Catching the Worm in Palm Springs

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“People think computers will keep them from making mistakes. They're wrong. With computers you make mistakes faster.” Adam Osborne

Our move today can hardly be called a move. We’re only sliding down the road about five miles. The best thing about it is that we’ll be in a great area for two weeks in a great park with full hookups. However, the catcher to all of this is we need to arrive very early in order to secure one of the prime sites that become available. After all this is high season and all the snowbirds are positioning themselves with the same thought in mind. We just want to be first. You know the saying, “the early bird catches the worm”. We want to catch the worm.

Friendly Roadrunner ------->

Saturday was our last night boondocking at the Fantasy Springs Casino. We even stayed clear of the slot machines since we believe we had already contributed enough to the casino for payment of our free dry camping site for the two nights. We made that contribution on Friday. However, we did venture in for another buffet luncheon. We really need to stop this but the food was so good there. We indulged one last time and felt like we needed to be rolled out.

It’s great to be back in civilization where we can find a couple things we were wanting to update – throw rugs and a bedspread ... just to begin with. So, we did a little running around but accomplished very little. A couple of items we did purchase need to be returned. That’ll be on our “to do” list to handle in the next day or two. We did find one keeper … a wireless headset for Terry.

Jerry and Janice moved to the Thousand Trails park yesterday morning so we went down there to check what sites might be open for us this morning. We scoped it out, selected a few sites we liked and now hope they’ll still be available when we arrive shortly. It’ll certainly be nice to settle in for a couple of weeks. We’re looking forward to it as this is our favorite Thousand Trails park. Another thought that Jerry mentioned .... this will be five weeks we will have spent with them after our stint at this park .... 5 weeks!! We haven't spent that long with anyone ... except our kids, of course. I'm sure I'll have lots of stories on them.

Hopefully during this time we can get our coach washed and waxed and clean out some of the sand we accumulated in Quartzsite. We’re also thinking we might change out our dinette. And, definitely want to do the aerial tram which we didn't have time for last year.

We love the Palm Springs area and hope the weather stays perfect just like it was yesterday. I said “so long” to Jim and Sandie last night. They’ll also be leaving but heading back towards Quartzsite and then to Apache Junction. However, we do have plans to meet up with them and the Lavins, Ed and Linda, to tour Death Valley the first part of March. So, it wasn’t “goodbye” but just “see you later”.

Gotta run as we need to get ready to move. Things are good.

Casino Camping

“Don't sweat the petty things and don't pet the sweaty things.” – George Carlin

Salton Sea is now behind us. Yesterday morning we moved along to our next destination … Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio. However, I still had to take my morning walk down to gaze at all the birds. They flock to the area as they migrate from the north to the south. Millions of birds frequent these waters.

The Fantasy Casino is about 25 miles north of the Salton Sea so it was an easy drive. Parking at this casino is no secret to RV’ers. There were lots of them parked here when we arrived and a few more came in during the day.. However, the lot is huge so many more would be welcome.

After getting our Player’s Card we checked out the lunch buffet. Important things first. On Wednesday we had eaten at Spotlight 29 so wanted to compare the two and see which we preferred. Without a doubt we felt the Fantasy Spring’s buffet was much more elegant than the one at Spotlight 29. What a feast and what a treat! The desert bar was fantastic. We were even afraid to walk close to it as we were sure all those calories were going to jump out and grab us.

Whoever said casino parking is free. It definitely is not. We made our contribution to the casino using the slots. We left more there than we gained just like they hope you do.

One more night boondocking at the casino and then we move down the road about another four miles to the Thousand Trails park here. We can hardly wait. We did a drive-by yesterday with Jerry and Janice. They will be moving there today.

Did we skip dinner after that huge buffet earlier in the day? Of course not. Jim and Sandie twisted our arms to go with them to Panda Express. Actually they didn’t have to twist much as we’re not accustomed to turning down an offer to go eat so we didn’t.

Things are good.

Last Night At Salton Sea

“This used to be a government of checks and balances. Now it's all checks and no balances.” – Gracie Allen

Well, this is it. It’s time to move on again. There’s certainly no grass growing under our feet. Or, is it under our wheels? We have been here a total of four nights. We were treated to another gorgeous sunset on our last night at the Salton Sea’s RV park. And, this morning, the sunrise was full of color. It's not that I wanted to walk around at sunrise but Duchess had other ideas.

Jerry and Janice pulled out yesterday morning. However, they weren’t going far and we actually didn’t even tell them goodbye. Why? Well, they just moved down the road to the Fantasy Springs Casino where we will be joining them tonight along with Jim and Sandie. Then, Jim and Sandie will head back to Arizona and we’ll join Jerry and Janice again for a few nights at the Thousand Trails in Palm Springs. The party just won’t stop.

We picked up our mail in Mecca. Mecca is definitely not our favorite little town. All the streets in town are torn up and muddy. Every one of them appears to be under construction. Getting stuck in the mud was a very big possibility so we were extremely careful where we went. I’m not sure if the streets ever were paved but they may have been. Most of the stores and homes we saw had bars across the windows. One doesn’t get a real secure feeling when seeing the bars. The postman was nice and efficient and we were on our way as fast as we could.

We also headed into Indio and contributed to the Spotlight 29 Casino. With the Player’s Card on Thursday they give you $10 to get you started on their machines. They know that if they get you started, you’ll no doubt contribute a bit more. We didn’t let them down. We did just as they expected us to do. We contributed.

The good thing about the trip into town was that we discovered a Winco! That’s right … a Winco! That is our very favorite public grocery store. It was so exciting to walk down the aisles and compare prices to the ones in the stores at Quartzsite during the month of January. So, for the next couple of weeks we’ll be in the area and be able to buy groceries and not feel like we’re being ripped off by the grocery stores. What a find! Just think I can now buy four cans of Green Giant Green Beans for $1.98 where in Quartzsite they were almost that price for one!!

That’s about it because it’s time to move. This park has been full most nights but now there are quite a few empty slots. So, if you haven't been here, it's a great place to visit.

We’re having a grand time!

Checking Out Indio Casinos

“The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat.” – Lily Tomlin

We’re still sitting at the Salton Sea for another couple days then we’re off to boondock at a casino … or two. Yep, you’re right. We’re really going to boondock again … and, so soon too. Actually, at the current time we need to do this for three nights instead of the two I originally thought we were going to do. It’s that calendar thing that’s responsible. When you don’t follow it, you screw up. I screwed up. And, Terry wasn’t a happy camper when he discovered it would be more than the two nights I originally told him about. Oh well, I’m trying to get another night at the Thousand Trails park in Palm Springs but everything is booked up. I’m certainly going to keep trying though. We’re hoping someone changes their mind and leaves early … we’re really hoping! So, if you’re there, please move out.

The park here at Salton Sea has been full every night. All of the dry camping sites down the road are closed. The internet indicates that Salt Creek is open. However, that’s not the case since it’s been closed due to flooding from the recent storms that hit California and Arizona.

Yesterday we hijacked our neighbors, Jerry and Janice, and headed towards the casinos close to Indio to check them out. There are two of them and both allow overnight RV parking. Since we have to move the 30 miles tomorrow, we figured we’d pick a spot. One has a sign posted indicating there is a 24-hour limit. However, many times they don’t enforce it so we’re thinking that’s probably the same here.

The casino closest to us is Spotlight 29 with Fantasy Springs only a couple miles farther down the road. It was a tough decision where to eat lunch. However, Spotlight 29 offered their buffet lunch $3 less than the one at Fantasy Springs. Decision made … we ended up enjoying the scrumptious buffet lunch at the Spotlight 29. Jim and Sandie also took time out from their gambling to join us. And, as usual we filled our bellies until we could hardly walk outside. It was good!

Both of the casinos had several RVs set up on their property. There were more at the Fantasy Springs but we’re not sure why other than the fact this casino offered you sign-up bonus’ when you received their player card. They advertise if you pay for $20, they’ll give you $50. Now that’s a deal. They’re actually paying you to play. The deal is you have to know when to stop. The parking facility at Fantasy Springs is nice and on a huge gravel lot. The facilities at Spotlight 29 (formerly Trump) are on a paved lot. However, I’m thinking with the deal offered at Fantasy Springs and the more RV’s in their lot, that might be the best choice. However, why rush a decision. We’ll make that one tomorrow.

Today will be a beautiful day and we’ll probably just sit back, enjoy the view of the water, of the snow-capped mountains and the birds.

Life is good.

Salvation Mountain & The Slabs

"If a man watches three football games in a row, he should be declared legally dead." - Erma Bombeck

Another beautiful morning at the Salton Sea. The water was a beautiful blue with many species of birds all around. The snow capped mountains surround the sea giving an awsome view. This is certainly a great place to spend a few days.



On the Agenda today was Salvation Mountain and The Slabs. Jim and Sandie rode with us and so we headed about 30 miles south to check it out.

Salvation Mountain is definitely quite a site. It is the work of Leonard Knight. The mountain and the work displays his devotion to God and the passing along of His message of "love". He has lived in his pickup truck (a 1939 White fire truck) for 24 years. He has no modern conveniences and that means even no electricity, running water, fans or heat. It's boondocking for a very, very long time. He works with clay molding the mountain and the surrounding fixtures into bible verses, birds, trees and flowers. On March 29th the local PBS station in Los Angeles will be doing a feature on this mountain.

The mountain is very ornate and was well worth the trip. Leonard even gave us his personal guided tour by Leonard. This is his passion and his life's work. Our next stop was The Slabs.

The Slabs is an old WWII military base that has been taken over by RV'ers from all walks of life that live here during the winter months. However, some do live here all year long. It was extremely interesting. We know some folks love it and others ... not so much. Some RV's are hardly holding together while others are the top of the line new units. At least now we can say we've been to The Slabs. It's definitely not for everyone.

On our way back to the headquarters at the Salton Sea we also made a stop at the Fountain of Youth RV Resort and Spa to check it out. It is a community within itself and quite a community it is .... filled with snowbirds. There are several swimming pools, mineral baths and all the activities you could imagine. However, even though it was represented as the Fountain of Youth, it didn't work for us. We were the same age going into the park as leaving it.












Life is good.

Desert Church -- Sunset at Salton Sea

"It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Sunday was our last full day in Quartzsite and we had a lot to do. First of all, I went with Marsha and Paul to the Church in the desert. It was a non-denominational church and held right on the BLM land. There was quite a crowd. Coffee was served. The church had a "blessing" table. You could give a "blessing" or take one. People brought many different items hoping others could use them. There was no charge. After all, it was a blessing. I thought this was nice. It was a nice service and wish I had discovered the little gem sooner.

Laundry was piling up, last minute shopping for a much needed towbar lock was done and searching for a product for a friend was on the agenda. In addition, we met with our group for the "last supper". Plans had been made to eat at Palo Verde Cafe. This is one place we hadn't had a chance to visit yet. The only problem was that they did not have tables together for a large group. What did I order? Liver and onions!! You don't see that on the menu much and I know it's not the most popular meal but it was good. And, Terry, well, the normal ..... hot beef sandwich with real potatoes. The food was excellent and if we ever visit Quartzsite again, this place will be on our "favorites" list.

Check out Ed supervising antenna work ----->

Our last campfire of the season was another fantastic one. Again, Paul was in charge of ensuring we had the biggest and best. He certainly did that. Thank you, Paul. There were 16 of us around the campfire and we all enjoyed it. It was a great ending to a wonderful few weeks.

Monday morning meant that all but four people would be leaving. One by one everyone said their good-byes. Freddy & Delsey were moving to another part of the BLM. Bruce & Sue were going to Banning and Paul & Marsha to Yuma. Six of us were heading to the Salton Sea --- Terry & I, Janice & Jerry and Sandie & Jim. Ed & Linda and Dave & Linda stayed behind for at least one more night. See ... I did remember. Others had pulled out before and who knows where they are right now but we knew at the time where they were heading.

We ended up pulling out about 10:00 AM heading for the Salton Sea. We stopped at the Flying J in Ehrenberg for fuel and propane and continued on our way into California. The rest stops in Arizona were mostly all closed due to financial issues. California on the other hand had usable rest areas. The idea was to take the short-cut through Box Canyon Rd. However, since we'd had so much rain, mud and rock slides, we were going to drive through there with the toad way in front first. We didn't get that far. The road was closed. So, I guess we were right. The storms probably caused some damage. Thus, the road wasn't open and we'd have to take the long way around.

We had stayed at the Corvina Beach park at the Salton Sea in 2009 for about ten days and loved it. The view was awesome and the company we were with, fabulous. However, this year Corvina Beach was closed and we really, really wanted full hookups. After all we had been without them for 3 long weeks. We wanted a long, long, hot shower and lots of electricity so we opted for the full hookups at the Visitors Center. We didn't have reservations but spaces were available. We were happy.

Even though we had been there the sight still caught us off guard. The view was phenomenal. White snow-capped mountains sit on the western shore of the lake and the water is so beautiful. It'll be a wonderful 4-days just absorbing all there is to see. I'm so glad we decided to retrace our steps and come back here. It certainly is beautiful. This evening we ate on Janice and Jerry's picnic table and enjoyed the gorgeous view and fabulous sunset over the water. It's a little different than our view at Quartzsite....just a little.

I've been trying to make this blog short by summarizing it. Believe me, I am but it's really difficult when we've seen so much and done so much in the last two days. That's what happens when I put off posting on busy days.

Life is good.

Last Saturday in Quartzsite

"Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies." - Groucho Marx

This is the last weekend for the current vendors at the Big Tent. New ones will be moving in. We thought we'd walk through the tent just one more time. The first time we were there much earlier and did finally find a parking place. This time we arrived close to noon and all we did was drive through the parking lot behind everyone else also looking for a place to park. Finally, we decided to go to the LaPosa area behind the events and walk in. Actually we had no choice if we wanted a place to park.

Quite a few cars were parking along the side of the road. Last week we noticed a ton of them parked on the side and now they were starting to assemble again even though the sign clearly indicated, No Parking. On our way back all of these vehicles had red courtesy stickers on their windows indicating if they didn't move in an hour they would receive a parking violation. I don't know how many actually got the ticket. But, the real question is how many of those that got a ticket would actually pay it? Most of the vehicles had out-of-state plates so doubt a lot of revenue would really come in but who knows?


The crowds were still in the Big Tent. The vendors seemed stressed. They weren't quiet as pleasant or energetic as the week -end before. They were probably getting a little tired of all the people too. Some of the vendors had already vacated their space. Wonder how sales were?


We drove past the cactus plants that had been blown down on Thursday. I mentioned this in my blog yesterday. We wanted to check them out and were curious if they could be saved. There were seven laying on the ground. Some had large slits in them but others were still in good form. We did check and found out that they will replant those that they can. Some will need surgery and they'll try to save the arms if they can by re-planting that part of the cactus. The roots are very shallow.


We also tried another restaurant in town. It was the La Paz Cafe which serves American and Mexican food. We hadn't eaten there before and it was a late lunch or early dinner. Our rating would be "ok" .. not great but just okay. Terry had the hot roast beef sandwich again and I had a french dip. Mashed potatoes were instant, french fries were the crinkled frozen kind and gravy was very salty and just so-so. Service wasn't friendly nor was it unfriendly. It was just service. Again, I think all the crowds are wearing on the locals.


Bruce and Sue moved into our camping area and joined us in the evening at the campfire. It was a beautiful evening with very light winds and another great campfire. The Lavins roasted marshmallows and all of us chatted as we usually do. Our time at Quartzsite is coming to an end and so are the campfires. Most areas don't allow them anymore. We're enjoying the fire while we can.



Weather is great again and life is good.

The Storm is Over - Back to the Campfire

"I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in. " George Washington Carver

The major storm has passed and we're so thankful. Yesterday we saw a break in the cloudy sky. Even some blue was showing through so off to town we went for breakfast with Ed and Linda. It was to Janet's Cafe after we discovered the Palo Verde Cafe didn't open for breakfast. We saw a tree uprooted and several large cactus. on their sides. I wanted to go back and take a picture of the saguaro cactus but didn't get a chance so you'll just have to imagine. Evidently a small tornado touched down across a path in Quartzsite uprooting several trees along with the cactus. At least, that's what we heard and you could certainly see the path.

Friday had a few small showers and a little wind but compared to Thursday was a beautiful day.... not really beautiful but just compared to Thursday. It's amazing how fast the floods can come in the desert and then again, how fast they disappear. We were thankful for the disappearance.

Our group is getting smaller and smaller as folks continue on their way to somewhere. By next week everyone will be north, west, east or south or somewhere in between. We've had Toni & Doug, Eric & Karla, Don & Joyce and even IYQ pull out. We're already hoping we get to meet up with them again down the road. What a great group this has been! We'll be pulling out on Monday. Originally, it was going to be on Tuesday but if rain is expected then, we want to beat it.

Yesterday we finally got to meet Teton Bruce and Sue. They stopped by for a visit and plan on coming back again this evening for time around the campfire. Speaking of campfire, we actually got to have another one last night after the winds died down. Paul was in charge. We like putting people in charge of the work and he volunteered so we let him. The rest of us just sat around and enjoyed it.

Our Blue Ox towbar was ready so we picked that up. One arm had been replaced, the other arm checked out and new fittings added .... $292 later it was guaranteed to be perfect! In addition, our car windshield was replaced with a brand new one. I guess that's one way to get all the road oil cleaned off.

Today ... ?? I'm sure we'll do something. The sun is shining and the sky is very blue this morning. We might venture down to the Big Tent again since it closes tomorrow.

Things are good.

What a Storm !!

"An idea not coupled with action will never get any bigger than the brain cell it occupied. " Arnold H. Glasow

The storm finally arrived! News broadcasters had been warning of the ferocious storms that were bombarding California with rain and high winds. On Thursday this storm crossed the border and arrived in Arizona with a vengeance. We rocked and swayed and when that wasn't enough we started rolling and bucking. At times the rain was so thick and the wind so strong, that you could hardly see your neighbor. Everyone had their antennas down and their slides in. We were all hunkered down.

The morning started out with light rain showers. After all, it had been raining lightly all night. Jim put up his awning because Skittles and Scooter (their dachshunds) didn't want to go out without shelter. Well, pet owners certainly understand that. However he almost lost that awning. It was flying everywhere but with quite an effort it was safely stowed again.

During a brief moment of calm winds we decided to venture just a little ways .. not too far. We wanted to look at all the roads across the little ravines. They were filled with water but not too much. We also took a little stroll north on Hwy 95 to the first dip that was flooded and decided we really didn't want to do this so headed back. And, we're glad we did as we hadn't seen anything like the late afternoon rumbling.

A few adventurous souls (or desperate ones) were at the dump and filling up with water. We've got to admit though no one else was in line so they didn't have to wait.

From what I understand the Big Tent was closed down as well as most businesses in town. It'll be interesting to hear about any damage. Sandie also said she heard there was a tornado watch for the area. We didn't hear much all day. Our tv was down, phone wasn't working and our internet wouldn't connect. My guess is the tower was overloaded .... or worse yet, down.

We did receive a reprieve between storms. And, of course, during that time everyone joined together outside to discuss just how bad the rocking was! When the rain started again everyone fled inside.

What I'd do? Well, I started reading a book, watched a movie, made tapioca pudding, made meat loaf, baked potatoes and tosssed a salad. What else was there to do? It was too wet and too cold for much of a walk. The prediction for Friday is more rain. I certainly hope it's just rain and not that wind again. I don't like any of it but the wind can be so damaging. It caught our door and now we need a new replacement bracket. Hopefully, that's all we'll give it an opportunity to catch. Much more of this rain though and on our scuba gear goes!

Blue Ox Repair and Silly Al's

"Do you realize if it weren't for Edison we'd be watching TV by candlelight? " - Al Boliska

Not only did the rain not go away, it came in with force. It's gorgeous this morning but from what the weatherman is telling us, it's only going to get worse. Not much we can do except sit here and hold onto our hat until the winds blow over. We're actually not planning on moving out of Quartzsite until Monday or Tuesday of next week. Of course, by now you all know whatever plans we make are rarely followed through to a "T".

Check this tow out ------>

The Blue Ox dealer in town called and let us know yesterday that one arm of ours needed to be replaced. We expected some sort of repair bill but not because that's what they do. It's because we just had a feeling the towbar had issues especially after one arm drug when it came loose from our car ... going uphill. So, we're actually relieved to have it looked at by folks who really know what they're talking about. We'll find out today if it can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced ... ouch!

We had ordered our mail for delivery in Quartzsite. Last year we had it delivered to Parker but figured instead of driving there, we'd just bite the bullet and stand in line. So, Tuesday we did just that. The line was about an hour long. Everyone else had the same idea. The only difference is that most of them had mail to pick up. Ours hadn't arrived yet so we get to stand in that same line again. Aren't we lucky?

Our conservation method has greatly improved over last year. I'm not sure if it's because we have more capacity or if we've just figured things out a little more. The pump had finally arrived at LaPosa and was repaired so water was available again. It's not that we needed water or really needed to dump or even needed propane. However, we figured there would be a long line once everyone else discovered the well was flowing again and if we were going to move, we were going to do it all. So, with half a tank of water left, 2/3 tank of propane and who knows what level the gray/black water tanks were (gauges sometimes work and sometimes don't), we made a bee-line to get our business taken care of. The lines weren't bad until later in the afternoon but we're thinking the word hadn't got out yet. But, oops, this morning we woke up to no water at all!! Guess what .... the fill-valve was left open!

Last night was spent at Silly Al's for pizza. We all seem to like that place in town. The service is great and the food is good. Silly Al's starts hopping about 4:00 so Eric and Karla volunteered to hold the tables for our group of about 18 while we all wandered in at different times. It was a great evening ... as most of them are with this gang. We're certainly going to miss all of them as we head our separate ways over the next few days.

We may take a day trip to Yuma after the storms go through on Saturday. And, then we may not. With all the RV'ers flooding the internet it's a little difficult to get online and stay there. Checking out all the places we'd like to go isn't easy. Our future plans include the Salton Sea, Yuma and Death Valley but putting it all together with a place to park is where the challenge is. Right now .. that's all we know.

Life is good.

Rain, Rain Go Away!

"On vacations: We hit the sunny beaches where we occupy ourselves keeping the sun off our skin, the saltwater off our bodies, and the sand out of our belongings."

The rains are coming. At least that's what the weatherman keeps telling us. Actually, we've already had a little but it was mainly overnight. It was just enough to soak the chairs that were out and settle the dust a little. The big storm is ahead of us. By Thursday we're supposed to be experiencing heavy rains and thunderstorms. However, that's a few days away so anything can happen.

We visited Desert Bar last year so opted not to go with the group again. If you haven't visited, it certainly is well worth the visit. It's a long drive and about five miles of it is on a dirt road. The whole place is run by solar. They serve food, have a band and are only open on weekends.

What did we do instead? We took a shower! That doesn't sound like a big feat but actually it was. There is still no water on the BLM and the pump isn't expected in for a few more days. Needless to say, we're trying to conserve what little water we still have. Across from Rice Ranch, there is a vendor who drives a big semi in with portable showers on board. What a treat it was!! We also visited the new Walmart in Parker. It's amazing how much more expensive some of the goods in these stores are when they are out in the boonies.

Another vendor at the Big Tent is Blue Ox. For $25 they will give your towbar a safety inspection and replace any bad parts. What a deal! We took our tow bar down today.
Everyone has been saying the crowds aren't in Quartzsite as they have been in the past. Well, they obviously weren't in the 3-mile long line today into town. It was way more stop than go.

We're starting to try to chart our direction when we leave here next week but it's more difficult than last year. At least it seems that way. There just has to be more folks in the south this winter than last because all the RPI parks are full! Last year the parks had availability after "Q". This year none of them do so we're looking at other options. Help! We need soapy hot water to clean out all the dust! Folks in our group are starting to move out. We'll be ready after Thursday but need some place to go.

Life is good.

No Water Available!

"Before you try to keep up with the Joneses, be sure they're not trying to keep up with you." Erma Bombeck

It has been an interesting last couple of days in Quartzsite. More and more RV's have pulled into town. Linda and Dave Sands even rolled into our circle on the BLM. The streets are so busy that we feel it's best not to venture far from our motorhome. If we did, it would probably take an hour or two to get back. And, remember there are a lot of lurkers out there that have all the time in the world. With our luck we'd be stuck behind them and wouldn't get back until after dark. The crowds are tremendous and there is no crowd control.

With thousands and thousands and thousands of RV's in this little town, the BLM land has no water! Can you believe there is no water? There isn't. Evidently the pump broke and it will not be restored until sometime this next week. For those that filled up just before the water was turned off, they're really lucky. Other folks are starting to sweat it. There is one place in town that will fill your propane and water tanks but with the whole system down, we can imagine the line. And, you have to drive through this crowd to get there. Another option is to have one of the independents deliver water to you for about $25. I bet their business is booming. Last year there was a vendor who had temporary showers set up for $5.00. I'm thinking this might be an option for me.

Saturday the Big Tent opened. Parking was a zoo and people swarmed the area. Vendors were busy answering questions and actually selling products. Everyone seemed to walk away with a few new treasures. We were no exception. Most importantly I finally found a replacement Wilson amplifier without having to order it. However, even though I have a great signal, it's difficult getting on the internet and staying on it especially in the early evening. Everyone else is trying to stay connected too.


Duchess got a nifty new combo dog food and water dish. And, Terry's been checking out all the tire pressure monitors. There are four different brands in the Big Tent. Not only does price vary but also features vary. Some ring an alarm if the pressure drops below a certain percentage of what it should be but the percentage is not adjustable. Others give you the option of setting at what level you want the alarm to go off as well as notifies you of tire temperature. The Pressure Pro is the most advertised. However, from what we understand it hasn't had changes to it's technology in six years so we're not so sure it's the best ... just the most well-known.


Terry also got a chance to voice his opinion to Braziel's RV about the expensive redos we had to have done at Camping World after a visit to their shop in Centralia in June. They told him to bring in the receipts and they would make it right. We'll see. We had quite a few issues with them. Well, I believe we all have had repair horror stories. There's probably no way to avoid them either. So, we just pass along the stories.


The prize for spending the most money goes to Paul and Marsha. They purchased a new Winegard Trav'ler 1000 and had it installed today. Ed and Linda were close behind with their purchase of a Pressure Pro Tire Monitor system.


Tonight was the big shindig for the group we were with. Sandie had organized everything. We were the judges for their chili cook-off. It was actually a tough call since we all had different opinions. Finally with the normal bribing between the judges, one winner was selected and awarded the prize of the night. Karla won first place.


Also, with the campfire came the traditional graduation ceremony for those beginning their RV adventures in 2009. It was a lot of fun and everyone shared their reasons for venturing out adding a few experiences. And, as usual, IYQ did a marvelous job of keeping a very good fire going.


It was just another fun evening. We've been so busy .... often wonder how we had time to work. We need a vacation from this vacation to relax. Sunday - The Desert Bar but we've been there, done that.


Life is good.