home for supper. That's another exciting day in retirementville!

So far no rain-- just cloudy and humid -- I needed to water plants. Guess I'll have quite a few to haul with me to Iowa. Wasn't thinking when I started planting my little 'garden' this spring! Of course, when I was doing that, I was still thinking I'd be here all summer!

Finally about 3PM, thunder, lightning (not much) and RAIN -- Lots of rain pounding on my roof!! YIPPEE! Wasn't sure I'd remember what rain was when the weatherman said there was rain predicted for today! He finally got something RIGHT! We got just under 2 inches of rain. Power out down around Corpus and some minor street flooding, the rain came all at once. The high winds and heaviest part of the storm was out on the gulf before bedtime! Guess I wouldn't have needed to water my plants in the AM, huh?!

After working several days in the trailer, I emailed Deryl that I had a project for him. Remove the shelf in the closet so I can hang clothes without them wadding up at the bottom and go ahead and remove the open portion of the bunk, leaving ½ of it to be used as a shelf.

Saturday, May 14, I wasted the entire morning watching the aerial warfare going on outside my window. The park is full of those huge noisy black birds that Tinga likes to mimic. BUT, it is nesting time now and a couple pair of mockingbirds are nesting in the trees out to my back. There is absolutely nothing meaner and more protective than a mockingbird. And it looks like aerial war footage from WWII out there -- the sleek fighter jets (mockingbirds) taking chase to the big lumbering bombers (the black birds)! As soon as the war is over, I'll get up and do something!

Finally, when I did get up and do something, I headed over to the trailer to show Deryl exactly what I wanted removed. Had a nice visit with Deryl and Elke, always do! He didn’t waste anytime attacking the project – got an email a couple hours after I left to say it was completed! Sunday AM I took a few more things over and ‘inspected’ the workmanship. It is wonderful! Just what I needed, it’s almost like having another little room! Will make a great office/computer space – along with pet space and storage area. Can’t wait to move in and start using it!

April Recipes

2011-05-13T19:28:00.003-05:00

KATHY'S STUFFED FRENCH TOAST
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup butter
2 tsp corn syrup
8 eggs
1 ¾ cups milk
1 ½ tsp vanilla
8 oz cream cheese softened
1 loaf French bread

Grease 9 x 13 pan
In sauce pan melt ½ cup butter. As it starts to melt, add the corn syrup, then the brown sugar and 1 cup milk. Cook over medium heat until all ingredients are well blended and begins to bubble. DO NOT bring to a boil because the caramel will harden into candy!

Pour mixture into greased cake pan.

Next, slice French bread in ¾ inch thick pieces (or use pre-sliced Vienna bread)
Place one layer of bread on the caramel sauce, side by side without overlapping.
Smear the first layer of bread with softened cream cheese. Expect to use a full 8 oz package for a single recipe.
Top the cream cheese with a second layer of bread, placing each piece directly over each other.
Crack and mix 8 eggs, ¾ cup milk and 1 ½ tsp vanilla. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl with a whisk and pour over the top of the bread. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly.

Place a cover or saran wrap on the pan and refrigerate overnight.
In the AM, bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes.
Serve warm with caramel side on top. Top with whipped cream or fresh berries.

SAUERKRAUT SALAD
1 (1 lb. 11 oz.) can sauerkraut
3/4 Cup sugar
1 Cupdiced celery
1 Cup diced green pepper
1/4 Cup diced onion
3 Tbsp vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1 tsp celery seed

This keeps in refrigerator for weeks.

BAKED SCALLOPS
20 buttery round crackers, crushed
black pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 pound sea scallops, rinsed and drained
1/2 Cup butter, melted
1/4 Cup dry white wine
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Combine crushed crackers, black pepper and garlic powder in a small bowl. Press scallops into mixture so that they are evenly coated, and place them in the greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix together melted butter, wine and lemon juice; drizzle mixture over scallops.
Bake in preheated oven until scallops are lightly browned, about 15 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley.

ORIENTAL CABBAGE SLAW
1 lime, juiced
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons Asian chili oil (I usually leave this out - too spicey for me)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3 cups finely shredded cabbage
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup thinly sliced snow peas
3 scallions, thinly sliced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Whisk together the lime juice, vinegar, chili oil, mayonnaise and soy
sauce in a large bowl. Add the cabbage, peppers, snow peas and
scallions and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes prior to serving.

BREAKFAST IN THE CROCK POT
1 32 oz. bagfrozen southern style hashbrown potatoes
1 pound bacon cut into pieces, fried and drained
1 pound sausage, crumbled, browned and drained
1/2 Cup diced onions
1 green bell pepper diced
3/4 pound cheddar cheese diced
12 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
salt & pepper

Layer the frozen potatoes, bacon, onions, green pepper and cheese in the crockpot in two or three layers. Finish up with cheese. Beat the eggs, milk and mustard, salt & pepper together. Pour over the whole mixture. Cook on low for ten to twelve hours.

NOTE: I don't use both meats - and frequently substitute cubed left-over ham.
NOTE: Today's crock pots heat much hotter than the older ones. I usually only make 1/2 this recipe and cook it on LOW FOR ABOUT 4 HOURS.

April Comes to an End and I'm One Year Older!

2011-05-13T18:09:00.004-05:00

Saturday breakfast has been cut back to once a month now that the winter Texans are gone and it’s just a few of us “left-overs” still in the trailerhood. It was really good. Tony was at the griddle with eggs to order. Allison was dishing up stuffed French toast -- looked like toasted cheese sandwiches but with a sweetened cheese cake center! Kathy made them and so I had to get the recipe! Orange juice and coffee and sausage. Not bad for $3!!

Finally decided to cash in some of my "reward points" on my credit card. Had enough points for a $100 Shell Oil gift card and a $25 Applebee's. Getting ready for my trip to Iowa! Of course, I’d much rather they lower the interest rate, but I’ll take the gift cards if that's all I can get!

Sunday was ‘work day” at the trailer. Since I plan on raiding my sister’s closet for linens, I made sure to measure the mattress! Too often queen size in an RV is not queen size for other beds! My queen size in the 5th wheel is queen size long and king size wide! In the meantime, until I can get to Iowa and ‘shop’ at My Sister’s Closet, I picked up a couple flat sheets at Castaways.

I've loaded a bunch of paper plates and plastic glasses. I buy enough stuff that comes in disposable plastic bowls with covers that I'll use those. I've packed just a couple cool whip containers to get me thru. What cooking utensils, measuring cups, measuring spoons, spatulas, etc, that I don't have here, I'll pick up at Castaways or wait until I get to Marshalltown and make a Good Will and Salvation Army run. I will be getting a coffee pot, small crock pot and toaster at Castaways or Good Will. Don't need anything but the coffee pot before I leave. I really don’t want to spend a bunch of bucks outfitting it.

I've got plenty of paper and cleaning supplies to take from here. I've even made up a small tool box from the duplicates that I have. I did buy a new Sewer hose and water hose -- wasn't going to use the USED one that was in the RV!

The space for a TV is only 15” wide. While at WalMart, I masured some of the smaller TVs. I went on line to see what was available to fit in my 15" wide space - not much! Probably gonna have to be one of those 12" or less screens. Not a pleasing idea.

Went to WalMart to pick up the part of the RX that wasn't available Friday. Seems there is some sort of 'computer glitch' with Medicare paying for diabetic supplies! hhhmmmm....and my CareMark Rx insurance won't pick it up 'cuz Medicare does! Ain't that grand! The pharmacist said to try again at the end of the week to see if "they have it worked out” (whatever that means!) I guess this is part of the 'cut' in Medicare - save a bit at a time! Do they plan on denying a different med each week or something! Anyway, my finger strips cost $40 for a box of 100 so I got them myself. Love government health care! Can’t wait to see what Medicare denies NEXT month!

Stopped and had the locksmith make two sets of keys for the trailer. Made a killing at Castaways - 3 flat sheets ($2 each) - one heavy enough to use as a light blanket. I can use them to cover the sofa, too (puppy & kitty hair, you know!) A 4 cup Mr Coffee for $2. Miscellaneous kitchen silverware, cooking stuff, and found the cutest sauce pan with lid. I think I'll keep that for here and take my Dollar Store special for the trailer. Picked up a little sewing box for 50 cents so I can make up a little sewing box from my big one and just leave it in the trailer. Came out of there with bags of stuff for under $20. Meant to run them to the trailer, but Donna called and wanted to meet for lunch at Whataburger; just cannot refuse a trip to Whataburger!

During the winter I got used to having the propane guy show up every Tuesday and Friday. That stopped in April. Need a tank, but think I will just wait until I get back from Iowa – certainly not going to use a full tank of propane prior to leaving for the summer.

Tuesday nites anyone in the park that wants to meets in town for supper – sometimes at Panjo's Pizza, sometimes at Mack’s BBQ.

Had a nice 1PM lunch on Wednesday with the Rockport Ladies at Charlotte Plummers. I'm not going to miss a trip to Charlotte Plummers! Ordered the small fried fish. It was a lot like the fish plate I like at Perkins when I'm in Marshalltown except Perkins has better flavored rice! But not nearly as large as the fried fish plate at the Sunrise Café in LeGrand Iowa! I had to park over 1/2 block away from the restaurant and made it in and out without walker and oxygen. Of course, going in was much easier than walking back on a full belly!

Getting frequent “Bad Air” and high humidity days. As long as the sun comes out and dries up the humidity, I can usually tolerate an afternoon outside at the patio table reading. If the sun doesn't come out and burn it off, on goes the A/C and I do my reading inside! Just such a rough time adapting to living in paradise!

Usually don’t spend much time over in the trailer – it does get warm inside that tin can, even with the vents open. Deryl offered to run a cord to hook up electric, but that’s not necessary – I can actually wait to put stuff away until I get to Gatesville or Iowa. Now I just unload it from the truck - push it in the trailer door and call it a day! Then start loading up the truck again for delivery the next day. I'm tellin' ya - when it came to unloading my truck in this heat, I'm glad I thought to toss the dolly in the truck so I could PULL my load instead of tote it! I did take over my battery operated fan – just in case I decide to spend some time inside.

Can't believe that I keep carrying shopping bags of stuff over there and still haven't made a dent in the floor space in the bunk area! And now I'm just about down having clothes, critters and food to cart over -- and I won't do that until the afternoon and morning before I pull out.

80 degrees, 65% humidity and I walked to and from the laundry - sweating like a stuck hog. But that's OK. When I got back I plunked down in front of the fan with the A/C on and a glass of ice tea! All is well with the world!

Went to church here in the park Easter Sunday. After church we had a potluck brunch for "fellowship!" Then went to Deryl & Elke's for lunch – they have such a wonderful family.

Tuesday was hair/nails, then lunch with Donna, and hope I get finished with lunch in time to go to Panjo's for pizza with the RV park group at 5PM! No, I didn’t eat pizza twice – small one for lunch and primavera for supper. Enough food both times to bring ½ home!

Back to Castaways to see if they have anything I need for the trailer. I try to check there at least once a week. I think I've just about raped, pillaged and plundered all I have in the RV. Then went by Deryl & Elke's to pick up some bird toys to deliver to the bird mart in Corpus Christi on Saturday. Deryl & Elke will be in Louisiana buying more FEMA trailers! He's getting quite a little business going with those things.

Slim pickin' at Castaways. Guess the Winter Texans have dropped off all of their overweight stuff and are all gone now. Nothin' much left on the shelves. Elke was saying that her son is having a yard sale the middle of May. Might be able to find my toaster, etc there. If not, I'll hit Goodwill when I get to Marshalltown. I think I have everything I need to make it to Iowa!

Had Holly out on her leash several times. She doesn't do much but mope around and try to get out of the harness. Oh, well, a little bit every now and then - she might get used to it!

April 27 stopped by the RV place - tags for my trailer were in so I needed to pick them up before going to lunch with the Rockport Ladies. They met for lunch at the Beach House - I like their salads and sandwiches. Getting the tags is like a birthday gift a day early! Now I have all I need to hit the road – heading North!

Another episode of “It’s a Small World.” The lady that sat across the table from me, Pat, is from Iowa. She heard me answer when asked when I headed for Iowa - wanted to know where I was from - she told me "I'm from Chariton.” I told her I knew Chariton. Enjoyed visiting there when my sister was a principal in the elementary school. Commented on how much I enjoyed the town square and fondly remember the wonderful candy -- her folks originally owned the grocery and the candy store!

Allison brought the flowers my sister sent to the RV -- sang happy birthday -- said they were too pretty to be hidden away in my RV - should have been left at the office!!!

Had a really good birthday - did absolutely nothing! Fourth Thursday is Friendship supper and game nite at the activity bldg. Like the ice cream social and Saturday AM breakfast, we only do it once a month. Just not many of us left here! Kathy made the best seafood lasagna! Carol brought her cornbread made with creamed corn and broccoli, Allison brought oven-fried chicken (she dips it in coconut milk before she breads it!). Then there was scalloped potatoes, potato salad, Caesar salad. I took the pink stuff with cherry pie filling, pineapple, marshmallows, walnuts, cool whip. Just piggy-piggy-piggy! They sang Happy Birthday to me!

Took Li'lBit with to the trailer; she was NOT pleased! Of course her eye sight is really bad and it is all new and new smells. If I had been thinking, I’d have taken a blanket that smelled like her and Holly – at least she could have recognized the smell.
Was too hot to just set in there with her for any length of time, but I put her on the bed, the sofa, the dining booth, let her sniff around in the bathroom. Gonna really have to get creative about getting some steps for her to get up on the bed. Either that or I'll have to pick her up and down...and that isn't gonna work! She's too old now to be expected to sleep on the FLOOR! Hopefully after a few days,once we all move in, she will get used to it.

Went thru my cupboards and pulled out all the open stuff and pasta - stuff that will get lots of 'Wheat Weevils" while I'm gone. Might as well take it with me as have to toss it out when I get back.

Headed off to Corpus Christi on the 30th. 78 degrees and 78% humidity - not going to be a good air day to be roaming thru a room with birds! Took my walker & portable oxygen concentrator (just in case!) It was nice to see some of the old 'bird folks."

I was really quite amazed - I haven't driven in Corpus since I came down here 6 years ago to look for an RV park! I used to do the Corpus bird mart (they had it at a different location) - but that was just in and out. I can still find my old Motel 6! That's my starting/focal point when I need to go anywhere in Corpus! But since I've been in Rockport, I have ridden with Deryl & Elke, so this was the first time I've driven myself. Managed to get in and out without getting lost -- only got lost after I was out of Corpus and in Aransas Pass (and I go there about once a month!) Go Figure!

April comes to an end and I’m one year older!!

My Summer Home

2011-04-17T20:23:00.011-05:00

Rear of the trailer. Queen size bed is on a slide out unit. Once the bed is out, there is access to the dining booth and the sofa.

Picture taken standing at the rear of the RV. The bunk bed is to the front of the trailer. There is no bottom bunk in this one. And I'm grateful for the additional storage and floor space

Top Bunk

Area for a bottom bunk. Picture taken from the emergency exit door. Combine the clear floor space and the outside access - nice storage! Great for parrot cage, kitty litter, feeding critters.

A small pantry is across from the sink; a nice sized electric/LP refrig is across from the stove. Limited storage space (very limited!) in the kitchen and you can see it is definitely lacking counter space. Good thing I eat out or cook out most of the time in the summer.

Remind me to make sure I always have clothes on when I decided to take a picture with a mirror in front of the camera! My itsy-bitsy bathroom, complete with a small, can't set down in it, tub.

March April Recipes

2011-04-16T22:32:00.002-05:00

CUCUMBER SAUCE
Makes about 3 cups
3 cucumbers
1 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1 TBSP fresh chopped dill
Sea Salt
Peel cucumbers, remove seeds and finely chop or shred. Sprinkle with sea salt and chill for 2 hours. Mix with sour cream, mayonnaise and dill.

Great with fish.

HALF A CAKE MIX CAKE
Measure 1 3/4 cups mix from an 18 ounce box of cake mix
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
2/3 cup water.

Mix as directed on package and bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees in a greased and floured round or square 8 inch pan.

PINEAPPLE ANGEL FOOD CAKE
1 (16 ounce) package angel food cake mix
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 inch pan with vegetable oil spray.
Combine cake mix and pineapple (with juice). Mix until well blended.
Pour batter into prepared 9x13 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.
Serve with whipped topping

KEY LIME FRUIT DIP
1 Key lime pie yogurt
1 7 oz container marshmallow cream
1 8oz. Whipped cream cheese
Zest of one lime - optional

Blend above ingredients with a mixer until smooth. Mix in zest of one lime (if desired.) Serve with fresh fruit.

SHRIMP SALAD WITH CREAMY HORSERADISH DRESSING
3 cups cooked peeled shrimp
1 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
1/2 cup sliced green onions
3 hard-cooked eggs, finely chopped (optional)
Combine first 4 ingredients; stir in eggs, if desired.

Creamy Horseradish Dressing
Makes about 1 cup
3/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons chili sauce
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish, drained
1/4 teaspoon salt
Combine all ingredients for the dressing.
Add dressing to the shrimp mix; toss gently. Cover and chill. Serve on croissants.

I'm Now a 2 RV Family!

2011-04-16T19:25:00.010-05:00

With my 5th wheel permanently settled in Rockport TX, I have a winter home; a recently purchased new-to-me travel trailer to tow to Iowa for my summer home. Of course that means before long, I may have a third home - a room at the Poor Farm!

March and April saw many of my winter friends hitching up and pulling out, traveling to points north. I'm sure many got back to Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan and other midwestern states while plenty of snow was still on the ground from the late storms blowing across the plains.

Ever since my 'close disasters' on my trip back from Iowa last fall, I have wondered how difficult it would be to make the decision to pull off the road. Believe me, it was easy! Watching the Winter Texans pack up and hitch up previously has brought on a good case of 'hitch itch.' Not this time. It just wasn't there. The decision was made without any mental turmoil! I'm so grateful! Making the decision was something I thought I would dread. My only concern was wondering how I would continue my summers in Iowa without towing the RV north. The answer: find a small travel trailer! So, the search began.

Needless to say, the past month or so has been hectic - fortunately the weather cooperated in my search for a travel trailer. And, thanks to my friends, Deryl & Elke, I had extra eyes to check out possibilities.

March 22nd was a 'landmark' day for me. Li'lBit and I walked to the office building without walker or oxygen! Oh, we wouldn't win any race or set any speed records, but we did it! Then, to put a little icing on that cake, I started walking to the laundry room. Pulled my little 'old lady shopping basket/cart' out of the undercompartment and loaded it with laundry and pulled it along behind me. Oh, I must have been a sight! But I did it! Gradually, I'm getting better at getting around without the oxygen. I finally turned in my oxygen tanks issued by Temple VA. No more portable oxygen (except my personal concentrator in the truck) but my doc here did order a concentrator for use at night. Maybe that's the trick. Sleeping with oxygen! To put an even better shine on my medical report, at my last appointment, Apr 14, the report read: weight - DOWN; blood sugar - DOWN; cholesterol - DOWN; blood pressure - DOWN! Get outta my way, I just may live forever!

Not knowing if I would find a travel trailer suitable and in my price range (which wasn't much!), I stated planning for summer in Rockport. Ordered a new bathing suit and pruchased a gas grill. Booklet said it takes 30 minutes, took me a couple of hours! THEN, afer strugling with it, I noticed a slip of paper in the box saying, "This item qualified for FREE ASSEMBLY" Now they tell me!

The routine get-togethers started winding down since nearly all activities are 'guest driven." As the leaders of the craft classes, etc., started heading north, the activities were put 'on hold' until next winter. The participants at the Tuesday morning ladies coffee were fewer and fewer; the potluck Friendship Suppers where smaller and smaller.

A 'cold front' came blowing thru early March - required pulling my 'hoodie' out of the closet! Down to 43 degrees in the AM. L'ilBit and Holly manage to keep warm cuddled up in the recliner! Lasted a few days, then back to warmer weather and pleasant out-door time for reading and brushing Li'lBit.

Managed to finish a 700+ page book on the Princes of Ireland/Dublin and promised myself never to take on another historical novel at that depth. So, a month later I've plunged into a 1000+ page book on London by the same author. Sometimes I think I don't think!

A couple of trips back to Gatesville to visit friends were so enjoyable. I stopped at the Temple Bird Mart on my way back to Rockport on March 19. I miss my association with so many of my 'bird folk' friends. It was fun to visit, walk around visiting with vendors that I've known for years. Now I'm looking forward to the end of April and the Corpus Christi bird mart. The bird-dust/feather air didn't seem to bother me as much this year and before. It has to be Rockport air! I do so feel much better since I'm here.

Fuel prices are on their way up again. For the first time in a couple of years, I watched the numbers on the diesel pump run over $100 when filling up. Hopefully, the travel trailer won't cost as much to tow as my 5th wheel. The one I purchased (pictures to follow!) is about 4 feet lower, 10 feet shorter and only about 1/3 the weight of the 5th wheel. It might take some getting used to - haven't towed a bumper pull trailer since 1986. Hopefully it will all come back to me!

March 30 I heard a diesel cranking up about 5:30AM - looked out my bedroom window to see Bonnie and Cleo hitching up. Bonnie standing there with a flashlight beam directed to the 5th wheel and Cleo backing up to the light! Amazing! Then I heard the tell-tale 'clunk' of the kingpin & hitch engaging. I couldn't believe it! I'll definitely miss them. Cleo took care of my plants while I went to central TX and my geraniums have been in full bloom since! He definitely has a green thumb and magic touch!

Decided since I was up so early that morning, I might as well finish my taxes! Gotta love TurboTax! And I'm getting money back - not much but sure better than paying.

March 31 I went to LinCare to turn in the receipt that I turned in my oxygen tanks to Temple VA. As I was coming back into town, decided to turn into Ron Hoover RV and pick up a screen to cover my furnace vents - remember the bird that built a nest in the fan last year! Of course, you know a salesman had to meet me at the door! Saw a little travel trailer being unhitched and told him, "You find something that size that I can afford and I'll look at it." Guess what - it was just being unloaded as a trade-in! I put money down on a 2006 Forest River 23 1/2 ft trailer with rear queen slized bed on a rear slide out. This trailer had my name written all over it. A little more than I wanted to pay, but also a lot newer than what I'd been seeing.

It is a bunkhouse set up. One of my 'requirements' was that it had to have a bed. I didn't want to have to break down a sofa or dining booth every nite for a bed. It had the queen bed and it had a upper bunk in the front of the trailer. The bottom bunk had not been installed, giving me plenty of space for storage (since travel trailers are notoriously lacking undercompartment space), space for critter feeding stations, kitty litter and parrot cage. It is definitely lacking counter space so that's a good excuse to eat out or cook out in Iowa!

And, before I forget, I have to compliment the Knights of Columbus in Rockport for their fantastic Lenten fish fries! Not only do that have delicious lightly fried fish, but they offer baked fish. YUMMY!

April 1 may have been April Fool's day, but it was also "Helen Got Her Loan" Day! Now to get the insurance. It's falling into place. April 5th I did a walk-through of the trailer and once it had been inspected and found to be in working order, I got the call to come pick it up on April 15. Signed the papers, hitched it up, towed it to Deryl & Elke's until I get it loaded. Then emailed Mary at Shady Oaks in Marshalltown to make my reservations for June, July, August!

Li'lBit's scratching is getting worse. No good Iowa roadside medicine down here and she has been rolling in the sand. There is a walk-in vet clinic. Most of the RVers use this walk-in so I'll give it a try. The only vet my vet in Gatesville knows from down here isn't taking new patients. Sounds like government health care!

My patio set came in, table, 4 folding chairs. Deryl put my rocking chair together. Since he wouldn't let me pay him, the next best thing, my treat at the Butter Churn for steak night!

I'm just movin' in! Looks like a Li'l Ol' Lady lives here - rocking chair, potted geraniums and I even have a cat that sleeps in the window.

April 9th was Herb Festival at the community center. Small but nice selection of herbs. Of course I had to buy a few! Also bought a pair of hand-painted wine glasses with hummingbirds on them. Thought I'd look pretty spiffy at wine in a sock nite next winter when they start it all up again.

One of my favorite easy-to-read cozy mystery writers, Susan Wittig Alpert spoke on her China Bayles mystery series and the history of some herbs. They had 1/2 hibiscus tea and 1/2 not-too-sweet lemonade at the concession stand. Of course, being the herb festival, they plopped a sprig of mint on top and it was heavenly! Wish I had been able to buy it by the jug! Made some when I got home and didn't taste nearly as good. Maybe they sweetened the hibiscus tea. Will have to keep working on it to find that refreshing flavor.

While at the post office Pam, the lady at the window, invited me to join her group of ladies that goes to lunch on Wednesdays. They were meeting at Pop's in Lamar. Nice group of women. Gives me another group to enjoy foods and friends with!

It's getting lonely in the TrailerHood!

March Recipes

2011-03-07T11:24:00.001-06:00

BLIZZARD CAKE
1 gallon vanilla ice cream
1 (20 ounce) package chocolate sandwich cookies with creme filling
1 (12 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Soften ice cream. Crush cookies by placing them in a large zip lock bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin. Mix softened ice cream and crushed cookies together. Fold in the whipped topping and pour into one 9x13 inch glass pan. Freeze for 2 hours then serve.

JUST DESSERT
1 (12 oz) can crescent rolls
1 (21 oz) can pie filling
Spices to compliment the pie filling (optional)
1 (8 oz) pack cream cheese
1 Cup powdered sugar
1 egg, separated

Unroll crescent rolls – put 4 triangles on bottom of greased 9x9 cake pan. Press to seal perforations.
Mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar and egg YOLK. Whip until fluffy.
Spoon cheese mix on crescent roll base. Add can of pie filling, spread over cheese. Sprinkle with spices of your choice. Top with remaining four triangles of crescent rolls to form top crust. Brush with egg white.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until top crust is golden brown and cheese mix is “set.”

BREAKFAST CASSEROLE
1 pound sliced bacon, diced (or sausage)
1 sweet onion, chopped
6 eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups small curd cottage cheese
1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese
1 can undiluted cream of whatever you want soup.
Enough dried bread to cover bottom of pan.

In a large skillet, cook bacon and onion until bacon is crisp; drain. In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients; stir in meat/onion mixture. Lay old biscuits/bread on bottom of greased casserole dish. (I use 2 9x9 square pans) Pour cheese and egg mix over bread.
Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until set and bubbly.
Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.
I cut each 9x9 pan into 4 pieces and freeze.

March 1 - 6, 2011

2011-03-07T11:07:00.003-06:00

March started with 45 degrees and a dense fog alert. Good Hoodie weather! Cooler mornings and warmer afternoons seem to have been the norm for the week. Since I’ve started reading a 700+page book on Irish Princes, I need all of the warm afternoons I can get for setting outside and reading!

Still looking at that darn grease stain on the carpet from where the slide was in and left the rail mark. It is getting lighter; I might get rid of it eventually! Maybe if I’d get back down on my hands and knees and scrub the darn thing, it would go away quicker, but I’m too lazy to be doing all of that. Besides, I’m retired, what do I have but time.

So far, no travel trailer. The ones I’ve looked at either need too much repair or toooo much money! The right one will come along eventually, but sure would like to get one so I can get to Iowa this summer!

Pancake race was Thursday evening just before the Friendship Supper. Thursday was spent doing last minute stuff for the race. Thought there would be enough 'breakfast' type stuff for the pancakes, so my contribution was strawberries, blue berries, raspberries and whipped cream. Cleaned the fruit, wrapped the first place prizes and all beads and supplies were ready to go. Had help blowing up the balloons. With my lungs and without any help, I should have started blowing them up several weeks ago!

The event went well, I think. It was kinda "iffy" about the pancake thing. Most people just seemed to shrug about the idea, not seeming too interested. Pam and I weren't sure if anyone would show up. Allison went around with paper and pencil and got folks to sign up! I think they did have a good time. But I did learn one thing: I don't want to get involved in any more activities; I don't wanna be "in charge" of anything!

Keith was kind enough to take pictures of the race and post them on the RV park blog.
http://www.rockport-rv35.blogspot.com/
Friday AM got up to fry a couple eggs for the critters and realized I came home without my frypan. Hmmm…wonder where I left it! Sure glad it was my little Dollar Store special with the cracked handle!

While out with Li’l Bit, I had 3 people tell me what a fun time they had. Oh, Heavens! I hope this isn't going to be an annual event! If it is, I sure hope Pam and Geoff come back! Guess it really doesn't take much to entertain ol' folks!

New Mexican place opened up down the highway, about 1/2 mile from the park. Been 3-4 different places in just the few years I've been coming here! Hope this one is good and lasts. Met Deryl & Elke there Friday evening for dinner and I wasn’t disappointed. It was their anniversary and they left Saturday on their vacation.

Winds really picked up Saturday and worried about them driving in all that. Winds were blowing a steady 20+ mph with gusts up to 45-50mph. Getting me ready for Iowa, I guess!

Went to Aransas Pass WalMart on Sunday. Bigger than Rockport and different stuff. Used the last of my gift card Christmas gift from Johnnie and bought a small propane grill. IF I ever get the little travel trailer, I’ll put my electric one in there and leave it. Li'lBit and I stopped on our way back from Aransas Pass at the beach, had a Church's Chicken boxed picnic lunch. Li'lBit rolled in a dead fish or two and we came home.

Had some left over stale rolls so had to make bread pudding, croutons, bread crumbs or breakfast casserole Didn't need the bread pudding. I still had my "make it up as you go" desserts with the tube of crescent dinner rolls. So, breakfast casserole it was!

February Recipes

2011-02-28T20:30:00.002-06:00

SEAFOOD SPREAD
Use as a dip or as a sandwich spread

1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sour cream
3 hard cooked eggs, mashed
1 (8 oz) crab meat, flaked*
1 (8 oz) shrimp, drained, and chopped*
1/4 onion, very finely chopped
1 stalk celery, very finely chopped
1 tsp. Creole Seasoning
Several dashes Tabasco
* Preferably fresh seafood but can used canned.

Combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and boiled eggs in mixer bowl. Beat until fairly smooth. Add crabmeat, shrimp, onion, celery, Creole seasoning and Tabasco. Mix well.

A LITTLE TASTE OF MARDI GRAS

2 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 lb bay scallops
4 oz butter
1 C diced red peppers
1 C diced tomatoes
1/4 C chopped parsley
1/2 C fine cut green onions
1 TBSP chopped garlic
1 Tsp dry basil
1 C white vermouth or white wine or apple or grape juice (unsweetened)
Salt, pepper & lemon juice to taste
1/2 tsp. flour & 1/2 tsp. butter mixed together into paste

Sauté shrimp and scallops in butter for 3 minutes.
Add peppers, tomatoes, green onions, chopped garlic, basil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and vermouth. Cook for 3-4 minutes on high heat.
Add flour/butter paste and stir it in the mix with a whisk. Turn heat to low and cook 2 minutes.
Add parsley. Serve with rice.

For variety, you can use spices, herbs of your choice. Can also add okra (I’m not into okra!), and/or a Louisiana sausage.

BBQ PULLED PORK IN THE CROCK POT

Pork shoulder roast, about 4 pounds
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups water
1 bottle (16 ounces) barbecue sauce, or 2 cups homemade sauce
1 cup chopped onion

Place half of the thinly sliced onions in bottom of crock pot; add pork and water, along with remaining onion slices.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 - 10 hrs or 4 - 5 hrs on HIGH.
Drain liquid from crock pot; discard excess fat and coarsely chop meat or shred.
Put meat back in the crock pot. Add barbecue sauce and chopped onion. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hrs longer, stirring occasionally.

Can use this same recipe for beef - even ground beef. Just adjust cooking times.

And February Comes to an End!

2011-02-28T20:11:00.002-06:00

Monday Feb 21 66 degrees and sunny in the AM with a high in the upper 70s. Our predicted 'cold' front gave us a low of 58 degrees! Sure glad I have my hoodies for temps that cold!

Finished one book yesterday - one of the Amish books I enjoy reading 'just for fun!' - and started another one. Lots of reading time with weather like this.

Put a meat loaf in the crock pot. One of those really difficult recipes - drop a frozen block of meat in the crock pot, add a dry onion soup mix and a can of mushroom soup and one envelope of brown gravy mix - and let'er cook. Oh, I'm such a gourmet!

This summer may be a little screwed up since I'm still looking for a trailer. I've been watching Craig's List and haven't found anything. When I find one, I’ll head north. Sure hope Mary has a spot for me at Shady Oaks when I find something! I did drop her a note and told her I was still looking for a trailer and looking forward to getting up there sometime this summer - just not sure when.

Tuesday Feb 22 Ladies coffee 9AM; woke to 65 degrees, going to mid-70s, not too breezy - my kinda weather! Guess my life is getting kinda boring!

After so many years with the military, you would think I would have learned, somewhere along the way, to keep my mouth shut and not volunteer. WRONG! At coffee we decided to do a pancake supper March 3, the usual Friendship supper nite. I made the mistake of opening my mouth and asking Pam (from England) if she participated in the Shrove Tuesday pancake races. We started talking about them and Allison thought it was a GREAT IDEA! So guess who is in charge of the race festivities: Pam and Helen! Doubt I'll be running -- can't handle a walker and a fry pan at the same time! Of course, it might make some great pictures for Keith to post to the Park's Blog! Allison suggested we let the men race, too. Gradually it has become a pancake ‘relay’ race.

Three RVs lined up to pull out this AM. Kinda gives me 'hitch itch' but I sure don't want to pull this one anymore. Seems every day another RV or two pulls out and heads back north. Lots of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa license plates in this park.

Vegetable soup in the crock pot on Tuesday. That's another reason I have to get back to Iowa. Make a trip to Stringtown grocery over by Kalona to stock up on my dried supplies, herbs and spices!

Wednesday - Busy day! Met the "in town" bunch for breakfast 9AM at JJs. Nice breakfast except there wasn't any place to park in the parking lot so had to park across the street and WALK! At least I had a chance to walk off breakfast going back to the truck!

Then to Castaway to look for (and found) Mardi Gras beads to award the racers. Next stop Action RV - Deryl emailed and said he saw some new additions to their 'consignment' list. Nothing promising for me but will check periodically. Quick run into WallyWorld - cat/dog supplies/feed. Found a couple nice geraniums for the front of the RV. Stopped by to visit with Deryl & Elke for a few minutes. Came back to the park and met with Pam about the pancake fiasco I got myself into! Then it was outside time for me and Li’lBit. They actually used the word HEAT INDEX in the weather report!

Thursday, Friendship supper night. My offering for the evening was a relish tray. Had plenty of pickles and olives in the pantry and I forgot to pick up groceries to make something while I was in town.

Cloudy, humid, 68 degree morning, no breeze – promised afternoon rains never really got here – just a little mist. Headed back into town – couldn’t find any oysters yesterday so back to the fish market. Lucked out this time. Came home with some Dover Sole and a nice piece of salmon, too. Also found a ‘faux King Cake” recipe made out of crescent rolls – think I’ll try it.

No rain but heavy air, 78 degrees, cloudy but with the breeze it is tolerable - Li'lBit and I were back outside. Often, while setting outside at the picnic table with Li'lBit, I think of Mary at Shady Oaks, in Iowa, with her camera. I don't think Mary makes a walk thru the park without her camera and she has given me some wonderful pictures of my rig and Li'lBit.

Woke up about 5 AM Friday hearing rain -- jumped up to close the roof vent in the bathroom - no rain - FOG - so thick it was dripping off of everything and sounded like rain. So much for sleep! Stayed in bed for awhile but finally decided to get up. Took Li'lBit out, watered my outside plants while she watered the sand burs! Critters fed, coffee made, all before 7AM! Too Early! Heard a lot of truck activity in the park. There's no denying the start up of a diesel! It's too late to be going out fishin' so I imagine there are a few more hooking up today.

Made it up to 65 degrees – winds died down some – definitely a picnic table and a book, my coffee and Li'l Bit kinda day.

When we go outside, Li'lBit is chained to the picnic table. She can lay under the table, be on it, lay under the RV or under the truck --whatever! I heard her whinning and there she was setting on the steps by the door, whinning then started yipping! Crazy dog wanted to come in! She's gotta get used to being outside now that it is warming up!

We have to brush immediately when we get outside. It is quite the ritual! I open the door, say "Go to the table," she jumps up on the table. I get the brush and get busy - then she gets down - well I have to put her down - she'd stay up there all day! Then I can open my book.

Saturday was an absolutely lovely day. A little overcast and misty in the AM, but that burned off the minute the sun broke through. It was one of those days that should last forever! Pam came by and we discussed the pancake races for next Thursday. Should be quite interesting!

They had a luau here in the park Saturday evening. Decided I’d set this one out. It sure smelled good outside, however, with the pork cooking!

Sunday 69 degrees and morning 'heavy' air, sun was out so will burn off before long.

I decided to try the old angel food cake pan I found at Castaways. It is shorter than the new ones and doesn’t have the “legs” on it. It fits in my oven and I managed to make a REAL (out of the box!) angel food cake. The cake just barely clears the top of the oven. Could be that this oven is a tad bigger than my old one, too. Anyway, it makes me a happy camper!

Made some really good chicken salad for sandwiches, not a fancy recipe, just mayo, canned chicken, pickle relish, a little onion. Guess it was really more like tuna salad with chicken. Oh, I did add a little dill. But it sure tasted good at the picnic table when Li’lBit and I had our picnic.

Monday I woke up just before 6AM with some severe shake rattle and roll! DAMN! Thought I was in Iowa and my weather radio didn't go off. Cold front blew thru -- dropped us down to 64 degrees. Brrrrr! Glad I have my hoodies! At least the shake rattle and roll only lasted until the front edge of the thing passed. Made it up to mid-80s before the day was done. With a 16 mph breeze out of the north the windchill (guess it's a windchill - the cold front blew thru this AM!) was 76 degrees. Actually quite pleasant if you aren't setting in the sun. Guess that's why I enjoy the weather down here on the coast.

Finally found the dead stinky shrimp I dropped the other day. It was behind the stove. I thought they were dead when I cooked them; guess it managed to WALK back there! Couldn’t have anything to do with a cat or a dog or maybe even a parrot beak helping it along its way.

A perfect end to the month of February!

February 14 - 20 A Trip Back to Gatesville

2011-02-26T19:04:00.003-06:00

Monday February 14 Sun was out, hardly any wind and 57 degrees! YIPPEE! It’s pack up and load up day, gas up the truck, check the tires – but not the RV this time – just a suitcase and the truck. Headed to Gatesville for a short visit.

In the process of packing up - guess who doesn't have a suit case! I sold them all at the yard sale when I moved into the RV! So, I traveled with a matched set of canvas shopping bags! I'm truly a BAG LADY! Li'lBit is packed in an elegant yellow Dollar Store bag!

Sun was shining and it was warm. Li'lBit and I hit the beach for a few minutes on Monday.

Tuesday 63 degrees at 5:30AM The predicted fog didn’t seem to appear. On the road by 8AM. I figured, without the RV the trip should only be about 5½ hours. And without the RV, it was so easy to just pull off at all those yummy BBQ places and the Czech Bakery in Le Grange.

Amazing how much fun driving can be when I’m not hauling the RV! I could use my rearview mirror and actually see the road out my rear window, I could pull off anytime Li’lBit decided it was potty time or anytime I decided the BBQ joints and bakeries looked like places to stop! I could use my cruise control, travel the speed limit – all those wonderful things I’d missed when towing. And best of all, it only takes about half the fuel.I made it on less than ½ tank of diesel!

I arrived in Gatesville mid-afternoon, checked into the Regency Motel and immediately headed out to Johnnie’s for coffee!

Wednesday AM, Li’lBit and I went to her vet in town to get a refill on her skin meds, then off to lunch with Brenda and her sister, Ellen. Cindy popped in to pick up an order to go so had a chance to visit with her for awhile. The pasta place in town still gives too much food so had plenty left for supper.

Wednesday afternoon it was back out to Johnnie’s for more coffee – talk about a caffeine high!

Thursday it was breakfast with Johnnie. She fixed scrambled eggs, toast, bacon and of course coffee! Put the left over scrambled eggs in a baggie for Li’lBit and she certainly enjoyed them when we stopped for our picnic lunch on the way back to Rockport. Johnnie also gave me some starters from her aloe vera since mine got all mushy during our below freezing weather. Guess I didn’t have them protected enough.

I pulled into Rockport about 4PM, Nice trip without an RV behind the truck! Just another reason for me to feel comfortable about my decision to leave the 5th wheel here.

Everything was fine when I got back. EXCEPT, the little elves didn't come in and clean! I had left a key with the neighbor. Found out when I got back, the ambulance had been here to pick up Dick (my neighbor). Fortunately, he was home the next day.

Holly & Tinga were left here with their magic three day feeders and water. The minute I opened the door, Tinga was shouting to ‘come out.’ Holly was evidentially a little upset with me. She opened one eye to look at me from her corner of the bed, immediately hopped off the bed and retreated to her hiding place in the closet until Li'lBit went after her! Li'lBit was so glad to see Holly!

Went out to get some groceries on Friday -- stopped to chat with Deryl & Elke.

Went out Saturday nite with Dery & Elke for some BBQ. Went to the one BBQ place and they were out of most everything -- so came back into town to another place. If there is one thing we have plenty of in Texas, it’s BBQ joints! Had a nice BBQ Po'Boy sandwich. I do enjoy going out with them. They are fun to visit with.

Sunday Feb 20 71 degrees at noon. Li'l Bit and I spent much of the time outside -- so many folks just out walking and stopping to chat, didn't get much reading done. Came in for a bite to eat and when I went to go back out, Li'lBit didn’t go - she had fallen asleep and was snoring so loudly, I just left her alone!

Put a small pork roast in the crock pot early in the AM, sure smells good. No seasoning, nothing but pork. I cut some of it up and put it back in the freezer, put BBQ sauce on some and ate some ‘just plain pork!”

Gotta start getting serious about finding a small travel trailer.

2011-02-14T15:09:00.001-06:00

Crock Pot Meat Loaf
2 lbs FROZEN ground beef (form to fit your crock pot prior to freezing)
1 envelope brown gravy mix
1 envelope onion soup mix
1 can beefy mushroom soup

Place the frozen ground beef in a crock pot. Pour remaining ingredients on top. Turn crock pot on low and cook all day.

NOTE: Make sure the block of frozen meat will fit in your crock pot. Next time I make it, I will form the ground beef to fit the crock pot prior to freezing. Will also try making it with mixed ground beef and pork, mix in some onion & green pepper.

Cake Mix Muffins
1 box cake mix
2 tablespoons flour
3 eggs
2/3 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon baking powder

Mix all ingredients together. Spoon into prepared muffin cups. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until tops are lightly browned.

Almond Poppy seed Muffins: Use a white cake mix, add 2 teaspoons poppy seed and 1 teaspoon almond extract.

Chocolate Muffins: Use a chocolate cake mix and stir in 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips.

French Raspberry Muffins: Use a French vanilla cake mix and fresh raspberries.

Lemon Poppy seed Muffins: Use a lemon cake mix and poppy seed.

Spice Muffins: Use a spice cake mix with cinnamon/sugar topping.

FEB 7 - 13 The Decision Has Been Made

2011-02-14T14:41:00.002-06:00

Monday February 7th, 44 degrees – went into the upper 60s, sunny and very little - made it to the 70s on Sunday and Li'lBit and I were happy campers! Mexican dinner Monday night. I signed up to bring dessert. Took a cheese-cake sopapilla kinda thing that Diana had made for Christmas. It is absolutely ‘sinful!’ Love Mexican food but sometimes it bites me back about the middle of the night!

Tuesday morning I was wide awake at 5 AM and couldn't go back to sleep! My gut must be acclimating to Mexican foods! Went to bed about 9:30; I knew I'd be up by midnight! NOPE! Didn't wake up for NUTHIN’ until 5AM! 48 degrees and warming up bit then another cold front by the end of the week. Sid and Rain made it to Florida, still waiting to hear from Deryl & Elke.

I went on line to order my eye drops for pick up at the local WalMart but they had dropped off the computer. Took the boxes and bottle in with the script on it and they did some computer 'magic' and found the orders. Had to make another trip on Wednesday to pick them up.

Tuesday morning coffee and I volunteered to make muffins for Sunday! Wouldn’t you think, after so many years in the military, I’d have learned NOT to volunteer. Sure glad I'm figuring out how to use the oven in this thing!

Nails done - Rx picked up – Li’lBit and I spent the afternoon at the picnic table.
Deryl and Elke make it back before the winds picked up. I feel so much better when my friends are off the road and safely parked somewhere!

Wednesday was a dreary heavy air day - 62 degrees but weather alert for winds and frost warning. The AM temp was as warm as the day would get and probably as warm as it would get until the weekend. More hard freeze warnings, but no talk of ‘wintery mix!’ That turned out to be another ‘weather man’s lie!” Dropped to 33 degrees with winds (30-40mph) and blowing rain. Good day to use the oven again. Put a small canned ham in the oven with a sweet potato and the left over barley, mushroom, onion mix. Don't know how I'd get along without those little Dollar Store canned hams!

I've been looking at smaller RVs - thinking of buying an older travel trailer to take to Iowa (I've got Bea looking for a place for me to winter it over so I don't have to haul it back and forth.) The eye and the lungs aren't getting any better and I don't want to NOT go to Iowa for the summer, but not sure how many more trips (if any) I can make with my 5th wheel. I'm just not comfortable towing my 5er -- it's easier to tow than my old one, but I've lost my “comfort zone" or “nerve” I guess -- it does bother me with the eye and not being able to see.

The mess up in Guthrie last year coming back -- dent in the side of the RV - ripped the roof on a tree branch -- just can't do it alone. Might be different if I had someone to get out and watch those things for me. I could have really damaged the RV. Fortunately, I didn't and the patch on the roof was simple (and the ding on the side doesn't look too bad!) But I just don't feel comfortable -- afraid I'll start making mistakes. Life is full of big decisions! This is one that has been made in my mind, but not in my heart – YET!

I want to see the eye doc in Iowa one more time and see if he has any recommendations for someone down here...or if I can put a TT up there, I can still see Wolfe clinic every summer. I guess the fact that I'm comfortable with my doc down here and Lincare with my oxygen, it seems like the right time to stay. So, that's where I stand now. This RV will be leaving Rockport but, one way or another, I will be. How and in what will be determined later!

Thought if I got a smaller, older TT, something I could store up there over the winter, the critters and I could just drive back and forth in the truck. Be a lot easier on me and the trip wouldn't take as long. Tony (park owner) gave me the name and number of someone that might be able to help me find a decent deal on a used trailer. Of course, before I get anything, I'll have Deryl go over it! Deryl doesn’t know this yet!

27 degrees wake up on Thursday with a wind chill of 17! But I stay warm in my hoodies! Had left the water hose disconnected for a couple of nights. I reconnected it in the morning - as soon as the temps got above freezing!
Went to Deryl & Elkes for steaks and baked tators. Didn’t stay out too late - -it's too cold! Lost my Iowa blood long time ago!

Off to a late start on Friday. Propane cylinder out and on the edge of my pad. 34 degrees -- one more cold night, then we aren’t supposed to have another 'cold front' for several weeks! YIPPEE.

Finally, the winds died down and I put my flags back out -- where it sets now it really gets whipped by the wind so I bring it in on rainy windy days.

FEBRUARY RECIPES

2011-02-10T10:49:00.000-06:00

Barley with Mushrooms and Onions
Unsalted butter or pan spray – enough to coat the bottom of heavy saucepan
1 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 pound mushrooms, chopped
3 cups vegetable broth, chicken or beef stock
1 cup uncooked barley
Spices and seasonings to taste

Coat a heavy saucepan with cooking spray or melted butter and set over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring a few times, about 5 minutes.

Add broth, barley and seasonings, herbs, spices; bring to a boil. Partially cover pan and reduce heat to low; simmer until barley is tender, stirring occasionally, about an hour.

Cooked as above, serve as side dish. Add diced meat or fish/seafood and use as main dish.

Bread Spread
1 stick butter, softened
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbsp. chives

Mix butter and cream cheese. Add pepper and garlic powder to taste. Continue mixing. Add chives. Chill. Great on bagels and other course, heavier breads.

APPLE BROWN BETTY
2 cups whole wheat bread crumbs – can replace some of the breadcrumbs with wheat germ for a nutty taste
1/4 cup margarine melted
4 cups apple slices tart
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 lemon, juice and peel
1/2 cup apple juice

Grate the rind of 1/2 of the lemon. Juice half the lemon, or all if it is a small lemon.

Mix bread crumbs with melted margarine and blend.

Mix sugar with nutmeg, lemon peel and juice; blend.

Grease a casserole dish with margarine. Put a layer of crumbs on bottom, spread half the apples on top of the crumbs, then half the sugar mixture. Put the rest of the apples, then the sugar and top with remaining crumbs. Add 1/2 cup very hot apple juice or water.

Bake in preheated 350-degree oven for 40 minutes or until done.
Cover loosely with foil tent for first 20 minutes to prevent crumbs browning too quickly.

CREAM CHEESE SOPAPILLA BARS
A special thanks to Diana for 'turning me onto' this recipe.
2 tubes crescent rolls
3 - 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cup sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg, separated
1 teaspoon cinnamon – more is better!

Unroll 1 tube of crescent rolls in the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking pan (leave sections connected). I use a little pan spray before unrolling. Seal the perforations.

Combine cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, egg yolk and vanilla, mixing thoroughly.

Pour cream cheese mixture over unrolled dough.

Layout second tube on a piece of waxed paper. Seal all the perforations.
Carefully put this layer over the cream cheese. Peel off the waxed paper.

Slightly beat egg white and brush on the top.
Combine 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle on top.

Bake at 350 degrees 30-40 minutes. Cool and store in the refrigerator.

ALTERNATIVES: Mix a little peanut butter in the cream cheese. Do not put cinnamon & sugar on top crust. About 5-10 minutes before it is finished, pour chocolate chips on top, return to the oven. When melted spread to cover the top. Squirt a little caramel ice cream topping on top.

Mix a little strawberry jelly in the cream cheese. Brush top crust with egg white to make it nice and brown – watch it doesn’t burn. When ready to serve, put whipped cream or cool whip on each square, add sliced fresh strawberries. If you don’t have fresh strawberries, it makes a nice “shortcake” for strawberry short cake with frozen sweetened berries.

I’ve also added some coconut and drained crushed pineapple to the cream cheese; baked with a plain top crust. Added whipped cream or cool whip as a topping when served.

February 1 - 6 Winter Comes To Rockport

2011-02-06T19:39:00.002-06:00

Tuesday woke up about 3AM, my legs were so cramped and killing me! Did more walking yesterday without walker and oxygen than I've done in YEARS, I think! The right one was still a little stiff when I finally crawled out of bed, but that is the one I usually land on when I fall. Woke to 58 degrees, winds picked up some, gusting to 40mph – then the temp dropped to 47 by 9AM. At least the sun was still out and it wasn’t raining!

Sid came by to put a hook on my screen door so I can secure it a little better and a hook under my cabinet so I can hang a rope for Tinga. I so enjoy having Sid and Rain here – even if just for a couple of days.

Watched the weather channel a lot, hoping the storm blowing across the country doesn’t bury my sister in Iowa. I heard they closed the Dallas airport and this is Super Bowl weekend! OOPS! Of course it doesn't take much bad weather to close anything down here! They were already predicting rain, freezing rain or snow for Thursday (they are calling it a 'wintery mix'.)

Sid and Rain gave me quite a chunk of brisket they had grilled before they came here. And of course you know I had to test-taste it -- YUMMY! It made some great BBQ sandwiches on Super Bowl Sunday.

Deryl & Elke left in the AM and made it to Kinder LA. I’m always so anxious to hear from them when they are on the road. They should be back Thurs if the weather is OK.

Sid & Rain and I went to Los Comales Tuesday night for deep fried avocadoes. They would be leaving out in the AM. Hopefully the ‘wintery mix’ predicted will stay away long enough for them and for Deryl & Elke to get where they are going.

Weather predicted to remain below freezing for several days. Forgot to fill my water pitchers when I disconnected the water hose so had to go outside and fill it from the faucet before the water went off. I have bottled water but figured I'd save it in case the water stays off longer than planned. Have plenty in my holding tank for flushing and cleaning but wanted to make sure I had fresh water for tea, coffee and the critters!

Water will be off at the park for a couple of days - down here the pipes aren't much below the surface and if it is going to be below freezing for 6-8 hrs, they are frozen! Doesn't look like we will get much above freezing until Friday. Sure have made some use of the hoodies my sister sent me.

AND, Texas, not used to all this excess electrical use due to people using electric space heaters has been having rolling black outs across the state to conserve electricity. RV 12 volt system and storage batteries really help!

Wednesday Feb 2 Sid & Rain left sometime before 7AM. I had Li'lBit out then and their RV was gone. Sorry I didn't get to say good-bye -- but then, that's one of those things like in the military - never say good-bye, just say “see ya down the road!" Hope they get WAY down the road before the “wintery mix" starts. It’s lonely seeing their spot empty. They are, indeed, special friends.

23 degrees Wednesday AM and never went above 33 all day! At least the snow/slush/ice/rain was put off in the forecast until Thursday. Which may be why Sid left early, they are headed to Mississippi. Of course the wintery weather is too.

My electric bill for January was $81. Not bad since the computer and crock pot go all day; radio goes all day and night for the critters (and for me!) Still use space heater when needed!

Thursday Feb 3 Xin Nián Kuài LèHAPPY NEW YEAR The year of the rabbit Brrrrr....25 degrees, I could use some nice mittens lined in rabbit fur! At least it wasn’t too windy. According to the weatherman, 1/2 inch of ice was on its way. Thursday AM is craft day and they are making recipe books -- wanted to do that -- but didn’t want to go out in the cold. Won't be going to Friendship Supper Thursday, either. But I did have to head to town to run some last minute errands. I needed to get to Walmart to change my Rx -- gave me the wrong glucose strips when I picked up my Rx the other day.

Glad I have lots of pee-papers for Li'lBit 'cuz I'm not going out unless I absolutely have to. You know Texas folk just can’t handle this cold crap! All the way up to 30 degrees by noon but no 'wintery mix.’

What a comedy of errors at WalMart Rx to get the strips changed. I had called about the mix-up; arrived at pharmacy shortly after 9AM when they opened. Definitely the right hand did not know what the left hand was doing. I was shuttled from one line to the next until nearly noon! Granted a whole bunch of folks were in there to stock up on meds prior to the ‘wintery mix’ – but all I needed was for them to correct THEIR mistake and it was like pulling teeth! At least I met some really nice folks setting and waiting and standing in line! When they told me it would be ‘about an hour” (for the second time!) I decided to pick up some groceries and save a trip in later in the week.

Ended up buying a whole chicken and immediately put it in the oven with some vegetables when I got home. Surprising how warm this place stays with the oven going. I still had one full tank of propane, but knew this one was getting really low. Propane truck comes Friday. But we are to start warming up Sat -- maybe up into the 50s - so if I don't need a tank filled tomorrow - I'll still be good until he comes Tuesday....unless the weather man lied to me!

Finally heard from both Deryl & Elke and Sid & Rain. Now my ol’ ticker can settle down. It is like taking a stress test without the treadmill when I have friends on the road in bad weather.

Got down to 19 Thursday night. No snow, just sleety ice all over everything -- at least not t hick enough to make the tree branches hang. Didn't even take Li'lBit out -- This AM Li'lBit hit the top two steps going out and was slipping and sliding and turned around and came back in!! That was enough warning for me! But I did need to unhook the propane tank and set it out – just in case the truck did show up. I guess that is what old towels and small throw rugs are for – covering the steps and providing a path to walk on! The concrete under the 5th wheel overhang was clear and then I could walk and stand on the grass to get the tank out. Worked like a charm! Sure glad my sister sent hoodies! Must be global warming!

Put a pot of chili in the crock pot so I'll handle staying in just fine!

Propane truck came in mid-afternoon Friday, made it about ½ way thru the park and ran out of propane. He said he'd be here Saturday morning and he was. My Knight in Shining Armor! Hooked the water back up, I'm back to normal! Well, ‘normal’ is debatable!

Motor home next door to me left on Saturday. Several have already pulled out. I think some had planned on going last week but the weather changed their plans. Usually don’t see people leaving on the weekend.

My mind has been wandering about the possibility of getting a small travel trailer to take to Iowa and leave. Will depend on how cheaply I can pick one up and what it will cost for me to store it in Iowa. I've emailed my sister to start looking for a storage place and get some rates. Then the critters and I will just drive back and forth to Iowa. I think I can spend more summers up there if I don't have to haul this 5er on every trip. After the experience trying to get this one licensed in Iowa (!!!), I'd really rather buy one down here and tow it up.

Sunday Feb 6 Woke to Sunny Days and 55 degrees! Feels wonderful to have the door and windows open for a change. It’s Super Bowl Sunday – are you ready for some football!? Spent a sunny warm (up to 70 degrees) afternoon outside with Li’lBit – she loafed around and I read!

Deryl & Elke left for Louisiana to pick up another trailer today and planning on being back before the next 'cold front' and rain blows in late Wednesday or Thursday. I miss them when they are gone – even tho we may not get together much – it’s just nice to know they are here.

January Recipes

2011-02-01T13:35:00.001-06:00

Johnnie's Cherry Pie Salad

1 can cherry pie filling
1 can eagle brand sweet condensed milk
1 cane pineapple chunks – drained
1 small cook whip
1 cup pecans

Mix together and refrigerate.

Mahi Mahi over Onions and Mushrooms

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 small onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
5 button mushrooms, sliced
1 1/2 pounds mahi mahi
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup white cooking wine
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook onions, mushrooms and garlic over medium heat until onions are transparent.
Cut the mahi mahi into 3 inch long filets. Place the Mahi Mahi fillets over the onions, mushrooms and garlic. Salt and Pepper the first side of the filets to taste. Add white cooking wine and lemon juice.
Cover and cook 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the filets over and salt and pepper the second side to taste. Cook 4 to 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily.
Remove only the fish to a heated plate and keep warm until sauce is ready.

In the same skillet with all the onions, mushrooms, garlic and cooking wine, raise heat to medium/high. Bring to a boil. Dissolve cornstarch in the 2 tablespoons of water; stir into skillet. Stir the sauce continuously until sauce thickens to desired consistency.
Pour sauce over mahi mahi filets. Serve immediately.

Salsa Chicken Soup

3 1/2 cups Chicken Broth
1/2 cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice
1 can (16 ounces) Pork and Beans
1/2 cup Chunky Salsa
1 cup cubed cooked chicken

Heat the broth in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat to a boil. Stir the rice in the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until rice is done.
Stir the beans, salsa and chicken in the saucepan and heat through.

January Comes to an End - 24-31

2011-02-01T13:12:00.003-06:00

Monday January 24 48 degrees in the AM – didn’t get much warmer -- then some rain along the way. I guess I can handle the damp and the chill for a few days when I know 60-70 degree weather is just a couple of days away.

Haven't been reading a lot -- my right eye is giving me 'heart ache' again! But GOOD heartache! It is really trying to "work." I think the film is thinning; it messes with my reading. The right eye sees enough now it is trying to focus and screws up the good eye. I'm not complaining! I have some books on line I am reading -- like reading from a Kindle. I’m still not sure if I want an eReader or not. By the time I read all of my on line newspapers in the AM, I'm just about read out.

Marinated tuna steaks in Italian salad dressing. Would have been nice to toss them on the grill, but I’m a ‘fair weather’ griller. The counter top broiler worked just fine!

Tuesday, Ladies coffee - shopping – nail appointment at noon. Quick stroll on the beach with Li’lBit – how that dog manages to find every dead carcass on the beach to roll in, I’ll never know! Met with Deryl and Elke at Hu Dat’s for supper. They left Wednesday for a trip to Louisiana to the auction. I call Deryl the FEMA Trailer King….truly a King of the Road! He does a really good job renovating them. Hu Dat’s is a Vietnamese restaurant down by the pier. The deep fried oysters were to die for! They came with fried rice and some wonderfully delicious fish sauce. Hu Dat’s is definitely going to be a regular stopping place for lunch!

Picked up a tract phone at WalMart -- said it uses the T-Mobil network. Bought the initial plan to see if it works. If not, will go try another one! I’m really tired of not getting any of my calls or messages until I get into town! My phone seldom picks up a call here in the park.

Night temps have been in the mid-30s. My poinsettias are long wilted and suffering from 'frost bite' so I'm not even going to try to save them. Will clean out the pots and wait for WalMart to get their spring flowers.

Wednesday was lunch with the 'town group' at Jama's - a cheese cake place -- sandwiches, light lunch stuff -- and high-dollar yummy cheese cake! Lunch was good - had a Reuben and ice tea -- enjoyed the visit with everyone. It took all the will power I had to leave the place without a piece of cheesecake.

Managed to get enough of my truck emptied out so Donna and Kathy could ride with me. Amazing just how much stuff I can get into that truck – after all, it is my basement and attic and shed!

AND, in the process, I found another Fareway grocery sack with canned pumpkin! Last summer there was a 'shortage' on pumpkin due to some kind of pumpkin virus that made them all squishy and not suitable for processing. The manufacturers weren't sure they would have another supply to process in time for Thanksgiving. One day at the grocery in Iowa, I saw one box of 24 cans on the shelf. I bought several. Then on one of my trips to meet with Ingrid, Sherri & Judy for lunch, I stopped in a grocery somewhere along the way to get a few things and there were 10 cans of pumpkin so I bought 5 more. Well, in the meantime, the virus was gone, more pumpkin was being processed so there was no need for my "hording'! Now I have plenty of pumpkin!

Can't believe I was up at 5:30 Thursday morning! 46 degrees out - GOOD! Weather man had predicted mid-30s.
Why do I save cardboard boxes? I need to haul them to the trash --gotta stop saving every box I get! It’s not like I have enough stuff to store or anyplace to store it. And I sure don’t mail a lot of stuff anywhere.

With temps in the low 70s and sunny, naturally I had to make some picnic table time for Li'lBit! Love being outside with her. She is so much company. While setting at the picnic table, the screen door came flying open – and there was Holly hanging on the screen! I’m surprised she didn’t fall off, drop to the ground and run off. Will have to figure out how to fix that!

Decided to make Johnnie Williams' cherry pie dessert/salad -- cherry pie filling, chunky pineapple, Eagle brand milk, cool whip and pecans to the Friendship Supper. Can't get much easier than that!

Always eat way too much at pot luck -- tonite must have been a challenge on who could make the best rice, chicken, broccoli casserole! There were several on the table and each a little different. Someone made a really good ham and bean casserole with huge chunks of ham. Of course lots of different pasta dishes. Lots of salads and desserts. Oh, I love Friendship Supper night!

On Friday, Li'l Bit and I didn't crawl out of bed until after 8AM - 46 degrees - going into the upper 60's maybe even 70s today. General ‘housekeeping duties’ on the schedule - clean the kitty litter, propane tank out for refill, stood in the street and talked with the neighbors, did up some dishes -- tossed a soggy green pepper and tomato into the garbage - took the garbage out, took a fillet of Mahi Mahi out of the freezer to bake for supper. That was lots of work for a retired person…think it probably requires some rest!

Weatherman predicted some rain and cooler weather for the weekend and then into next week. Hope it doesn't rain the entire time Sid & Rain are here - last winter was an icky cold winter - even some snow -- they weren't impressed with winter in Rockport!

Exciting afternoon on Saturday. Rocky & Carole made it in - finally! They were part of the "neighborhood" for the last couple of years and I’ve missed seeing them parked down the street. Glad they made it safe and sound.

Kathy left on Friday and Donna left on Sunday. Will miss them. It was nice they could be here about a month. Never know who you will meet on an email list and then it is a pleasure to put a face with the name.

My name showed up on the "bad" list - not using a "sewer donut." It's a round spongy rubber thing that goes in the sewer pipe to give a tighter fit to the connection. I didn't use the 'donut' since my orange connector had a tighter gasket -- but I'm all fixed up now with my orange “thingy’ into the donut ‘thingy’ that’s in the sewer pipe.

Saturday was baked potato/soup supper. One of the most popular events, I think. The activity building was full of soups, dessert and people! I fixed Shrimp Posole (shrimp and veg soup in chicken broth). Brought home just about enough for lunch on Sunday.

By 1PM Sunday, I had finished a run to the store, laundry - 65 degrees - sunny - not too windy -- rained some during the night but cleared off by noon. Li’lBit and I pulled a ‘vegetate at the picnic table’ afternoon. Life is Good! Rain and Sid should be in late today or Monday. Looking forward to seeing them.

Swept the leaves and acorns from my pad and cleaned up some of my plants that are showing wear and tear after our colder nights and the hail storm. Don't have much left but some chives, the shamrock plant that really took a beating during the freeze and the hail, my aloe vera desperately needs to be thinned and transplanted. Finally tossed out all the poinsettias -- just not in the mood to mess with trying to keep them looking decent -- they are so windblown they are now at home in the trash bag!

Li'lBit's been up and down the street meeting the new canine neighbors. She so loves all the other dogs -- except Rick & Diane's hunting dogs -- she doesn't think much of them!

Monday Jan 31 Made a pot of Chicken Salsa Soup in the crock pot. Chicken, rice, salsa, pork & beans -- actually it is quite good.
61 degrees and foggy this AM. It turned out to be a beautiful day. The cold front lingered in north TX -- wish it would stay there! Supposed to be down in the 20s at nite by the middle of the week. AND, the weatherman used that 4-letter SNOW word for Thursday - but I don't think I'll need a snowblower! But I’m ready. Propane tanks full, space heater available and I have the blankets for the windows handy! These slides are really drafty – wish I could figure a way to insulate them. It would be so nice if this 70 degree weather would stick around ‘til I leave in April!

Rain and Sid got in about mid-day. We went to Moon Dogs for seafood Po’boy sandwiches. Deryl and Elke made it back from their auction in Louisiana, so we all went to Jalisco’s for some good food, friend, fun! And how was your diet today??