Day 1
June 29, 2024 Saturday
Well, this trip is started out kind of slow. I started to leave Napa, but the door for power cord on the RV little latch had broken so I had to stop at a place and get a couple bungee cords to hold it shut until I could get the part to get fixed it.I stopped at Camping World and picked up a couple parts that I thought might work. However, they were not the push button type that I have on that compartment. I ordered the part and had it sent to CeCe house in Deming N M. I got out of Napa and headed down the road and got to Lebec, Ca. I spent the night there at the rest area. Just a little bit about the rest area. They have a dump site, which is wonderful for California since there aren’t very many along the roads.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 2
June 30, 2024 Sunday
I stopped and got gas and then headed to the dreaded Los Angeles area to get through there before all the traffic started. It actually wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be being it was a Sunday.
It was so hot outside. I was reaching temperatures of 110 to 112°. I could hardly stand to be outside stayed in the motorhome driving most of the time by the time I got to quartzite I was exhausted and decided to get a little place so I could get electricity, I ordered the place online. That was Quartzite RV Resort on N Riggles Ave. When I got to the Spot the darn electrical box was locked.. I called the place and talked to somebody on the phone and they assured me somebody would be out there and just a few minutes. I waited 10 minutes in the heat of 110° waiting for somebody to show up nobody ever showed up. I called the company again and the lady on the phone gave me the code to get into the lock box to get the key to unlock the electric Power box then had to return the key. I was afraid to ask about showers. What a screwed up situation that is! Why didn’t the guy that I talk to the first time give me the code numbers. I don’t understand this park. It’ll be the last time I ever go here.
I’m having trouble with the refrigerator running and the generator won’t start, but I believe it’s just the heat making them not work properly. We’ll see what happens when I get to cooler weather.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 3
July 1, 2024 Monday
I left quartzite and headed to Deming, New Mexico. I called Gwen, but she wasn’t answering so I didn’t get a chance to stop in Benson, Arizona to see her on the way to Deming I was driving and occasionally glanced at the clouds. I saw a boat, an RV, and an angel and a whole bunch of other interesting shapes in the clouds. I even got to see a beautiful Rainbow in the sky, and it was sunny and bright outside. There was no rain in site whatsoever. I thought that was unusual.
I arrived in Deming, New Mexico, but it was really late too late to go to CC’s house so I got a spot at Little Vineyard Park. I stayed here before and I really liked it. I just pulled in. They have a place on the door to register and you just pick a spot. I love this park. It has laundry facilities, showers, a hot tub and a pool. What great amenities for just $37.72-$40.1.90 a night. They also honor good Sam AAA military (active or Vet) with a discount at $37.72.
Eunice in the office was really so helpful.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 4
July 2, 2024 Tuesday
Just a little note, I checked my refrigerator and my generator and they are both working now so it must’ve been the heat that was preventing them from starting or something. I don’t understand the mechanism, but that’s the way it is.
Cece called and Gary’s ashes were ready to pick up so I hurried up and got my shower and headed to her house so we could go to El Paso Texas and pick Gary up. We went to Purchase Mortuary to pick Gary up. The lady there was absolutely wonderful. Very kind and thoughtful. What a great experience that was. Once we left, there we stopped at Golden Corral for dinner in Las Cruces. That was one of Gary‘s favorite places to go when he was up that way. We took Gary’s inside so he could enjoy dinner with us. Once we were Dinner, headed back to Deming, NM. On the way home we had a wonderful, amazing lightning show in the sky. It absolutely topped the whole day off! the lightning was absolutely gorgeous. Once we arrived back at Cece’s house, it was so late. I just retired to Sunflower and headed to bed.
PS: Gary has been my Brother/Friend for over 58 years.
#sunflowerstravels
This is what CeCe wrote about our trip to get Gary.
Gary came home last night!
Lyne and I drove to El Paso and picked him up at PerchesFuneral Home.
We began our drive just before sundown and it was glorious! On the way we stopped in Las Cruces and ate at his favorite restaurant there – the Golden Corral. We began with seafood salad, his favorite. Of course we ate too much!
The final glow of sunlight still shone with a beautiful golden glow on the Western horizon. Gary rode cradled wrapped securely in Lyne’s arms nestled against her breast. We could see storm clouds beginning to gather. It rained very hard and so echoing the sadness in our hearts. It was a short rain though it did little to diminish the grief. Then God did it! In the distance with no more threat of rain for us , He put on the most glorious display of lightning. We oohed and awed the rest of the way home.
Deming was nice to see and even more so home. Lyne went straight to to Sunflower to sleep. She’s still recovering from her own long trip from CA after the stresso of her son’s surgery and recovery.
Gary sat on the deck – his favorite quiet spot while I played some of his favorite music sometimes singing along.
This morning Gary was still sitting out on the deck. It’s where he enjoyed his cigar while musing about the news on the radio.
His friends enjoyed coming and sharing a smoke with him as well. Some of Gary’s friends stopped by this morning. We sat together in companionable silence while remembering past times, of jokes, stories, and confidences shared.
Day 5 Wednesday
July 3, 2024
got up this morning CC made me coffee of course visited for a while and then we took off to go shopping at Walmart. After that we went to Denny’s had lunch /dinner, kind of worked on the map to figure out places to go for the rest of my trip. That took us a couple of hours for sure. then we decided to go to play bingo at the senior center here in Deming. Not really much of a bingo player but I’ll say one thing it sure was a lot of fun. We met a couple there that helped us out and told us how to do the cards and stuff. Dale and Diane were absolutely great. we really appreciate your help once that was over. It was kind of late about 9 o’clock so we headed back home and I headed back to sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 6
July 4, 2024 Thursday
Cece made me coffee and we’re just kinda hanging out there on her porch with the swamp cooler going on us. She said she had to go over today Office in order to do bingo later. They were having a potluck and a bingo game so I decided to tagalong with them. The luncheon was really nice. Great food great company I didn’t win it bingo of course but it was kind of fun. Once we got back to her house we sat on the porch with the swamp cooler going and just kind of visited in vegetated for a while. CeCe was tired so she went to lay down so I’m sitting here on the porch finishing up this post for you guys.
It finally cooled off for it bit. CeCe was still sleeping, so I just went headed to Sunflower and watched a few movies before I head to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 7
July 5, 2024 Friday
It was going to be so hot today. I told CeCe that I was gonna go down to Little Vinyard RV Park and hook up so I could have air conditioning. I had already talked to the Park managers and they said that she could come and go swimming with me so I told her we could do that.
Drove down and hooked up. Cece came down a little bit later. We still haven’t been able to fix my lock on the the electrical cord door but the bungee cords are working just fine. I called a RV repair place in Deming, but I guess everybody took a four day vacation because of Fourth of July.
Anyway, I really love this park. It has blonder facilities swimming pool a hot tub showers Eunice and Corrina are absolutely wonderful in the office.
Cece and I decided to go to Si Señor to have a late lunch early dinner and then come back to the park to go swimming.
The pool was absolutely wonderful really cool and felt so good. The hot tub was even better. We swam for a couple hours and talked and visited and then she decided it was time to go home.
Made plans to meet tomorrow morning before I left for good and have like a breakfast or lunch.
I retired to Sunflower watched a couple movies and then went to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 8
July 6, 2024 Saturday
I made my coffee, put water in the tanks and did a few things. Then set out to meet Cece at Denny’s for coffee & breakfast. I really need to get out & head for Odessa, Texas to my cousins house there. The drive was wonderful. I can’t believe how well Texas takes care of their roads. Seems like they’re always working on them.
I spent the night at a rest area.
#sunflowerstravels
* Little Vineyard RV Resort
(575) 546-3560
Amenities are critical to your enjoyment when you’re camping. The Little Vineyard RV Resort has all of your needs covered with our long list of amenities, including:
- ALL pull-through sites
- 50+ cable channels
- High-speed WiFi
- Pristine bathhouses
- Well-lit dog park
- Zipline & playground
- Large laundry facility
- The Clubhouse
- Amenities For Everyone
there is a discount for Good Sam, AARP, AAA, or Military.
Sorry don’t remember the price but it was around $37 with my discount.
Friend people & a great place to shop!
#sunflowerstravels
Day 9
July 7, 2024 Sunday
I got to Odessa/Midland area early so got me an RV spot. This is a wonderful area. In
Midland, Texas
Just rested & enjoying the campground.
*Midland RV Campground
2134 S Midland Drive, Midland, TX 79703
Phone:
Email:
Business Hours:
Mon Sun – 9am to 7pm
Accepting Calls 24/7
Large campground with plans of expanding in the works. The Admities are superb. Hot showers, flush toilets bathrooms, laundry area, & a small gym. The office has a small store. I don’t remember the lady’s name, helpful, and showed me where things were.
The park was quiet and well set up. There are mature trees on most of the sites of the park. The newer sites don’t have the trees, but there are plans to plant them. The cost is $43 or with Good Sam, AARP, AAA, or Military it is $39.
This is a great campground.
After setting up, I decided to go ahead and turn the air conditioner on
#sunflowerstravels
Day 10
July 8, 2024 Monday
This I got my coffee then headed to the shower. I noticed it was a little overcast on my way back to Sunflower. I got dressed and heard pitter patter of rain on the roof. I looked outside, it was pouring down rain, not sprinkling but buckets full. Monster rain subsided over that I went ahead and unplowed & headed to my cousins house there in Odessa, Texas.
That evening, Steve, Donna, and I went out for dinner. We met Wayman, and Sandy at the Clear Springs Restaurant. It was great seeing Wayman and Sandy. I hadn’t seen them in many years we had together at. The food was great. The company was wonderful. Afterwards We went to Wayman and Sandy‘s house. They showed me all the changes they had made absolutely gorgeous. It had gotten so late so fast when we got home I retired the sunflower and went to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 11
July 9, 2024 Tuesday
I got up the next morning unplugged and put all the cords up and gave Donna a hug and left heading eastward. I got to Wichita Falls Texas a bit early so looked for a good place with elect. I was in luck I found Wichita Bend RV Park. What a beautiful find!
I hooked up and just rested the rest of the day.
*City of Wichita Falls
Wichita Bend RV Park
The Wichita Bend RV Park is a 28 space facility located at 300 Central Freeway (I-44). Each space has water and electrical hookups (all spaces have standard 30 amp service, and 14 spaces have both 30 and 50 amp service). The spaces do not have sewer hookups, but the park does have a dump station. There is a rental drop box for payments of $17 per day with a 72 hour maximum. Longer stays can be requested by calling the park office at (940) 761-7491 (Office hours are M-F, 8-5). There is not a full time attendant. A Park Ranger comes by nightly to collect the fees and make sure everyone has paid. Only RV’s with water and sewage-holding capabilities are allowed because of the lack of restrooms. The park is located along the east bank of the Wichita River and can be accessed by exiting at the Texas Tourist Bureau. A swinging bridge across the river provides a scenic outlook, and can take visitors into Lucy Park.
My notes:
The Wichita Bend RV Park is a wonderful overnight stay and safe close within to the city. You won’t have a problem visiting Wichita Falls staying here. At the Price of $17 this is a great find. You pay the kozy at the entrance & fill out the form. Then deposit it in the slot. I really enjoyed my stay. There are no bathrooms or showers. The south side of park has a dump station. I saw some larger rigs, but not sure how large the park accommodates. Its first come so no reservations necessary. When I come through the area again, I’m gonna look up this park & stay again.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 12
July 10, 2024 Wednesday
Parked in BEA’s front yard had dinner at pioneer restaurant in Wichita Falls. The food was OK, but it wasn’t the greatest even BEA said so. It has been so long since I’ve been in Wichita Falls my birth price they took me around the town and showed me all the sites. We even tried to find my grandmother‘s house when she lived there, but of course it was long gone, but I think I found the area it might have been in . She drove us back to the house, We visited & talk for a while longer. Afterwards I retired to sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 12
July 11, 2024 Thursday
Got up this morning Bea went and got us coffee visited for a bit and then I needed to get on the road so I Left BEA’s said goodbye to Destiny & Gabby . The trip to Oklahoma wasn’t too bad just a couple extra hours. Finally got to Gayle’s house. She huGGed me so hard I didn’t wanna let go!! My goodness I had missed her so so much.
We talked and visited for a while and then it got laid on her so I headed to bed
#sunflowerstravels
Day 13
July 12, 2024 Friday
This morning, Trent came over and fix the poo tank and the door to the electrical cord compartment button that has been broken since the beginning of my trip.
Michell came over with her grandkids Paisly & Bentley came by to see me. We visited for a while and then she had to leave. Later that night Robby came by. We just talked and visited up until my hearing aid quit about 3 o’clock in the morning then I headed to bed..
#sunflowerstravels
Day 14
July 13, 2024 Saturday
Gayle said it was such a late night for her that she didn’t get to bed until about five in the morning. It was so great being able to see Bobbie & michell again. Gayle and I just kinda hung out inside the house where it was definitely cooler. I was just too hot outside. We watched a few movies and then headed to bed
#sunflowerstravels
Day 15
July 14, 2024 Sunday
Every morning since I’ve been here, Gayle been making me breakfast. She makes me grits. Oh that’s one of my favorites. she said she makes them every morning for EDDY that’s part of his breakfast so I got to celebrate with Eddie and have .
We all got ready and headed over to Robbie‘s house to go swimming. Well, between Robbie Jeneta and Gayle they put on a little barbecue. Such wonderful dishes to eat!! I had a blast swimming at Robbie‘s house and barbecue. Even michell came over with her grandkids what’s such family fun we had.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 16
July 15, 2024 Monday
I need to wait for the mail for my license to come that Duffy had sent. We had a little while so Gayle and I ran over to see Don Gilley & his son, Boylen. I haven’t seen Don in such a long time. I wasn’t able to see him the last time I was there second ago while I’m then came back to the house and waited for the mail. It was so late by the time the mail ran that just decided to stay extra day, so we watched a few movies and I had to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 17
July 16, 2024 Tuesday
I planned on Leaving my cousin today. I’m sure going to miss them. I had such a great time there. I absolutely adore Gayle of her family, and I always cry when I leave. Well I headed to to my nephews house in Highland Home Alabama. I ended up going through part of Oklahoma back to Texas again down to Louisiana and through Mississippi by the time I got to Mississippi I was tired so I pulled over at the rest area there, and spent the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 18
July 17, 2024 Wednesday
Last morning I got up, made myself a little coffee and had it on the road again I got to Derek afternoon that visit with them saw the homes that he has built for his sister-in-law where he was going to build his house. They’re still living in the trailer, but they have high hopes of getting the house built before winter sets in. he has a bunch of flight decks a bunch of black decks some quail, some chickens and some goats. I got from everybody!! Derek Went around the motorhome, looking at things and fixing everything that he could fix when I was coming down from 10 going on 20 going up to Texas a truck or hit a box in the road and it hit me and busted the front end of the fiberglass skirt in the front of the motorhome. I pulled as much off as I could fall off so I could drive figured I’d get it fixed later. It’s a bumper underneath there so Derek off the broken parts of the and made it look a lot better tightened up battery cables, and put on the clamp that I hadn’t put on for the tank yet. We visited for a while. Derek went down to Subway and picked us up a sandwich and then we visited for a while longer and then I headed to bed
#sunflowerstravels
Day 19
July 18, 2024 Thursday
Today Derek just showed me around the property and introduced me to the animals including Thelma and Louise, who are the cutest little goats I’ve ever seen. my goodness and Thelma & Louise got their name honestly because they would escape all the time. I’m telling you it’s Absolute wonderful. It’s been an absolute wonderful trip, the kids and Derek and Amanda. Just being able to see them all again. Derek’s always been my #2 Son.
It started raining so we all went into our RVs for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 20
July 19, 2024 Friday
This morning I got up, made some coffee for Derek & I. After a little bit I had to head to Navarre, Florida to see Jill Gaily Childs Neal. (My partner in Crime)from work. The trip actually went fast and I thought it was going to be like maybe two hour out-of-the-way turned into a four hour hours away of course I’m never very good with time. I’m always running behind somewhere, but it was great to see her. We went and had lunch at Juana’s Beach Restaurant. The food was amazing & delicious.
We said our goodbyes, and then I headed to Debbie & Mickey’s home near Lee Florida. I drove for as long as I could and then pulled over at a rest stop about 30 to 40 minutes from the house. It was already 11 o’clock and I was just tired.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 21
July 20, 2024 Saturday
I got up this morning and got myself dressed and put myself back on the road just before I left MICKEY called and wanted to know what my ETA would be and so I told him I was only about 30-40 minutes from his house so we hung up and I headed there. They have 40 acres of land and it’s absolutely beautiful here. We talk for a while and then we went out to lunch at River Landing Bistro. The food was great. I had a chicken quesadilla and they had a Cuban sandwich. I’ve never heard of that before, but it really looked good. We came back to Debbie and MICKEY‘s house. Debbie said she was tired so she went to go lay down. MICKEY and I hooked up the motorhome to electricity and Mickey gave me his golf cart so I could run from the motorhome back to the house and back to the motorhome again because it’s quite a distance. So, I’m just spending the evening and catching up on my Blog and my posting and just kind of relaxing. It’s been raining pretty hard on off but it sounds so great. I love the rain on a tin roof. I’ll head to bed in a few, I finally caught up with myself.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 22
July 21, 2024 Sunday
I got to drive my little go kart over Mickey and Debbie‘s house from where I was parked on the property we visited for a while and then we went out to have barbecue. What a great place. The food at Big Wood BBQ & Grill restaurant was so good. I even got to meet two new friends, Mike and Dave, they were there to have dinner also. I came in the building and almost tripped and fell and almost landed in Michael’s lap. I apologize to him and he said it was OK. I could land in his lap anytime I wanted. What a great sport he was. The atmosphere in the restaurant was great. They had all kinds of animals and stuff on the walls. Crocodiles bears, cougars & pheasants. I was amazed at how good the food was. Mickey ordered us what he called a trashcan it was a trashcan lid filled with all kinds of goodies you could just pick what you wanted from it. There was Bread, corn, baked beans, ribs, chicken, brisket, sausage I mean just about everything you could practically think of was on that lid. Once dinner was over with we had it back to their place visit for a little while, and I had to sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 23
July 22, 2024 Monday
The one thing about me is I always hate to leave my friends and family but this morning I really need to get on the road and head to the Pilot to dump. I couldn’t do that because the hose has a hole in it so I’m going to have to figure out what to do. MICKEY‘s directions and headed to Tennessee to seeYvonne, George Rachel, Rusty and the kids. I headed to Tennessee because Yvonne has taken time off from work and I wanna be there when she on vacation.
I believe I’m finally off and running again. Nick and and Debbie had followed me down to pilot so that I could get some ice and dumpling so they could say goodbye. I sure I’m gonna miss them. I left a little bit of Jim‘s ashes so that they can put them over in the little memorial area. They have set up for their daughter And MICKEY’s dog.
Metro for quite a while and then got tired so about 6 o’clock I pulled over and found myself and RV spot. It’s not a bad park. It’s really a nice place but there was one outlet that had a hornets nest in it and I didn’t realize so I got bit about three times, once on my right finger on my left hand and once on my face, I wash the area really good and then put some hydrocortisone cream on.. so I suppose you know I found another spot. I’m all hooked into electricity and trying to update this bit. It’s hot here so I definitely need the electricity for the air conditioner.
#sunflowerstravels
*Southern Tails Rv Resort,Inc.
2690Arena Rd
Unadilla, Georgia 31091
Dooly County
(478) 627-3254
Southern Trails RV Resort is located in the town of Unadilla in Dooly County, Georgia right of Interstate 75. Below, you’ll find a map of our campground along with all of the amenities available. We have 30 Amp and 50 Amp RV Sites available, all with electric and water. Most sites also have sewer.
Some of the fun activities include:
• Horseshoes
• Gathering pecans from our private orchard
• Catch & release fishing
• Rec Room games & activities
Activities
• Basketball
• Horseshoes
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Cards
• Bingo
• Pecan Gathering
• Miniature Golf
• Playground
Amenities
• Free Wi-Fi
• Laundry
• Bath House
• Swimming Pool
• Propane filling station
• Clubhouse
• Fire Pit
DAILY RATES
Water and Electric ONLY (30 AMP) – $20.00 per night
Water, Electric (30/50 AMP) and Sewer Hook-up – $45.00 per night
WEEKLY RATES
Water, Electric (30/50 AMP) and Sewer Hook-up – $175.00 per week
MONTHLY RATES
Water, Electric (30 AMP) and Sewer Hook-Up – $440.00 per month
Water, Electric (50 AMP) and Sewer Hook-up – $495.00 per month
Day 24
July 23, 2024 Tuesday
I got up this morning had my coffee and went ahead and got ready to leave. I stopped at the office and talk to the guy. There are really nice gentlemen and headed on the road to Tennessee . I stoped in at Cracker Barrel an got me some grits! Oh I love 💕 them. What a nice stop.
I haven’t been able to dump my tank because the hose has a hole in it so I’m definitely trying to get somewhere to get it. Repaired . I Tracked down a fix-it truck. It was heading to the rest area and the truckers area gonna fix one of their trucks. Thank goodness these guys said they could probably fix my hose so I’m really hoping it works. At least it’ll give me for a while until I can get to a RV spot to get it, repaired . Candy and another gentleman (yeah I should’ve written the name down, but I didn’t ) and I didn’t catch the other guys name, (the trucker) but I wanted to thank them so much for helping me fix my poo tank hose..
I arrived at Yvonne and George’s house about 8 o’clock I visited for a while with the kids and Joan. After a while, Yvonne got home from work and we visited for a bit. George was at work too, but when he got home he helped me plugged into house current. Tyler dropped by then later Chris we visited for a while longer. It had been a long day so I headed to Sunflower late that night to sleep.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 25
July 24, 2024 Wednesday
I got up this morning had my coffee and George and I went to go empty the tank the waterproof tank tape on the hose held very good. Still thinking I might need to go and have it checked maybe make it right I think this is just a temporary solution, but at least it’s holding. the Rv Park I went to to empty the tanks was absolutely beautiful. They have so much to offer if I ever came this way and didn’t have a place to stay. I definitely stay there. The lady in the office was so helpful. whispering River resort
Rusty & Rachel came over a little bit later when we got home from emptying the tanks
Bryce & Kaya & family
Texas roadhouse for dinner with Yvonne, the kids, Bryce, Kaya and their family. George was asleep so we brought him back something to eat.
Bryce and Kaya and the kids visit for a while longer than I was exhausted so I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
* Whispering River Resort
Best RV Park in The Smoky Mountains – Whispering River Resort
This list is just the beginning of the amenities and activities you can enjoy once you’re here (I think a little expensive but it’s got everything)
High Speed Internet
Swimming Pool
On-Site Laundry
Fishing
Trails
Pet Friendly- Individual Bathrooms
Swimming Beach
River Front Access
Kayak Launch Area
Dog Park
Fitness Center - WINTER RATES 11/1 – 3/31
$45.50 + tax (Daily)
$272 + tax (Weekly)
Monthly – Call For Rates
2 Night Deposit required
Cancellation Policy: 80% Refund (14 days or longer prior to check-in)
SUMMER RATES 4/1 – 10/31
- $61.00 + tax (Daily)
- $366.00 + tax (Weekly)
- Monthly – Call For Rates
- 2 Night Deposit required
- Cancellation Policy: 80% Refund (14 days or longer prior to check-in)
It looks like such a great place to stay and it’s right at the base of the Smoky Mountains as that’s where my niece lives
Day 26
July 25, 2024 Thursday
I got up late.. got myself together & headed into the house. Visiting & watch a movie. Yvonne & George made Tacos for dinner. After dinner we headed to visited Chris, Annabel, Corey, Octavia and Anakin. (Yvonne’s youngest Son & grandkids)
Afterwards we drove around the park seeking all the new Mobile Home’s the park is putting in. It seems time always goes by so fast. So I headed into Sunflower for bed.
PS: Happy Birthday to my Son Duffy!! Wow 50!! That’s hard to believe!
#sunflowerstravels
Day 27
July 26, 2024 Friday
After coffee I went to the house did laundry and took a shower. Sure did feel good.
Yvonne, I and the kids took George down for an interview and after that we went back to the house for a while.
Yvonne had to take Emey to meet his teacher for the year. I stayed at her house and finished my laundry up.
Made myself something to eat & just wanted movies.
I talked to Rachel viva FaceTime for a bit today, then Annabelle came for a visit.
Cory called and they were home so we got into the car and drove over to their house. Eva, Cameron, Britney & Cory posed for pictures. We visited for a bit then headed home. I was just exhausted. So headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 28
July 27, 2024 Saturday
I got up this morning & fix me some coffee sat down. What did a few bills check them out to make sure they were paid and then had it outside to unplug and get things ready to go down to get Sunflowers 🌻 oil changed at Jiffy Lube . $66 not bad & Sam was really good.
Stopped at Food Lion bought a few groceries and came back to your mom‘s house house for some reason. I was really tired so I just went to Sunflower and lay down for a bit.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 29
July 28, 2024 Sunday
I spent most of the day cleaning the moterhome. My walker shifted sometime in my travels so I just needed to straighten that side up. I Got cards ready to mail and just enjoyed the visit with my family. Annabelle came over to visit for a little while and brought the kids. Corey stayed at home and watched Octavia. When she left, I had to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 30
July 29, 2024 Monday
Yvonne and I and Joan went out today and had our toenails done. Afterwards we went to Starbucks so Patti could buy them a drink. We came back and watched the movie and just kinda enjoyed the afternoon. I did some laundry. I suppose I just rested up a bit. I leave tomorrow.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 31
July 30, 2024 Tuesday
I hated to leave my nieces house but I need to get on the road again. It definitely was a wonderful visit. I Left Yvonne’s and headed to the Great Smoky Mountains. I stopped in Pigeon Forge for a little bit of shopping and then got back on the road and headed out towards a great smoky mountains again I wanted to take the route so that I would go through Cherokee, North Carolina. It always amazes me how beautiful the Smoky mountains are. The drive was lovely. I stopped and took a few pictures here and there. Cherokee, North Carolina, had grown up so much since the last time I had been there. (2013)
I drove for quite a while until I got tired and then I pulled over at a Dollar General called Manager and asked if it would be all right to stay and he said yes, so I stayed there in Hendersonville, NC
#sunflowerstravels
Day 33
July 31, 2024 Wednesday
I Got to Landum SC to Satyavati’s house. My goodness she barely lives in South Carolina. I turned at exit 1 just over the border.
We set up Sunflower with electric and decided to go drive around the town. Afterwards we went to Tyron, NC 5 minutes away. What a cute town where Nina Simone lived (a famous jazz singer) there’s a statue of her there as a memorial.
We took Murphy for his follow up appointment to the Vet. He’s doing good.
Satyavati made a wonderful plant based dinner for us that was delicious. A potato salad that was out of this world and some teriyaki Harold curls out of tofu. Delicious!
After that there was piano music. 🎶 she played a few classical pieces for me. Absolutely wonderful! Afterwards I headed to Sunflower for the night. And to take some medicine as my left hip was hurting.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 34
August 01, 2024 Thursday
Satyavati drove us to Cowpens battle field not far from her house we watched a movie I bought a couple hat pins for Jim’s hat and we drove around the battlefield in the car listening to the information on my phone. Once we got home, we decided to have a little bit of lunch.. Satyavati Played the piano for me (she’s quite good) I so much enjoying music. With Eaves for a while then decided to have dinner. She made flag drinking fried green tomatoes and fried zucchini in the air fryer. My goodness it was really good.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 35
August 02, 2024 Friday
Left Santini’s house. I always hate leaving.. but I know it’s back on the road for now
I stopped at picked up a few peaches and a tomato. I also got a bit of peach ice cream.
I was a bit hungry so I found a restaurant and had lunch at Applebee’s . The waitress Emily was so great. She filled my thermos with Ice for me. (Thanks Emily!)
I Drove from South Carolina through North Carolina and into Virginia
It was rain and pouring down so hard with the gusts of wind, I used my emergency flashers because I could only go 40 miles an hour, but then there wasn’t very many people passing me either. They were all using their emergency flashers too. I got into Virginia and decided that I was tired so I pulled over and slept at, the Loves gas station near exit 15.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 36
August 03, 2024 Saturday
I was a bit slow this morning because I my hip still hurts a bit once I got on the road I got a text from Faye my friend in Newport News Virginia so I pulled over to read it.
Oh heavens, my friend Faye text me and said she fell and broke her arm and she’s in the hospital so I guess I’m going to the hospital to see her. Her break must’ve been worse than mine.
Once I got to Newport News I headed to the hospital in order to see Faye before visiting hours were over. She actually looks really good, considering. Her arm is in a cast all the way from the wrist all the way up to her arm.
I spent quite a while visiting with her and around 730-8 o’clock. Jenny came in with her husband Steve to visit. Jenny, Fay and I had gone to first grade and to Brownies together way back when I was a kid. It was good to see her again, I hadn’t seen her in so many years, I’ve seen Faye a couple times over the years once when my grandmother Kennell passed away (1978) and then again (in 1999) when my real father (Pat Kennell) passed away.
It was getting late and it was hard to find an RV park so I just got a hotel room for the next couple days so I could be able to visit with Faye before I had to leave.
I checked into the hotel and got my room number. On my way out. There was a gentleman admiring Sunflower. (My Rig). He was telling me all about his adventures and traveling. It was really good to be able to talk a little bit to somebody who likes to travel like I do. Thanks for the visit Pedro.
I returned to my room that set up for the night watched a little TV and then went to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 37
August 04, 2024 Sunday
This morning, I got up a little bit late haven’t got started yet, but will in a few minutes. Headed to Walmart to return some items. I
met Lola & her friend at Walmart what delightful lady’s !!
I went to Newport News area and Hampton area searching for my old childhood. I was unable to find one in Newport News. I took a picture of what I thought it was, but I’m not really sure the school has been changed into a different name, but I’m pretty sure that that was the school. I took a picture of. I headed to Hampton Virginia to Little Farms Avenue to check the house. I found it easily. There were a bunch of houses next-door that were never there before then I drove around to the next street over to check out my grand house I was having a hard time finding it, and this guy said his brother knew the area really well that he had lived there for many years so he sent his brother out his name was
Robert Mac Donald. Who seem to know everything. He knew where the Lambert’s lived and I knew my grandparents lived next-door to them. He also knew about the magnolia tree in the backyard and the staircase going up to the second floor so he’s pointed the house out to me. I got a picture of it. Now I’m positive that is the house. Thanks so much Robert for all your help.
I drove down to check out the 7-Eleven that we used to get Slurpee’s from, but apparently it’s been torn down. There’s another store in its place or at least I think that’s where it was.
I drove down to the hospital to spend my last day with Faye. I got there just in time to see Steve, Jenny and along with Nancy a friend of their from high school. I didn’t know Nancy, but it was good to meet her. I had seen pictures of her, Jenny and Faye. They had all went to school together at Newport News High School.
I stayed and visited with Faye for quite a long time around 8:30 or so. I decided I was gonna go back to the hotel get a good nights rest so that I could leave for Yorktown the next day.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 38
August 05, 2024 Monday
This morning I got up, took a shower got ready to go loaded up the van and headed to Colonial Williamsburg. I hadn’t been there since I was probably around seven or so. It’s a town that is still in the colonial. They still dressing the attire for that area. Very interesting. Lots of great things to see and a lot of history at the settlers back in that time period. After I was done with Williamsburg.
I found Newport news city Campground what a wonderful place the cost for senior was $41 a night. I got myself a spot close to the showers and explained to the gentleman that I was supposed to go to Lexington South Carolina but because of tropical storm I was going to have to delay my trip a day or two here assured me that I still have the same spot just let them know each day.
I went to find some ants spray. It seems I picked up a few ants somewhere. I wanted the special kind that is okay for dogs and humans but kills ants.
By the time I found the spray, I was running a bit late in order to meet Sabrina and Gary at country Grill and Smokehouse. Sabrina said Sean was at work. We had a great visit having dinner talking & stay for quite a while. The waitress was really, really nice letting us visit knowing that it had been years. Gary had to leave to go pick Sean up from work. When he got back, we all stood outside and talked for a while. I showed Sabrina the inside of Sunflower 🌻. We got pictures & HuGGs. Afterwards I left and headed to the campground for the night..
#sunflowerstravels
Day 39
August 06, 2024 Tuesday
I went to check out Jamestown Va. today one of the first settlements in this new country of ours .
When I got back to them, Rv Park, I just kind of hooked up electric and just kind of vegetated for the rest of the evening as it was really hot outside.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 40
August 07, 2024 Wednesday
This morning I got up and checked the weather. It looks like I’m going up north before I can go down to South Carolina to my nieces house tropical storm Debbie is taking over. I need to leave this area before tomorrow as the wind and rains are going to hit here tomorrow and the next day.
I got everything set up and packed up. Then went to get a shower. Afterwards I came back to Sunflower, got dressed from the day. I decided to stop at the office to Mail some letters. Once all my morning chores were done, I headed to the Northern country for my trip to South Carolina.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 41
August 08, 2024 Thursday
Spent the night at a rest area just over South Carolina state line. There’s no overnight parking at North Carolina Rest Areas.
I called the shop in Lexington, SC and set up an appointment for Friday after lunch, I was told.
I travel on to My Niece’s house in Lexington. Once there got to visit with her and some of the kids. I got to see Archer Debbie’s grandson. What a cutie he is.
It was so wonderful being able to see them all again.
I retired to Sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 42
August 09, 2024 Friday
I got up had coffee with Sissy, visited for a bit then got Sunflower ready for her RV Tech appointment.
Sissy (Debbie) & I caravaned down to the place. I got Sunflower all checked in.
Sissy & I got a drink from Starbucks on our way back to her place, Aunt Patty’s treat.
Tony’s RV called to let me know the hose wouldn’t be in till next week.
Debbie drove me back down and I picked up the RV.
Waiting on the RV to be brought up front, I met a nice man who had a real fancy Huge Rv. I also met a lady there who was getting her RV fived.
Once back to her house we visited for a while. I did some laundry we had dinner, then I headed to sunflower for the evening.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 43
August 10, 2024 Saturday
I woke up this morning just in time for Room service Coffee. Sissy brought me coffee to the Rv.. how wonderful
We watched a bit of TV as it was raining really hard from a Big Storm. At one point everything turned white for a bit.. along with tons of rain!
The rain just seemed to never stop. Later that evening it finally quit raining for a while. I was tired so took the opportunity and headed to Sunflower to rest for the night
#sunflowerstravels
Day 44
August 11, 2024 Sunday
Happy Birthday to me! I got spoiled again this morning with Room service Coffee again! David and I watched a bit of TV today Debbie made chicken enchiladas..ohh so good a lot of the family came to say hello. I just love seeing my family!
Sissy made me a Cake and got me Cherry Garcia ice cream. What a beautiful way to spend my 27th birthday (I’ve been 27 for a lot of years.. LoL)
I didn’t get to bed until late that night.
I didn’t wanna hang around knowing that I part wouldn’t be until next week so I decided I was gonna go ahead and go down to Polly‘s so I told Debbie that I would be leaving tomorrow morning and heading to Polly‘s house in Pineville South Carolina.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 45
August 12, 2024 Monday
Up this morning, I work on put everything down and got things ready to move. Debbie had to go and take her dog Jack to the vet so I told her I would wait until she got back. It was almost noon when se returned home. We Visited for a little bit and said our goodbyes, then I headed out.
I left my nice about 1pm to head to Polly’s in Pineville, SC . I finally made it to Polly’s by the afternoon. Polly’s landlord David was so nice and let us use the fishing cabin while I was there.
We talked about everything under the sun. Mickey came to help Polly with some thins on her car. He is also helping her redo her class C Motorhome.
We went out for Dinner at Mac Daddy’s Restaurant near by. The food was amazing they had the best hush puppies I’ve had in a long time. So good.
Later that night Polly & I watched a movie and afterwards retired to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 46
August 13, 2024 Tuesday
We decided to go to Charlotte and look around Polly was gonna show me all the sites there. Mickey went with us. Going to to Charlotte it started to rain so bad it was hard to see. We drove around in the Rain. Polly showed me Battery Park, some of the old houses, & where the slave trade place use to be ( now the 4 block building is a flee market). I also saw a small plantation.
Heading back to Polly’s house, we had dinner at Chinese Buffet place on the way. Dinner was great. I’ve decided I don’t like crawdads but only in gumbo.
Once back we watched a movie and headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 47
August 14, 2024 Wednesday
Polly had a Dr appointment so I stayed back. Did laundry, swept floors. Watched a bit on my iPad.
I was actually glad I didn’t go with her. She didn’t get back until after 10 o’clock. I would’ve been really exhausted. She brought back some barbecue and some hush puppies. We sat there and had dinner with Mickey and her and visited for a bit. We started to watch a movie, but we both were so tired. We were falling asleep so I turned it off and told her to go ahead and go to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 48
August 15, 2024 Thursday
I called the RV place yesterday and they said that the parts should be in Thursday or Friday so I figured I’d better head back to Lexington so I would be up in the area when I came in and we could get it put in. (I have spent so much time in Lexington are and just want to get back on the road) Yes
I said my goodbyes to Polly. It had been really great being able to see her again. We have so much in common and it has been really nice being able to visit with my Roomie
I call Tony’s RV when I got into Lexington, to let them know I was in the area. I was told to dump before bringing it in. He would call me around 8:30 and let me know what time to bring Sunflower down.
I Ask sissy if she knew any RV parks in the area close to Tony’s RV shop, she told me Barnyard RV park was pretty nice and it was close enough. I headed there so I could spend the night and be able to dump the tanks in the morning.
#sunflowerstravels
*Barnyard RV Park
201 OAK DR, LEXINGTON, SC 29073
803-957-1238
Amenities
129 level and grassy sites
Water and Sewer
Electric (30 and 50 amp)
Long pull-thrus
Free cable
LP available
Dog park
Wi-Fi available on All Sites
Dump station (tenants only)
Air conditioned bath & laundry facilities Meeting room for groups & rallies
Children’s playground
Expanded Meeting Room for Clubs
Most of our sites can accomadate large units, including a tow car.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends
This was a great park
Good Sam’s & military discount around $42-43 a night
Day 49
August 16, 2024 Friday
I got up this morning and dumped the tanks as asked to make putting the macerator hose on easier. I stopped to get propane next door to the RV Park. What nice people.. I’d recommend them any day! I Drove down to the shop. They had not called so I headed down to the shop. So now I’m just waiting at Tony’s RV shop in Lexington area waiting for the macerator hose to get put in.
I met Jeanne there waiting on her camper. She gave me a bag of pecans. Thanks for the pecans, Jeanne, it was great meeting you and talking.
Yay yay the macerator hose is new and put on and walking well thank goodness these people really helped out and got me on the road again. I really appreciate everything they’ve done. They’re absolutely wonderful Lexington, and we sure hit up Tony’s RV.
Headed over to my nieces house to get pugs and tell her everybody bye
I spent the night at Dollar General. The lady in the store was really nice and let me stay. I told her I was just exhausted and tired.
#sunflowerstravels
*Tony’s RV Parts & Service,Inc.
130Pond Branch Road
Lexington, South Carolina
(803) 894-3071
* Southern Flame Propane
215 Oak Dr, Lexington, SC
(803)996-0707
Mon – Fri: 9AM – 5:30PM – Saturday: 9AM-ppm
Day 50
August 17, 2024 Saturday
Today I put flowers on My Sister Pattys grave in Salisbury, North Carolina
I decided to get a little camp spot at loves check out all the fuck about it’s actually too hot not to have electricity some days and things as it was over 85° outside. I decided it was best to hook up to Electric.
#sunflowerstravels
* Love’s RV Hookup-Newport TN 796
1129 Smokey Mountain Lane Newport, TN 37821 United States
+1 (423) 415-3050
It wasn’t really too much to say about just hanging out in the parking lot, but I did have electricity which was good. The people inside the Love’s store were really great!
The cost was great I thought, but with the heat and electricity I needed it. It ran me $41.00 for one night with the Love’s discount.
* Love’s RV Hookup-Newport TN 796
1129 Smokey Mountain Lane Newport, TN 37821 United States
+1 (423) 415-3050
It wasn’t really too much to say about just hanging out in the parking lot, but I did have electricity which was good. The people inside the Love’s store were really great!
The cost was great I thought, but with the heat and electricity I needed it. It ran me $41.00 for one night with the Love’s discount.
Day 51
August 18, 2024 Sunday
Today I put Jim to rest at the grand old Opry (the new building) and took him downtown to the grand old Opry, The Ryman Auditorium (the old building). I couldn’t find a parking spot so this nice couple took his ashes and put them beside the stairs for me. Afterwards they gave me a thumbs up.. thank goodness to wonderful people like that. A friend Robin suggested KOA at Two Rivers Campground.
I wanted a place for a few days,So I headed on down the road so I could get spot for the night & a couple of days. On the way I stoped at Loretta Lynn’s old fashioned Restaurant for a bit. I love to be a really nice buffet, however I only gat a piece of pie and non-sweet Ice Tea. I headed on down the road & stayed at Parker’s Rv park & Campground in Crossroads, Tn.
#sunflowerstravels
* Ryman Auditorium is downtown Nashville. If you stay at the KOA or link below, they run a shuttle to downtown so you don’t have to drive.
*Parkers Rv park & Campground
22580 Hwy 22 N
Yuma, TN 38390
(731) 249-9988
Pool, laundry, store, great large showers
Wonderful staff.
Quiet & safe
The sites are level with 20/30/50 amp outlets.
There is also a fire pit. Each site has a deck with table and 2 chairs.
Located halfway between Nashville and Memphis at I-40 on Exit 108, Parkers Crossroads, TN. Then just a 1 mile North on Highway 22N. We are on the Right Side of the Highway on 18 acres of rolling Tennessee Farmland.
Check-In Time is 1:00 p.m. Check-Out is 12:00 Noon
We are experiencing high demand for reservations and strongly recommend that you make reservations to ensure that we have a site for you when you arrive.
Send reservation requests, general inquiries, comments or suggestions to Parkerscrossroadscg@gmail.com
Day 52
August 19, 2024 Monday
Today I meet up with Robin from Wander Women. I spoken to her on the phone quite a few times, but never had the privilege being able to meet her but since I’m out here and so close, I went ahead and looked in our phone for a couple of days so I could take the opportunity and catch her on having a little Mexican restaurant down the street from the RV place Atzmbia Mexican Restaurant.
The food was good, but I don’t care that much about beef in Mexican food. I like the chicken better. There was no substitute or I would have gotten chicken, but the company was absolutely wonderful and worth it. Thank you Robin & Chief, the dog, for meeting me and making my day!
#sunflowerstravels
Day 53
August 20, 2024 Tuesday
Well, it’s time to pack up and go again this time. I’m heading over towards Arkansas. My wooden board of the United States has a blank spot in it so I need to fill it in.
Arrived at Darla & Ken’s just before dark. I parked by Jan’s house and plugged in. we visited for a while, and then I came back to the motorhome and went to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 54
August 21, 2024 Wednesday
This morning I got up and went with Kevin to see Jan. She was still in bed. She looks pretty good considering all the problems she’s been having. We visited for a while and then Jan asked Kevin to go get us some ice cream. We sat outside in the shade visiting and talking for quite a while with Jan. Kevin and I got home late. Darla had brought home Italian food. It was wonderful. I only stayed for a while and then headed to bed. The day had gone by so fast.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 55
August 22, 2024 Thursday
I got up this morning. Had my coffee and waited for Darla. She drove me to the Bank and to mail letters. We then went to see Jan. We stayed for a bit. Jan did better eating while sitting up . Darla and I headed home and we’re talking about things and about my Mom. We were talking about mom wanting a grilled cheese sandwich and then not really wanting it. Darla said that made her want a grilled cheese sandwich so bad so when we got home, she made us grilled cheese sandwiches & potato salad. It was still a bit early for dinner, but I was hungry that evening. I couldn’t eat dinner because I was still full. We watched a little television and then Ken took me to my motorhome to retire for the evening.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 56
August 23, 2024 Friday
I had a doctors appointment at 9:30 California time and I thought it was an hour difference but found out it was two hours difference so I waited and talk to my doctor. Everything’s fine. She just wanted to check up on me.
Everybody had to work today so I went
looking for diabetes stuff, a blood Pressure cuff, a fuse for my fan & to Mail letters. Once I got back, we went to Dinner with family ( Darla, Ken, Kevin & Renee) at Crabb & Co. The waiter there was superb, he went out of his way to make sure I didn’t get bacon or bacon grease in my food. Ken , the waiter was absolutely wonderful. I had a great time once we came back to the property. Ken dropped me off at the motorhome and I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 57
August 24, 2024 Saturday
We were going to head to go and see Jan and drive around the area. We stop at the gas station to get drinks. There we found found Tippie. She was black with a little spot of white under her chin and under her belly, but the tip of her tail was white. That’s why Ken and I named her Tippie. Someone had dropped her off and Ken was afraid she get ran over so we picked her up and took her with us . I don’t know if she was a male or female cat, but she was the cutest thing I had ever seen . I don’t care for cats as a rule, but this one was something else. We visited Jan for a while. Ken stayed outside taking care of Tippie . Darla was planning to take me & drive me all around the area, but I just didn’t feel quite right so we went back to her house
I Got laundry done and took a shower. Darla went back to see Jan, when she returned she bought back hamburgers and brought me back a strawberry milkshake. We visited for a while longer then Ken brought me back to Sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 58
August 25, 2024 Sunday
I got up this morning and had my coffee sat down, looked at the motorhome and decided I was going to do some cleaning.
I Work all morning straighten up & cleaning sunflower. In the afternoon I went to Darr and Ken‘s. We had steak, shrimp & baked potatoes for dinner. I had a glass of wine. Justin came by visit. The day had gotten away from me again. I return early to rest up for my trip tomorrow. I always hate to leave, but know I’ll be seeing more friends & family.
This trip has been absolutely wonderful.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 59
August 26, 2024 Monday
This morning I left Darr and Ken‘s place, rolled down highway and headed to Salem Missouri so I could see John a wonderful Quartzite friend. He had just had open heart surgery not too long ago and I just wanted to stop by and check on him. Make sure he was doing OK.
Once I arrived, I met John‘s girlfriend, Nika. Very nice lady. We ended up going out to late lunch early dinner at Mounkauk Lake Resort.
The food and the company were absolutely Wonderful. Nika offered me a place to stay and able to take a shower, but I needed to get on the road. Once we got back to their house I headed to Illinois.
I spent the night at a Silver Lake rest area in Illinois.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 60
August 27, 2024 Tuesday
This morning I got up, had my coffee and started driving. Stopped at Starbucks to get me a mocha in Effingham, Illinois. I drove over to flying J so that I could empty the tanks.
The front driver side tire was acting funny. One of the guys coming out of the store stopped me and said that it was locking up. Awww poop 💩
Driver’s side front tire locked up.. thank god I was in a parking lot… I called AAA Tow service to tow me someplace so I can get it fixed. I’m here waiting for AAA to send the tow truck out to tow me to a garage. The tow truck driver was wonderful, I think he’s name was Jim.
I have to laugh. This has to be the effing worst day of my trip.
The shop I was towed to was wonderful. I absolutely love the place. They were quite efficient even getting the part quickly and fixed it for me that day. Absolutely wonderful service. I’d recommend it to anybody. All fixed “Johnson’ Automotive Service in Charleston, IL” is great! Garth, Paula & David plus their auto teck got me in and went out of their way to get me out safely.
Here’s what it was “front suspension hub and bearings R&R one side”bearing & hub assembly replaced
Cost $524.99
I’m back on the road and on my way to see my friends in Indiana. It got dark fast on me so I pulled over at a flying J for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
* Johnson’ Automotive Service
800 Madison St
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 345-9521
Day 61
August 28, 2024 Wednesday
This morning, I got up and decided to go over to the flying J and see if I could get a shower but when I pulled in a gentleman stopped me and said that I had a pipe dragging so I looked underneath, and it was definitely dragging. I looked for a place to get it repaired real quick. A really good place in the area was recommended to me, called “Poor Boys Truck Repair & Towing LLC”.
They were very efficient and quick to work on it. Just a bolt had came loose and the pipe fell down so all they needed to do was just get another bolt and hook it back up. Cost was very little.$20 that was all.
You know with these old rigs we always expect something to go wrong so it’s no surprise. I’ve had this one for a little over a year and a half already and haven’t put much money into it at all.
I returned back to the road and took off and headed to see Brad and Dawn Downs (my go to Guru, when I had my Rialta for the 6 1/2 years.
It was great seeing them & being able to thank Brad in person for all the wonderful information he gave me and all the help over the years. He did so much to help me with over the years even talking to a tire dealer saying I didn’t need the tires Brad said to get. I took them a little surprise. It was just coaster and a fold able funnel. I don’t know if he realizes how much I appreciated being able to have him on speed dial when I needed help. I only wish the Roadtrek group had a Guru like him.
I didn’t stay long as I wanted to get to Caboose Lake to go camping and just relax for a while.
I drove a little over an hour and finally got there. “Caboose Lake Campground”. I had stayed here before on my trip in 2018. I loved being by the water.
I went online and reserved my spot because I knew I would be coming in late.
As I figured I pulled in late. Then found my spot, set up and headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
* Poor Boys Truck Repair & Towing LLC
I-70 Exit 23
Brazil, IN
(812) 442-5433
24 hour Moble service
Shop hours Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
*Caboose Lake Campground
3657 W US 24 – Remington, IN 47977
On line at Cabooselake.com
(219) 224-3055
Water, elect, dump, hot showers, fishing, boating, and friendly staff at the office/ small store.
Best camping sites I’ve had!!!
Day 62
August 29, 2024 Thursday
I’m trying to getting some me time. I’m able to catch up on my writings & get things posted for my readers. I’m at Caboose Lake Campground. I love it here. I’ve been here before like I said. This is such a great Park. Quiet and lots of beautiful scenery. Being by the water is amazing!
I went up to the office to settle things. They called me this morning. Wanted to stop by. I really didn’t realize I was an hour behind their schedule. (Time changes are messing me up, LOL) Oh my goodness I gotta remember to set my clocks while I was out and about. I went ahead and took advantage of it went to the store and picked up a few items and got gas, and picked up some more ice.
Now I’m back at the campground and this lady stopped by asking me where in California I was from.
So I just met Marion from Kentucky.. thanks for
the visit.
I had bought some watermelon and thought I got just a little piece but boy it was just too big for me. There was a couple who brought the kids over to take a shower. So I gave the gentleman half of what I had still in the plastic and covered up for the kids to eat so it didn’t go to waste. That watermelon was really good. I watch the lake and the water and a bunch of people fishing and then it started getting dark so I headed to the motorhome to retire for the night and watch a little TV..
#sunflowerstravels
Day 63
August 30, 2024 Friday
I left Caboose Campground this morning and headed to Marie & John‘s farm. I wasn’t really that far away from it at Caboose Lake. I just need to take a little time for myself to catch up. Once at Marie and John‘s place we visited for a while it was so great being able to see her again. It had been since 2019 before the terrible Covid pandemic. Marie took me around the farm to see her chickens, Ducks and vegetables she planted.
then went out for dinner at”Knocking Boots” that is an absolutely wonderful place. I love the food there after dinner we headed back to the farm visit for a while. Once it got late she drove me back to Sunflower
#sunflowerstravels
Day 64
August 31, 2024 Saturday
This morning we went to see all the tractors at a festival. John borrowed a friends golf cart. Thanks for much for loaning it to us!
There was all kinds of things to do lots of little stand to buy stuff we drove around for hours watch the display of tractors, different types. Then went to get something to eat and headed back to home.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 65
September 01, 2024 Sunday
I got this morning visit with Marie & John for a bit and then Marie and I took off. She wanted to show me some things about 66. There was so much to see, all the stuff on Route 66. There was even a zoo with animals that somebody had made out of scraps. we went and got a hamburger at Polk-A-Dot. We looked at a few things on the road for route 66 then we headed home.
Once back Marie & I set my porch. John was out mowing the lawn and his ride-um cowboy mower. Marie and I just sat on the porch and enjoyed watching him and talking.
I returned to sunflower for the evening.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 66
September 02, 2024 Monday
Got up this morning and said my see you later, but I would catch them the next time I came by. Marie made us breakfast and I had some coffee. Once done I headed to sunflower to head out.
I left Marie and John’s and headed to my cousin Randy‘s house. It wasn’t really all that far but I was tired so I just pulled over and spent the night at Walmart in
#sunflowerstravels
Day 67
September 03, 2024 Tuesday
Arrived At Ponder’s about11:30. Everyone was hungry so we went to brunch at Ivana’s Restaurant. The owners are friends of Randy and Mares. I’ve been there before when I stopped here in 2018. They always serve such great food.
Randy had to go to work at 1: pm so mare and I visited for a while. I did my laundry, and we talked for a while. Mare’s son,Mike came by for a bit. After he left, we went out for dinner at “Culver’s“ . They have the best hamburgers! I don’t usually eat hamburgers, but these were cooked right.
Return back to the house watched a little TV and then I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 68
September 04, 2024 Wednesday
This morning Randy tested the batteries in the motorhome and said they were bad so he took them out and we took them down to the batteries shop to have them replaced. I got two new batteries for around $350. What a great bargain.
We then went over to Aldi to pick up a few items. They have really cheap but good quality stuff.
I made Fried Green Tomatoes for Randy’s lunch. I’m sure he loved him as I don’t think he’s had them for a while. I thought they turned out really good. We had some leftovers so may have put them in Ziploc bags and laid them so that they could freeze that. I told her that if she put them in an air fryer for a little while, but it would taste just like I had made them.
Mare cooked sloppy Joe’s for dinner that night. It was really good. We watched a little TV and then I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 69
September 05, 2024 Thursday
Mare & I got propane tank filled, stopped at an outlet place, stopped by to see Ponder, went to Walmart pick up some things. Then headed back to ponders set up the RV again and waited for Randy to get off work when he got home we went out for dinner at Sabor Narti bar & Grill. The restaurant is Mexican food. Oh my it is really good.
We drove back home resident for a while and then I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 70
September 06, 2024 Friday
I spent day making “Buttermilk Pie’s” for Ponder my cousin. Mike, Mares son came to visit. I think everybody enjoyed the buttermilk pies. All of them was gone that night.
We watched a bit of TV, I thought I should head to the shower before it got late. Revisited for a while and when Michael got ready to leave, I headed to my little RV for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 71
September 07, 2024 Saturday
Decided to go to the Fair in Sandwich, Illinois. We got dressed and got ourselves ready and took off and headed to sandwich. One stair we got into the fair and walked around for a while. Found a few friends of Randy and Mare’s,
Scott and Kay Mulliner, visited with them for a bit and then just went ahead and walked around the fair after a while we went to the Tractor Pull. Such an interesting competition.
Well, after the tractor pull I met Liduvina a Spanish lady
Randy and Mare’s friend Randy went with us. He had gotten the tickets for us the day before as he was already there.
Had a great time was a lot of fun. I was definitely tired. Once we got home, I headed straight to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 72
September 08, 2024 Sunday
I got up had coffee with Mare and then I left and headed to Kansas. I stopped by to see Ponder before I left. He had gone to work early and I wanted to get my HuGG in before leaving. While driving down through Illinois and goo to Iowa, I couldn’t believe how many field had corn in them absolutely gorgeous coming down 80 all the cornfields and stuff. I kept driving. I didn’t do a lot but just drove. I stayed the night at the rest area and headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 73
September 09, 2024 Monday
This morning is Jim and my 18th wedding anniversary. I still feel that he’s with me a lot. I know he’s enjoying my trips that I take as he’s with me.
I left the rest area and headed to Des Moines‘s Iowa staying going to stop and see my brother Ted, I call RT. I stopped at a gas station got gas. Bought some fluid for the windshield wiper and emptied my poo tank. There was this old man there he offered to help anyway wiper fluid accidentally got put into the brake fluid container so when I got to Des Moines, Iowa. I looked for a place to get the brake lines flushed on the car. Long story short jiffy lube was really good and did an excellent job.
Ted and I headed out to get some dinner. We stopped to drop off some stuff to his friends. I got to meet a few of his friends that he hung around with. I don’t remember their names. We then headed to a Chinese buffet place for dinner. The food was really good. We had an excellent time. He has done well getting himself together. I’m proud of him.
I headed back on the road and decided to travel to Nebraska. I stopped at Casey’s gas station and spent the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 74
September 10, 2024 Tuesday
I got up this morning went inside. Got me some coffee and donut and a couple other items. I then went across the street to the McDonald’s. I got myself a breakfast mcgriddle for later.
A little down the road I found a Cracker Barrel so I stooped at to get my usual apples & grits. While in line to pay, the lady behind me fell, she was out.she had definitely fainted. I checked her pulse and it was OK but she was really clammy. When she woke up I told her to just lay there & get her bearings and everything. I asked if anything hurt or if she had hit her head. She said no, and said she was feeling better. Once she was feeling better a couple guys help her up another lady got her chair. She’s doing a lot better, I gave her my card in case she needed to talk to me. This was in Farson, IA
What a day it’s been!
I got back on 80, I took 77 down to see JJ & the Purdom’s (my cousins) Beatrice,Nebraska. Just a note: from Highway 80 coming through Lincoln. The roads are so nice.
I drove up to JJ‘s house and sat in front of it for a while until he got home from . Polly came over and we all went out to dinner . (I don’t remember the name of the restaurant). I got a message from Gabriel and he wanted to meet for coffee in the morning. So, I spent the night down the road at Walmart.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 75
September 11, 2024 Wednesday
I Met Gabriel at his Bud & Bugs shop. How cute it is. He fixed me coffee and we visited for awhile.
When I left I took some back roads to get back to 80.
I Stopped at Gothenburg pony express it was closed but nice display outside. Great little town. I drove on and found a Rest Area for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 76
September 12, 2024 Thursday
Nebraska sure is windy. It keeps trying to push me over the highway, but I’m doing OK got to a Walmart picked up a few items and they had a subway inside so I pick me up a sandwich. I’m heading to Kansas right now so I can color in that state. I’m going to head to Colorado tomorrow and see the rest of the family there.
Now on to G Colorado to drop off Judy’s ashes, my cousin Gayle’s mom & my mother’s best friend growing up.
I spent the night at a gas station.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 77
September 13, 2024 Friday
I got up this morning had a little coffee and went to go find a park spread Judy’s ashes. I found a great place. It was a beautiful park with a pond. Glenmere Park was the perfect spot for her. Absolutely stunning area.
I headed towards
I got to Tamara and Scott’s home. Got Sunflower all hooked up. We then headed out and had dinner at a really nice restaurant restaurant. Afterwards we return back to their house. Diane & Levi came over for a little while. Once they left I headed out to sunflower for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 78
September 14, 2024 Saturday
got up this morning and made my coffee and made my way in to see tomorrow and Scott we watched a little TV. Then went to Costco. I met some really nice people there. Later after we got home all the kids came over Bentley, Olivia, Desie, Brandon, Diane and Levi tomorrow. Tamara cook this roast with mashed potatoes and green beans. It was really good dinner. The roast was so tasty and tender. We sat there and visited, I played with the kids for a bit. Later on after everyone left, I headed to my motorhome for the evening.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 79
September 15, 2024 Sunday
I waited till about 3:30 and decided that I was gonna go ahead and start the drive to North Fork to see Sandy and her friends. I wanted to get go to Bishops Castle to see it. So I headed out to South Fork to meet up with Sandy, Bob & Candi. I stopped about 2 miles from Bishop’s Castle for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 80
September 16, 2024 Monday
This morning I finished the drive to the castle. It was amazing being able to see what Mr. Bishop had made. There were stairs everywhere you could travel through the castle and up through the archway for the entrance of the castle after a while I went ahead and went back to sunflower and drove on to see Sandy, Bob and Candi. Bob, Sandy & I sat on the porch and visit for a while. Bob and Candi went for a ride in the her truck. Sandy and I decided it was too cold and we went to our little RV’s for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 81
September 17, 2024 Tuesday
The three of us had planned to go down to the hot tub in town for a few hours and then go out to dinner however, it was raining so hard that it just didn’t happen. We basically stayed in our little homes and kinda did whatever.
I watched movies charged up the generator and then headed to bed later that evening.
We decided we were going to go to the Hot Springs tomorrow so I stayed an extra night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 82
September 18, 2024 Wednesday
I got up this morning, made me some coffee waited around for everybody to wake up. I don’t know why I got up so early. I was up by 7:30 am. We finally got everybody together and headed to the Hot Springs, Bob loves to drive and wanted to check out the town of Crestone. It’s a cute little place. We had lunch at “The Cloud Station”. We all got sandwiches. I got an apple crumble cake to split with every one. It was definitely delicious. Afterwards we headed to a shrine Bob wanted to check out. Took a few pictures and then headed to the hot tubs. Oh, that felt so good. I did never wanna leave. We got back home to the place. We were all staying and was so tired. Everybody just went to their little motorhomes and went to sleep.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 83
September 19, 2024 Thursday
This morning I got up, made me some coffee and got sunflower ready to go. I needed to leave this today. Candy set up a fire and we had hotdogs and chips. Bob notice that my tires were kind of low so he checked them and put air in them. Thank you, Bob. I really appreciate that.
It was getting late so left And headed to New Mexico.
The road 160 through Wolf Creek Pass is really steep. I pulled over at a viewing station just to rest for a while.
After I waited a few hours, I decided to go ahead and head down the mountain.
I passed by Chama tried to contact a friend there, but I’m pretty sure she was still in the hospital as I know she had surgery just a few weeks ago.
Once I reached Santa Fe, I decided to look for a place to stay overnight. I was tired. It was already 8 o’clock. I stayed in the parking lot of city of Gold casino just off the highway.
#sunflowerstravels
* 11 miles South of Chama is $10.00 a night camping at the Lake Heron, NM
I don’t know that anything about the area, but I was told that that was a really nice place
Day 84
September 20, 2024 Friday
This morning, I got up and had some coffee and started looking for a place to have my brakes checked. I found a Jiffy Lube and the gentleman checked the brakes and said that I definitely needed back brakes, but I was thinking I should do both so I’m going ahead and getting both front and back done.. I waited around as I had to park and wait for them to come in. I went next-door to find something to eat for lunch. It was a great little Mexican place that gentleman there was absolutely great, Alejandro. The chef was too.
While they’re waiting for my food, I met Kelsey and Dylan we talked for a little bit and then they got their food and left. I got my food set down and ate absolutely delicious.
My breaks were finally done so I went ahead and headed to see CeCe. After driving a little while, I noticed the brakes were still spongy bother me so much that I started looking for another place to get them repaired. The gut said that he couldn’t put in brake boosters because he didn’t have the tool. I’m amazed that he sent me on my way with such undone bike. That’s terrible. I wanted them done and done right. I found another Jiffy Lube in Bosque Farms, NM with full service in so I stay the night and wait for everybody to come in to work in the morning.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 85
September 21, 2024 Saturday
I don’t know why but for some reason I was up at 5 o’clock. Just couldn’t go back to sleep once the shop opened up gentleman came over and we talked about what we needed to be done and I told him that I cared about how much it was gonna cost, but I wanted it to be done right so I didn’t care as long as they were done right. I spent the whole morning there and until about 4:30 almost 5 sunflower was finally ready. I’m telling you. The two guys Kevin and Joshua worked so hard making sure I’d have no problems.. the shop also employees to women, Georgina & I didn’t get the other ones name. I’m absolutely glad to see women working in a shop like this. My mechanic at home is a woman and I really appreciate her.
After everything was done, I headed on to see CeCe. I’m telling you those brakes were fabulous. I love the fact that they did a great job and made the time to get them right. It was really late by the time I got to CeCe’s house so I just pulled in and gave her a HuGG and told her good night. I was so tired.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 86
September 22, 2024 Sunday
This morning I got up got my coffee and went inside on the porch with CC and visited for a while. We headed into town & over to sonic and to have some lunch. Gosh those chilly dogs were so delicious. I needed to pick up some milk so we went to Walmart for a bit. While I was at Walmart, I picked up kitty treats for the homeless guy and doggy treats for Savannah. Boy, their auntie spoils them. After Walmart shopping we headed home. Once we got back home, we were both still kind of tired so we decided we were just going to rest a little bit. (I think the heat gets us)
I got up a little later and took her some food out of the refrigerator and thought maybe we would eat, but I was not really hungry. She wasn’t hungry either. But I left it just in case she gets hungry later, otherwise we’ll have it tomorrow. We visited for a while then I headed to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 87
September 23, 2024 Monday
This morning, I got up and had coffee with Cece on the porch after that we picked up Martha from next-door and we went to Si Señor Mexican restaurant for lunch. I love that place, it’s such good food there. We visited and ate our meals. When we’re done CeCe drove us back home. Martha lives next-door to CeCe. I’m glad to find out that she’s got somebody watching over her and that she’s not alone.
Once back we rested for a little bit. I came to the porch and visited with CeCe for a while. Gathered up my things, as I needed to leave the next day.
I headed to sunflower and called it a night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 88
September 24, 2024 Tuesday
I got my coffee and headed to the porch to spend a little time with CeCe before I had to leave. We visited for a little while, and then unhooked the sunflower. I don’t really care. Fuck goodbye so we said we’d see each other later. I then headed to Oregon, by way of Idaho. I always hate to leave.
The Grand Canyon West is off of 93 down by the Shell station. I wouldn’t try driving that road unless they have paved it. The last time I was there it was a paved road, which turned into a gravel Road for quite aways. I can only hop they have changed the road the last time I was there. The last time we took the bus from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West.
Hoover dam now has a bypass. You’ll probably miss it on highway 93 unless you’re really watching out for the turn, it takes you to the damn and then you have to turn around and come back the same way and get back on the highway. It’s definitely worth going to see if you haven’t been there before.
The new bypasses also causes you to miss Boulder Nevada. This is town where everybody lived when they were building the Hoover Dam. This town is very interesting, if you choose to go there that’s off highway 93 also.
Apparently, the highway 93 is awesome there is also Area 51 off this road. I think I know where it is because, there was this huge metal building and guards and a big sense all around it. I’m sure that was Area 51.
Oh, got to meet a couple of those aliens too!
US 93 has so many roundabouts from Rittenberg to the Congress they are 20 miles an hour no more. I tell you I know I counted at least six.
I stayed the night behind an iron skillet restaurant. I called it a night and went to bed.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 89
September 25, 2024 Wednesday
I got up got my coffee as usual then headed inside Iron Skillet, for a little look around. I returned to sunflower and we headed out on highway 93 going through and turning on highway 6 and then heading out on highway 95 towards Idaho.
I spent the night at a little turn off. The sunset was gorgeous.
Yes, you guessed it, I finally went to bed
#sunflowerstravels
Day 90
September 26, 2024 Thursday
I got it this morning just in time to see the sunrise oh how beautiful that was! So many different colors that the sun produces coming up out of the hills. I kept on traveling nothing really interesting but the hills and the rock formations along the highway were very beautiful. I found a Love’s gas station, dump my tank and got gas.
I drove on through Nevada until I came to another gas station.
I stayed the night at Love’s gas station in Jackpot, Nevada. That was the last town in Nevada before getting into Idaho.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 91
September 27, 2024 Friday
I got up this morning, early, found ants in my water bottle, so rinsed it out and dumped it trying to clean up the stuff in the motorhome a little bit. I don’t know where I picked up the ants from, thank goodness they didn’t bring along the uncles with them. I have that spray that it’s OK for humans & animals to breathe. I’m a little slow going this morning. Haven’t decided where I’m gonna stay the night. I really want to go to the arts festival and meet up with Nick P. I haven’t really seen him in quite a long time he married a friend that I knew from high school. Nick and I went to junior high and high school together. His late wife was with us at the High School.
Sheila lives in Boise, Idaho and I’m hoping to catch up with her. I sent her a few messages.
After driving a while, I had to stop along the road because I was trying to make an appointment with Kaiser. I stopped on the side of the road where the welcome to Idaho sign was. I took a few pictures and noticed that there was a sign that said welcome to Nevada on the other side of the road. I took a picture of that too. While I was sitting there on the side of the road a bus full of people stopped to get their picture taken with the sign for Idaho. I walked over and took the picture so that everybody could be in it. I noticed that the bus they were traveling in was from Phoenix Arizona. I’m not sure where they are from or where they were going but they seem to be quite a wonderful group. Thanks for letting me meet you guys. Have a trip!
I continued on till I got to the area where the festival is supposed to be held. Go down there and check out things found a beautiful waterfall turned around and came back wondering where I was gonna stay the night. Jeff Davis (works in that area) flagged me down and asked if I knew where I was staying tonight and I said no I wasn’t really . He said well I have a couple ideas for you. He pulls a map out to give to me, Window comes over and talks to me and tells me all these wonderful places that I can stay. They are in. “ Idaho”. That was so wonderful. I decided to stay at the campground that was free for 10 days so I drove on down. It’s a gorgeous area. Thank you so much, Jeff Davis! I really appreciate all the great wonderful places you told me about.
The one thing I can say about this trip is, I don’t think I found any place that was really bad. Every area has its own beauty.
I set up camp set outside for a while having some crackers and cheese. It started getting dark so I had it inside for the evening.
#sunflowerstravels
*Bells Rapids Boat Lanch-Hangman Area
10 days free camping
There is one fire pit that I saw
There is a pit toilet
No E/W/ or dump station
Tons of beautiful views
Day 92
September 28, 2024 Saturday
I went to the Art Fair down by Ritter Island.
You parked your car at the entrance and rode the bus down to the art fair. I can’t tell you how beautiful the area is. Absolutely Stunning!
Walking around I met Daniel and Jay from the Forestry Service Department. They had lots of great wonderful information at their booth on camping and fishing in the area.
I continued to walk around the fair looking at the art and exhibits for sale when I came upon Nick P, his daughter and son. Nick and I went to junior high and high school together. It was really wonderful being able to see an old friend again, thanks for the visit Nick. Even though it was short, it was absolutely wonderful! I so enjoyed meeting your daughter and son, but I wonderful family You have!
Afterwards, I walked around the exhibits a little more and walked over to the bus to go back up the hill to sunflower.
I left the area heading west on 95 hoping I could catch Sheila as I still hadn’t heard from her.
After a while, It was amazing. She finally texted me. I got her new information & put it on my on my phone. The plan was, I was going to go over that evening after she got work off work and visit with her.
I noticed that one of my blinkers was not working so I took it over to Kendall Chevrolet in Nampa, ID. I asked if that was something they could repair and they said definitely. I was so lucky to run into so many great people working there. Thank you for the great service Jay and Nate you guys were wonderful.
Afterwards, I headed to a RV park nearby called Garrity Rv Park planned to stay the night after visiting with Sheila. The park looked like it It was mainly for full-time staying permanently. After looking around, there were a bunch of old trailers boarded up and not a very desirable area. There were a few empty spots, but I decided that I was probably better off at the rest area and knew I’d find one after my visit with Shelia.
I still had a few hours to waste so I headed to the local park near her house, pulled up in the shade, pulled my chair out and sat there eating my lunch and waiting for the time to pass. it was an absolutely beautiful park. Nice area. The wind was blowing nicely. It Kind of kept me cooI. I stayed there until just about the time Sheila was going to be home, so then I drove over to her house.
It was an absolutely wonderful visit. I got to meet her son Thomas. She and I talked for a long time, but I couldn’t stay as I needed to get on the road. I only had three days to make it to Oregon, and was worried I’d not make it in time.
I headed out towards Oregon, I found a Rest Area just passed the Idaho state line and stayed the night.
Well, I finally made it across the border into Oregon.
#sunflowerstravels
*Garrity RV Park
3515 Garrity Bvld
Nampa, ID
I don’t know much about the park or the amenities
I pulled outside the office, the office was was still supposed to be opened till 5pm. It was only 430 and it was already closed. There was a boxe that said “After Hours registration”, but there was nothing in the box.
To me, I thought this was not a very good place to stay.
Day 93
September 29, 2024 Sunday
This morning, I got up fix myself some coffee get a little few things empty the trash and headed to my Oregon camping ground. I’m not far away, but I know that the roads are windy and up in the mountains getting there so I definitely want to take my time.
Well, I’m on my way to Vail, Oregon trying to get to my camp plan. I can’t believe how many roundabouts the cities are put in. There are too many close together.
I can tell it is windy on this highway by the way the road markers sway back and forth so quickly.
Maltier River follows highway 20 . It’s so calm you can hardly tell it’s moving.
Heading west now going on highway 20 there are Lots of places to pull over if you need to. Cell phone service seems to change as you drive through from SOS to 3 bars on Virizon.
I found a rest area on highway 20 and set myself up for the night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 94
September 30, 2024 Monday
They were so cold I must’ve gotten up a dozen times last night. Turn the heater on and then warmed it up and then turned it off and went back to bed.
I finally got up around eight and decided I might as well get up for the day. Fixed me a little coffee and tried to finish waking up.
Call to Verizon Wireless because my phone wasn’t working. My iPad was working and my Jetpack for my Internet was working but not the phone. I was told that the cell phone were out all over the country and they were trying to work on them, but won’t sure when they be back on, I said my little chip pack for Internet so that I could still use my GPS
I had to stop for gas. I was in Bend, Oregon. The gas station got out ready to pump. My gas gentleman shows up and I’m thinking what he doing and then I’m in the oh my gosh, they pump your gas here for you. Thank goodness he just kind of laughed to finish the job for me. I got back in flower sat down. I got my paperwork to put in my information. I always keep track of my goodness. I thanks to the gentleman who helped gas for me.
Leaving then going on highway 20 heading to sisters there got to be at least four roundabout with the first 2 miles. I can’t believe how many roundabouts this country is putting again and it seems like nobody knows if they’re supposed to heal. I almost ran over twice and I’m not really that hard to see in my Roadtrek.
Well, after a lot of wind turns and stuff on Highway 20 I finally made it to River Bend County Park. I was lucky I could get the same spot that I would be in here so when the girls came so I went ahead and took it. I need gas and propane and I wanted to go find some whirlybirds for the new people coming in. That’s how we tell that we’re part of the group.
I drove down to dollar tree to see if they had any and they didn’t so I text Shirley and she said that Dana and Joyce will take care of that so that’s great. I didn’t realize how tired I was so I’ll go back tomorrow and get propane and gas right now. I headed back to the park set myself up and headed to bed. It was way too early. I watched a few movies but fell asleep on them.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 95
October 01, 2024 Tuesday
This morning, I got up quite early about seven. Just kind of lazy goofing around taking my time not doing much. Got a couple cups of coffee debating on whether to go to town first or take a shower.
I really don’t have to be in a hurry as no one is here yet.
I actually spent all day on the computer, making a video for Rain’s memorial service here at River Bend. I certainly didn’t get nothing else done.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 96
October 02, 2024 Wednesday
River Bend County Park If so, absolutely beautiful today I went into Lebanon. And to Walmart. got some gas, and filled up the propane tank in Sweet Home, Oregon. Then I headed back to the campsite hair. I was already there. Suzan had called and said she would be late at least by tomorrow. I set up her campsite table at her site to make it look like she was there.
I went over to see Shirley and visited with her for a while. Afterwards I w home to my campsite, back to sunflower and called it a night.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 97
October 03, 2024 Thursday
The following few days are activities from the Wander Woman meet up in River Bend Linn County Park
10:00 a.m. – Site C7
Cups practice new and returning cuppers invited. This is the cup tapping routine from the movie Pitch Perfect. Cup and music provided. It’s fun and a good laugh.
6:30 p.m. – Site C7
Meet and Greet at your hosts Daryl & Dana site C7.
Includes Mary A. sharing her RV tech school experience.
(bring your dinner if you’d like)
#sunflowerstravels
Day 98
October 04, 2024 Friday
10:00 a.m. – Site C7
More Cups. Cups is a game that was introduced by Daryl. It helps with coordination and eye movements. It’s great however can’t get the hang of it.
4:00 p.m. – Pavilion
Time to get your soup ingredients to the pavilion for the Friendship Soup dinner. Check with Mary A on what you might bring. (This is a first for us so think of it as a learning experience.)
5:00 p.m. – Pavilion
Rain memorial. Rain was an original in so many ways) of the PNW Wander Women group. She left us some money to pay for the pavilion rental. Such a heart ©. If you knew Rain, bring your photos and stories to share. Or just come and pay tribute.
6:00 p.m. – Pavilion
Meet & Greet and Friendship Soup. Bring your bowl and spoon.
7:30 p.m. -Pavilion
Music and dance.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 99
October 05, 2024 Saturday
10:30 a.m. Site C7
Blessing tour / rig tour. We will go around as a group to each rig (if you choose to participate ) say a little blessing, each of us will pour a bit of champagne / sparkling cider on a tire while the WW tells a bit about her rig and we get to peek inside.
5:00 p.m. – Pavilion
Start assembling the Give Away Table. Bring stuff you no longer need. Please remember to take back anything from the giveaway table that was not needed or claimed.
5:30 p.m. – Pavilion
Halloween party/ pot luck/ bring your own meal.
Halloween costumes not required but appreciated
#sunflowerstravels
Day 100
October 06, 2024 Sunday
10:30 am Site A7
This was changed to the pavilion
Sandra’s hosting brunch includes Kathy sharing her camp post and pod podcast experience
1:00 PM Pavilion
Rock painting with Lisa and the pavilion rocks and paint provided
6 PM-Pavilion
closing circle bring your own dinner. We’ll share photos and talk about next year. Topics will include who will get to host and what other things we might do.
Participation is optional. Do as much or as little as you choose. If you’d like to have a planned or impromptu activity that’s fine too.
Please try not to schedule things on top of each other, so everyone can participate.
(Events at the pavilion and shared meals are pet free zones. Thank you!)
The above Oct 3-7 are from the flyer we received thanks to Daryl, Dana S. & Dana D.
Thanks. So much for hosting this 7 th annual event.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 101
October 07, 2024 Monday
Today makes seven years that Jim has been gone. I spent the day with Suzan and Shirley at spots and then went back to mine. I just kind of rested. It was a very emotional day for me. I went to bed early.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 102
October 08, 2024 Tuesday
I took my shower this morning, packed up, empty the tanks and left River Bend. I headed to Washington to Rain’s house so I could take her home. Things didn’t go quite as planned. I made a few stops. Got gas. Just sat down for a while kind of thinking about everything that’s been going on. I drove until around 7 o’clock. I stopped at a rest area up in Washington it was getting dark and there was no way I was going to make it to Rain’s house tonight. I’ll take her home tomorrow.
#sunflowerstravels
*River Bend Linn County Park
I love this park
They have new camp host this year Carrol & her husband Brad. They are definitely a wonderful addition to this park.
45931 SANTIAM HIGHWAY, FOSTER, OR 97345
Great family camping!
Park Location – Located off Highway 20 near Foster and Sweet Home.
Park Usage – Open Year-Round
About the Park
Located on the banks of the upper South Santiam River, River Bend is the newest addition to the Linn County Parks System. This 90-acre park offers a full range of outdoor recreation opportunities including trails, river access, camping, day-use, and group facilities. With a total of 85 campsites, River Bend is perfect for quiet getaways.
Check-in: after 2:00 pm | Check-out: before 12:00 pm
- River Bend has a total of 85 campsites, 13 of which are available as first come, first serve campsites.
- 3-night min. for Memorial Day, 4th of July & Labor Day holidays, 2-night min. for all weekends
- Extra vehicle fee of $8.00 per night. Extra Vehicle classification chart.
- Reservations must be made at least 24 hours PRIOR to arrival.
- Reservations can be made nine months in advance of arrival date.
Camping Fees
Online reservations will be charged a $12 non-refundable reservation fee per site.
- Hookup site (water/electric):
- $35/night | 8 people/ 1 RV/ 2 tents
- Senior/Disabled Veterans – $30/night
- Non-hookup site:
- $28/night | 8 people/ 1 RV/ 2 tents
- Senior/Disabled Veterans – $$23/night
- Cabin (no running water): $90/night | 6 people
- Winter Rate effective November 1 – March 15 – $65 per night
- Pet fee of $15.00 per pet, maximum of two pets
- Yurt (no running water):
- 16 ft., site D2 – $80/night
- w/trailer $100/night
- 20 ft., site D3 & D4 – $90/night
- w/trailer $110/night
- Winter Rate effective November 1 – March 15
- 16′ Yurt – $55 per night
- w/ trailer $75 per night
- 16′ Yurt – $55 per night
- Winter Rate effective November 1 – March 15
- 20′ Yurt – $65 per night
- w/trailer $85 per night
- 20′ Yurt – $65 per night
- 16 ft., site D2 – $80/night
- Group Camp (hook-up sites): $250/night + $50 non-refundable reservation fee | 50 people
- RV Dump Fee: $10/User | 1 RV tank per use
AMENITIES
Cabins, Yurts, RV Camping with water & electric hookups, Tent Camping (no water & electric hookups), Group Camping, Group Shelters, Restroom facilities with showers, hiking trails, River access with swimming & fishing, Playground, Day use area, RV Dump Station.
Day 103
October 09, 2024 Wednesday
I took Rain home today. (Her ashes.) I put her ashes out by her waterfall on her property like she wanted. I miss her something terrible. Esmé bit sunflower today. I hit That Darn rock in the driveway when backing up. I was always afraid of hitting when I was at Rain‘s house. well it jumped out and bit Sunflower 🌻. I’m sure it was Esme’ idea. She didn’t look happy sitting there under the carport by herself.
I had to lift the electrical draw & put it back on (the slide thing broke) happens I had a bungee cord left over from before when the button had broke so I just used it to secure the drawer so it wouldn’t fly off again.
Once I was done, I had it down 101 S., heading to highway 5 and heading home. I had to bungee cord my door to the power cord as the drawer came off the sliding mount so I’ll get it fixed when I see Dan my RV man.
I didn’t quite make it as far as I wanted to so I pulled over to Rest Area. I’m just tired for today.
#sunflowerstravels
Day 104
October 10, 2024 Thursday
I got my coffee sat for a bit thinking about my wonderful trip and all the wonderful great friends & family I have. I am definitely blessed. I headed out back on the road for home.
I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen Mount Shasta without her halo cloud. But to me, she’s just as beautiful. I stopped at Costco in Redding, Ca. to get gas. I have to admit that the gas prices in California I didn’t miss at all. I love the cheaper prices for gas in all the states I traveled in..
I got home just about dark. I put Sunflower to bed in her parking spot.
I have so enjoyed this “My Trip of a Lifetime “
Thank you all for following my adventures.
I’ll be doing appointments & have a minor surgery scheduled while I’m home. Not sure when I’ll get back out there. I’m hopeful as to December..
#sunflowerstravels
Sunflowers Travels 2 
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