Livin' the Dream

A full week

2012-01-16T14:56:00.003-05:00

Taking a deep breath and finally sitting still after a whirl-wind week.

We actually made the 1200 mile journey in just two days. Sort of like a world record for us slug-setters.
Arriving early Monday evening to clear skies and low-70's, our escape from the grip of 'old man winter' is complete. After waking up the coach (it naps while we're away) we contacted our Iowa friends Jim and Carol to make plans to meet later in the week for the visiting the Tampa RV show. The following day we returned to our favorite Mexican haunt to refresh our memories and friendship. And make plans to visit the Tampa RV show later in the week.

We then made plans for meeting our Michigan friends Tom and Mary to hand-off some frozen venison sausage we'd carried south for them. Actually Tom created this scrumptious delicacy from the results of his fall deer hunt in upper Michigan. I've had a taste of this world-class sausage before and he was kind enough to give us a generous sample while we were back in Michigan. Actually his daughter Jenny brought it over to us as Tom and Mary had already headed south. She said she was going to ship a package of it to them but I suggest we hand-carry it to Florida as we were staying at a park not too far from them. Anyway we made the transfer and enjoyed getting caught up over lunch.

Wednesday was movie day and we joined Jim and Carol to see film 'Tinker-Tailor-Soldier-Spy'. Now this movie is both dark and deep. So dark it may have put me to sleep for a minute or two, and so deep that I would have to see it about six more times before I got the gist of it. All that means that it will probably win an Oscar and I will continue to wonder about my skill set.

Thursday I was granted a day of rest by my social director, though she was scheming to fill up the remainder of the week.

We took off early Friday with Jim and Carol for the Tampa RV show. About an hour or so from our Florida Grande RV Resort location, this spring Mecca for the over the road set is always a good reason to get out and drool over the latest offerings from the RV industry. Entering the main building we were met with a display of of maybe fifteen of the finest motor coaches money can buy. These opulent, feature rich road condos will cause jaws to drop and lips to drool. Some needing an appointment even to get inside to look at, this display of over consumption was still pretty cool. Setting aside the alligator skin inserts in the leather seating areas, the Sub-Zero appliances, and the electronic packages that would confound the Star Trek crew, but what got my attention was the engine compartment. Crammed into this rear area was a 650 HP turbo charged behemoth with 5 alternators, a water pump that could run the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel in Vegas, and enough belts and do-dads to drive any respectable gear head insane.

You need lots of Love and lots of Money

Rube Goldberg would be proud

So where do you store your junk?

This couple is trying to figure out if you can get 12 fillet Mignon on the grill.

Since nobody who owns one of these beauties ever will actually work on one of these mechanical marvels themselves, the repair guys they hire must be absolutely giddy when one of these comes in for work.

I think the least expensive one listed at $1,200,000, so this rarefied air is only available for certain clientele to breathe. But its still nice for the rest of us to just get a little sniff.

She does have perfect hair.

I don't know how many rigs were in the show nor how may vendors were present, but it's worth a visit to this traveling show. I think this following week its starts all over in the down-state Sarasota area.

With little strength left, we left the RV show and wouldn't you know it but there, within eyesight, was the Hard Rock Casino. Not that I wasn't already sapped of all my physical powers after ogling the RV stuff, so now the social director conned me into going gambling. Apparently with hopes of winning enough for a new coach, we ventured in ... into the belly of the beast to be krill for giant money eating whale. An hour and half passed and we escaped. Luckily with the shirts still on our back, we made it out alive and of course vowed never to return. Oh what a lie! Anyway it was a fun day.

It was quite a surprise to learn that our friends Henry and Geannie were here in camp for a few days. Down from their South Carolina home for some mechanical repairs at Wildwood, it was good to see them again. We made plans to visit them Saturday afternoon and ended up staying for dinner. Southern hospitality at its finest and great conversationalist. They were leaving the following morning for Jacksonville to have something repaired at the Marathon dealer so we made plans for a late March visit and closed out the evening.

Getting up early (for us) is not our strong suit but be wanted to say good-bye to Geannie and Henry (and Buddy their four-legged companion) so be got over to their site just before they left. We said our farewells and they headed north.

Henry and Geannie (looking out the window) heading north

Belleville, I think. An uneventful meal but it lead us past a large flea market that was in full swing. We found a parking spot and headed in. As you know from previous trips we usually stop at these places, if only for a short while as we find them unique and the people are always interesting to look at.

Wandering around the place reiterated the old adage ... "one man's junk is another man's treasure". But we did find some interesting things.

Just right for a special girl

This girl sold us pistachios and cashews

This guy said his new tattoo was 'family' friendly as were the 15 others he already had.

At the 'puppy palace' customers could give hugs

Thousands to choose from.

From the flea market we headed south back to the Clermont area for dinner with Jim and Carol. So you fellow retirees and those soon to be retired ... no need to sit around waiting for the grim reaper. Get out and see the world ... it's not as bad as the evening news says it is.

I know this blog is beginning to look like a Twitter message but I can blabber more than 160 words and you can get pictures too! So it's a real bargain.

On the road and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Headin' for the Promise land

2012-01-08T23:19:00.000-05:00

Yup ... the promise of no snow and no sub-zero temps gets us on the road today. We've managed to put 600 miles under our butts and we're now snuggled into a comfy Hampton Inn in Knoxville Tennessee.

Totally great weather for driving, at least until we got to TN whereas a light drizzle goobered up the once clean car. We arrived in Knoxville shortly after dark and located the Hampton. We checked in and got from the manager, with a little coaxing from Sharon, a recommendation for a place to eat this evening. Since it seemingly is what we do best, we headed out to Puleo's Grille www.puleosgrille.com to find out for ourselves. A quick ride down the street brought us to the restaurant and were soon seated. As Puleo's advertising likes to put it ... it has 'Southern roots and Italian heritage'. I know it sounds like fried chicken, grits and spaghetti but it really has a very nice selection. We started out with a delicately battered and fried calamari (chopped up little eight legged {and two tentacles}denizens of the deep). As good as Sweeny's (near Miamisburg Ohio) they were, and as my son-in-law would say ... "very tasty". Sharon ordered shrimp whereas I choose a NY strip. We each split our order when it arrived so we each had surf and turf. Each meal was very nicely prepared and ... very tasty. The dinning area was very comfortable and, even though it was a Sunday night, very well attended. Our waitress Emily was so pleasant and helpful this northerner had almost gotten what southern hospitality was all about. I think I've met a couple of hundred waitresses who could learn a thing or two from her. Attentive, friendly, and able to give excellent details on Puleo's many offerings, it made the evening extra special. Give this place a try the next time you're in the Knoxville area. I think they have about six locations but we were at the Cedar Lane restaurant off I75 at exit #108.

So we've got about half the distance covered for this trip ... on the very first day! I know many of our friends will find this a complete fantasy but before we left I put some blue fairy dust in the fuel tank and we travelled like the wind. Or at least that's the story I'm telling today.

Still livin' the dream and headin' south.

Phil

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T00:47:00.000-05:00

To each and everyone of you we wish all the best in 2012. May your life be full of good health, happiness, good fortune and safe travels.

Still livin' the dream

Phil & Sharon

Twas' the night

2011-12-24T23:57:00.001-05:00

Twas indeed the night before Christmas and I'm almost to bed. At times it seems such a chore but when the kids and grand kids walk through the door tomorrow all the effort is forgotten. Smiles and grins all around as they see the tree surrounded by brightly wrapped gifts. It always good to be home for the holidays

We again have a great deal to be thankful again this year and hope each and every one of you all the best this holiday season.

Wait! Is that Rudolph and jolly old Santa I see out on the neighbor's roof? Gotta get out the cookies and get in bed. See ya!

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Somebody special

2011-12-23T02:21:00.000-05:00

A special shout-out and Merry Christmas to one of our dear friends who lives in Finland. One of my most loyal readers whom we've known for a good many years, Susanne lives (I think) very near Santa Claus so ... if all you other readers think very nice thoughts about her today, maybe she can put in a good word for you.

Thank you Susanne for your friendship and support.

Still livin' the dream and thinkin' good thoughts.

Phil

Time warp ... or something

2011-12-23T02:07:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday at 12:30 in the afternoon and again at 8:30 the following morning I entered a United State Postal facility with items to mail and found no one ... repeat ... no one waiting in line ahead of me! Actually there wasn't a soul in the place except the postal workers. The last time I was there there were at least 15 people standing in line ahead of me. Hey folks this is the holiday season! Let get out there and support our money starved postal service. I can't imagine I was the only one who didn't get the message to mail early before the deadline... was I? I was planning on meeting new friends and kibitzing about the weather and such while waiting, but no. I walked in, went straight to the counter, shipped my package, wished the clerk a Merry Christmas and out the door I went. Or was I in some sort of seasonally induced parallel universe thing? Stay tuned.

Confused but still livin' the dream.

Phil

Time flies

2011-12-17T00:56:00.002-05:00

We really forgot how lazy we could become. With big plans to clean out the garage, clean out the office, and clean out the spare bedroom ... I think the only thing that got cleaned out so far was the refrigerator. Intentions, much like New Year's resolutions sure look good on paper but it always seems 'something' comes up.

No sooner than we got back into Michigan and we met with our summer RV neighbors at an eatery in Battle Creek to get caught up. Sure good seeing everyone and are already looking forward to returning to Cousins RV Park in South Haven next spring. We jabbered awhile, took a quick trip to the local casino (lost) and before long we had to depart for a pre-concert dinner with our dear friends from Battle Creek. This time a nice downtown eatery, followed by a great Brass Band of Battle Creek (www.bbbc.net) concert at W.K. Kellogg Auditorium.

Just a side note on the Brass Band of Battle Creek. If you ever plan to be travelling in Michigan check out their website and performance schedule. This is not a tuba player and a couple of trombones with folks playing Sousa marches but a gathering of some of the finest brass instrument players on the planet. From the London Symphony to Carnegie Hall to New Orleans and Chicago jazz, these people can play just about anything you can imagine and do it so you won;t forget it. If you close your eyes when they're performing you'd swear there were wind and string instruments playing as well but no, only brass and percussion some 40 players strong. If you do have an inkling to go ...plan ahead ... many times they are almost fully booked 6 months ahead. By-the-way, if you were expecting maybe a hundred music buffs showing up for one of these at the Kellogg Auditorium (one of Michigan premiere acoustical gems) think again ... more like 2000 attend every performance.

Okay let me get back on track. The following day Sharon and I attended a baby shower (girls) brunch (guys) for Kim, the daughter of our dear friends George and Paula at Clara's Restaurant (www.claras.com) in downtown Battle Creek. The charming restaurant is an old New York Central train station of the 1940's and 50's era and is full of lots of historical items from the town.  The shower was a gala affair that had all the neat stuff expecting mothers do and get and an extra special treat for the guys who got there own separate room to eat, drink and tell outrageous stories of bygone years. All-in-all a pretty good outing.

Finally getting home that evening, it was good to be back and was really great to discover the house was not flooded nor taken over by a herd of raccoons this year. We knew we could now get at all those projects we'd planned on. Oh but did I forget? We had other duties to do first. Within a few days we were going to stay with our grand children as their folks headed off on a cruise out of Miami.

Five days with two young adults, one brown dog that likes everybody, one grey, stripped cat who is almost too friendly, and finally one white cat with big black spots who doesn't like me. It was interesting to spend some time with our fast maturing grand kids. We quickly learn the kids are growing up fast and the need for us to look over them in their folks absence will soon pass.   We look forward to being a part of their lives as they continue the journey into adulthood but will miss the 'little kid' times.

So now maybe I can get to work on the garage. Oh wait!. The temperature is dropping fast so maybe I should work inside on the office or the spare bedroom. Oh wait again!. What about Christmas shopping Sharon says.  Okay, I give up. Maybe next year I get started on the cleaning jobs.

Still livin' the dream here in the North country.

Phil

ps ... a get well fast goes out to our friends Miki and Tracy

What on earth are we doing?

2011-12-05T10:38:00.001-05:00

We saw the first signs of trouble around Dayton Ohio. A little unnerving ... but manageable. As the miles went by our worst fears became a reality. It was unmistakable ... something no rv'er ever wants to see. Call it angel dust. Call it Santa's dandruff. But it's still Snow. OMG. There it was ... covering the fields ... covering the green ... covering life itself. And it was a dirty, nasty white at that. Leaving our winter retreat in central Florida meant no more sunshine. No more 80 degree weather. No more fresh picked oranges. We've returned from once we came. But alas... but for such a short time; then we'll return to the land of bright skies, warm winds, blue haired ladies and a ribbon of left turn-signal lights in the right lane in early January.

With some some very special reasons we returned to Michigan for the month of December. Friends and family, being the most important, made the return despite the weather, a worthwhile adventure. A baby shower ... a wedding ... a meeting with summer rv'ers ... and of course, Christmas and New Years holidays. It's still good to be home.

For those snowbirds still contemplating heading north for the holidays or those late starters heading south, a couple of warnings. If going through Cincinnati, Louisville, or Atlanta try to do so sometime between 11:00am and 2:00pm. Sundays would be best but on workdays, mid-day seems far less hectic.
Longest tie-up we noticed coming north was south bound traffic in Cincinnati. North bound was bad enough but those heading south the lanes looked like a parking lot half way back to Dayton. Speaking of Dayton ... we stayed at the Hilton's Homewood Suites in Miamisburg (south side of Dayton)http://homewoodsuites1.hilton.com/en_US/hw/hotel/DAYSOHW-Homewood-Suites-by-Hilton-Dayton-South-Ohio/index.do. Take exit #44 off north bound I75 then east one block then south one block. Best price we could find on short notice, including dinner and breakfast was $89. Plus beer for 50 cents per glass and wine at 75 cents per glass. Rooms were large, clean and very quite. Great shopping nearby as well. Dayton Mall, Barnes & Noble, etc.

So Mother Nature give it your best shot while we're here. Show us what a white Christmas really is but please make sure the snowplows have cleared a path for us in January cause' we're again ... outta here.

Shivering but still livin' the dream.

Phil

2011-11-27T11:54:00.001-05:00

Maybe I should trade in my land yacht for this little beauty. More storage and can go places the Monaco won't go. May have to rename her but I'll ask Sharon what she thinks of the idea.

The new Sharon K ???

Maybe livin' the dream is over?

Phil

Whew! We made it one more year

2011-11-27T11:49:00.001-05:00

Butterballs on the run

We're all still livin' the dream

Phil

Up, up and away!

2011-11-27T09:22:00.000-05:00

10:02 am Saturday morning. Look due east and watch the show.

NASA lit the fuse on another big rocket (Atlas V) taking a new and bigger rover vehicle (named Curiosity) to the planet Mars. They say they're looking for signs of life on the old Red planet but I think once they get there (next summer) most of those little green people will already be on vacation.

This shot was taken from our back yard some 75 miles away from Cape Canaveral. I've seen a number of these launches but each one is still as exciting as the last. Still a kid at heart, I guess.

'Curiosity' off to get curious

Still livin' the dream but keeping my feet on the ground.

Phil

Living it up

2011-11-20T23:48:00.042-05:00

Not soon after getting settled in camp, Sharon's sister Gay and our grandchildren Allison and Austin flew down to spend a week with us. We had rented a condo near Orlando to save the hour or better drive each way from camp to Disney and Universal Studios.

Summers Bay Resorts (http://www.summerbayresort.com/orlando.htm) turned out to be quite a nice place. Spacious rooms, several pools and best of all ... close to the Orlando attractions.

Our condo

I really got off easy by returning to camp to work on a major photo project leaving the heavy entertaining to Sharon. I returned at the end of week to enjoy the festivities.

But just one little anecdote on the trip to the airport to pick everyone up ... I had not paid a lot of attention to how much fuel I had in the tank so I dropped Sharon off at the airport to meet our visitors and headed out to buy gas. Driving and driving, I finally found a Shell station some 10 miles away. A nice clean station near a big mall. I really needed the gas so I pulled into the first place I could find. I got ready to pump only to noticed what the price was. Regular gas was just shy of $6.00/gallon! No wonder I was the only one at the gas pumps. The locals wouldn't be anywhere near this rip-off joint so I pumped just a couple of gallons and headed back to the airport ... slightly miffed. No very miffed!

OMG gas prices

Sharon carried the most of the entertaining load this week dashing from place to place and roller coaster to roller coaster with our guests. I don't know how she keeps going but she is really amazing. Being young at heart helps. As the week progressed I did noticed all of them were running a little low on steam and hanging out at the pool became the attraction of choice.

And so this past week went. If you're coming to the Orlando area to see all the great attractions, don't forget to have very deep pockets or a good line of credit ... or both. Now not all things are expensive but those do take a little effort to discover. All in all whatever the cost it was really good to have family come done and spend some time with us. We hope they all had a good time ... we sure did.

Here's a few more images of the condo ...

Pool at our condo

Master bedroom

Living room and kitchen

Patio view

So in addition to all the great fun, my Grand daughter Allison celebrated her 17th birthday with us. My Grandson Austin is growing like a weed (he was noticeably taller each morning) and my Sister-in-law Gay is still a kid at heart. All great individuals but when in a group ... crazy rules. But Sharon and I really enjoyed their visit.

So once again ... we're still livin' the dream ... now in warm and sunny Florida.

Phil

A quick update ... almost

2011-11-12T00:34:00.011-05:00

Roughing at our winter camp

We've finally landed at our winter destination at Florida Grande RV Resort near Webster Florida. We were here last year and enjoyed the stay so we're back again.

Just to back up a bit ... we left Adairsville and motored on a few hours to Manchester TN. Not to abandon my 'late to start ... early to quit' driving style, we managed to get maybe 200 miles under my belt before seeking out the KOA in Manchester. Another repeat stop for us and it too was well kept park. We didn't unhook with plans of getting on the road early the next morning. As you might guess that didn't materialize as we managed to get back on the road about 10:00am.

Now here comes the ugly part ... I24 south of Manchester is no place for the meek. The roads are in perfect shape ... the scenery is spectacular ... but the hills and truck traffic is not so good. If I had not 400hp pushing me going up the mountains and a reliable Jake Brake slowing me on the decent, my fingers would still be permanently bonded to the steering wheel. I'm trying to maintain a 60-65mph speed but the 18 wheelers roared by me like my wife rushing for the 'blue-light' special at K Mart. Up and down and around the mountains we went ... I think if I were driving a car it would have been a more pleasant route but a little to tense for my liking in a motor home.

Though the trip to the next over-night was short, the stop at the Forsyth KOA was again very enjoyable. We'd planned to revisit a restaurant (Prime Palate) was nixed as we were there for dinner but on that day they were only serving breakfast and lunch. So we consulted my new Garmin GPS unit for new eating places and found a steak house that sounded good. We found the place but learned that it had gone out of business some 11 months ago. So much for the map upgrade.

Sharon mentioned that there was a movie she'd seen (Fried Green Tomatoes) was shot near Forsyth so we again consulted the GPS unit and drove off to the east about 10 miles to the small village of Juliette.

Inviting sign

About half way there we came over a hill and looming on the horizon was 2 very tall smoke stacks and 4 huge cooling towers. I first thought it was a nuclear generating plant but Sharon did a little Google checking and discovered that it was the largest coal fired power generating plant in the US. If time would have permitted I sure would have liked to take a closer look and taken some photos. It was an imposing facility. Anyway on to Juliette ... we pulled into the made-for-the-movie street discovering that both sides of the street were small old-time shops (all closed) each built at maybe 2/3 scale. Sort of like an over-grown doll house look.

Whistle Stop Cafe

Specialty of the house

The famous restaurant we wanted to eat at (specializing in fried green tomatoes I guess) was closed as well so I took a few pictures and headed back to Forsyth.

We cruised around the city square and found a place called 'Grits Cafe' www.gritscafe.com.

Grits Cafe next to the Rose Theater

Normally I'm gastronomically about as far away from grits as I am the moon but it looked like the only game in town at the time so we ventured in. Wow! What's a place like this doing in this little burg? Table cloths, nice wine list, original art on the walls and no paper towels in the restroom but white cotton towels all neatly rolled in a stack near the sinks! Oh did I mention the food? Yup, lots of grits offered but only as compliments to the main entrees. Checkout their website and see the selection. Oh, and one last little treat. Along with the bill came a little plate of special chocolate to finish off the meal.

A sweet little chocolate delight

So fellow snowbirds and other vagabonds of the road ... if you're passing through or stopping over in Forsyth Georgia area you can't go wrong at either the Prime Palate or the Grit Cafe. You will not be disappointed.

Heading out at the crack of 10:00am the next morning we made to our next stop in Lake City Florida. We've been there before and it was an easy in and easy out stop over.

So here we are on our last leg of the trip. Another rough 3 hour day on the concrete canyons of northern Florida. I like to rate the trips we take using the famous "Cone" formula. This was a one cone trip. That is I only hit one orange cone and no orange barrels. Not too bad for me considering it took me 6 days to go 1200 miles. Nothing like smelling the roses along the way.

Thanks for tagging along and stay with us as we embark on another winter adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Farewell friend

2011-11-08T22:26:00.000-05:00

Corky Vogel 1936 - 2011
R.I.P.

On the road again

2011-11-06T22:17:00.000-05:00

The wind rustled fallen leaves through the vacant sites. It was very quite that last night we were at our summer camp. We were the last to leave (again) the following morning. Bittersweet. The good times with friends and family but now most all have left and we've said our goodbyes to family. Yes bittersweet.

We got around in the morning, hooked up the car and said farewell to Mary the camp owner, and headed south.

First stop was an old stop. Been there before and found it works best for us. Woods-n-Water Rv park near Columbus Indiana is close to the highway and roomy enough for our rig. We met up with Sharon's sister Linda and husband John at Mark Pi's China Gate restaurant in Columbus for dinner. Maybe not as good as previous meals there but not bad either. Before dinner we took a little tour of downtown Columbus and finally could see what a wonderful array of architecture it has. Bold, elegant, and whimsical ... all styles are embraced here. A truly neat little city. I also noticed a big Cummins engine plant there. If I could have spent a weekday there I understand they have guided tours of the plants. It would be neat to see how that big M11 400hp coach engine that pushes around us was built. Maybe later.

Kind of slept in today and got a late start. I know ... no surprise to some of our friends but once underway I quickly discovered that I had made a slight error in where our next stop would be. Originally I had planned to bypass Louisville as the I64 bridge was closed routing all traffic to the I65 bridge. Two to three hour backups were the norm so I cleverly thought I'd head further west and cross the Ohio river further downstream. Well what I thought and what I plugged into my trip planning software were two different things. When I left camp I turned on the laptop, brought up the trip plan and away we went. Enjoying the scenery and motoring along the little female voice in the laptop kept belching out that famous word "recalculating" "recalculating". After a half dozen "recalclating" I looked a little closer at the screen and discovered that I had called up the wrong trip map and we were headed directly for the 2-3 hours traffic jam in Lousiville. We found a rest stop about 30 miles down the road and we pulled in to figure out what we could do. It wasn't long before we realized we'd gone too far and were going to have to stick with the drive through Louisville. Trip planning is not my strong suit.

Bracing for the sea of red brake lights, we approached the outskirts of town only to be pleasantly surprised that two of the four lanes were moving over the bridge at about 30mph ... so it all worked out. Except for the crummy roads we got through in good order. It pays to traverse big cities on Sundays, I guess. I don't care how long I've driven a motor home I still don't like heavy truck traffic around me. They drive faster than I usually do and my knuckles return to their normal color only after my fingers have been pried from the death grip on the steering wheel. Winds buffeting from both mother nature and my fellow road warriors always make for tense driving. Maybe age has something to do with it. I'll be happy to get to Florida.

Anyway we made it to our next stop in Manchester Tennessee. We stayed at this KOA last spring and if I can find my fishing rod those big catfish in the pond are in real trouble in the morning.

Tomorrow we're off to Adairsville Georgia. We may stay there a couple of days to do a little shopping for a chair for the coach. The old 'J" couch has served it purpose and now I need something a little more comfortable. If we have the room, Sharon may get one as well.

Once we get settled in Florida by next week, and I get my Mac up and running, I can catch up some of the things we did at our last camp. Pictures and everything. Stay tuned.

Thanks for hanging in there and waiting for me to get my writing mojo started again.

On the road again and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Latest

2011-10-22T01:07:00.000-04:00

Okay ... promptness is not one of my virtues. But before long I'll get you caught up on our remaining weeks in Southwestern Michigan. Mini trips up north for a little color touring ... a zany Halloween party ... coach issues and finally our plans for this winter ...which we're only a couple of weeks away before we leave but have not be made any plans. We're thinking about spending the first month in the Atlanta area, then returning north for the holidays, then back south (somewhere) for the rest of the winter. So if you have any suggestions for around the Atlanta area drop me a note.

So hang in ... the dust here has got to settle a little before I can access my photo files and write a few lines but it will surely will happen soon and we'll soon start another play-by-play commentary of our next adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Blatant plug and timely tips

2011-09-27T13:04:00.000-04:00

Okay this will be short. My granddaughter Allison has been very active in high school TV production and I want to show everyone why we are so proud of her. So take a look at this attached clip and compare it with your small hometown commercial news cast. I think you'll find these high school kids do a pretty fine job.

http://www.mhsaa.tv/davison/events/21943

Campers are slowly but surely pulling up stakes and heading out ... and we'll soon follow. As I watch the parade of those preparing to leave, it reminds me of the preparation we all need to do to get ready to hit the road. Some need to winterize, all need to check engine fluids, tire air pressure, windows and vents closed, propane valves closed, battery(s) condition, windshield wipers, stop lights and turn signals, antennas lowered, will the slides retract, and will the engine and generator even start. Try to get all these checks made on the morning you're planning to leave will almost guarantee higher stress and the likelihood that you'll get to spend another day in camp fixing something. So make out a check list a week ahead of your departure date and get at it.

Still livin' the dream and working through my checklist.

Phil

Ole'

2011-09-10T23:30:00.000-04:00

Yet another day of conspicuous consumption. Or as we call it around here ... pigging out at the clubhouse.

Steeped in the traditions of old Mexico, another spread of ''theme' food was prepared for the residents here. Nancy, who must have worked on the dinner for a month, again bettered her efforts of last year by introducing yet another delectable array of homemade 'south of the border' delicacies.

Chef Senorita Nancy

Senior Rod and the Fajita fixens'

Now I can look at a menu at any Mexican restaurant and before too long become so confused as to what to order I usually end up with a taco and call it a day. But Nancy does it right. All these homemade goodies lined up and labeled! Yes she actually identifies each item (with a beautifully handcrafted sign) which helps us not so sophisticated diners figure out what to flop on our plate. Smell those beans cooking ... see that blacken chicken ... um..... black beans, refried beans, peppers, onions, taco meat, shredded chicken, steak strips ... need I go on? But I can't stop ... taco salad, tortillas, fajitas, flan but hopefully ...... no flatulence. I don't know how she does it but this one woman food show was another success.

Where the 'action' starts

Looked good ...tasted better

Nothing forgotten

Not so shy eaters

After margaritas and lots of cold beer, the crowd settled into the evenings entertainment. The old college football rivalry between the University of Michigan and Notre Dame was on national TV. Sides were drawn weeks ago with an occasional prank punctuating the pre-game days. You know ... those silly little games youngsters of all ages play in an attempt to get the upper hand prior to the big game. As the season is just starting, we can only guess what lies ahead as each week brings on new challengers, but the outcomes of U of M and ND will be at the forefront.

By the time the game started a large semi-circle of chairs surrounded the big screen TV. For those who didn't follow the game it was a real nail biter right to the end. Though not a particular well played game (some would say a really bad game) it ended up being one of the most exciting many of us had ever seen.
Something like three touchdowns within the last 90 seconds was almost too exciting to watch. Underwear changes were in order shortly after the finish. U of M squeaked out the victory but it maybe wouldn't have mattered as it was just great fun. (Go Blue!)

Pre-game posturing

So another, and almost final get-together for the folks here at Cousins RV at seasons end. With a Chili cook-off next week, our Michigan social calendar is almost at an end. A very busy summer filled with many great memories and good times. We're thankful for this unique opportunity and look forward to the next adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Little Beauty

2011-09-04T23:19:00.000-04:00

Lola, our youngest granddaughter, just celebrated her 1st birthday. Mom and Dad threw a big picnic party at a local park and friends and relatives from all around helped Lola enjoy the day. I may be just a little prejudiced but isn't she just the cutest?

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Don Ho would be proud

2011-08-28T01:29:00.000-04:00

A luau in South Haven? At Cousins RV Park? ... Who wooda' thought.

Grass skirts, flowered leis, yummy tropical drinks, and a feast fit for King Kuwanahana (I think the famous leader of the Opanicani tribe on the Big Island).

Pat and Sandy hosted the extravaganza and no body, and I mean no body was disappointed or went home hungry. All of us were amazed at the variety of scrumptious goodies provided. In addition, fantastic snacks and deserts were provided by a number of other campers. To put on a party of this magnitude took an almost super-human effort and I hope all of those who attended take the time to again thank Pat and Sandy (and their families) for a very memorable Hawaiian Luau.

So Don Ho, where ever you are, take note ... this is how a Luau is done.

Thankfully I couldn't find a grass skirt my size so I'm still livin' the dream.

And by-the-way

Here's just a sample of the photos I took at the luau. See them all on my other website by clicking the following: www.philipdean.zenfolio.com

Phil

Antartica WRU?

2011-08-21T14:58:00.001-04:00

Okay ... I've have readers of this blog in all the earth's continents with the exception of Antartica. So what gives? I know people (upwards to 5000 per year) live down there in places like Grytviken, Leigh Harbour, King Edward Point and Husvik so what's keeping you from logging in? Too cold to type? Busy making snow angels?

The continent is twice the size of Australia and besides that ... what else have they to do down there? So thaw out you folks in Husvik and get on line. (Do they have cable or is it still dial-up?)

Anyway I'm looking to some of my globe trotting friends (like Suzanne in Helsinki) to get the ball rolling on this by spreading the word. As a matter of fact ... I'm not exactly on the hit parade in South America or Africa either (see widget "Where My Readers Live") so lets everyone get to work on increasing my readership. My ego needs help.

Still livin' the dream but still looking for Antartica.

Phil

Sunday finale

2011-08-20T17:45:00.016-04:00

Bicycles and airplane aside there was yet another party in the making last Sunday afternoon to celebrate the birthday of one of the guests here in camp.

Henry is what most around here might call a southern gentleman. Soft spoken and deliberate, taken by an occasional cigar, maybe a little whiskey now and again, an observer of the world around him, and ... is usually in the company of a lovely southern belle. To complete his persona is his faithful four-legged companion ... Buddy. A dark brown lanky mix of Lab and Poodle who is well groomed and well mannered but still likes act a little foolish when given the chance.

Henry and his wife Geannie returned to camp this summer with the intent of a short stay but, with maybe a little encouragement from the locals here, decided to stay for the remainder of the season. They, along with Jerry and Della, are refugees from Hilton Head Island who escape the summer humidity and oppressive heat there ... so it's the Palmetto States loss and our gain.

Anyway it was Henry's birthday and what better an idea than to have a little celebration. Since we were already planning on happy hour, ... with some extra bells and whistles (translate ... great pizza, food and deserts) we turned it into a first class party. Maybe the only sour note was the groups rendition of Happy Birthday which I think, caused Buddy to break into a howl before we mercifully stopped.

Probably not used to having a bunch of folks make a fuss over him, Henry remained the consummate southern gentleman and maybe with a little more encouragement, he and Geannie will return next year.

Geannie and Henry

Still getting along just fine and continue livin' the dream.

Phil

Planes, bicycles, and waiting

2011-08-14T12:07:00.004-04:00

Today was another outing for the guys here at the park. No Blueberry Festival craft show for the men. This was going to be real men's stuff. The smell of aviation fuel, the roar of radial engines, the chance to touch and feel those magnificent machines that allows one to 'escape the surly bonds of earth'. It was the annual South Haven Fly-In pancake breakfast at the airport.

Since we are a tough lot and shun the thought of eating pancakes in an outdoor hanger with lesser types, we settled in at Cousins restaurant for a normal man's breakfast. You know ... pancakes. So after filling our faces with all types of breakfast goodies we headed off to the airport, some 5 miles away.

One car headed off following the northern most path while Bill and I decided to take the southern route as Bill convinced me that this was much shorter. Something about Pythagoras's theorem c squared equals something plus something ... it sounded believable at the moment. Anyway were rolling along quite well thinking that we'd arrive early (certainly ahead of those other guys) when the traffic began to slow, then stop. In the distance we could see flashing red lights at our upcoming turn so something was wrong. After a few minutes and still no movement, I could see something pass near the flashing red lights. Closer inspection determined that they were bicycles. Lots and lots of bicycles streaming across our road heading south. We waited, inching our way forward ever so slowly until we were next to turn. Two Michigan State troopers were manning the traffic and were holding back east and west traffic that was now backed up at least a half a mile in each direction. Across the road the bikes streamed. The riders all decked out in their brightly colored skin tight Lycra race outfits. Heads adorned with Stars Wars helmets and arms and legs marked with large black numbers (apparently given out by the race people to identify their name and class). Where in the world were they coming from and where were they going I wondered. Well I actually didn't care but just wanted them to pass.

The trooper came over to my window and gave me a little advice. 'Go like the wind when I give you the high sign' he said. As the racers occasionally got spaced out he would let a car make the turn and I was next in the launch lane. After a few minutes I got a quick nod and an authoritative hand gesture and off I went. Probably the best left turn I have every made and ... I did it without my turn signal being on. Now this is real grey power.

From that point it was another mile to the airport and when within sight of the place we again came to a halt. The bikers continued to stream past us. Hundreds of them of all shapes, colors and sizes. The highly tuned two wheeled pedal pushers hummed with precision as they flew past me. Every now and then I could catch some of them talking as they went by. "The poor suckers and going to miss out on their pancake breakfast" was said more than once as the minutes ticked by. My thoughts raced on how smirky they'd be if I all of a sudden I open my car door as they flew by? Evil thoughts like this are really just thoughts and besides ... it was Sunday.

We could see the rest of our group inside the airport enjoying the exhibits while we sat idling on the road.

As I looked into my rear view mirror and the stream of cyclist disappearing down the road I could only hope that this nightmare was soon to end.

Some 45 minutes and several hundred more bicycles passed and we finally got in. Our short cut was not so short.

Anyway we walked around the parked planes in the cold, overcast day but were treated to a couple of the old WWII war birds tearing up the sky over the airport. Engines roaring as they made several low level passes over the crowd before landing and allowing the crowd to examine these beautiful old fighter planes up close.

I did manage to take a few photos while there: No this isn't Pappy Boyington's 'Black Sheep Squadron' but some of the finest RV jockeys around.

Bill, Jerry,Rod,Don,Charley, and Corky. Concealed under Don's shirt is junior pilot Evan.

Here's a Grumman trainer (I think) that's tight on space but looks like a hoot to fly. Painted pretty, this pint sized aircraft was a crowd pleaser. Pretty confident nose art for such a little puddle jumper.

And all this was going on before noon on Sunday. I think I'm exhausted but wait! There's more to come this afternoon. To be continued on the next installment.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Mother Nature

2011-08-13T22:44:00.024-04:00

The weather radar had that ominous dark red signature indicating that another round of rain and wind was soon to hit the South Haven area. Already soaked with almost two inches of rain, this newest helping of Mother Natures stew was roaring across Lake Michigan. I thought this might be an opportunity to get some new storm photos so I got of hold of my friend Bill, we grabbed our gear and headed to the South Beach area of the city. The horizon was dark the clouds looked angry and the wind was picking up. We could see towering rain shafts both north and south of us but in between was this dark blue/black ledge of clouds that was rolling toward us with bolts of lightening seeking places to release their energy.

Thunder in the background along with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, began herding beach goers and boaters alike to safe grounds. The rush was on as boats of all types and sizes rushed for the safety of the Black River harbor. Looking over their shoulders to confirm the pending danger, these lucky jet skiers made it back just in time.

The race to safety

I should know better but ... I must have been thinking that as long as these other folks were out on the pier watching the approaching storm I should be out there to trying to get some pictures. As I stood there under the metal causeway that ran from the lighthouse to shore I got to thinking about how well that metal structure would transmit the power of a lightening bolt along its entire length. As the storm approached and the lightening bolts were firing across the horizon, a collective notion of all of us getting the hell off this pier might be prudent. I started to back off, trying not to stumble as I continued to shoot the storm. Trying to catch a shot of that elusive lightening bolt is a challenge but while navigating in reverse is a fools wish. Slipping off the side of the pier into the frothy water was an option I quickly thought distasteful and had time enough to grab one more image and get back to the car. As luck would have it got the shot. Not the real dramatic one I really wanted but not too bad.

South Haven Lighthouse

Still staying dry, avoiding lightening and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Old neighbors and old trees

2011-08-11T22:06:00.013-04:00

Old friends are a lot like old coins ... You're glad you have them and they become more valuable the longer you keep them.

We've known Dick and Linda for the better part of 42 years. Neighbors back then with little kids, Dick worked steadfastly at his craft of graphic art design and Linda spent her time raising the kids. As the years drifted by, and we later moved out of town, we always kept a thread tied to them as these are friends you need around for the long haul.

So now each of us has more time and the opportunity to get together is easier. We received a call the other day that they would like to drive over to South Haven and pay visit.

When they arrived we knew Dick had something he was excited to share with us. After all the accomplishments he has acquired in his professional career he had decided to make a little course correction and delve into the world of writing. Not the earthy novel or gut tightening thriller but a simply, yet elegant children's book. Written and fully illustrated by himself, his first venture into writing for the little ones is brave new step. Kids books aren't often labeled 'thought provoking' but within this verse is something for all ages. A thoughtful message about friendship tells the tale of an old man and a tree and what that tree meant to him.

So if you'd like to learn more you can soon pick up a copy at your local book store or order on line at Amazon.

"The Old Man and the Tree" by Richard Schlatter

Another day, expecting little but receiving a lot and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Hubba, Hubba

2011-08-09T20:31:00.012-04:00

Livin' the Dream Headline ....

Saginaw Valley State University graduates excel in picking good looking babes!

Now Tom, Rick and myself may not have been the sharpest tacks in the box of scholars but we sure knew how to pick our ladies. Now that the three of us have greyed and fallen apart, it's a relief to know that the 'sweeties' we picked (or was it the other way around?) are still lookin' good and turning heads. We all met for dinner in Saginaw the other evening, reliving outrageous stories of our college days and still enjoying each other friendship after all these years.

Cindy, Sharon, and Jan

So there you have it. Another reason we are still livin' the dream.

Phil

Twofer day details

2011-08-07T20:53:00.008-04:00

At the drop of a hat we've had yet another party. When will I get some rest? Oh but this time we've had a 'twofer' celebration. Two for the price of one!

Friends Jerry and Della celebrating 56 years of marriage along with friend Bill who had another one of those semi-forgettable birthdays so ... the camp soldiers are summoned and let the festivities begin.

Ya' ... I'm sure you think this RV life is one continuous party ... well you may be on to something. But really it's keeps us off the shuffle board courts.

Oh, by the way ... before I forget ... or maybe I'm just remembering something I've already said ...
The new round-about we have on Blue Star highway (just in front of RV park) has turned into a real good training ground for us more senior drivers. Since many of us like to drive with our left turn signal on continuously, this counter-clockwise intersection is providing some needed practice. nfortunately a few of us have run out of gas before we could figure out how to exit the damn thing.

Back to the partying.

Jerry and Della, compared to many of us, define grace and style. No nose pickers here. These folks probably know what to do with that extra fork they give you at the sit-down eating establishments. And their socks match and their clothes are pressed real nice. So to help this really great couple celebrate another year of marriage was really our pleasure. No kiddin' ... truly an outstanding couple whom we all admire and wish the best of everything to.

Della and Jerry on their 56th

Still working at feeding the SS system, Bill has not slowed down a step. Retiring from one job and mmediately starting another, his stamina is noteworthy and, as the SS system is in such trouble, we all appreciate his ongoing contributions to our lifestyle. Rumor has it that he may hang up his volt meter next year and dive headlong into RVing almost full time. We wish him all the best on this special day.

Birthday Boy Bill and his sweetheart wife June

So another party, another celebration, another good time with friends and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Celebration(s)

2011-08-03T01:51:00.001-04:00

The first week of August was a time of celebrations for us.

Our son Steve turns 37. A great son, a loving father, and a devoted husband.

Our fantastic daughter Leigh and her husband Scott celebrated their 6th year of marriage. A stellar couple. (Oopps ... I forgot to take a picture of them together. Maybe they'll send me one.)

Our friends Jerry and Della celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. More on this later.

My old friend Bill will be celebrating yet another semi-forgettable birthday. More on this later to.

Each a milestone ... each special in there own way and we so fortunate to share that special time with them.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

The Ice Cream Social

2011-07-31T23:55:00.000-04:00

A couple of days ago a small flyer was passed out in the park telling us that there would be an 'Ice Cream Social' at 3:00pm the following Sunday (today). No big deal I thought ... a hot summer's afternoon ... a little cold ice cream ... it all seemed like a good deal.

As the afternoon rolled around it was sure hot and the humidity was thick as my hair used to be 50 years ago. We meandered down to the clubhouse a little early and something was up none of us expected. Assembling on the clubhouse porch was at least a 20 piece band. Trumpets, clarinets, drums, trombones, saxophones, a couple of singers, and a bunch of sound equipment. Wait a minute ... this is supposed to be an ice cream social ... not a concert!

This clever idea was hatched by owner Mary Cousins to help celebrate her husband Hal's birthday. The total surprise was pulled off without a hitch and the entire park got in on the party. Just like the ice cream socials of yesteryear, the Casco band has been around since the late 1920's. An eclectic mix of young and more senior musicians, they entertained us for more than two hours with a combination of patriotic favorites and old standards. If you were old enough, you could close your eyes and remember those days as a kid when you went to the local park with your folks and listened to the band playing in the pavilion on a Sunday afternoon.

Anyway it was a great afternoon with music, lots of great ice cream, birthday cake, and a few pictures to remember the day.

Our Host Mary Cousins

Strike up the Band ... The Casco Band

Who knows what a Flugel horn is?

Hal and Mary Cousins

Happy Birthday Hal

Drummers drumming

Casco Band at the Park

Keep it coming

Hurry before it Melts!

Hey Jerry! Get your own.

Better than bobbing for apples

There's no such thing as 'enough' whipped cream

Strawberry ice cream makes people happy

Partiers in the park

And a good time was had by all

So another day in the slow lane of life and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Special event

2011-07-31T14:21:00.000-04:00

This is just a short note to those here at Cousins RV who continue to make this summer stay very special.

A special Thanks goes out to Corky, Miki, Henry, and Geannie for hosting a steak fry here at camp. A sumptuous steak dinner, all the trimmings (including homemade cakes and pies), song and merriment almost rounded out the event. I say almost because it also enabled the group to celebrate Jerry H's birthday. Joining us and his wife Della, and a surprise visit from their daughter Lynn, made this day extra special. Of course, I should also mention a host of others who also helped but we all know who they are and greatly appreciate their efforts as well. Needless to say this camp has a lot of people who know how to put on a party.

But I think what's most important is how close we all have become, and the kindest and generosity freely given in this small, mobile community. In many ways we know these people better than our 'back-home' neighbors of 30 years and continue to truly value their friendship.

So as this summer melts away, we are thankful for this unique experience and mindful that we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

A Special Day

2011-07-28T00:05:00.001-04:00

Today is a very special day.

In Eaton Rapids Michigan a justice-of-the-peace performed a very special marriage ceremony 45 years ago. In the back room of a tiny State Farm Insurance Company's office, I married my best friend Sharon. In the passing years we have been blessed with two great children, many special friends, had rewarding careers, travelled to many far-away places and we have remained steadfastly in love through thick and thin.

So on this special day I'd like to wish my very special Sharon a Very Happy Anniversary.

Still livin' the dream and ... with all my love dear ... Phil

Decisions ... decisions

2011-07-27T00:33:00.000-04:00

We all knew what we wanted to do but ... we just couldn't decide where to do it. We could do it in this place or ... maybe that place ... or maybe that place over there. Sometimes important things in life take figuring out. We looked ... we smelled ... we touched (all important things to do upon entering any place to eat I think). But before the day was done and chowed down, we had to check out the area and this is how it all started ...

The little day trip to St. Joseph Michigan (http://www.sjtoday.org), took Bill, June and Sharon and I on a drive to visit the twin cities south of us (Benton Harbor/St. Joseph). The drive down consisted of poking around the back roads to see what we'd not see before ... just enjoying the great weather and new sites. We even stopped a Covert Park where, as a young lad of about 10 or so, I was taken on a rare father/son camping trip with a bunch of other kids and their dads. Though some 55 years had passed, the hills and valleys were still recognizable and memories came flooding back. Shooting a bow and arrow, a BB gun, sleeping in a dark and scary tent that smelled of mold and mildew, and eating cold food alongside a fire on a dank and rainy weekend. Not the greatest of locations but one of the few things I did alone with just my Dad.

Anyway ... we finally made it to St. Joe and toured around the downtown and beach area. The city has made an excellent effort keeping the downtown interesting for tourist. A number in neat shops and several choices of restaurants occupied the area. Surprisingly most of the buildings were being used; unlike many cities of this size with store vacant fronts. The beach looks typically nice, as do most of the beaches along Lake Michigan; and on a warm sunny day like this day was, was well occupied by a wide variety of sun worshipers.

So as we puttered along, the thought of a bite to eat surfaced and the search began. All of us sort of agreeing that anything would do, we came to the first place downtown. A small deli-like place that warranted a look-around so we went in and looked, smelled and decided collectively it wouldn't due.

Walking across the street we checked out an Oriental place, asked the waitress about their specialties ... looked, smelled and left. Not exactly what we were looking for either.

Window shopping for lunch

Onward, up the street, around the corner and down the block to another Oriental place. We checked out the menu, went inside, looked, smelled, noticed that there were no other customers or workers for that matter, and walked out. Not what we had in mind.

Number 6 or 35?

Along the way we came across one of the many statues (?) of farm animals placed all around the downtown area. Pigs, chickens, donkeys, and several lovable cows of which this mildly (?) decorated one caught our attention. Not exactly sure why the town was full of these whimsical creatures but they were fun to look at.

Bessie ... is that you?

Checked out local restaurants in my smartphone Google app and got the address of another potential eatery and headed down the street in the opposite direction. Got there, looked inside and, maybe because we were all more than hungry by then, asked for a table and settled in. The menu had a nice variety and our waiter was very helpful. First item ordered was an order of calamari. I hate to break anyone's bubble but calamari is really octopus legs sliced up and deep fried. If you're lucky you'll even get a whole baby octopus which is an extra crispy treat ... really. Regardless of how it sounds, it's a great dish when fresh and deep fried properly; this was and we really enjoyed it.

Scrumptious calamari

Each of us ordered different things of which they were all very good, well prepared, and served promptly so I think I can safely recommend The Pump House Grill (http://www.pumphousegrille.com) as one of St. Joe's better stops.

So in the end we finally had made up our minds and it all turned into another interesting and 'fulfilling' adventure.

Now before I get any email complaining that we didn't give any of those other places a try, I'm pretty sure that if they didn't serve good food they wouldn't have stayed in business as long as they have so the next time we're in town we may still give them a try.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Tour de Kal Haven

2011-07-21T22:47:00.000-04:00

One of the nice things about the RV life is being around other families and learning how they live their lives. Friends, children, grand children all providing the ingredients to life's stew. I suppose sometimes the ingredients don't always mix well together but mostly this stew turns out pretty good.

As I look around our summer camp I learned that our neighbors (Charlie and Judie) son (Jason) was coming to visit after graduating from college out west. When he arrived it was apparent that the family ties were strong and caring and they shared a common admiration for sports and doing things that involved physical exercise. I learned that Charlie and Jason were going to ride the local Kal Haven trail. Beginning some 34 miles away on the outskirts of Kalamazoo, the woodland path meanders westward across southwestern Michigan and ends near downtown South Haven. An all seasons trail for walkers, cyclist, horses, and snowmobiles this well maintained route is in constant use and is a relatively easy trail to take. So I thought it might be fun to sneak out on the trail and photograph some of their ride and enjoy the trail myself a little.

Sharon and I got in the old TrailBlazer and headed out to try and locate them. With a little help from mom/wife Judie, we got an idea when they started and after looking at a map, worked out an intercept point along the path to take some pictures. We got to the spot some ten miles from where they started and I, like a stalking mountain lion (okay maybe a little exaggeration here) found the perfect place to ambush them with my camera. Annoying little mosquitoes were tasting me as waited in the deep bush along the trail. Then came the horse flies; they too hunger for some of me but I hung in there and waited. And waited. As I began to swell from the bug bites and this sweltering hot and humid afternoon I continued to look at my watch then down the trail again looking for the two riders ... but still no one in sight.

Finally I'd had enough. The bugs were winning. What had I figured wrong? Had they had mechanical trouble or ... had I just figured wrong and they had already passed this spot? I gave them the benefit of the doubt and guessed that they were faster than I had calculated so we quickly left and leap-frogged ahead about five miles to another intercept point.

I arrived at the new location and as luck would have it the mosquitoes and horse flies either had followed me there or there was a whole new batch of them waiting to get acquainted with me. Undaunted, I again waited in the brush for bikers to appear. Aha! I could see them approaching in the distance and readied for the shot. 'Ker chunk'. 'Ker chunk'. 'Ker chunk'. 'Ker chunk'. My Canon 5D rapidly fired off a series of shots at the passing cyclists. But my cover was now blown as they were on to my picture taking. But now it was a race for me to the next point to grab some more shots. But before leaving I grabbed a few more images as they disappeared down the trail away from me. Looking at them as they pedaled down the trail it dawned on me how the two of them were making such good time in their journey. It was those damn flies and mosquitoes! In ordered not get eaten alive they had no choice but to keep a fast pace.

Keeping the pace

Horse flies in hot pursuit

I decided to head to a picturesque location near the end of the trail and waited once again. Poised on a bridge overlooking the trail I waited. The sun had already set and it was getting darker by the minute so I was anxious to get these final images. Again I waited. 5 minutes. Another 5 minutes then finally I could see two riders emerging from the dark woods into the fading light. I framed the shot and 'ker chunk', 'ker chunk', 'ker' chunk the camera fired. I think I got the shot I wanted... but wait a minute ... what's going on here! "Who are these people?" I asked. As they got closer I quickly discovered that it wasn't who I thought it was but some other cyclists who were ahead of the guys I was following. Nice shots ... but wrong people.

So back to my vigil of waiting Another 5 minutes went by and I could finally see in the dim light two cyclist coming toward me. Increasingly hard to see, I had to rely on the cameras ability to remain focused on moving objects ... another round of 'ker chunking' and I had the images. Thankfully just before I needed a blood transfusion.

End of the trail is near

Returning to camp I edited the images. As I looked at the results I could see the tangible evidence of the bond between dad and son. Both enjoying each others company, enjoying spending time together, and sharing a common respect for one another. Special stuff, I'd say.

Team Ratering

So another fun day in South Haven and still livin' the dream.

Phil

The Berry Patch

2011-07-17T22:55:00.038-04:00

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away there was this berry patch with this Wylie wabbit who lived in a hutch all covered with straw. Oops! I must be dreaming again or maybe it was too much sun but I think I got the berry patch at least right in this little story. Okay I got it now. We were at a berry patch and it's not too far from camp. And talk about berries. Almost as far as the eye could see (well maybe 20 acres or so) there were rows upon rows of delicious raspberries.

We stopped at Riverbend Farms (www.greatberries.net), just a little ways from downtown South Haven Michigan (just east of the Blue Star Highway and North Shore Drive) to see what that had to offer.

Riverbend Farms South Haven Michigan

We've seen this berry farm from its beginnings back in about 2009 as we passed it on the way to places where we shop. Neat rows stoutly supported with wire supports, cleanly mulched and watered with an underground watering and fertilization system. Pretty much a state of the art berry patch if you'd ever want to see one. Over the past year or so I have talked with the owner and his son and have learned of the research and work they have put into this place and now us berry pickers and eaters can finally enjoy the results of all that effort.

As we walked up to the bright red shed/office/storage building we passed several customers who had already been out picking. Oh my, I thought. We're going to have some great berry eating before too long. We got our picking trays that held about 8 pints and were asked if we wanted to pick red or black.
Now I usually think in terms of playing roulette when someone says that, but in this case it was red or black raspberries. I'm not sure many folks know of black raspberries but sort of being a Michigan boy I knew all about black raspberries. Usually a little bigger than the red ones, and we soon found out this old idea had not changed, many were the size of the end of your thumb.

We started down our assigned row and could not believe how many ripe berries there were. We soon filled 6 pints not moving more than15 feet down the row. And that didn't include the ones I popped into my mouth when I was sure no one was watching. I'm probably the only one who has ever snitched an extra berry every now and then so I thought I'd better confess. We decided we'd picked enough black ones and headed back to the shed where they refrigerated them for us until we were ready to leave. We picked up some fresh empty pint baskets for picking the red raspberries and headed to our assigned row.

Reds

Much like the black berries, the reds were just as plentiful, but a little smaller so it took another couple of minutes to fill each pint. I was now getting into a rhythm ... pick 5 ... eat one ... pick 5 ... eat one. I think they know there might be of few of us berry samplers out there and actually hope we eat some as there were far more berries than will ever be picked. So I figure I'm really doing them a great service by harvesting a few extra and taste-testing as I go. Or at least that's the story I'm sticking to.

So the more I picked that great malady all pro-pickers get finally got me. I got a bad case of 'berry fingers' and finally had to call it a day. Probably permanently stained but who cares. It was certainly worth the effort on a bright beautiful day here in South Haven. We harvested about 10 pints of the delicious little orbs and headed back to camp. So now they sit in the frig waiting to be placed in a pie ... or on vanilla ice cream ... or my morning cereal, or just popped into my mouth when Sharon isn't looking. Life is good!

Blacks

They say they will be picking black raspberries for another week or so and the reds a little longer ... then the reds will go sort of dormant for a couple of weeks or so and then start producing again almost into September.

So if you have a hankering for some really fine raspberries, get in the old pickup, grab the wife, and any kid hanging around and get a picking.

Just a few minutes of picking

Just in case anybody wants to know ... this and the last few blog entry images were shot with my Canon S95. Canon's high-end pocketable powerhouse that really performs. It's with me now almost constantly and is so much lighter than my Canon 5D system. It will never replace the full frame 5D but makes a great carry everywhere, point and shoot camera.

Still livin' and pickin' the dream.

Phil

Happy Birthday America

2011-07-04T22:41:00.003-04:00

We've have it all this weekend ... Flags a flying. Parades. Pig a roasting. Great weather. Great friends. Great food. Say what you want about the state of the economy or the state of your bank account ... this 4th of July weekend was something to cheer about. Forget your troubles and let your hair down. Relax a bit. Enjoy the goodness of the moment. Let the kids run loose, light some sparklers, pop open a cold beer, grab a handful of Fritos and find a spot on the beach to flop. All this is something we're all born to be good at ... so let's get at it.

Mr. Grand Marshall and mystery celeb

Mrs. Grand Marshall and her court

Worth the wait

Us folks on the RV circuit don't need much prodding to have a party and certainly this grand weekend was no exception. A very beautiful 190 pound pig lay in state on the portable spit. Slow cooked for most of the day under the watchful eyes of 'porkmasters' Corky and Jerry, she was the center of attention with a constant stream of onlookers venturing down to see what the main course looked like throughout the day.

'Porkmasters' at work

While 'miss piggy' was the center attraction, the families at the park stirred up their specialty dishes and before long the serving tables had more food on them than one could imagine. And desserts ... did I mention desserts? OMG this was obscene. Some almost too pretty to eat. Others so good you almost forgot about eating roast pig. This is South Haven's answer to the 'horn of plenty'. About 140 participants were very well fed. Even had leftovers today. But I'm probably going to pay dearly at my upcoming Weight Watcher meeting. This will not be pretty.

I told you so

This whole shindig was orchestrated by Hal and Mary Cousins, owners of Cousins RV Park http://www.cousinssouthhaven.com here in South Haven Michigan. Located on the 'sunshine coast' of the state this small, but very comfortable park has been our summer home for the past few summers and we really feel at home here.

So America this is where we spent the kickoff to a great summer. We're certainly grateful to live in this country and thankful to have so many friends and experience so many of life's little pleasures.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

ps ... The is sort of a milestone for me as well ... my 201st blog entry.

Not really a secret

2011-06-22T22:37:00.000-04:00

We decided dinner out would be a nice change so Sharon and I began the painful process of elimination. I say painful because we never agree on where to go. We got it down to two choices and surprisingly we both wanted to go the the Phoenix Street Cafe (http://www.phoenixstreetcafe.com) in downtown South Haven. Well-known for it's great breakfast and lunch menus, we thought what a better time than to try them for dinner.

The dinner hour begins at 5:00pm and we arrived shortly thereafter. We choose a window seat and was quickly greeted by a very gracious hostess who explained the evenings specials and took our drink order. A few minutes later she came back with a small hors d'oeuvres consisting of a thinly sliced soft baguette-like bread with a salmon spread and a balsamic vinegar reduction. All served on a decorative ceramic tile. I could have made my entire meal on several more of these tasty little morsels. Looked good and tasted even better.

Our hostess returned shortly and Sharon ordered the salmon dish with quinoa, mushrooms and a red pepper-tomato sauce and I picked the whitefish with pearl pasta and a citrus, mustard, and dill sauce. Within 15 minutes our orders arrived and the presentations were flawless.

Salmon

Whitefish

Superbly fresh and a more than adequate quantity, these fish entrees were first cabin. Delicate and unique in flavor ... this chef knows what he's doing.

So we'd finally discovered what many locals probably already knew. The Phoenix Street Cafe is a great place to eat. A cut above most local places but not so pretentious that you wouldn't feel comfortable in casual clothes. We'll be back.

Yup ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

More Great News

2011-06-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

I must be getting older (oh really?) ... I now have a granddaughter who has a drivers license and ... her own car. OMG. Father time marches on. Even though her mother's anxiety level may have reached new highs, she's working her way towards adulthood and this is just another milestone along that path. I vaguely remember when I got my first car (my grandfather's 1951 Chevy) and what an exciting (and liberating) moment it was. My world just grew exponentially larger. No longer was a bike ride downtown a big deal ... Just think ...I could now go anywhere. (well maybe anywhere my folks would let me). New places to go and see without Mom and Dad ... this is exciting stuff. Anyway it's often said that a picture is worth a thousand words so here is what pure joy looks like. My granddaughter and her Jeep. Pretty cool, I'd say.

So fellow travelers ... keep an eye out for her on the highway. She's a good driver but still is learning (as most of us are).

On another note (a musical one at that) ... I gathered up several of my fellow campers and headed for the "What-Not-Inn" (http://www.whatnotinn.com/) for a late Father's Day evening of food and jazz.

Headlining was singer Tony Reynolds (www.ynotsing.com), the consummate big-time professional who makes you glad you drug your butt off the couch and found out where he was performing. Handling song requests from the last three or four decades (plus his standard show), there are few he can't do. With the fantastic keyboard work of Michigan's own Wally Michaels, the two make for a unforgettable evening. By the looks of Tony's schedule (he performs in California almost every weekend) you can better understand his chosen profession is more than a paycheck but a true labor or love. He and Wally will be back at the WNI July 17th. But in the meantime, they will be performing at various venues in the Grand Rapids area so check out the link.

The next major event at Cousins RV Park (http://www.cousinssouthhaven.com) is the upcoming Fourth of July Pig Roast. Most of us are already drooling profusely so it's difficult to talk, but let me say this ... this is a major eating fest. Dishes to pass from some of the best cooks/campers on the planet, this is summer at its finest. Jerry and Corky will be cooking up the 180+ pound porker and by about noon on the 3rd, we'll all be lined up like kids at the candy counter anticipating that heavenly pork. Oh what decadence. We'll have a parade in the park complete with flags, decorations and pretty girls plus South Haven will be having its annual fireworks show later that night. Summer in Southwestern Michigan at its finest.

Hal and Mary (camp owners) make such a fuss over the campers here it's no wonder so many come back each year and this premier event seals the deal for most of us. A big 'Thanks' to both of them.

And so it goes ... still livin' the dream.

Phil

Catching up ... again

2011-06-12T18:22:00.003-04:00

Kickin' back must come naturally as that's just about all we've been doing of late. Getting reacquainted with friends and family after our winter trip has taking most of our time. But as you might suspect ... we have had a few interesting moments.

For instance ...

We returned to our house to find that nothing had leaked nor had we been invaded by any critters. Nothing was out of place. Nothing. Oh what a relief.

Sharon's family decided to have a reunion after a 20 year hiatus, so it made for a gathering with many new little faces, sadly several missing faces, but the family has remained intact and thriving. From as far away as Texas and as old as 85, lots of hugs and kisses all around. It was a good day.

One big happy family

Here's a picture of the whole clan. (however getting this group together for this photo was sort of like herding cats)

Our friends Bill and June have joined us at our summer camp with the coach they purchased in Florida earlier this year. They've already made themselves at home and make a great addition to the existing group.

Our friends Ron and Tammy have upgraded their inflatable boat to a 13 footer with a 40hp motor. Oh my ... Should go like a rocket.

Friends Don and his wife Nancy hosted a gathering of some 25 Chevrolet Corvettes here at the park. These almost civil hotrods just ooze testosterone and their presence makes any red blooded male a little weak in the knees. Though not all piloted by gentlemen, these speedsters are still what driving is all about ... whomever is behind the wheel. I was however a little disappointed in that not one tire was squeelled or squawked. No smoking tire exits ... no high revving 600hp engines ... just a calm, orderly departure. Come on people ... how about next time giving us station wagon owners a little thrill?

The whole gang

Sure like to see this beauty on the streets of Aruba

Four members of the Model "A" Ford Club of America (and their cars) (www.mafca.com) made a lunch stop at Cousins restaurant and we coaxed them to pull out in front of the restaurant for a few pictures. More than gracious and eager to please, they lined up for the shots before leaving. They had started in Colorado and their next stop was Mackinaw City, Michigan. These old beauties must be pretty tough as when they were new it was the late 1920's and early 1930's. Try that with the iron your currently driving in another 80 years! I don't know where these folks are eventually headed but they're certainly a hardy lot ... no air conditioning, no soft cushy seats, top speed maybe 45mph, and no cruise control. Truly life in the slow lane.

So where's Bonnie and Clyde?

As you might of guessed ... I aged the image above so it looked like an old postcard. Unfortunately the Nike tennis shoes gives its true age away.

Two good looking ladies

And finally we enjoyed an afternoon of silliness and frivolity with the annual 'White Elephant Meet and Greet' at the park. Owners Hal and Mary provide the hamburgs, hot dogs and chicken while everyone brought dishes to pass. The 'white elephant' involves each of us bringing a gift (sometimes goofy) to trade off to one of the other camp members. Lots of laughs and a great way to kick off the summer season.

So there you go ... I'm caught up and ready for the next adventure.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice

2011-04-29T22:38:00.003-04:00

It seems like we just left but returning to our summer camp felt good. Owner Hal met us as we pulled up and before the engine had stopped spinning, he was already into his first joke ... it's good to be back, I thought.

Hal got us parked into our usual spot, Jerry stopped by to say hello as did Mary. Even though there were other rigs in camp, none of the owners stayed on but just dropped them off earlier and went back home. Maybe had something to do with the wet and cold. So here we are ... we have the whole place to ourselves. Just like last year when we were the last to leave in the Fall.

We got the rig hooked up then went down to the restaurant for a late lunch. We're in our comfort zone now. A quick bite to eat, a trip through downtown South Haven to see what changed (nothing) and headed back to camp. All is good except ... it's still a little cold up in Michigan. We've been use to 80's and 90's for several months ... but now the 40's! Egads! At least the tulips and daffodils I planted last Fall are in bloom. Soon we might even have leaves on the trees. But what we really need are some people!

So fellow campers ... we've broken the frozen mold so you can all get those rigs out of storage, pack em' up and come on over. Happy hour is still at 4:00pm.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

ps.. if your Latin is still a little rusty ... "If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look around"
State of Michigan's official motto.

Ends and beginnings

2011-04-29T09:48:00.004-04:00

We dodged a few storms but Mother Nature finally caught up with us in Elkhart Indiana. We are stopping here anyway for some coach service so the weather is just an inconvenience. Rain and more rain for the next few days.

We're currently at Master Tech RV repair center in Elkhart (http://mastertechrv.com). We met them at the Perry FMCA rally and were impressed so will give them a try. We won't take the time to get all the items fixed but at least we'll get the Aqua Hot system repaired before heading to South Haven.

This winters trip has taken us some 3000 miles through eleven states. Averaged about 8 miles/gal of diesel fuel, have consumed nine '5 Guys' hamburgers, ate about 10 dozen shrimp, visited eleven casinos, dined in more restuarants than I care to recall, stayed in fourteen different RV parks, met a countless number of great people, and visited many neat places. This has been another great experience.

A bright sun has made an appearance this morning, the temperatures are warming and the final work has just been completed on the coach. And for those who got up really early this morning, the royal wedding of Kate and William was going on. Not exactly like our wedding almost 45 years ago, but hopefully they'll enjoy the same outcome as we've had.

We had lost a lot of water pressure to the faucets and the service techs discovered that we had a broken bladder in the water systems accumulator tank. We had the tank replaced and water pressure is better than ever. We have very pleased with the service here at Master Tech and would certainly recommend them. Everyone we dealt with treated us with respect and a high degree of professionalism. So, before long, we'll get on the road and head to South Haven.

Still livin' the dream and getting ready for a great summer.

Phil

The old fishing hole

2011-04-25T00:37:00.002-04:00

Mother Nature has been razing havoc with the Midwest for the past few days with tornadoes, rain, and flooding. As our route takes us right through the expected path of this storm, we decided to stop at the KOA in Manchester TN for the night. A very nice park just off I24 with big, long sites and all the amenities. Even a fishin' hole.

I got the coach set up for the evening and came inside to cool off a bit. I noticed a guy with a fishing rod head out to the pond in front of us and start casting. It wasn't two minutes and he had one on. His rod was bent almost to the breaking point, bobbing up and down as the fish continued diving and rising. Before long he hoisted it to the bank and it was a dandy 4 pound catfish. He unhooked it and tossed it back in. About 5 minutes later he landed another, though a little smaller. A couple of minutes passed and yet another. ' Enough' .. I said to myself and told Sharon I was going fishing. I've been carrying fishing gear along for the past three years and have yet to wet a line ... so here's my chance.

I gathered my stuff and quickly noticed that I had plenty of lures for trout, walleye and bass but nothing for catfish. But what the heck. They're almost most jumping out of the water and this guy was making it look so easy I could surely catch some myself. The park had placed nice benches around the pond to make our fishing experience as comfortable as possible so I plunked down on one and began casting. Casting and watching out of one eye the other guy continue to land fish after fish. I changed lures more often than they change Depends at the senior center but to no avail. Finally the other fisherman had tired and gathered his stuff. He stopped over to my bench and I congratulated him on his fishing prowess. He said the secret was hot dogs. Hot dogs?. He reached out his hand and handed me a chunk of hot dog about an inch long. "My last piece ... looks like you could use it".

I took the piece of hot dog, thanked him and he turned to go back to his camper. I looked at this slimy chunk of meat and wonder how am I going to fish with this?. I looked in my little tackle box for a hook of some kind but no luck. Jigs, spoons, Rapala's, Little Cleo's but no single hooks. My last resort was a small sinking Rapala with a small treble hook at the end. I weaved on the piece of hot dog and tossed out the package into the murky brown water. Bam! Bam! a hit right off the bat. I waited ... and waited ... but nothing. I pulled up my lure only to find it empty of that precious hunk of hot dog.

But now I know the secret. I packed up my gear and headed back to the coach. Maybe tomorrow.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Freddie and Angie's place

2011-04-24T23:53:00.003-04:00

The last time we were in Forsyth Georgia was last year at this time ... heading home after a long winter's nap in the south. Just another stop for the old stage coach; one of several over the next few days. Usually we never unhook the car but we goofed off at the last place we stayed and neglected to do any grocery shopping so we decided to head into town to stock up.

Since we're firm believers in eating before food shopping (and sometimes after) we thought we'd drive around Forsyth and see what was available. By chance, we actually found the downtown and it was exactly what a classic old town should look like. The court house square with the town built around it. Like so many small towns in America, many businesses were boarded up and it looked a little forlorn. The court house in the square was just the opposite. The spectacular centerpiece of the town. Well maintained and in pristine condition it's tall white peak and broad red shoulders said this place is the center of this universe.

Making the turn around the last corner of the square, I could see people seated at tables with white tablecloths behind large windows in a building across the street from the old court house. There was no sign on the building but it definitely looked like a restaurant, so we decided to see if it really was. We parked the car and ventured inside. I found the yet-to-be mounted sign sitting in the front window ... "The Prime Palate" it read.

With high, stamped tin ceilings, large windows, bright white tablecloths, and no , repeat no, wide screen TV's or blaring music, this was my kind of restaurant. The sign said 'seat yourself' so we headed off to the larger of the two dining rooms. Within about 2 seconds our waitress was asking for our drink order followed by an additional waiter and waitress asking the same thing. No doubt this place wants to please its patrons. Looking around at the other patrons I could see they were getting the same treatment. Nice touch I thought.
Now we've crossed the threshold of many eating establishments and the ones that have lots of customers usually have a few things in common. Good food ... good service ... and good prices. Fail any of these and the doors don't stay open long.

Tonight's menu was either the buffet or a choice of steaks. We checked out the buffet table and it was a no-brainer. Homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, hamburger steak, pulled pork, baked chicken, sausage,salads, and vegetables of all types ... and desserts and cobblers. Sign me up ... I wanted the buffet. And what a great choice it was. However, as we were stuffing our little faces, two gentleman next to us, who had ordered steaks were served and I may have been a little hasty in ordering the buffet. The steaks looked fantastic. None-the-less we were more than pleased with our dinner.

Freddy and Angie Butts own 'The Prime Palate' and to my amazement, it has only been open about 3 weeks. Enough time for the word to get out that this is one fine place to eat. Freddie, whose been in the food catering business for over twenty five years, finally decided to open a store-front restaurant and I think he's got a winner. He and wife Angie both stopped at our table for a visit and we greatly enjoyed meeting them and hearing their story. Maybe I'm old fashioned but when the man who cooks your food comes to your table and looks you in the eye and wants to know how everything was ... it tells me this guy wants to make your eating experience as good as he can. You did Freddie.

Before we left, we thanked him for the great dining experience and wished him luck in his new business. In parting he said he was in good shape because 'God takes care of fools, drunks and idiots'. I think he forgot one ...and good cooks.

So if you're ever in the Forsyth area, maybe staying at the local KOA at exits 185 or 186 on northbound I75, head west about a mile to the downtown court house square area on Main street and have some really good cooking at 'The Prime Palate'

Headed north early in the morning and still livin' the dream.

Phil

Low Country visit

2011-04-21T15:33:00.002-04:00

After a couple of days in the Jacksonville Florida area, we continued up the east coast to our next destination of St. Helena South Carolina. But before we arrived, our travelling companions and good friends, Bill and June, turned north on I-16 in Georgia and headed to their next stop just outside of Atlanta. Their newly acquired coach, brimming with at least four baskets of stuff from WalMart, two baskets of goodies from Sams Club, and three baskets of whatever from Camping World, they've already stressed the poor coaches load limits. Not without a hiccup or two before getting too far down the road (one bad battery and a step that wouldn't retract), their journey north hopefully will be safe and as interesting as the first few legs with us.

Sharon usually takes care of booking where we will stop on trips, but this last stop was just a little different. She looked around for a place to stay around Beaufort SC where my sister lives. She'd heard that there was a park call Hunting nearby so she searched the web, got a phone number and made a reservation.. This state park sounded like a good spot with full hook-ups and was near where we wanted to be. As we got ready to leave Jacksonville, she called the number back to verify and found that she had booked us into Huntington Beach SC, some 150 north of where we wanted to be; and not Hunting Island State Park where she thought she booked us. As this is Easter week, getting a spot at any location is tough so she cancelled the reservation in Huntington Beach. When she called Hunting Island, they told her they were "full" so she asked for suggestions as to where we might find a spot for a few days. The gal at Hunting Beach said you might try a small place near Beaufort (that we had never heard of) and see if they have room. She called and as luck would have it they did. Full-hook-ups, pull-thru and cable. Nirvana!

So after waving to Bill & June as they pulled off on I-16, we headed north on I-95, and plugged in our new destination ...Tuc-in-De-Wood RV park on St Helena Island SC (http://www.tuckinthewood.com). Now if you just read the written driving instructions to this place you might become a little put-off . It appears that you need to take a lot of turns and road changes to get to the place. Well it's all true ... you do, but ... it's not as bad as it sounds. The GPS did its job and got us to the front gate.

It's located in the heart of South Carolina's Low Country. A special coastal place for South Carolinians, as St. Helena Island is Gullah country. The Gullah are African Americans who have maintained their linguistic and cultural heritage more than any other African American community in North America, according to Wikipedia. If you're a history buff this is a place to visit. Antique shops, art shops, unique restaurants, old ruins ... lots of interesting people and things to see. And, but 10 miles from equally historic Beaufort (http://www.beaufort.com) with its spectacular antebellum homes, beautiful marina, even more art galleries, and eateries; you just have to stop and look around. Check out Wikipedia for more information: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gullah)

Anyway we arrived at Tuc-in-De-Woods about noon after motoring through a tunnel of live oaks and winding roads. Maybe a little tight for some but our rig and tow car made it through without a hitch. Once in the park it's all gravel roads and heavily wooded, but it was neat and well maintained. We were guided to our large pull-thru site and got set up in about 15 minutes. A big picnic table and fire pit were included on the site. The woods make for lots of shade, which helps when the temperature nears 90, but the humidity was rising so we cranked on the A/C and cooled off inside.

We showered and headed over to my sister's place in Beaufort; about a 10 mile trip. My sister's Grandson Ben (my great Nephew) and his girlfriend Vanessa were visiting from Germany so it was great seeing Ben and meeting Vanessa.

It seemed like only yesterday that he was a youngster and I was teaching to fish and now he's almost 21, has obviously lost his heart to the lovely Vanessa, and has his sights on a career. The two of them are headed off via train today for a tour of New York city and will be back in a few days before heading back to Germany the first week of May.

Brother-in-law Bob has turned his sloth-like former self into a modern day Andrew Agassi and Tiger Woods all wrapped into one. Either golfing or tennis almost everyday, he is fit and sharp and almost as handsome as me. Even though quite a bit older than me (480 hrs), he keeps a torrid pace and can still cook a mean steak. He remains my role model. My sister has too adopted a more athletic regimen and is more trim and more agile; and looks far younger than me. Somebody in the family had to get all the looks and by the time they got around to me ... well that's a story for another day. Bob and Judy are still the most gracious of hosts and we had a great dinner and spent the rest of the evening catching up on old times.

And so it goes ... another day livin' the dream and another day a little closer to heading back to Michigan.

Phil

Movin' on

2011-04-17T20:30:00.002-04:00

It was time to leave Florida Grande and start our trek north. Our friends Bill and June had picked up their coach in Ft Meyers the day before and we met up with them for a little 'just like old times' trip. Long before the RV bug got us we use to set out for long weekend. vacations around the Midwest. So it felt good to travel with them again. It's been long overdo.

We head to the Jacksonville area and pulled into the Flamingo Lake RV Park (www.flamingolake.com) for a few nights stay. Sharon and I had stayed here last year and enjoyed it so here we are again. Located on a beautifully clear spring fed lake, on-site restaurant, pool and small store ..., this is a perfect stop for all ages. Though not as fancy as some places we've stayed, it is still a comfortable and safe place to stay. Considering most of the spots are taken; and I've heard taken for months to come, says volumes of its attractiveness.

We'll probably stumble down to the lake side cafe in the morning for breakfast then try to figure out where we're going next. This life style isn't for everyone. These kind of big decisions take their toll on us. We'll probably have to stop for cocktails around 3:00pm tomorrow for the next round of decisions. Wish you all were here in the fantastic weather to help us along.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Strange noises

2011-04-14T01:09:00.001-04:00

As our time here is winding down I took a few moments late the other evening to sit out on the patio and stare up at the crystal clear starlit sky. The air has still but 'what in the world was all that strange noise?', I asked myself. Out in the country side there are lots of strange little noises that occasionally quickens ones pulse but this noise was far different. Loud cackles, burps, blugs (new word), and chirps filled the air night like some diabolical colony of mutant baritones. I got up from my easy chair and walked slowly towards the noise. I was about 100 feet to the waters edge. It was dark ... but I was armed. I had grabbed a small empty propane bottle by the grill and moved out ... almost fearless. As I neared the pond, the noise became increasingly louder ... Much louder. As a looked cautiously about, my eyes caught movement ... lots of movement in the dark evening. Alligators maybe? No. But everywhere I looked ... there they were ... frogs. More frogs that I have ever seen in one place. And this leaping mass of green was excited. The earlier rain was the catalyst that awoke frog nation and tonight was 'date' night. This Calliope of sweet nothings echoed around the pond. I suspect the old phrase 'choose me' ... 'choose me' was in the air because these little hopping mating machines were paying no mind to me ... they had something and somebody else in mind tonight.

I returned to my chair, now calmed by the knowledge of what these creatures were and not, as I imagined, some creature from the black lagoon. My how the mind wanders.

Last night we were invited to a shrimp cook-out at the activities directors site. Tables were set out on the patio overlooking the lake and a fantastic, and unusual (for me), combination of foods were served. OMG ... and what great food! Park manager Amy expertly cooked the many skewers of succulent shrimp on the' barbie', as well as the supurb grilled broccoli (write me and I tell you Sandy's secret recipe), spinach salad, sort of a cajun rice, good wine and lots of good conversation. With the park emptying out for the summer, it was a nice finishing example of good old southern hospitality. Thanks to Sandy and Peter and the many greats folks we've met here. This is a good place.

We saw our new friends JD and Cheri off this morning as they were beginning their trip home to southern Michigan. The were the first of the residents to greet us when we arrived and have treated us as if we were long-lost family. Thank you both.

So there you have it ... another great stop on the RV retirement trail. We're soon headed north as well and looking for new adventure. And ... still livin' the dream.

Phil

Time flies

2011-04-02T23:39:00.003-04:00

One would think I'd have all the time in the world to scribble down a few thoughts here and keep you updated on our travels ... but oh no ... not the case. I have been busy wrapping up this photo assignment I've been working on for the past few weeks. Still a few more things to do then we'll be heading north for more adventure.

So, if you're interested ... we're both doing okay. The recent tornadoes passed us to the north and south, the wild black panther that apparently escaped from a nearby home zoo is still roaming the area, when it rains here the animals really do pair up, and they've got towns down here with names like Okahumpka.

So life is still interesting and we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

Shoppers Delight

2011-03-24T14:30:00.002-04:00

We've been in Florida now for almost a week without WIFI ... Ugh! For me it's sort of like a morning without coffee or a movie without popcorn. We're currently at the beautiful Florida Grande Luxury RV Resort (www.floridagrande.com) near Webster. The resort, located in the quiet farmland of central Florida, is just the right place for those seeking a first class, class 'A' resort that oozes tranquility and friendliness. The pace is easy here so if you're looking for high impact aerobics at 6:00am forget it. If you're looking for bus trips to the mall ... forget it. A place designed by rv'ers for rv'ers. Oversized sites, extra-wide paved roads and did I say quiet? Maybe a cow mooing in the background or birds chirping ... but no trucks, trains or plane noises. But no site-wide WIFI (yet) or cable TV (yet). All forthcoming, but not yet.

One of our first outings was to make a visit to the nearby Webster Flea Market. Held every Monday, this mega-gathering of sellers of all things quirky, unusual, useful and eatable. The sleepy little town of 750 souls bulges to some 30,000 as trucks, buses, cars, and bikes crammed with folks seeking that perfect bargain arrive bright and early Monday mornings. Now I've been to some pretty big flea markets in Texas, Indiana and Ohio but this takes the prize. It will take all day to get through it, assuming you don't stopped and gawk too long. I think the entire population of Social Security recipients are there. More grey here than a winter's month in London. So the pace here is a little slow too ... and civilized, it's still a blast to visit. I managed to escape with a new hat, a used ham radio, and a surprise artist signed lithograph of a fairly famous painter. This may be a candidate for the Antiques Road Show. More about this some other day. As you might imagine, I took my camera along and here are a few of the things that caught my eye.

Wall to Wall

Shake it baby

Hats for Vets

Grab Bag

A good stiff belt

Sugar momma

Sweet

Some things never die

Not for the faint hearted

Cord frenzy

Tree Lover

So there you have it ...our first Florida Flea Market. Pretty exciting eh? It still beats shoveling snow no matter what you think.

Still livin' the dream in the sunshine state.

Phil

Mercy !

2011-03-16T23:26:00.004-04:00

These old dogs of mine are a little tired tonight. Two days of hoofing it around the FMCA rally in Perry Georgia has taken its toll. I'm tired but a good night rest should rejuvenate me enough for the drive south in the morning. We're headed for central Florida for a few weeks and are looking forward to some new sights and maybe a little rest.

The rally experience turned out to be much like the ham radio conventions or the old Comdex computer shows I used to attend. We want to see it all but sometimes there is just too much to see and do. Maybe it's what keeps us coming back to these things. Always something new to excite your mind and expand your horizons. Yes ... the places get crowded and the temperatures warm .. the line to the men's rooms might be almost too long and the food not so good but the chance to hob-nob with fellow enthusiast is, as they say ...priceless. And the chance to talk to the technicians and experts who design, build and service our coaches are there and are usually so helpful and attentive.

Though this is our first experience with a big rally, we really recommend attending one. And one important side-light. We would not have even thought of attending this rally if it had not been for our friends Bob and Joan from Maine. We met them but a year or so ago and have kept in touch this past year. They are well traveled and know where to go and what to see and said 'you've got to go to Perry'. But the best part is when you see them in person again. They instantly make you feel like you are their best friends and treated us so very well. So thanks again Bob and Joan ... We appreciate your friendship, kindness and great recommendations.

We took time to drive through a number of the areas where the rally goers rigs were parked. It's kind of fun to see what others are driving and if your lucky, peek through the windshields while passing by to see how they are decorated. My guess is that there were maybe 1500+ of class 'A' coaches parked around the complex plus another 500 or so new ones brought in for folks to tour and dream over.

Here's a view of maybe 10% of the coaches parked at the complex.

Just a little hint of some of the activities that were apart of the rally. Here's a volunteer band and singing group entertaining in the center court area of the rally. There are also many chances to learn new things as a wide variety of seminars are offered throughout the nearly week-long event. From caring for your RV batteries and electrical systems to RVing in South Africa and Europe ... almost something interesting for all.

Poking around some of the nearby RV parks we stumbled across this restored double-decker.
Probably not many of these around but this one was sporting new paint and was quite a rig. I can't imagine driving this as the driver is sitting in the lower, almost ground level, position but what a view for the passengers up top. Such a panoramic vista they'd have. Sitting perched on the second floor with all that unobstructed view ahead. Wow!

But not all is polished chrome and five color paint schemes. No convection oven here ... no HD satellite receivers ... no 650hp diesel monster pushing this rig. No ... just a humble traveler ... maybe a little down on his luck and trying to make ends meet. Probably doesn't even consider himself an RVer but just happened to be parked in a nearby town today. A true contrast to what we have been seeing.

Taking to the road can take many forms and occurs for many reasons ... but the important thing is that it gives a person a chance to see this great country up close and personal. It's really is one of life's great treasures.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

The Big FMCA Rally

2011-03-14T22:45:00.001-04:00

Up early ... hustling around to get up to Perry to attend the big RV show. We were pumped. Bob (we call him Maine Bob) met us at the gate and directed us to his coach where we gathered. Their friends, Fred and Lynn, arrived about the same time and we soon learned that the big show wasn't really starting until tomorrow. Wait! Tomorrow? But all the literature said Monday. The billboards said Monday. The website said Monday. I know we had daylight savings time change this past weekend but did I miss something? Should I have moved my calendar as well as my clocks? But Maine Bob says no ... all these rallies start a day late. "So how come?" I ask. 'Well that's just the way they do things' So the newest RV rally rookie learned his first lesson. Show up a day late.

All was not lost as Maine Bob says 'lets go to the Museum of Aviation' (http://www.museumofaviation.org) just north of Perry. I caught a glimpse of some of the ladies rolling their eyes indicating maybe this wasn't their first choice ... but the men prevailed so off we went.

I usually cannot pass up a military museum so this was right up my alley. Well kept and lots to see, each of us headed off in different directions focusing on exhibits that interested us most.

Standing under the wing of modern fighter jet, the size and complexity of this war machine is really amazing. And to think that some snotty nose kid who lived down the street a few years ago is now the ripe age of 25 and flying this multi-million dollar bullet.

The museum has one of those rare SR71 Blackbird high altitude spy planes. Considering it was the fastest plane in the US arsenal (though now retired), and it was designed and built in the 1950's, it still is a completely awesome plane.

Sharon who secretly really does like her picture taken, posed for this touristy shot on a Chinese wall replica.

The display depicted those airmen who flew 'The Hump" from India to China during WW II. The 'Hump' referred to the treacherous flight path taken over the Himalayan mountains to supply the Chinese with materials

One of the fascinating aspects of WW II war planes was the 'nose' art. 'Nose' art are the personal characterizations, usually of girlfriends, wives, or pin-up girls painted on the very front of the aircraft. Some racy but many just an extension of that aircraft crews personality. Here's a nice example on this beautifully restored old bomber.

The grounds surrounding the museum has a large number of other planes worth looking at. From four engine Lockheed Super Constellations, to a variety of fighter jets, cargo planes and bombers. Speaking of bombers, the real 'wonder' plane that has nearly 50 years of service under its wing is the B52. This one, all dressed out in camo paint, looks like it may have quite a few missions before retirement. A proud lady for sure.

So there you have our first day with great intentions of going to the FMCA rally. Not all things go as planned but thanks to our friends from Maine, a very enjoyable day ... still livin' the dream.

Phil

Settled in

2011-03-13T16:51:00.001-04:00

After a short one hour run from Albany, we're now parked in Elko Georgia at the Twin Oaks RV Park (www.twinoaksrvpark.com). Surrounded by blooming apple trees we're but a 3-wood, a wedge, and two putts from I75.

The park is filling up fast as the big FMCA show starts tomorrow and places to stay around here are at a premium. Our friends Jim and Carol from Iowa should not be far behind as they left Alabama this morning and our friends Bob and Joan from Maine are already in Perry at the FMCA camp.

This weather will certainly make the Georgia peaches ripen as it's in the mid 70's, a slight breeze and blue skies. Should be a little warmer tomorrow.

So we're about to take on another adventure: a big RV rally with about 10,000 people to mingle with and about 800 new coaches to look at. Oh my aching feet. Later tomorrow.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Slow lane ... continued

2011-03-12T16:54:00.001-05:00

A trip into Albany this afternoon took us to the Ray Charles Plaza located on Flint River. A unique little park with a great view and Ray Charles greatest hits playing through speakers everywhere. With his bronze likeness seated at a grand piano, it was a nice tribute to one of the best.

Embedded in the design of the small park was an area that represented keys on a large piano keyboard.
Sharon is standing on a C note (don't I wish). In the background the old bridge over the Flint River is currently closed for repairs/

I'm always amused at cleaver uses of our language. Hopefully this repairman will get as much business as laughs.

So there you have it. We're back in camp and hamburgers will soon be sizzling on the grill. The park is full up today with many getting ready to move on to the Family Motor Coach Association rally in Perry tomorrow. We'll fall into the line headed that way about 11:00am and get to our next camp in about an hour or so.

Livin' the dream

Phil

Another day in the slow lane

2011-03-12T13:38:00.001-05:00

Betcha' ya thought Albany Georgia was just another wide spot on the road we're travelling this winter. Au contraire mon frere'. For those old enough ... you will remember Harry James. That great band leader and trumpeter of of the 40's through the 80's was born here and ... what about soul singer Ray Charles ... who doesn't remember him? And did I mention that lady pro golfer Nancy Lopez still lives here. (We were going to invite her over lunch but we just couldn't fit it in our schedule) And what about singer Ray Stevens ('Ahab the Arab' and 'Little Red Riding Hood') was born here as was famous southern cook and TV star Paula Deen. I think I going to have to get an autograph book if we stay here any longer.

The weather here is near perfect with the highs today in the low 70's and a cloudless azure blue sky. I just returned from the fishing pond where I was feeding the local ducks and geese and seeing the spring flowers starting to emerge from the ground. This is great.

I almost forgot ... yesterday we headed over to the Monaco pre-rally in Moultrie. What is a pre-rally you ask? Well I think it is a gathering of people who have the same make of motor coach who meet prior to a larger rally ... in this case the FMCA rally in Perry. Since we're still a little dumb on all these things we thought we'd attend one to find out what happens. We were suppose to pay a visit on Thursday but because of our delays, Friday was our only option ... the last day of the rally.

We did get up early again and made the 25 mile drive to Moultrie only to find the place almost empty. All but one of the vendors had already left for Perry; many of RV's had pulled out already but at least admission was free. Like I said ... only one vendor was left and it was one of the Monaco dealers with maybe a dozen new coaches still parked on the grounds. We had a chance to tour the new Vesta model. A snazzy 32/35 footer with a front placed turbo diesel engine and, according to the manual, comes standard with a chrome tipped exhaust pipe. That was enough for me. How cannot I not own one? A real chrome tipped exhaust pipe. I'm not sure who writes the copy for these brochures but my guess if they have never owned a motor home. Anyway it was a pretty radical design that will surely take advantage of the apparent trend of offering these slightly smaller coaches.

So I still don't know a thing about these pre-rallies. I didn't learn of any special hand signals, secret words, or about clandestine rituals held under the cover of darkness. No badges, ornate hats or vests to earn or buy. Maybe I should try some other pre-rally in the future. All the people that attend these things must surely be as sane as I am.

We off to find a place for lunch. So you know ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

Dodged another bullet

2011-03-10T22:46:00.001-05:00

Mother Nature has once again tried to spoil my winter vacation. Planning to leave for Georgia yesterday, we were all packed, hooked up and ready to roll. We knew a major storm was brewing out west and thought we could get ahead of it but no such luck. We awoke to strong winds and tornado warnings. As it turned out we headed for the clubhouse for shelter but ultimately returned to the coach as conditions improved. The storm was a dilly with 10 tornadoes within 60 miles of us and with some places getting nearly 7 inches of rain. With all of the morning wasted and part of the afternoon, it was now impossible to make the 300 miles I needed to drive to our next stop (Albany Georgia) so we spent another day at Bella Terra.

Greeted by a bright blue sky and crisp air we headed out this morning actually getting on the road by 8:30am. That's not a typo folks ... we really did. Motoring up to I10 about 30 miles up the road, we made our first stop at a Love's fuel station. Getting in line behind a bunch of 18 wheelers is kinda' cool but I really think they would rather we rv'ers not mingle with 'real' truck drivers. Love's didn't have any problems dealing with me as they cheerfully let me buy 110 gallons of their finest fuel at a princely sum of $3.96/gal. Ouch!.

So we finally got on I10 and headed east. Moving along somewhere between 60 and 65 mph we saw a 5th wheel ahead. As we going a little faster, we pulled along side it to pass and quickly realized it was Tom and Mary who had paid us a visit a few days ago. We had no idea they were leaving their park the same day and to actually run across them on the road was really amazing. We quickly called them to talk of our unusual coincidence and suggest that at the next rest stop we would pull in and give Mary her umbrella back. She had left it at our coach several days earlier but agreed she could wait until we were all back in Michigan before she got it back. I think she and Sharon figured it was such a lucky day maybe we should try to find a casino but probably knew what Tom and I would say.

We arrived late this afternoon at our next stop (www.albanyrvresort.com) to find a very pleasant layout with loads of trees and large, paved sites. In the morning we'll check it out a little closer before heading to the Monaco rally in Moultrie. Stay tuned.

Still livin' the dream ...now in the Peach state.

On your mark ... get ready

2011-03-08T00:46:00.002-05:00

The pace is quickening. Time is running out. We're soon pulling up stakes and taking our motor-tent to new vistas. We've been four months here at Bella Terra and have enjoyed the great people and the beautiful facility. But wanderlust is rearing its adverturesome head again and we headed for two RV rallies in Georgia. We're not too savvy about these events so we really don't know what to expect. But ... what would be bad about getting together with a bunch of folks who like to do the same thing?

Our first stop will be in Albany GA. I think a quaint little spot on the map that is about 25 miles from where the first rally we're attending in Moultrie GA. Since I waited far to long to get reservations, it was the closest place I could get a site. We'll be in Albany about four days then move on to a resort just south of Perry Georgia where the big RV gathering is. Thousands they say, will be in attendance. I suspect we'll need knee transplants before this one is over. Lot of acres to see lots of stuff. We'll be there about four days then move on to Florida for a few weeks.

Anyway lots to be done before the coach is ready for the trip. Check the air in the tires, check the oil, check the water, fill the fresh water, empty everything else. Put away the lawn furniture, grill and outdoor lighting. Whew! It's wearing me out just thinking about it.
But is all will get done and with another powerful storm at our back, we hopefully get to our next desitination without any issues.

Oh ... and did I tell you about our friends Tom and Mary who stopped by on their trip from Phoenix to Florida. It was sure great seeing them. We all were invited to have a Mardi Gras party with another back-home couple John and Linda at their fantastic beachfront condo. Plans were dashed to see the big parade as a violent storm raced through the area with high winds, rain and a couple of tornadoes west of us. We did manage to slosh down a little vino and find our way to a local eatery to round out the evening. Mother nature may be fierce but when folks want to party ... look out.

Seeing back-home folks is a real treat for us. The old adage ... 'absence makes the heart grow fonder' couldn't be truer. Sharon and I are so fortunate to have just a great group of friends. We appreciate each and everyone of them.

Still livin' the dream and gettin' ready to see what's over the next hill.

Phil

ps ... looking forward to see my friend Jerry quickly recover from surgery and waggle his wings on a South Haven flyover

Plea to China

2011-03-02T00:18:00.000-05:00

I'm giving the Chinese government and Premier Wen Jiabao, another chance to reinstate my blog. It was unceremoniously banned in China almost a year ago. I can only imagine the throngs (well maybe one or two) who have protested in Tiananmen Square or the Great Wall on my behalf. So free my peeps ... let them learn of the western ways of RV travel.

Still livin' the dream and waiting for the Chinese.

Early Bird (?)

2011-02-26T11:33:00.001-05:00

Contrary to common belief, I do usually get up early in the morning. Though not often dressed much before noon, this morning was an exception. With the thought (ready for this?) of actually taking a walk and getting some much needed exercise, I dressed, grabbed my camera and headed out as the sun was rising.

Our eyes, even old eyes, have a unique capability of noticing movement. We might not always find what caught our eye but something moving against a still background usually gets our attention. This morning was no exception. As I left the coach I glanced over a tree lined berm to my east and noticed a slowly galloping critter loping across an adjacent empty field (coyotes can gallop and lope at the same time , I think). Though my trusty Canon had only a short telephoto, I grabbed several images as the critter headed for nearby woods. After my sojourn around the park, I popped the memory chip into the computer, fired up LightRoom and took a look at images a little closer. Yup ... old wylie coyote was heading in for a morning nap after a night of hunting. About 300 ft away, he didn't noticed me so maybe I'll get a little closer (and a longer lens) and try another day.

There's quite a population of these four footed wanna-be wolves in the area. We hear them at night occasionally and pet owners in the park make sure they know where their little 'FiFi' is at all times.

Still 'livin the dream' and keeping my eyes peeled.

Phil

Plug

2011-02-25T02:07:00.000-05:00

Okay ... here's an unabashed endorsement for a hamburger joint we've grown to love. Some of the things you can't buy at Five Guys www.fiveguys.com are ... salad ... eggs ... steak ... fish ... chicken ...beer ... milk shakes ... quiche ... pancakes.

They only offer hamburgers and hot dogs with the emphasis on hamburgers. Oh and did I mention french fries. Handfuls of freshly made fries. Nothing fancy here. Just great hamburgs, fries and hot dogs in a clean, airy atmosphere.

If you find one ... give it a try. A neat place where we can be found 'livin' the dream.

Phil

ps ... if any Five Guys executives read this and want to give us free hamburgs for life, don't be bashful.

Out and about

2011-02-21T23:40:00.000-05:00

And the good news is ... Sharon and I are almost over our two week battle with colds. Runny, sniffley, hacking, achey ... you'd think were were wintering in Michigan. But no. We're still here in Alabama and, after a great Super Bowl party, each came down with this ugly malady. It's been over three years since we either had one so I guess we were due.

So we've been coach ridden but the weather wasn't so good anyway but now, all is good. Sun is shining and in the 70's. What a better time than get outside and do a little sight-seeing.

With friends Jim and Carol in tow, we headed for the Orange Beach Seafood festival and car show. Figuring the combination of good food, neat cars and a carnival atmosphere would be good therapy, we ventured out for a day of fun.

We finally stumbled across the place only because of the traffic jam in the area. We got in line and eventually found a pretty good parking spot. Surprise! Free admission. Go figure ... but they probably reasoned that with all the seniors in the area they wouldn't get anyone to show up if it wasn't. Anyone we wormed our way for the food concessions only to find another line. Maybe 50 ahead of us, we wondered what we were getting in to. Like lemmings we stood there for a few minutes then finally figured out that that line was to buy the $10 food ticket; not to get the food. That was yet another line. Looking around towards the front of the food line, we could see plastic boxes of fried shrimp and some other unrecognizable stuffs we being passed out. Some festival. Pay your money and we'll give you what we want you to have.

With the search for food in the tank, we headed for the car show. Maybe 50 cars at best. About what a normal Tuesday 'cruise night' at a Flint hot dog stand is. Anyway we walked through the lot and here's some of the beauties.

A sweet tri-power Chevy

Chevy II hop-up kit

This one will fool you. 54' Vette treatment on front and rear of 2010 Z06

Not to rub it in but after the car show we headed over to a beach resturant for lunch. Mid 70's and lots of sun brought out the sun worshipers. Sure beats snow.

Hard to beleive ... but we're still Livin' the Dream

Phil

Deja vu ... again

2011-02-01T23:58:00.003-05:00

I know none of you folks in the north country want to here this, but the weather here is not so hot either.
As you were getting your pretty white snow flakes we were getting deluged with buckets of water, high winds, tornado alerts, and lightening. And the next few days will see the temps drop to the low 30's again. Some of our neighbors are asking if maybe we'd pick some other place to stay next winter. Inferring that the bad weather is something we brought with us.

As nightfall fell (can I say that?), mother nature was at her zenith with winds nearing 50mph, we heard a loud crash. At first I thought it was my satellite dish again but knowing that I had put a couple of guy lines on it earlier today it could only we my nice Coleman Road Tracker grill. The neat little red number with the collapsible wheels and the nice full length cover. Cooked many a meal on this and I thought it was pretty tough. In about an hour the rain let up for a minute and I ventured out with a flashlight. As I approached the crime scene it was apparent the victim was flat on its back. It slightly rusty, greasy underbelly was exposed and its supporting limbs at awkward angles. It wasn't pretty. The cover was covering (I probably shouldn't say that either) most of the carnage but as I slowly raised the rain soaked cover, the situation only got worse. The neat red enamel lid had been snapped off the grill like the greasy spear on a Bloomin' Onion at the Outback. I could quickly see that other parts were broken and thankfully the rain started up again so I didn't have to stay too long and mourn the loss. I'll have to give it a decent burial in the morning.

The depth of my grief ran deep ... but it was short lived. I jumped on Amazon within minutes and ordered a new Weber Q220. So much for my period of mourning. When it arrives maybe I should bolt it down. These storms down here are real dillies.

So there you have another snippet of life in the slow lane.

We do have a big supper bowl party coming up this weekend which will be a primer to the annual Mardi Gras festivities. Plans are being made to go to Mobile AL (true home of Mardi Gras, not New Orleans) to see the parades and throw a few beads. Should be interesting.

So bundle up everyone ... Spring is but forever away.

Still livin' the dream,

Phil

Here's what been going on

2011-01-10T00:17:00.000-05:00

This evening Rock & Roll is on the agenda. Not white buck shoes and Bill Haley and the Comets but our coach is being buffeted around like a pop corn kernel in a popping machine. Driving rain, cold temps, and 50mph winds aren't that bad it's just that Mother Nature just knocked over my satellite dish. Damn! Just hope it didn't bend the dish or the LNB arm. I guess it will give me something more to do tomorrow.

I've been taking a few photos over the past week or so and I thought you might like to see what we've been up to.

It seems that we're located in right spot for the real 'snow birds'. Towards evening each night they gather nearby to head for their roost. Thousands of these aerial ballerinas swoop around in such synchronized harmony I'm convinced they do it just for fun and to entertain us humans.

Our good friends Bill and June from Michigan stopped by on their whirlwind RV buying trip to southern Florida. Joining the ranks of class "A" owners they'll now get a chance to travel in style and enjoy pouring money into a mechanical house on wheels. We always like others to get seriously into RV'ing as misery does love company sometimes. We're sure pleased they decided to head our way on the return trip. We tried to wear them out showing them all the local attractions and even serving them some of the famous "royal reds" in the two days they were here. These over-sized deep-water shrimp are bright red in color and taste like lobster. Oh so good.

We took them over to the Pensacola Naval Air Museum which, by-the-way has one great warbird collection. Currently being completely remodeled and expanded, it is an ever changing collection of the US Navy's aircraft. The museum is also adjacent to the home the the famous Navy Blue Angels aerobatic squadron.
Above is one of their F-18's that has been retired because of old age. Most may think that the team flies only new aircraft but in fact they only fly ones that are destined to retire soon. New aircraft always are deployed directly to the fleet for duty. This one and the remaining aircraft are in a holding area behind the museum waiting for a spot in one of the museums restoration hangers.

Here's a group of old Navy and Marine helicopters. Of note ... the snappy green one (to the left) with the big rounded nose is like the one I used to hang out side door and take pictures when I was in the service. This is a Marine version and the one I was on was a beautiful Army olive drab. Lots of noise and really ugly.

A closer look at this plane may bring back some memories for some of you oldsters, movie buffs or history lovers. It's a nearly identical Lockheed Model 10 Electra to the one that Amelia Earhart flew in her attempt to circle the globe in 1937.

I don't exactly remember what this plane is (looks like a B-47) but this is largest jet ever flown on and off an aircraft carrier. It's wing tips were within 19 feet of the 'island' when landing making the approach pretty hairy. We were told that they took more than a dozen take-offs and landings to prove that in an emergency, large jets could land on a carrier.

This picture is just to let my old friend George had a plane named after him. Actually its really a WWII Japanese Shiden Kai (meaning violet lightening modified) dive bomber renamed a 'George' by US forces.

Bill, not wanting to miss a single shot, hangs precariously out our high speed bus risking life and limb to get that perfect image.

Across the street from the museum is the naval base's light house. Still in working order, it still commands an imposing position on the shoreline. June, being a fan of lighthouses wherever they are planted, wanted to climb to the top but time was short so maybe next time.

Now wait a minute ... is that her peeking out the window up there?

So there you go. A little update on what's been going on down here.

The winds are still howling outside but my fingers are as tired as is my mind so we'll continue another day.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:56:00.000-05:00

We would like to wish each and everyone of you all the best in 2011. We appreciate you stopping by and keeping us company as we travel around this great country.

Still Livin' the Dream

Phil & Sharon

2010-12-24T02:34:00.001-05:00

My how time flies ... we're well into our 4th year as almost full-timers. With only an occasional trip back to the old homestead, our vagabond lifestyle is certainly a departure from previous years. Our home on wheels has kept us safe and warm and has allowed visits to places most will never dream of going. Of course some of the places we've gone don't warrant dreaming about anyway but the good far outweigh the bad.

We've talked a bit about the weather down this way and here's a rare occurrence I caught on film (?).
A photo of an approaching warm front from the Gulf of Mexico with the setting sun about to be covered up. But we really did have a few days of warm weather. Unfortunately those dark clouds had a bit of rain in them. Our coach is out the picture to the left (we're on another side of the lake) and the clubhouse is on the far right.

As the holiday season is upon us, the pace is quickening to fill old Santa's bag with presents on his trip north. Store to store we go ... looking for just that perfect gift ... "Oh they'll just love it" I think. "But what if it melts before it gets delivered", I wonder. Okay okay ... so maybe frozen Gulf squid wasn't the best idea. It's the thought that counts ...right? So back to the drawing board ... With choices like shippable bags of pecan shells, Gulf shoreline oil balls, and returned tee-shirts from the local souvenir shops ... it's always tough to pick out that 'just right' gift to show we really care.

Just so you know we've not forsaken our desire uncover good eateries across the land, we have been dining out ... and with some regularity. We made a pack with our Iowa friends before we arrived here that we would only eat out on Fridays. Leaving the remaining six days for more healthy, at-home fare. I think something occurred when we crossed over the state line or maybe sometime during the last full moon, but whatever cosmic event struck us, we somehow have messed up the commitment and have now migrated to eating at home once per week and dining out the other six. Sure hope the budget can continue to stand the pain. I know the waistline can't.

We had a little pre-Christmas gathering at the clubhouse tonight. Live entertainment, free food, booze and even Santa made an appearance. A very nice holiday get-together for the park residents.

When retuning home tonight we jumped on Skype to wish our daughter a very happy birthday. Not as good as being in there in person but it was great seeing her and the family. We sure miss all of them.

As a Christmas present to ourselves, we're headed to Biloxi Mississippi with our friends Jim and Carol in a few hours. We've booked a couple of rooms at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and will continue to spend our kids inheritances, much to their chagrin. We'll fill you all in on the outcome later.

So if by chance we get delayed counting the large horde of money we're expecting to win at the casino, Sharon and I would like to wish you all you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.
And I would like to thank all of you for checking out my blog now and again and the many nice compliments.

Still livin' the dream

Phil

And the weather outside is frightful ...

2010-12-12T14:43:00.007-05:00

Okay maybe it's not as frightful as it is up north ... but we've had quite a rain and wind storm pass through here the last 24 hours. Though the sky is now blue, the wind continues to rock the coach around like a drunk on New Year's eve. And did I mention how it messes up my hair? Anyway it's cool and windy here but nothing compared to the white grief many are experiencing in the likes of Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York and even ... Iowa.

Last night before the storm, a group of about 40 of us from the Bella Terra RV http://www.bellaterrarvresort.com park gathered at Flippers http://www.flippersrestaurant.com Restaurant in Orange Beach to enjoy a nice meal and watch the annual Nautical Night of Lights Boat Christmas Parade. Little boats and 'Oh My God' yachts alike made the trip from Lulu's http://www.lulusathomeport.com along the inter-coastal waterway past our vantage point then into Perdido Bay. Festooned with brightly colored lights, most motored past us into the night but one nice sailboat turned into our marina to give us an up-close look. Pretty neat!

This morning we were treated to a brunch at the clubhouse sponsored by the RV park. Several tasty quiches, marinated fruits (I think in the good stuff), mimosa's, bloody Mary's and champagne made up this mornings delicious fare. Now these folks know how to have a good time down here. This afternoon a few of us are headed off to the movies to get our popcorn fix for the day. I'll be begging for a day of rest before too long. All play and no rest will certainly catch up with us one of these years.

Still livin' the dream and thinking we really should start doing a little Christmas shopping.

Phil

More adventures

2010-12-01T12:52:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting here in the coach looking out at a bright blue sky and thinking is this weather going to be a repeat of last year? It was in the mid-30's last night and thoughts of another cold winter gets us thinking about heading further south. I wonder if this thing floats?

Speaking of weather ... our friend Susanne, who lives in Finland should get a little of our sympathy. Weather reports for her part of the world are indicating temperatures this winter as low as they've been in 100 years. Stockholm Sweden, just west of Susanne's home in Helsinki (Finland capital) is already expecting a minus 15 C this week. Brrrrrrrr.

We visited an old haunt the other day. McGuire's Irish Pub in Pensacola was introduced to us by our Grand Blanc friends John and Linda in 2008 so we thought we should extend our good fortune to our Iowa friends Jim and Carol. With ceilings and walls covered with thousands of autographed dollar bills, this unique eatery has not only visually interesting surroundings but outstanding food. I had a combination pastrami and corn beef sandwich on rye. Large enough for two so I had half to take home. Just as good on day two I might add. By the look on everyones face I think the food and service was more than good. I can usually tell how good a restaurant is by the amount spilled on the front of my shirt. I was a mess. We'll surely return ... as long as my laundry lady can get the stains out. http://www.mcguiresirishpub.com

Carol and Jim ... Iowa's finest

The oil spill in this part of the gulf has no doubt had a detrimental effect on the local economy. Many condos for sale .. many businesses closed. Sad to see but I suspect they'll recover in time. It's far too nice a destination not to. We'll continue to poke around the region absorbing the local culture for another month or so then head further west ... unless the weather is crummy there. Then who knows?

For those out there you have not used the internet service Skype I can only say you're missing out. The free (like in no charge) version has brought our friends and family right into our coach. We've even tried three-way video conferencing and it's great. All you need is the free software downloaded from the net, a laptop or desktop computer (PC or MAC) and a net camera. Many laptops already have them (camera) built in or you can purchase an inexpensive USB one ($30-$60). Set up is simple and it allows face to face conversation. Ya gotta try it!

Still livin' the dream

Phil

Looking Back

2010-11-26T22:23:00.002-05:00

I usually don't do this ... but because I've been a little lazy I'm finally getting around to a little trip my son-in-law took last October. A fierce storm was ravaging Lake Michigan with high winds and lots of rain. We decided to grab our cameras and head across state to the town of Grand Haven to see what it was all about. Two lighthouses ... wild water ... high winds ... and those wild and crazy guys in the water. What could be better!

The rain had stopped, the sun was shining but the wind was still howling. Blowing sand on our faces felt like little needles and our equipment was slowly getting sand blasted. We ventured out on the pier with some of the other crazy onlookers and began shooting. The winds were a fairly steady 40mph with an occasional gusts even higher. The waters were angry and no place for mortals ... but wait! Who was that daredevil trying to kite surf? And who were those two guys on jet skis? Where was that guy walking to on the pier? And take a close look at the last photo and do you see the outline a someone out at the end of the pier? The game is played like this ... see if you can run out to the end of the pier and back in between surf surges without getting washed into the water and dashed against the pier walls. And I used to think playing marbles was exciting.

So here's a little photo essay of that exciting day. Check out my son-in-laws website too for probably the best shot of the day (http://scottlaforestphoto.photoshelter.com)

Grand Haven Lighthouse

Go fly a kite

Whoosh

Hang on

Does this guy know the hot dog stand is the other way?

See the guy leaning against the building on the far right?
On your mark ... get ready ... Go!

There you have it. Another look at the drama Mother Nature can conjure up.
It was great to have witnessed it

so you know

I'm still livin' the dream.

Phil

Thanks

2010-11-25T23:25:00.000-05:00

Another Thanksgiving Day has almost passed and here we sit. A little bloated, a little sleepy, and maybe a little too much football but a good day to reflect on all the things in our lives to be thankful for.

Sharon and I certainly have had our share of good fortune in our lives. We have each other ... and our family;

our most important assets. We have many dear friends who have been at our side and we treasure each and every one of them. And we have relatively good health. A commodity we sometimes take for granted.

All in all life continues to be exciting and fulfilling. We look forward to each upcoming day. We hope that each of you are as blessed in your own way as we have been.

We hope all of you have had a great day and be sure ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

New Flash ... News Flash ...

We have learned through inside sources that two 'closet' cooks have emerged from the shadows this holiday season. Our Jenny has dipped her toe into the cauldron of cookery and has discovered that she is really quite good at it. Adventuresome, but not bold, she has already mastered the delicacy of pork tenderloin with une pomme' sauce and reduction. And our friend Micki has stepped to the plate and hit a grand slam as she served up her first turkey. Stealing the honors from husband Corky (better known as the Wolfgang Puck of South Haven) she created a sumptuous feast that will surely install her into the Cousin's Hall of Cooking Fame (a little known but highly prized accolade in the RV world).

Reporting from the land of grits and crawdads ... cub reporter Phil

Flashback

2010-11-21T01:01:00.003-05:00

All words and no pictures make for a dull blog I say so I thought I'd toss in a few images I took along our path south.

We'll start in Battle Creek. Not known in most RV circles as a camping mecca but we did find a spot as a result of the kindness of Sharon's cousin Marsha and her husband John. They allowed us to stay overnight in the parking lot of their first class auto repair facility. Pretty nice treatment I'd say. Now if we could only get them to add cable TV service, picnic tables, WIFI, and a hot tub they might get a steady stream of campers. Anyway it was very thoughtful of them and if any of you are ever in the Battle Creek area and need a little work on that toad you're dragging behind that coach, stop in at Double E Auto Service ... they're very friendly and really know what they are doing.

Our next stop was near Effingham Illinois at Camp Lakewood located off I55/70 on Lake Pauline. (www.camplakewoodcampground.com) Now this is one nice campground. You can fit any legal size rig and whatever it is towing, with room to spare. Located on a wooded hillside next to the lake it is very well maintained and professionally operated by hosts Brian and Vanessa Caton. Level, clean gravel lots offer full hook-up, a solid WIFI signal at our site, and a small convenience shop. We even had a pizza (one of the best we've had) from Joe's Pizza and Pasta delivered to our site. Be sure to stop by this park if you're in the area.

Moving southward our next stop along the way was in Caruthersville Missouri. Why Caruthersville you might ask? Well it was only about 250 miles from Effingham so we'd reached my endurance level for driving. Oh ... did I forget? There was a casino there. The LadyLuck Casino (www.ladyluckcaruthersville.com). We got off the freeway and meandered into the small town. Not exactly designed for about 65 feet of motor coach and tow car but none-the-less we squeezed through to find the brightly lit (surprise) casino. A new building all adorned with neon. As it turned out that fancy new building was really not the casino but led to the casino located on the Mississippi river. The RV park was located inside the flood wall (oops) so if we had to leave in a hurry we'd need to get out before they closed the gate.

The park was new with concrete pads, paved streets and full hook-ups. But NO WIFI and the sites were very tight. Some of these parks still just don't get it. Internet to many of us is as important as a sewer or water hook-up. Anyway it was only going to be a one nighter and some of that time would be spent in the casino ... so we got over it.

Now getting to the casino was not for the weak hearted. Leaving that fancy little neon lit building you walked some 400 feet down this steep inclined, covered ramp to the floating casino barge. Not very clean and not very anything. Maybe 15 others gamblers were in there with us and that didn't make us feel all that comfortable either. Best part was be got out without losing much. It would have been nice however if they had oxygen available on the way up. We did get a good night sleep though ... so not all was bad.

Our next stop was going to be special as we were going to meet up with our Iowa friends Jim and Carol. Not surprisingly, for those who know us, we were meeting in the mid-south's gambling mecca of Tunica Mississippi. With 8 or 9 of those money grabbing establishment within only a mile or two radius, it has grown into quite a destination for those who like to place a bet or two, or three, or four, or .......

We booked in at the Mid-South RV Park located on Harrahs Casino property (www.harrahstunica.com). Nice big lots, paved, with full -hook-ups. Shuttle service to and from the casinos and priced very reasonably at around $18/night. But what really torqued me off was what they offered as WIFI service. Yes it might be available at your lot if you were close enough (we weren't) to the clubhouse or if you really wanted a good signal you could come into the clubhouse, if someone was there, and get a great signal. Wherever you got the signal the price was the same. $12 DOLLARS A DAY. Unbelievable! Yes I know they would rather have you gambling than hanging out on the internet but this is simple case of price gouging and not having a clue what the needs of the RV community are. Enough ranting ... we had a good time seeing our friends and did get some solace as Sharon did win a little.

Here's Jim and Carol Winnebago next to our rig. Notice how much room we had.

Our next leg of the trip took us to New Orleans. Our second trip there (the first just prior to Katrina) and Jim and Carols first visit. After traversing some of the worst (bone jarring) interstate highways on planet earth, we arrived at the French Quarter RV Resort (www.fqrv.com). Not the cheapest place to park but very , very nice and close to downtown. If there was a major shortcoming it would be the noise. We were situated in an area near the highway (I10) and there was a steady drone of trucks, police sirens, and diesels with their Jake-brakes on all night. Our remedy was to turn on the air conditioning and that pretty much drowned out the racket.

We stayed two nights in the Crescent City and took in some of the sights. Our first night out we stopped at Landry's Seafood House (www.landrysseafood.com). We all had good meals then headed off for a drive around town in my TrailBlazer. The French Quarter is not exactly the best, or easiest place to drive in at night but interesting anyway. We even looked up Emerils restaurant (www.emerils.com), though it took a little extra GPS work to find the place.

We kind of goofed off in the morning and really didn't get a early start but did manage to book an afternoon tour of the sights of New Orleans on a small tour bus. A great trip through the city. Everything from the Garden District, to the French Quarter to the lower 9th Ward where much of the Katrina damage occurred. I wouldn't want to live here (too hot, too humid) but a great place to visit.

Here's our park at night.

Bourbon Street

Now this following image was taken at Mr B's resturant in the French Quarter (www.mrbsbistro.com). Our final night out on the town needed to be special so the four of us went to this nice place in the heart of the Quarter. After being seated I noticed a small plaque over Sharon's shoulder. Apparently our seat had a former president as a guest a couple of times in the past. Pretty neat eh?

After our meal our waiter suggested dessert. 'Oh we shouldn't', we all said. Then ordered. Sharon and I chose to share something (unusual) ... which turned out to be outstanding (see below). Jim and Carol picked the same thing. As it turned out it was something that I can neither pronounce or spell but I know we all liked it (Actually it was 'Profiteroles with Chocolate Sauce'; A cream puff filled with rich vanilla bean ice cream; topped with chocolate sauce). Good stuff.

We waddled out of the place and took a short walk around the area to hasten the digestive process. There was a slight chill in the air so we hailed a cab and headed back to the park for a good night rest prior to the last leg of our trip to Bella Terra RV Resort (www.bellaterrarvresort.com).

So now you're sort of caught up. We're settled in and enjoying the great weather and meeting up with friends at the park. Thanks for tagging along.

Still livin' the dream in Alabama.

Phil

We're Backkkkkkkkkkkkkk

2010-11-15T23:52:00.002-05:00

Back on the road again ... with a hope and a prayer we're again meandering southward looking to avoid another Michigan winter. Snow is not our friend and with any kind of luck this winter, we will find much more temperate weather.

But what a great summer! Cousins RV Park, near the shores of Lake Michigan, was again our summer resting place. Hard not to return as we've got so many good friends there, the park is always well run and maintained, and did I mention those fantastic sunsets in South Haven? We'll be returning this coming Spring to a newly improved patio and parking pad as well. We'll be adding some new plantings as well so it should be extra nice.

Just before leaving my kids threw me a nice birthday party. All the grand kids were there too so it was extra special. It's always a bittersweet time for us as we are leaving our family for a time but also enjoying the fruits of many years of labor. I'm sure there will come a time when we either do not want to travel or can't but right now we're enjoying each day.

We started our trip with a quick two day stop-over in Battle Creek visiting with friends and family. I've often said you cannot have too many friends. But if we never acquired new ones, the ones we now have are simply the best; probably better than we deserve. To a person, they've treated us like members of their own family and it's really tough to leave them all behind for the winter. But somebody has to test the warm winds of the Gulf Coast ... sample the fresh shrimp at the dock or sit down to one of those Texas steaks so tender and juicy. So childhood friends, high school friends, college friends, rv friends, neighborhood friends ... they're all very important to us.

Needing a fuel stop before leaving Michigan, I stopped by a Flying J station and was pleasantly surprised that I could pull right up to a pump with no waiting. The wind was kicking up outside and snow started to fall. I was thinking my timing for leaving the state was right on the money. I started putting the necessary credit card and customer discount fuel card in only to receive a message on the pump that I needed to see the cashier. Once you see that message there is no chance things will go well. So I stood by the pump and Sharon went into the station (some 250 feet away) to find out what was the problem. She soon returned joining me again in the cold, blowing snow. I started pumping fuel but it promptly stopped after spending only $75. I re-inserted the credit card and discount card and started over. Another $75 rolled up and it stopped again. Now I needed about $350-$400 in fuel and all I can think is that I'll be pumping fuel here till spring. Not only was the pump stopping every 24 gallons but I could have filled the tank with a turkey baster faster. Absolutely the slowest pumping I've ever run across. Maybe this was Michigan's way of punishing me for leaving the state but I was thinking there ought to be a law for such a poor operation. Sharon made an additional trip into the station only to learn that we could pre-charge a large amount of money on the card and it wouldn't stop so often. She then put $300 on the card and was assured that the pump would stop at that amount. The coach soon gobbled up the $300 but the pump ran over 5 cents and the dreaded "see chasier' message re-appeared. The thought of driving off without paying crossed my mind but the idea of being sprawled across the hood of some state police car for 5 cents quickly quenched that notion. So back in she went with the nickle to pay off the bill. I will never know why I continue to go back to this outfit for fuel but for some reason I do. They are usually clean and their prices are competitive but certainly not friendly to this rv'er.

With a stop or two along the way we finally met up with our Iowa friends Jim and Carol in Tunica Mississippi. Tunica, for the uninformed, happens to be the mid-south's answer to Las Vegas. With 8 or 9 casinos/hotel complexes it's quite the place. We parked our coach at Harrah's park for about $18/night. A very nice park though few campers were there this time of year. We spent three nights there supporting the locals but in the end, actually came out ahead.

Before leaving Tunica the four of us decided that it would be fun to go down to New Orleans for a day or two so we booked a couple of nights at the French Quarter RV Resort ( http://www.fqrv.com) in downtown New Orleans. A little pricey but safe and very near all the neat spots in this dynamic city. The city is really an assault on ones senses. The smells, sights, food, the many cultures and its people all push the extreme. Mid westerners like us, should have a little coaching before entering the city as the unexpected is really the norm here. We enjoyed a couple of great meals in the 'Quarter', listened to a little jazz music, and wandered a bit around. It was Jim and Carol's first trip to the Crescent City so rather than me stumbling around town in our truck, we all decided to take one of the city bus tours offered. During the three hour trip we hit all the hot spots from the Garden District to the French Quarter to the famous above-ground cemeteries. But the eye-opener was the tour of the lower 9th ward where the devastation from hurricane Katrina was still very prevalent. Abandoned homes and businesses were everywhere. High water marks could best be seen by how high the mold had grown on the building. A family here and there had re-claimed their property but most were still gone. The nine generation New Orleans tour guide took us through some of the roughest areas you could imagine. I think she was making sure we understood what went on here. She places the blame on government. Federal, state and local all shared the blame but most she said belong to ex-mayor Ray Nagan. Obviously the wounds are still raw even after 5 years.

A rain storm greeting us this morning as we prepared to head for our next stop ... Bella Terra RV Resort in Foley Alabama. A driving rain followed us the entire trip making the 200 mile trip seem like 400. Anyway we're here and are looking forward to kicking back and taking it easy for a few months.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Oh my!

2010-09-28T00:54:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile ... hasn't it? Have we been busy? Sure. But not too busy to write, you'd think. But I haven't. Sorry. So what can I do to really, really really bring you some fantastic news. Well let me give it a try ...

Let me introduce the newest member of our family.

Lola Sofia

7lb 9oz

20 inches

Born September 4th

Our Daughter-in-law and Son presented their beautiful baby girl to the world a few days ago and we were smitten from the first moment we met her. Pretty like her Mom and handsome like her Dad, she entered our lives healthy and ready to grow up.

As she makes her way through these glorious years of exploration and wonderment, we look forward to being near-by to watch this new family learn and grow.

Without a doubt ... we're still livin' the dream.

Phil

Two more

2010-09-03T07:57:00.003-04:00

Continuing with our ongoing quest to uncover good restaurants wherever we travel, we've recently found two little gems here in Southwest Michigan.

The Kalico Kitchen (http://www.kalicokitchenrestaurant.com) near Douglas is a homey little place that you'd expect to run across somewhere in Oklahoma along Route 66. Not a pinch of pretentiousness, this down home eatery has an ever changing list of daily 'specials' that will satisfy almost any palate. I settled in on an open faced prime rib sandwich and Sharon ordered the broasted chicken. I actually could have ordered any of the 6 or 7 daily offerings and would have been happy but the beef sounded good. I did see one item on the menu that I don't often see and dearly enjoy ... chicken livers. Okay I know many will view this as some sort of illness on my part but chicken livers have been a favorite of mine forever. Anyway I asked the waitress if we could get a small appetizer size and she made it happen. Arriving in just a few minutes, these lightly breaded little morsels of goodness were outstanding. Just enough to satisfy but not enough to spoil my dinner. Our meals arrived hot and delivered with a smile (a trait many waitresses have lost).  Out plates were overflowing. Piping hot and everything looked fresh and appealing. The portions size far exceeded the normal cost and best of all ... everything was delicious. With most entrees less than $10 this place is a bargain in a tourist town.  Located on the Blue Star Highway just south of Saugatuck in Douglas, it has plenty of parking and outdoor eating if you want. We'll make plans to return soon. Oh ... did I mention the desserts? No we didn't have room for any, but I've heard they are famous for the homemade cakes and pies.

Our next stop on our "eat across America" tour was a trendy little place north of Kalamazoo in a little burg called Richland. Having passed many times through this sleepy little town years ago, my return turned out to be quite a surprise.  New retail stores and commercial businesses have now settled here and has changed the whole complexion of the little community.

It actually all began as we were having our afternoon 'happy hour' wiith friends here at the RV park in South Haven when the phone rang.   Friends from Battle Creek called with a last minute suggestion that we join them for dinner at this new place in Richland. It was nearing 7:00 pm and we weren't exactly dressed for dinner but since it was a new place to try and old friends to share it with, we decided to get around and make the hour drive.

Mission Pointe (http://www.missionpointerichland.com) is located in an upscale little mall on the north side of town on M-89. With sort of a southern California/southern Florida architecture we walked in the front door and were met by a pretty boisterous bar group enjoying the 1/2 off martini night. The 20 something/30 something group of patrons were having a good time and reminded me of days long gone by. We sought out our friends in the dining area who were seated by the fireplace. A nicely appointed restaurant that was sized right for the small community of Richland.

Before too long our waitress came by and went through the menu with us. This girl knew her job and knew the menu as well as she did her own diary. Pleasant and informed. What a concept. Anyway ... the menu was really unique as it offered up many combination meals that consisted of pairing various meats in ways most restaurants have not explored. So what do you think of a meat loaf and lobster meal? Or baked walleye and halibut?  Pick any two meats on the menu and pair them up for an eclectic blend of flavors. Doesn't matter if the combo is listed on the menu or not. If they have it, they'll pair them up. A nice idea I wish more restaurant would promote. Prices were very reasonable too.  One of the specials this evening was sirloin steak and lobster. Small portions of each but for $11.99! Now that's a bargain. And it was excellent. Three of our group ordered that and I opted for a large chuck of potato encrusted walleye paired with a small tenderloin for $18.99. This too was excellent.

So there you have it. Another addition to our ongoing review of neat places to eat in America.  RV'ers take note. Hot dogs on the barbee get a little old so get out in that 'toad' and explore the local eateries. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

#3612

2010-08-31T00:23:00.002-04:00

Saturday morning ... not a normal morning for the two of us. Up at 5:30 am. No coffee, no breakfast but hurry, hurry, hurry to get to downtown Flint Michigan to witness the 34th running of the Crim Festival of Races 10 mile road race. The little run about town is actually one of the foremost 10 mile races in the country with runners coming from all over to compete. World class athletes compete for some pretty sweet prize money, too.

Now if you expected just a few hundred runners you'd be woefully under-guessing. Try over 16,000 total for all the races. Yup ... that's over sixteen thousand! Keep in mind that on a normal day in Flint you might find a couple of hundred people spread around the downtown area. Picture this ... 16,000 racers and probably 40,000 spectators lining the various courses. The 10 mile run alone had over 10,000 entrants. Flint was alive again. There were races for all ages and abilities from 1k to 10 miles in length.

But we really didn't care about all those thousands of runners here for the big spectacle ... we were here to see just one particular runner. Our son, Steve, was making his inaugural attempt to run those rugged ten miles. Training for the past several months in one of the hottest summers in years, he kept at it adding miles to his routine until he was able to do the 10 miles.

Now it's nearly race time. A little nervousness was apparent as Steve prepared for the start. His soon mom-to-be wife, Jenny, helped him with his race documents and gave him a steady stream of moral support as did his mother-in-law Sharyn, as well as my Sharon and me. The excitement was building.

Downtown Flint was bulging with racers of all shapes, ages and colors and before long Steve headed off for the start line. He quickly disappeared into the mass of runners. I'm pretty sure the three of us each said a little silent prayer on his behalf that he'd not have any problems ... though he probably didn't know it.

I grabbed my camera and headed off towards the starting line only to discover I was lost in the throngs of runners and had no idea where Steve was. No big deal I thought ... I'd catch him as he rounded the block about a mile from the start. I headed over to a spot I thought I'd see him only to find the crowd of onlookers three deep. I did get there just in time to see the lead runners go by. Three Kenyans whose long, lean legs were stretched out and hitting the pavement at a steady cadence most runners could only dream of. Already they were pulling away from the pack. And keep in mind the pack for this race was over 10,000 strong. I waited as hundreds upon hundreds went racing by. Straining to find Steve amongst the thousands. Just to get a glimpse would be good enough for me. As I just about gave up, I saw him on the other side of the street running along a a pretty good clip. He seemed relaxed and fresh ... but then again ... it was only a mile into the race. What would he look like at the finish?

I made way back to our gathering point near the finish line to wait out the rest of the race. Steve's best time for that distance had been about 1 hour and 50 minutes so with about 25 minutes to spare (I thought), I headed up to the finish line to get some pictures of him coming across. Arriving there I wiggled my way up to the front row and to my surprise about a minute later I caught sight of him coming down the street towards the finish line. Wait a minute! He's early! Way early than what we'd expected. But there he was. Smiling too. In full stride with arms raised in the air as he crossed the finished line. Our kid had made it and ... it was his best time at that. Wow! The family finally has an athlete.

It was really hard to describe how we all felt. After all it was just a bunch of people running around and getting sweaty ... but it turned out to be far more than that. It was a very tangible accomplishment for Steve. Something that took effort and perseverance. A moment Steve will always remember and a moment we were all so proud to witness!

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Not our finest hour(s)

2010-08-25T21:47:00.001-04:00

It sure seemed like a good idea ... at first. But after 3 holes into the back nine the message was clear. The game of golf requires some skills, of which not one of the four of us remembered to bring to the course today. Playing golf is nothing like riding a bike. You do forget. We all forgot. Like golf great Lee Trevino once said "my golf swing is so bad it looks like a caveman killing his lunch!" Well I think we all had lunch out there.

2 1/2 miles of hacking, whacking, and swishing our way through the floral and fauna. No hazard untouched, no ball unmolested. If the little white orb wasn't creased or scuffed ... it was lost. Now I know why the likes of Titleist, Nike and Callaway make these things by the millions.

And so it went. If it wasn't for good friends and good weather it would have been like Mark Twain once said "Golf is a good walk spoiled". We took a normal 120 minute round and manage to stretch it into a 240 minute ordeal taking somewhere over 300 strokes to get home. No wonder we were pooped after finishing.

So we'd like to thank the course managers for not issuing a lifetime ban on our return, the makers of Ben Gay and Ibuprofen and of course of each other for being able to have a good laugh.

Still livin' the dream but thinking about giving up golf again.

Phil

BG&I Golf Open

2010-08-21T09:53:00.001-04:00

The first annual BG and I Open (Ben Gay and Ibuprofen Golf Open) is officially over. You won't see much coverage on ESPN or any the greater South Haven media outlets, but it happened ... and I was there. There to pay witness to what might have been the single most important golf event of the year, was yours truly. Connoisseur of this test of man verses the sculpted landscape of 9 of the most challenging holes of in all the golf world (at least they were today). Some holes so tough you couldn't even pound a tee into the granite-like soil. A course for real men. And real women. 32 of South Haven's, some would say, finest summer citizens.

A peek at the pre-tournament field indicated that there were indeed several classic 'ringers'. Disguised maybe as carpenters or paper industry workers, these guys somehow slipped into the field of hackers and wannabes. These 'ringers' quickly surfaced on the first tee ... booming their drives into the morning haze as their partners whacked, hacked, and whiffed their way on to the first fairway. It was going to be a long day.

As the tournament bore on, it quickly became apparent that the wise perpetrator (perp) of this event had balanced the teams up pretty well by forcing the 'ringers' the numbing opportunity to play with hacks like me. We hacks actually serve a great purpose on the golf course as we tend to slow the game down to more of a gentleman's pace. None of this one-hour forty-five minutes for 9 holes for the likes of us but the more genteel pace of say maybe 2 1/2 to 3 hours. We hacks have discovered that golf is more like fine wine as it is enjoyed best by sipping slowly and savoring each glass. Conversation and tormenting your partners is what the game is really about; not precision athleticism.

As the morning heated up, it and our back muscles began to throb like the beat of a rap song, the last hole came into view. Oh merciful one, I thought. The end is near. The pain will soon be soothed by a frosty cold one in the clubhouse. So as the round ended in a blaze of forgettable glory, we limped into bar to tally our scores. Looking around it was apparent that many were putting on a good front to hide the pain and agony of defeat. Laughing and joking around could not cover up the sight of this senior group (except for those 'ringers') of golfers as they gingerly eased themselves into their chairs and you could hear our collective sigh of relief that the game was finally over. All winners .. just because they finished the round and as in most sporting events ... the best teams really did win. So the combination of hackers and ringers worked out pretty good. Strength and weakness ... graceful and clumsy ... old and young alike. Old age and treachery make good partners with youth and skill.

As it turned out, the first annual BG and I Golf Open was a great deal of fun. It forced many of us to actually get some exercise and have fun while doing it. Sadly some of us were reminded that what was our golf game is no longer and that any thought of a return to those yesteryear's should be soon be forgotten. So just enjoy the moment and enjoy your friends ... those things that are really the most important in our lives.

With hand firmly grasping the ibuprofen bottle ... I'm still livin' the dream.

Phil

Good Friends ... continued

2010-08-19T14:32:00.005-04:00

Why two casinos in a single day?  Two good reasons as it turns out. First, and most important was our good friend Bill's birthday celebration dinner. A tradition our Battle Creek friends have honored for many years. We each get a turn each year and it is a great excuse to get together and hug the old feed bucket. Bill is aging as gracefully as most, though claims that vodka is really the magic elixir from the fountain of youth and is most responsible. With wife June, friends Paula, George, and Kim and, of course Sharon and me, we made the best of the generous buffet at the casino and celebrated in style.

The second part of the evening was a returning visit to the music of Tony Reynolds (http://www.ynotsing.com/). With keyboardist/vocalist Mark Kahny (http://markkahny.blogspot.com/) the duo made for another great evening of jazzy, inventive arrangements and great fun for the audience. Playing in a casino room has got to be tough and this casino is no exception. Annoying slot-machine noises coming through the doors plus a lighting system best suited for a 1971 disco floor, these pros played through and around these distractions. Even a boisterous group of drinkers in the rear (who cared less of who or what was entertaining the rest of us) were treated smoothly with quick witted humor. Mark's well-known for his keyboard work with a left-hand bass line the likes I have never heard as good.   Tony did the new/old standard of Louis Armstrong's "It's a Wonderful World".  Great lyrics to begin with, Tony kicked into his 'Satchmo' voice for the last verse and it could bring a tear to your eye it was so good.

These two entertainers are worth seeking out.  If you live in Southwestern Michigan, check out their websites and find a venue they are playing.  You'll have a great time.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Good friends

2010-08-17T22:59:00.042-04:00

Not too often do folks from Iowa leave their home state and venture out and explore other states. Maybe they go to Illinois or even Wisconsin ... but Michigan? I guess the logic is ... with all this corn and livestock, why leave? Well we know a few brave souls from the Corn State who sneak out now and again and after a little coaxing our friends, Jim and Carol, did just that. We met them last winter in Alabama and became travelling companions for the winter. Staying in contact, we urged them to drive up and spend a few days with us this summer. We all agreed on a date and before long they were at our door.

It was great to show them around South Haven and have them meet all our friends here at Cousins RV Park. Easy to meet and easy to like, they fit in like family. One thing we do have in common is our desire to try new eateries in the area. The places we wanted to go to here in South Haven were packed as the Blueberry Festival was in full swing so we headed to Douglas and had a very nice meal at the Mad Dog Grille. A fairly new place, the menu was interesting and service was great. Not too pricey and even has an outdoor patio for dining under the stars. I'd recommend it.

The time went by way too fast and before we knew it they had to return home. But not without enjoying another common interest we have. Casinos! Since they were headed West we thought we'd follow them for a bit and stop at Four Winds Casino near the Indiana border. Thinking it would be fun to we spend a couple of hours there and maybe even avoid leaving another donation to the Indian Nation.

We certainly had a great time, ate good, enjoyed a few blueberry treats (cookies, donuts, and coffee cake), and are looking forward to seeing them again soon.

So as they headed west to Iowa we had plans to then head East. Not home, but to another Indian casino ... this time at Battle Creek's Firekeepers Casino. But the occasion wasn't gambling. Stay tuned for the next part of a very busy day.

Still livin' the dream and enjoying our friends.

Phil

Where's the ibuprohen?

2010-08-16T11:49:00.027-04:00

With the Cousins RV Park's 1st annual golf outing just around the corner, many of us have been forced to actually see if we could still even swing a club.  The mechanics of swinging a club do seem simple enough. Just watch the guys on TV each weekend. Effortless balance of man and club ... the ball climbing into the sky and gently landing like a feather some 300 yards down the fairway.  Arms and torso twisting in complete harmony with powerful legs driving the entire process.

This first hurdle some of us are facing is ... can I even find my clubs? I looked around the basement and garage and found a few 'woods' but couldn't locate my irons.  A light bulb went off and I remembered I had given them to my son, Steve. Since I hadn't been playing for the past 10 years or so, why not let him use them as he plays quite a bit. A phone call quickly confirmed what had happened to them.  Steve said he had, in turn, given the clubs to one of his friends. So now what do I do?

A quick trip to several of the local golf shops on the east side of the state confirmed that I couldn't buy just a couple of irons but had to buy an entire set. Ugh! I really didn't want to spend the money for just one golf outing so I now started to wonder if I could play a round with only a 3 wood and a putter? Driving out of town on our way to South Haven, I stumbled upon a store that sold used sporting goods.  Eureka! I walked in and found matched set of Arnold Palmer Irons. Throw in two dozen balls (hope that will be enough) and $61 dollars later I was ready for play.

Having the clubs is one thing ... hitting a ball with them after a 10 year hiatus ... is another. Once I got back to South Haven I sought out a driving range to hone my rusty skills. What?  No driving ranges? Now what? Checking with some of my neighbors I soon learned that one of the local courses has a driving range so I grabbed my new sticks and headed out.

The guy behind the counter said that will be $12 bucks when I asked to hit a few balls. $12 bucks! I didn't want to play 18 holes but just hit a few balls. My what 10 years out the golf loop has done to prices. So I coughed up the $12 and was handed a large bucket of balls and he said take any of the gas carts out to range. This sort of made me feel better that at least I got a cart to ride but really ... $12 for a bucket of balls!

Anyway I strategically picked a spot on the range whereas no one could see me and began a little warm-up. Ouch!. Where did those muscles come from? I'm sure I could feel things tearing and ripping in my back, arms and legs. Oh, and did I mention my neck? After about a dozen swings I had had enough. But since I still had 3/4 of the balls left, and it did cost me $12, I must press on. The more I tried the worse my swing got. "Get back to basics" I kept telling myself.   But since I couldn't remember what the basics were, I was really screwed. So the physical pain continued. The mental pain actually got worse. A couple of guys showed up to hit a few balls and guess what? They picked a spot right behind me. Now they could see all my golfing skills, up close and personal.  So now I think I have an audience and whatever skills I used to have, have left me forever. I am now once again ... a true hacker. And I had to pay $12 bucks to uncover this uncomfortable truth.

Finally the bucket was empty.  Pain was shooting throughout my body like little lightening bolts. It was even painful driving the cart back to the clubhouse. I'm doomed. Another one of life's great embarrassments will occur next Friday when I step on the first tee.

My only consolation is that I won't be alone.

Still livin' the dream and continuing to overdose on ibuprophen.

Phil

Guess who's coming to dinner?

2010-08-14T21:42:00.035-04:00

We've been running at about 120 mph for the past two weeks so the thought of doing nothing for a few days seemed almost intoxicating. The morning started off well with several of the guys jabbering with me about the upcoming golf outing. You know pre-game posturing. All claiming (including myself) various medical or equipment problems that will undoubtedly cause us to perform poorly in the event. Men have been doing this since caveman ... so we're all good at it. As mid-day passed, Sharon finally decided to attend the local art fair so she and a friend drove off leaving me with nothing to do. Nap time,I thought. But wait ... I did need a quick trip to the store so off I went thinking I'll get that down time when I got back.

As I pulled back into the park I could see my friend Jerry standing along side the road so I pulled over to say hello. He said "so you're my benefactor this afternoon!" "What", I said. "Oh Sharon called and invited a few of us over for dinner in about and hour", he said. Ummm. "News to me" I said.

I was met at the door by Sharon who was hustling around getting stuff ready for the apparent upcoming party. I said "we're having people over for dinner?" She assured me it was no big deal as we were just having hot dogs and chips and everyone was bringing their own drinks. So I said "who's coming over?". As the names began to flow out this wasn't a little dinner get-together but just about everyone on coach row. I took a deep breath, headed for the medicine cabinet for some chemical help, and thought it wasn't such a bad idea after all. We could showcase or Flint specialty .. Koegel hot dogs and real Flint Coney sauce. (http://www.koegelmeats.com) All smothered in mustard and onions; a little hometown treat we've told everyone about so what a great time to share the goodness.

Anyway ... the evening went well, about 16 were fed and burped. The perfect summer evening.

Still livin' the dream and enjoying our friends.

Good idea?

2010-08-13T23:58:00.002-04:00

It seemed like a great idea at first. Sharon volunteering to remodel our granddaughter's bedroom while her folks were vacationing. A little paint, a little carpet and wala' ... a two-day job and back to South Haven in time for 'happy hour'. From my vantage point it looked to me like a couple of days I could goof off a little ... maybe work on the golf swing, may have lunch with my son, maybe just do nothing.

So we headed back to the east side of the state. Great plans of what had to be accomplished in the next few days swirled around inside our old TrailBlazer as be motored home. The more we talked the more I began to better understand that my anticipated vacation might not be quite like I had envisioned. Sharon, you see, likes to help others by nature. Most of us know this. However sometimes she likes to help out by proxy. That is, she'll help ... but old me will do the work. I do feebly complain over the years but to what good I ask. She's usually doing something good for somebody and this project was no exception.

Though she was adamant that she would be doing the entire project herself, I got to thinking (to myself of course) that she had never painted or remodeled much of anything for the many decades we'd been together. I was caught in her trap again. Whoa is me. She volunteers and I get to do the work.

And so it began.

We arrived at my daughter's house and the scene of the crime. A teenager's bedroom. That special refuge where they can escape from Mom, Dad, Brother, and other troubles big and small. Sort of like Guantanamo Bay but without the barbed wire. The room was, to put it mildly, not quite ready to paint like I had thought. Actually it was sort of like she didn't know we were coming that day.  But there was no turning back. The mission must begin and the dust, and other teenage treasures began to fly. Furniture dismantled and moved. Various pieces of long-forgotten clothing materialized from under the bed, special little articles of memorabilia from 2nd grade, posters of rock stars (I've not a clue who they were) but all part and parcel of my granddaughter and her life experiences. Even at the tender age of 15 it's okay to be nostalgic.

Getting started is always the worse part so ,with that underway, the next chore was picking out paint colors. Now you need to understand that my granddaughter is not introverted nor is she bashful. She speaks her mind and knows what she likes. So when she and Sharon went out to pick out colors it was a no-brainer. On the other hand, Sharon was probably having serious heart palpitations after seeing the choices. I think I heard the terms 'bold' and 'obnoixous' when she and Sharon described what was picked. No matter to me. She made the choices and I'm good with it. Kids got rights ... sometimes.

Anyway the room was finally emptied, walls taped and ... here we go.  I agreed to get them started and show how to hold the brush, handle the roller, spread on the paint, then I'd leave. First off Sharon was charged with edging the walls prior to using the paint roller.  A skill in which she had , up to this point, either had seen me or Bob Vila do a few times. Not exactly of the best training but it was all she had. So now armed with that suitcase of tricks she tackled her assignment with cautious exuberance.

Carefully manipulating her paintbrush like a maestro's baton, she inched along the wall. I could see that in the 24 inches she had completed there was now more paint on her than on the wall. The 'bold' was already running down her hand and had found a place on her pants. I was doomed. No escape to the golf course. No goofing off for me. She needed help so, if you know Sharon, who could deny her? Certainly not her spouse of over 44 years.

And so the day went, and well into the evening as well. A pretty good 14-hour day with both kids helping Sharon and I out. There was no doubt not one of us could have done the job alone under the timeline we had. Not that the job was completely done that day either. As I began painting the 'obnocious' color I soon realised the paint's pigment kept separating and it would not properly cover the wall. So back to Lowes, get another gallon, and do the wall over the following day. Ugh! Speaking of Lowes ... I think in total we made 7 or 8 trips there to get one thing or another for this 'little' job. So much for my planning skills.

So was this whole project better than packing up the grand kids and going off to Cedar Point Amusement Park for a couple of days?  Maybe it depends on who you ask ... but was it fun for me? Yes it really was! The room looks great, though a bit bizarre, and best of all we had some great times with the grand kids. Our granddaughter was really into helping us get her room remodeled. She worked hard and did things that neither Sharon nor I had either the flexibility or energy to do. She was in charge of all low level painting that required getting down on hands and knees. If she hadn't have helped I'd still be there .  My grandson helped drag the heavy old carpet out to the garage. Quite a bit of strength I'd say. Since I took it out of the room on to the porch. I can attest it was a heavy, awkward load.  We're really proud of both the kids and even the dog Charlie sort of cooperated by not rubbing up against any wet paint.

Another small chapter has been written in our life book. We're pretty lucky and still living' the dream.

Phil

A great evening

2010-08-01T22:37:00.004-04:00

We stopped last night to one of our favorite hangouts in the area, The What Not Inn (http://www.whatnotinn.com/), just north of South Haven on the Blue Star Highway near Fennville. An unpretentious little place that serves good food and real live music. The place was packed, not unusual for a summer weekend, but we patiently waited for a table. As we stood in line at the door, the entertainment for the evening Tony Reynolds (http://www.ynotsing.com) started another set and I was immediately hooked.

Accompanied by a talented local keyboardist, he covered the musical gamut from Al Jarreau to Micheal Jackson, Sinatra to Marvin Gay. A vocal range of some four octaves with the smoothness of grandma's gravy. But singing ability alone does not necessarily make the entertainer.

What does make an entertainer, in my opinion, is what he can do with his audience. Can he win today's short attention span listeners over with his personality. Well let me tell you that Tony Reynolds has really got this part figured out. At times calling out for requests from the fully engaged patrons, he didn't disappoint a one. Even if he didn't always know the all words, he would improvise; and in perfect pitch. No sour notes in this guy's song book.

He's not new to the music scene by any means having been a backup singer for Tom Jones for many years plus he has performed on all the day and night time TV talk shows. It was a fun evening and we'll make a point to see him again when he's in the area.

Another little surprise awaited us as we were listening to Tony perform as a beautiful voice arose from the depths of the back kitchen and followed along like a phantom background singer. Tony acknowledged the girl behind the grill as Patty. Patty cooks, waits tables, pours drinks and maybe even owns the place and ... can really sing. Tony invited her to take the mic so she shed her slightly soiled apron and made her way to the stage. Sultry, yet powerful, this gal can belt out a tune. She, in her own right, has quite a following in the area and I can see why. Jazzy, bluesy and pop standards are what's she's made of and the crowd loved her and her music. Tony was the consumate gentleman in sharing the stage.

A great evening was had by all so ... if you're in the area sometime, check out the WNI. (check out both websites above)

Still livin' the dream,

Phil

Time marches on

2010-07-26T22:35:00.000-04:00

Like the glass that is half empty, this summer is almost half gone. We have had numerous trips back home for social events, family issues and the normal doctor appointments (we're both doing fine by-the-way). Not as relaxing as we thought this summer would be but at least the weather has been fantastic.

My son Steve, and his wife Jenny, are expecting their first child in September so the excitement is gradually building and the necessary preparations are underway. We will soon have a total of three grandchildren. From a beautiful, almost newborn (you should see the ultrasounds)... to one very attractive young woman just learning to drive a car ... to an bright and energetic 11 year-old grandson sandwiched in between.

On a sad note ... we have lost a friend and family member recently. Taken from his wife, brother, family and friends at an age when most of us were beginning our prime years. A kind and giving young man whose ready smile and devilish twinkle in his eyes were of someone you instantly knew you wanted to know. We will all miss Kevin terribly and we'll always remember what joy he had brought into all our lives.

So time, and our lives move on. Learning and building from the experiences we encounter along the way. Luckily we will all continue to overcome the little 'speed bumps' in life and better enjoy smoother roads ahead.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

What?

2010-07-01T23:08:00.064-04:00

Excuses are over. Time to hit the keyboard and get on with our ongoing adventure. For those of you who have picked on me for slacking off these past few months, you now have to endure more of my fractured sentences, misspelled words, and a lame joke or two. Always be careful what you ask for, I say.

As I left you last, we had safely returned from our winter sojourn and parked the coach in our home away from home ... South Haven, Michigan. We said a few quick hellos and headed off to our 'other' home on the east side of the state. We chatted along the way about the last time we were away discovering a flooded home due to a water line breakage when we walked into the soggy house. We were pretty confident that was all behind us as we pulled into the driveway. All looked good and I opened the back door. At first glance everything was as we had left it six months ago. Sharon followed me in and said "it looks great! ... but what's that smell?". I cleverly noted that 'we'd been away for sometime and you should expect some strange smells'. We continued looking around and all appeared fine so I decided to go to the basement and turn on the water valve. Opening the basement door was a mistake. As I did, the smell overwhelmed me. With racing pulse I ventured down, turning on the lights as I proceeded. I hadn't quite reached the bottom of the stairs and knew we had a serious problem.

As I looked into the main room of our finished basement, I saw almost every suspended ceiling tile was sagging and moisture laden with animal feces. Various large puncture holes were visible in several of the tiles and pink insulation was scatter everywhere on the carpet below. The stench was formidable and the flies. Did I mention the flies. They were buzzing around everywhere. I peeked into one of the other rooms and found most of the ceiling tiles on the floor, soaked very stinky. A normally screwed tight access panel door lay under the rubble. This was the access panel that led to a crawl space which is under our family room. The very place the little bastards managed to get into the house.

Now I'm not the cowardly lion type but what came to mind was what did this damage? ... and most importantly was it still in the house! So without further ado, I backed out the basement making sure the door was again securely closed behind me. What ever had made a winter home in our basement had not found a way to get upstairs and ruin any of the work we had completed but six months ago. This was a good thing.

So, after calming Sharon down a little, we made the call to our insurance agent to break the news that we had a problem. His first question was ... what was it that caused the damage? I said I had no idea but then said you'd better hope it was not a rodent of some kind, as rodent damage was not covered in home owners policy. As the big lump in my throat swelled, I manage to ask him what do I do next. He said you'll need to get somebody over to see if the animal(s) were still in the house and determine what kind of critters they were.

We contacted a local critter control guy and he made a quick dash to the house. He walked in the back door and said he didn't need to go any further to determine what kind of creature had paid us a visit. "Raccoon" he said. "Been in business for 20 years and I know what raccoon s##t smells like". I'm thinking to myself 'now that's a skill set anybody would be proud to put on their resume'. Anyway he toured the 'crime' scene, placed some bait and traps around and said he'd be back in a day or so to see what was caught. The catastrophic clean-up crew said they wouldn't start until I could assure them there were no more critters on the premise so getting these little bandits out was paramount.

The following day the critter guy stopped by and found three furry little critters in the traps and declared the house was free at last ... free at last ... then drove off down the road. After waving goodbye I walked around to the side of the house only to find a family of furry youngsters checking out the backyard. More mad than vengeful, I managed to dispatch the lot of them before they scurried off into the woods. Not overly proud of my actions but a guys got to defend his castle you know..

Anyway the mess was cleaned up, the basement remodeled and all is well. Finally.

For those who have followed this blog you may now be wondering if indeed is wasn't Oprah who turned up to spend the winter of 2009 at our place. Thanks Hal.

Keepin' a watchful eye ...but still livin' the dream.

Phil

St Louis

2010-06-12T16:25:00.058-04:00

We must like weddings as we've travelled some distances to attend them. New York, Las Vegas and now St. Louis. Sharon's cousin's Marcia's son Chris, and his bride-to-be Nora invited us to attend their celebration in St. Louis this June. We thought it might be a neat thing to do so we packed up the old TrailBlazer and headed south. However before heading out we made a call to our RV buddies Jim and Carol in Iowa and asked if they would be interested in a little mini-vacation and ... could they meet us in St. Louis a few days before the wedding date for a get-together. As true retirees often do, they drop whatever they are doing to do something new.

We'd met Jim and Carol while in Alabama last winter and then caravaned to Florida together to spend a few chilly months there. We became good friends and thought it would be great to see them again.

We decided to stay at the same hotel on the west side of St. Louis and promptly resumed our passions of eating out, gambling and sightseeing. It was sure good to see them and get 'caught up' and are now looking forward to creating another reason to get together soon.

The wedding was one of those usually highlighted in Sunday's society section of your local metro newspaper.

Beautiful people, beautiful surroundings, fantastic food and music ... all hosted by a very gracious bride and groom. It was a really well-done affair. Nora and Chris have a great future ahead of themselves and we wish them all the best.

We also had a neat experience on our way to dinner one night. Well maybe not so neat as I managed to get lost not 3 miles from the hotel. Yes, I still use a GPS but I got a little distracted when I couldn't find a parking place at the restaurant we wanted to go to. So I jogged left then another left and found myself in a older neighborhood ... say maybe 1920ish. Still a neat and prim location but not the place we planned on being. We drove by this big house and noticed a small sign in front. Citizen Kane's Steak House it said so Sharon worked Google on her trusty Blackberry and got a telephone number. "Why not"? we said. "How bad can it be"? We called and said we within a few feet of the place and could be get a reservation. The gal said yes, come on in. We parked the car and walked through the front door. It reminded me a bit of my grandmother's house on Manchester street ... only Wiggles the dog wasn't waiting on the front porch.

The greeter welcomed us and I took a quick look around noticing several small rooms down a long hall, each packed with seated patrons. The greeter said follow me and she led us up a creaky old oak stairwell. Arriving at the top I could see several more rooms (probably bedrooms at one time) each packed with well dressed people. Now this was a Thursday night and where I come from not exactly a big going out to dinner night but this was different. We were seated and a waitress soon came for our drink order and brought some different warm, and very tasty breads. Now with menus in hand we quickly discovered this was not just a nice restaurant in somebodies old house but this was a fairly expensive restaurant in somebodies old house. We were already there so we might as well splurge a little more, we rationalized. When in a steak place what should you order? ... Da! So we looked around to see what some of our co-eaters were having. You guessed it! Steak! Not priced at all like chicken (big surprise) but priced like prime steak $$$, which is was. Without making you drool (I did enough for all of you) we polished off two of the finest steaks that had ever crossed our lips.

Now I was finally figuring out why all these people were eating here ... it was the food silly. After paying the princely bill we waddled down the stairs and began looking at all the plaques on the wall. Actually awards for things like "Best Steak House in St Louis" or rated by numerous magizines as "the place for steak in St Louis. So many awards for excellence you couldn't see the wallpaper. Actually located in a western suburb of St. Louis call Kirkwood and if you're in the area, call ahead and get a reservation; you won't regret it. http://www.citizenkanes.com/

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Update

2010-05-25T02:31:00.005-04:00

This is just a short note to let you know we've returned to Michigan safely and will get back with you in a few days to fill you in on our stay at Hilton Head Island and subsequent happenings.

A couple of things to amuse you (maybe) can be found on the right side of your screen. First, for my ham radio friends, a service that the gives the current solar conditions that effect radio transmissions. I'm just trying this out so we'll see how long I keep it in. I know most of you could care less about this but for the few who might ... here you go.

The next item is the spinning globe that should indicate (roughly) your location and any other person location who is currently reading this blog. Not a very useful addition I might add ... but fun to look at.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Hilton Head Island

2010-05-20T23:53:00.054-04:00

Oh ... maybe I'd better back up and remind you that we landed on Hilton Head Island a couple of weeks ago and have spent a little time relaxing and poking around all these sites around the island. A lot of times we'd pull into a park without knowing anyone but this time was different. Our friends from our summer retreat in South Haven Michigan, Jerry and Della spent the winter here so we had some instant companions. The Hilton Head Motorcoach Resort http://www.hiltonheadmotorcoachresort.com/ is really a special place. Almost every site is tucked into it own little jungle affording privacy and a pleasant green surrounding. No straight streets in this resort. Curves and twisty lanes weave throughout making every turn interesting. It seems as if each coach is framed in an ideal setting making even our coach look probably better than it really is. Plus with all the amenities you'd expect in a first class resort, it is one of our favorite places to stop.

What really makes an Island visit extra nice is that it's near my sister's and brother-in-law's place and since we don't often get to see each other, it's a perfect opportunity to get caught up with each others lives. What was extra special was the their oldest son Mark and his wife Petra had flown in from Germany for a visit. Youngest son Pete flew in from New York as well. What a great group to be around .. it's too bad they all live so far away. We fired up Sharon's webcam and talked to our daughter Leigh back home so it was a real electronic family reunion.

The doors are always open to a comfortable home on the intercoastal overlooking the quaint little town of Beaufort. And to mention my sister without noting her cooking skills is like ... well ... like illegal. Having travelled to many parts of the globe she has gathered recipes and skills which results in meals that are as unique as they are tasty. We're pretty lucky to have that talent in the family. I only wish some of that skill had worn off on me. I'm usually good for a hot dog and a bag of chips. Anyway is was sure good to see them and look forward to seeing them again soon.

The Island is sort of like comfort food.. You know happy, easy, fun but hard on the waist line. With family nearby, great restaurants, exceptional scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere. Oh! did I mention we also had some dear friends also staying at the resort as well? It's a complete package for anyone in an RV. One of the other reasons we wanted to visit the Island again was our South Haven Michigan neighbors Jerry and Della spend each winter at the resort so it was great seeing them again to. They helped us establish the traditional 4 o'clock happy hour. Under their expert tutelage we now have been genetically altered to wander about with drinks in hand seeking out like minded individuals at 4 o'clock each day. Oh it's a good life.

As the weather continued to improve, it signalled that we needed to make plans for our return north. A bittersweet decision as we hated to leave the island but longed to see our family again. So around mid-May we readied the coach for the trip back.

The trip north was pretty uneventful with the exception of a place we spent the night in Georgia. We had called ahead for a site and they assured us there wouldn't be a problem. Well I guess there wouldn't have been a problem if I were driving a road grader. The lot was better categorized along with the likes of Matterhorn or Mt. McKinley. Just to give you a clue how unlevel (new word?) the left rear hydraulic leveler was fully extended yet the right was not extended at all. And still the coach was not quite level ... but good enough to get a night's rest without tipping over.

Leaving Georgia we continued north on I75 engulfed in a steady downpour. Rain and more rain pelted us every mile. Mile after mile. Throw in a few thousand orange construction cones along the way, by the time we made our next stop I was ready for the funny farm. As luck would have it, the farther north we drove the fewer parks were open so I broke my own 300 mile a day limit and pressed on; looking for any port in the storm. Breezing through Dayton, Ohio, I was really running out of steam and needed to get off the road. We finally found a park and we pulled into an almost vacant site a little after sundown. Peace and quiet and no more driving; at least for a few hours.

So with South Haven finally on the radar, we managed to safely arrived and get the coach bedded down for our summer's stay. Again amongst friends and family.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Savannah chicken

2010-04-28T22:08:00.002-04:00

Another day on the adventure road. This time we headed to Savannah. The land of pralines and neat old houses and the smell of the sea. Actually I wanted to go to one of the bigger photo shops there and Sharon wanted to go to Paula Deen's famous restaurant ... The Lady & Sons.  http://www.ladyandsons.com/

Our trusty GPS (gotta get a new one) took us on another wild-goose chase and led us to the middle of an off-ramp somewhere on the north side of town some 5 miles where we should have been. We probably gave it the wrong address but I'm blaming it on the machine anyway.

Savannah, in spite of all the history that permeates the town is still driven in many ways by the tourist industry.  Folks meandering around with little bags of trinkets purchased at one of the many shops around Bay Street. Tour buses, tour trolleys, tour boats ... Don't get me wrong ... it's an interesting destination with great exposure to the arts, many fine hotels and restaurants for any palette but I think without the tourists the economy really struggles. The city fathers are working on the infrastructure along the river and several bridge projects are underway all which will pay dividends in the future. Maybe I didn't look deep enough but it's not really my kind of town.

Now Sharon's instincts concerning restaurants are usually pretty good. We located The Lady & Sons and after circling it twice, I dropped Sharon off to get a table and I went on to find a parking place. Not always an easy task in a town designed for horse travel. With a little navigating around the general vicinity I finally found one with a parking meter.  The spot was a little tight but I managed to squeeze in. I got out to only discover that I didn't have any change in my pocket. I looked around and asked in a couple of the local art galleries nearby but they were not into many cash transactions and couldn't help. A bit down the street I noticed a kitchen shop and headed there. Four people were ahead of me and no one was in a hurry. As a matter of fact as each patron, when ready to pay for their item, suddenly had the urge to ask the cashier for some other item that required a search around the store to find. I'm standing there, tapping my toe ... trying to be patient, trying not to scream at the top of my lungs to get on with it ladies. All I want was change for a dollar! Not a blue napkin set ... not a pot holder with dogs on it ... nothing special, just change for a dollar. I'm thinking that Sharon has already been seated and is enjoying a cool lemonade while I'm sweating it out waiting for change for a dollar in a kitchen utensil shop.
Since long stories are long ... I'll continue.

Finally I got some change, fed the meter and proceeded to the restaurant. I got the there and Sharon was waiting on the sidewalk outside. They wouldn't seat her without me being there! What hogwash I thought.
We were told to go down a couple of doors, go inside and wait for our names to be called. The waiting room, as you might guess was a gift shop. Spend a couple of $20's here and there was the thought but we fooled them. Our name was called and we dashed off following what we thought was a waiter. We walked by a long buffet filled with steaming food. Placed right next to one of the large picture windows that faced the street, the sight drew plenty of onlookers. We followed the 'waiter' around a corner and she said "3rd floor, the elevator is right over here". I looked around at all the empty tables on that floor and quickly wondered why I need to go up three floors for lunch. Arriving at the 3rd level we were greeted by another person who led us to a table for six by the window. Soon a real waiter arrived with water and menus. We looked over the offerings (nothing too special in my opinion with the exception of the asparagus sandwich) and both decided on the buffet. Fried chicken, mashed spuds, green beans, mac and cheese, and a few other things. As it turns out the food was okay (but the chicken was not very warm) and it was marginally worth the $13.99. I guess we can check another restaurant off our 'bucket list' of famous places to eat but probably won't lather up another biscuit there soon. Sorry Paula.

All in all it was an okay trip as getting out and seeing new parts of the area are always good.

Still livin' the dream.

Phil

Charleston

2010-04-22T15:29:00.000-04:00

Another day of 'day trippin' for us but we weren't doing it alone this time. Desination ... Charleston.
Named in 1670 after Charles Towne (who got his name from King Charles II of England) and in some circles is refered to 'The Holy City' for its tolerence for a variety of religions from its beginnings.

As it turned out our visit was pretty well planned out as Sharon's cousin Diana and her husband Craig were vacationing in Myrtle Beach and since Charleston was about half way between there and Hilton Head, it was an easy decision to plan a meeting of old friends.

As poor planning on our part made us about an hour late, they greeted us as we pulled into the parking lot where we were to meet. The girls had already decided that lunch was in order and the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company http://www.bubbagump.com/ was the place to go. About 10 blocks (seemed like 10 miles on my back) later we arrived and were quickly seated. A pretty neat place that specializes in shrimp. We've been to one other 'Gumps' in Hawaii some years ago and were excited to return as the food was good. Craig treated us to a fine lunch and we chatted over old times. We hadn't seen them in a couple of years so we had lots to talk about.

Following lunch we started the trek back and Craig commented about all the tall church steeples in and around the downtown area. He said these tall, slender spikes that piecrced the sky every few blocks were the tallest structures in the city and that no building could be built taller that the church spires. Obviously a city that wanted to show its profound respect for religion. Most are in magnificent condition and a real treasure to the community.

We meandered back to the parking area passing shop after shop. Many high end shopping emporuims each trying to woo you inside to spend a few (or a lot of) bucks. We resisted and decided to get in the car and check out some of the areas away from downtown. With three semi-competent navigators and my GPS on we ventured out. With all the help you'd think I would not have circled the downtown three times, taking the same route, but I managed. Listening to directions and driving is a fading skill set for me.

Sharon thought we should check out one of the local RV parks so we did manage to navigate the 7 miles outside of town to the St. James State Park. Pretty nice place with nice level lots, a resort grade swimming facility, and at the time plenty of open sites to rent. Very clean, quiet and still near town, this looks like a winner. Only gripe I had was they charged a buck a person just to drive through the place.

As the weather was a little hot (sweaty hot), someone (Sharon) thought we might just need an ice cream break to finish off the day. So we again turned to the GPS for help. We probably passed a half dozen places as we fiddled with the little electronic marvel but eventually ended up across the street from where we had lunch several hours earlier. Apparently somewhere in Sharon's reading she remembered a place called Kasminsky's http://www.kaminskys.com/ . A mecca for desserts of all kinds good and wonderful. Just look at the link and you'll get the idea. After packng our little bellies with fruit cobbler, mousse, and a huge chocolate thing (Craig ate is all) we waddled outside and settled on the nearest bench to rest up for the one block walk (about 200 feet) to the car. We begged a passer-by to take a picture so we could remember a great day.

Craig is really not that short but the weight of that dessert brought him to his knees.

Charleston is one of America's treasures. Oozing with history and friendly to a fault. From the sweetgrass basket vendors to the stately homes and the quaint parks, the city has something for everyone. And the city has some pretty unique residents as well.

If you look carefully at the reflection in the car door you'll better understand what the dog's were excited about. What a life.

Still livin' the dreams with friends and family.

Phil

News Flash

2010-04-19T00:02:00.000-04:00

I received a note from one of my readers in China today that informed me that my blog has now been banned there. I now feel very special. Several billion potential readers are now probably wondering where I'm going next.

Livin' the dream with a big smile today.

Phil

Excuses

2010-04-17T01:44:00.001-04:00

Just to let you all know that I've finally released 7 new entries dating back about a month or so. I've been busy (read lazy) but I think I'm almost up-to-date. You can reach some of the older postings by going to the bottom of the page and hitting the 'older posts' button. I hope you enjoy my ramblings.

Phil