The 2 Balls -Art & Gerri's RV Adventures

TOWING "DA BUS"

2011-04-04T19:49:00.000-05:00

Well, after we left Safford, AZ we headed towards Alamogordo, NM we were going to take the scenic route towards Red Bay. We had left LaCruces, NM and were in the mountains on US 70, we were going down hill and we smelled smoke and saw the rear brakes smoking, we pulled to the side and checked the brakes. They were reading well over 300 degrees. We sat for awhile and tried backing up to unlock the brakes but no luck. It was about 6pm in the evening.

So we called Coach Net - our roadside service for assstance. Coach Net was great in trying to get us a tow but the best they could do was tour compan in Alburquerque,NM. 5 hours away. Due to the oncoming night and the hazards of towing an oversized and high profile vehicle at night in the mountains, it was decided to wait until morning for the tow truck. Coach Net and the tow company wanted to make absolutely sure we were ok on the side of the road till morning.

DanLar Towing in Alburquerque, NM arrived promptly in the morning and preceded to load the motor home onto the bed of the tow vehicle.

The bed of the tow truck

Sure looks narrow

WoW - Loaded at last.

Ya Think

There were LOTS of breath holding "Will it make it"

thoughts

Arriving at the Cummins Dealer

Rocky Mountain

1921 Broadway NW

Albuquerque, NM

We spent two nights at the Cummins Dealer. Luckily, we did not have a major problem, cleaned and re calibrated the brakes. The mechanic thinks that when we applied he emergency parking brake when we pulled off the road, that cause the brakes to lock.We also had the generator serviced while we there. They were great to deal with.

We took advantage of the time and went to dinner at "Church Street Cafe", located in Old Town. It was wonderful dinner of locale Mexican food. Art also bought me a wonderful turquoise necklace and earrings from a local Indian vendor.

2011-03-31T00:38:00.001-05:00

Wonderful Sunsets in Arizona

Black Hills Visit, Morrenci Mines, Catwalk Canyon, AZ

2011-03-24T00:43:00.000-05:00

WEEK OF MARCH 22, 2011
Our group from he Escapees Boondockers took an afternoon drive stopping in the Black Hills. We stopped at many of the major points along the route, took lots of photo's, had lunch at local spo in Clifton, took the road up to a working copper mine, Morennci and had a great day. The weather was great. Part of the group below.

The operation of the Copper Mines

Great rock formations along the way

More Great Rock Formations

Begining of theCat Walk

Description of the Cat Walk. 1/2 Mile is relatively easy and then

becomes more difficult

Part of the Cat Walk - Spectacular Views

Back at last. I could only make the first mile due to my knee. Some of the others Art include did the whole trail.

QUIRKY QUARTZSITE 2011 TIFFIN RVNETWORK RALLY

2011-02-06T17:09:00.000-06:00

Well once again January finds us gathered in Quartzsite,AZ for the annual RV show and the gathering of over 50 Tiffins and few SOB's (some other brands - not what you thought huh). We have over 50 rigs. I will post only a few and then add a Picas link to my web album. We are just having too much fun. It is cooler this year than last, yeh I know most of you would kill for high 60 or low 70 weather. But it sure makes for a chilly evening sitting around the fire.

TIFFINS FOR AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE

Lots more pictures of the rally can be seen here. https://picasaweb.google.com/gballsold/2011QuartzsiteTIFFINRALLY?authkey=Gv1sRgCOWVj4P9kenMggE&feat=directlink

RED BAY, AL TIFFIN SERVICE CENTER. UPGRADES

2011-01-23T21:02:00.000-06:00

Anyone familar with the Rving Industry and others certainly know the saga of the Norcold Refrigerators that are installed in most motorhomes. There is a design flaw in them that has caused many motorhome and RV fires. It is way too technical to go into on my part. Many articles exist on the internet. Our Norcold was frosting up and not keeping things cold. Repairing it was not even an option in light of their history. We decided to up grade to a Residential Style Refrigerator. This also required changing out our invertor in order for the refrigerator to work. I am so thrilled with the new refrigertor it is way better than any refrigerator I had in our brick and sticks home. Below are pictures of the old and now our new.

Our Old Norcold that was not working

Our New 22 cubic feet Whirlpool Refrigerator

Getting the old one out and the new one was a major accomplishment. It required removal of the window, the same one that came out for the washer and dryer.

We also decided to add a dishwasher. This was a major decision that I wrestled with for over a year. It meant giving up precious storage space but in the end I am so glad I did. Fisher & Paykel make a drawer type dishwasher and it went it under the stove top.

Old Space that I lost for the dishwasher. Located under stove top.

New Stainless Steel look finish. What a joy. It is so quiet and only useds less than 2 gallons of water. I love it.

2011 The New Year and the End of the Old

2011-01-23T20:21:00.000-06:00

Well it sure has been a long time since I posted, but then other than eat, sleep and working at Amazon.com we haven't done anything interesting. We started at Amazon in Coffeyville,KS on September 12, 2010 and stayed until December 18,2010.

The most significant thing that has happened is the marriage of our oldest son in Hawaii. It was such an awesome event and having my family and friends there made it extra special. My sister and her family, her husband and my two nephews came. along with our life long friends, Jim and Colleen Wilson and her daughter and husband, Racheal and Abe Pratt. We took a week off from Amazon to fly to Hawaii for the wedding.

AMAZON.COM

Many friends and family are curious about our experience working at this company. WOW - where do I start. I stated some observations about Amazon early on in our arrival. Very strange. Something you either love or hate. Many workampers come back year after year. Why? Haven't really figured that out. Money is the biggest draw. Others say that and the friends they make and renew each year. Have a little more trouble with that last statement. The money is great but at some point your physical and mental health and welfare are more important. Short term I guess you can endure anything.

Typically Amazon requires a 40 hour work week, 4 days a week (10 hrs per day). Now this body thought that it could handle that. Oh my gosh was I wrong. I kept waiting for my body to "harden", that's what they call it. Waiting for my body to get use to this schedule and my feet to stop hurting.

Amazon assigns positions as needed by departments. Sometimes you like where your working, sometimes not. Most of the permanent staff are pretty helpful and welcome the workampers, because they know their workload will be lighten. The work is hard, tedious and usually fast paced. Amazon is concerned about numbers. They push for you to get your processing numbers up to the acceptable levels.During the peak Xmas season the work week goes to 50 hours and some days when orders are up 11 hour days. This is mandatory. While we liked the area we worked, even excelled, the people were great, the work for us was hard and left us most days feeling exhausted and like zombies. However, like others have said, "It's all about the money", and for us with the wedding and some upgrades we wanted to do on the motor home that's what it was for us. It was strange though, most workamping jobs we have had, had lots of socialization along with the work. I doubt that we will go back, or at least I am not sure I want but Art who didn't seem to dislike it as much as I did, says he might want go back.

St Louis.

We left Amazon and headed to St Louis for the holidays. It was good to be home for Xmas Eve, although bad weather kept some people away but most made it. New Year Eve, was spent with friends and a great meal.

It is possible to entertain and host a small (very) small dinner in an RV. I prepared Prime Rib on the stove, Yorkshire pudding in the microwave/convection.

January 2011 will find us leaving for Red Bay, Al to get some upgrades done on the motor home and a few maintenance items taken care and then it's off to Quartzsite, AZ for the annual gathering of thousands of RV's and meeting up with our friends. Those that own Tiffin Motor Homes and a group of Escapee RV'ers, both the Boomer's and the Boondockers. Those terms can be the subject of a whole blog posting in and of it's self.

Arthur and Genie's Wedding in Hawaii and Activities

2011-01-23T20:01:00.001-06:00

Here is a brief description and pictures of the wedding from November. I am just now catching up on my blog. Seems I am a little behind, because my internet connection is a little slow here in Quartzsite, I will only post a few pics and edit it latter.

A great looking couple. My family is now complete. I have 2 wonderful daughter in laws who know how to handle my two high maintenance boys. Genie we love you. How exquisite you look. Yes,Arthur you look good also.

November, 2010 took us to Hawaii for the wedding our eldest son. It was a time to remember with no detail overlooked. Lots of activities and good time by all highlighted with a romantic touching wedding. Tons of memories were made.

The 3 Mrs.Balls. Gerri, Genie, Heather

Bridal Party on the Veranda of the Hotel

Tyler (Best Man) Arthur

On the Righ. My sister, Theresa,John,my brother-in-law, and my nephews Aaroon,Kyle and Genie relative on the left

Art looking over his notes for the toast

WORKING AT AMAZON. OUCH!!!!!

2010-09-19T22:47:00.000-05:00

Well we arrived in Coffeyville, KS to spend the next several months working at Amazon.com. Amazon hires "seasonal campers" as temporary employees to work their peak season before Xmas. Their Xmas shopping seasons with hiring "seasonal campers" starts mid August and continues Dec 23. They start anytime. We are starting September 12. We will 40 hour work week, which consist of 10 hour shifts, 4 day/nights a week, and scheduled overtime can occur at anytime. We basically pack the orders, we will be trained in other areas as the weeks progress. This first week is called our "conditioning week". We will only work 3 (5) hour weeks. OMG - my body hurts after just these shifts. Can't imagine the next several weeks. But from veterens who have done this in years past, here is their comment

Yes we thought we knew what we were in for but I forgot to tell my body.- too funny. I feel the same.
It's not that bad, the Amazon Veterans are just like any other veterans, proud of their service and thankful of thier survival!
After 3 weeks your body will quit rebelling, the fat will turn to muscle, you will be able to cut back on the perfume and aftershave to hide the tell-tale ben-gay aroma, and painkillers will be desert intead of a main course.
Of course, that is also the week YOU join the ranks of the veterans.
1st week Newbie; 2nd week Experienced; 3rd week Veteran...)

Ok, so on Wednesday we become experienced. Yeh, right.

I have a new appreciation and respect for the American line worker. It is interesting to have your finger on the pulse of the shopper of today. Right now we are packing single item orders, like books, videos, cd, and so. Lots of Halloween items going out.

We are in a new campground across from Amazon. Amazon provides a campground as part of it's compensation package to it's seasonal camper. Right now it's a mess because of the recent rains, but it seems to getting better. We have to take a wait and see attitude. It nice being so close. Under 10 minutes from out the door at end of shift to bed :). They do have other campgrounds in the area that we could take advantage of.

REPAIRS AT RED BAY

2010-07-26T21:26:00.000-05:00

Well we were making good time heading towards St Louis. We begun having more and more trouble with our dash AC not cooling. With the outside air reading close to 100 degrees each day, we need AC. We were in the North Little Rock,AR area and we stopped / or called at least 6 different dealers and no one could work on dash AC on a motor home. Our washing machine also stop in the rinse cycle and would not drain or spin. So - I guess a trip to Red Bay to the Tiffin Factory Service was in order.

We arrived late Monday afternoon. Got one of the few spots left and got an Express Bay appointment for Thursday. Express Bay is for repairs that take less than 4 hours and are for repairs that do no have an appointment . Thursday turned into a Friday service call and 4 hours has now turned into 3 days.

The washer was not a minor problem. We need a new washer - several problems with that diagnosis. The washer is attached to the dryer and the stack unit was built into the coach while the coach was being built.

These are pictures of our friends coach being built-

All items are added Before the walls go on. This shows how
a motor home is built.

Our unit. Old Stack (attached) Washer Dryer Needs To Come Out.

Hallway from Bedroom to Living Room that

Washer Dryer Needs to come thru

Tight Fit but it made it

Out the window with the old and in with the new

New Washer Dryer !

TIMEKEEPER'S GATE GUARD : The End. Follow Up and Closing Thoughts

2010-07-16T22:08:00.003-05:00

Well this gig (job) is over and we had to pack up and leave. It is with mixed emotions that we do so. It has been really slow the last several weeks. We have been waiting for "fracturing" a process of clearing the line in preparation for "production." (getting the gas to flow). We had been told the company is behind in fracturing wells, due to lots of factors - money, lots of wells, weather (Alex) left a lot of mud and soggy ground. We never could get a straight answer - but most seem to think it would be 3-5 more weeks before fracturing occurred. So they decided to close all the gates (5 in total on this ranch).

Leaving Fasken Ranch and our gate

Bad part about it is that we had less than 24 hours notice. After sitting here since April 5, we had a lot to do to pack. Cleaning the dirt and organizing was the biggest. We also could not leave until the field manager picked up the generator, water tank and our time sheets. No idea when he would come. Once that was picked up we needed to leave within several hours

Our Gate: Goodbye.

Sage Bush In Bloom Outside our front door.

Well lots of people have asked a lot of questions about this job and the company. I will try to answer as factual and honest as I can. Of course, this is my opinion and observation and every one has a right to that and everyone will be different.

How did you get this job?

Answer: We are members of "Workampers.com". This quote is taken directly from their introduction page of www.workampers.com : "Workampers are adventurous individuals,couples and families who have chosen a wonderful lifestyle that combines ANY kind of part-time or full-time work with RV camping. If you work as an employee, operate a business, or donate your time as a volunteer, and you sleep in an RV (or on site housing), you are a Workamper!"

We review the daily listing of workamper jobs available and decide what we want to do. This is the first year we have worked for pay. This job came up on that list.

Why did you pick this job?

Answer: Why not. Timekeeper's had been advertising for sometime and the pay seemed great. It sounded interesting and we had not done it before.

What do you do?

Answer: Our main and primary responsibility is to man the gate we are assigned to 24/7. We sign anyone who passes thru that gate in/out. Even the ranch foreman and manager signed in and out. It gives an accounting of who has come and gone. The gates are on ranches that an oil/gas company has to construct a rig for purposes of drilling and producing oil/gas. This includes all workers, vendors, and suppliers. They come 24 hours a day. There are breaks that no one comes. I generally worked during the night ( I could sleep as long as I respond quickly to the alarm at the gate and was there to open and close it) Art then did the day shift. If it was too busy I slept some during the day. We could do anything we wanted during the down time but someone had to be at the motor home all the time. Which meant only one of us could go to town. General we took turns. I mainly went into town with another one of the women at another gate.

Pros:

Great Pay
Timely Deposit
No daily schedule to adhere to
No boss to answer to
The crews become friends
Lots of wildlife and wild flowers
I learned a lot about gas drilling

Cons:

Poor support for gate guards from management
Improper size equipment for larger motor homes. Generators can not handle 2 Ac's
Too far apart delivery of water and fuel for generator. Delivery only every 10 days. Septic dump every 2 weeks. That is a stretch for just about everyone.
Poor communication from management.
This company is mainly an "on call" company. They never know when or how many gate guards they will need. When they do, you only have a day or to get to the job site. So if you not in the immediate area, you generally can not accept.
Not able to determine how long a job will last. This is not really their fault since the drilling company does not communicate it to them. However, it seems to me that if there was communication from Timekeeper's to the drilling company that could change.

In my opinion, what will kill this company is the poor equipment and stingy attitudes of the company. I will let it go a that. Many morning we woke up and looked in the mirror and said three times - "This is a job, not a career." :)

Final Question: Would we do it again? Hm mm - Jury still out on that. This is our 3rd year workamping but it is our first year and this was our first job to do it for pay. We are doing another job this fall for pay and we will have to do some comparison before I answer that. We usually like to move on. Been there - done that is our motto. There is so much to try and see and do it seems a shame to do something more than once. But many people do

So long for now - headed to St Louis for Dr appts, and to clean out our locker. Yeah and get rid of that headache and payment. Then onward to Amazon for the fall.

While we were here we decided to try to make Prickly Pear Jelly. The plant is in full bloom and the ranch maner and owner said we could pick them. I asked Art to pick me a couple of pounds and he got carried away.

We then burned off the thorns

We then used my pressure cooker on the gas grill and continued to make jelly the regular way. Turned out pretty well. I can now say that I have made Prickly Pear Jelly from scratch. Not again. Been there done that!

TIMEKEEPER'S GATE GUARD

2010-06-05T21:13:00.000-05:00

As we continue here in Encinal, Texas with Timekeeper's things are beginning to come to a close. The drilling is coming close to going to production and I don't think we will be here much more than 2-3 weeks more. We are going into the hottest weather yet, with temps reaching the 100 highs. We had a tremendous lightning storm, with large wind gusts. I captured this awesome full rainbow. We have seen tarantulas, turtle and wonderful sun sets and sun rises.

Stay tuned as we wrap up the final part of this workamping position. Where we go from here has not been

decided.

2010-04-30T19:10:00.000-05:00

Timekeepers Gate Guard Job:

Well the great thing about Full timing is that plans can and often do change. We had been enjoying the wonderful marvels of the Arizona desert just as spring was blooming and weather warming, our summer / fall schedule was set, we were to head toward Oregon for a season of Camp Hosting in the various State Park, something we have been trying to setup for several years.

Late Thursday evening on April 1, 2010 – Timekeepers Security Company ( another workamper company I have been in contact with over the last year or more) called us and asked us if we were interested in a Gate Guard Position in Texas. This position involves couples signing in and our trucks and vendors at gates on private ranches were there are oil and gas rigs in operation. Nice thing about this position is that it pays $100/day per couple just for sitting in your RV and securing the gate. The position requires one of the couples to be available 24 hours a day.

Always up for something new and challenging and noting the money would be really great for the wedding and some unexpected repair bills to the our motor home would come in really handing.

So canceling our Oregon’s plans and packing and heading southeast to southern Texas.

We reported to the company on Monday evening. Us and four other couples were set up on a ranch in Encinal, Texas – 35 north of Laredo. The company supplies, a generator, water and provides for dumping It still a challenge but becoming better each day as we settle into a routine. The worst problem is the condition of the equipment (generator) and the lack of immediate support from the company. The field manager for the company has way to much territory to cover. When a problem occurs he is often too far away to do much about it and measures to fix equipment is often a “Band-Aid” approach. Compounding the problem is we are about 1 ½ hours away from Laredo which makes running into town for parts and supplies. But all in all especially with the money we are making and the interesting people we always meet , we are settling in. We should be here until the first part of June with this project will be done. The company doing the drilling is Lewis Petro (BP) and they are drilling for gas on this private ranch. The company I work for contracts with BP to provide security and monitoring the coming and going of workers and vendors on the roads during the drilling. We are pretty remote but we have Border Patrol that comes thru quite frequently. We have seen Javelins, road runners, coyotes, an owl, and host of birds and of course snakes. See the photos below.

Cute Little Golden Finch that sees his reflection in our window and keeps coming back.

The Gate we are responsible for registering people in and out

There is over 20 miles of road that has 5 gates before the drilling rig. There is a "Gate Guard" at each gate. We are the last check point.

Typical rig coming in with equipment for the drilling site.

Border Patrol on routine surveillance. Illegals are a problem, since we are so remote and close to the Mexico Border. Art opening the gate.

SOLAR, BLUE GRASS AND MEETING NEW FRIENDS

2010-04-06T16:44:00.000-05:00

WOW! Hard to believe it has been almost 2 weeks since I lasted posted. Guess that's what happens when your having fun.

SOLAR

Since we love being out in the desert, enjoy "boondocking"(staying someplace without hookups,i.e electrical,water), we knew we had to install solar in order to keep the batteries charged, and be able to use appliances and computers. So March 11, 2010 was the day we had 4 135 watts solar panels installed and a controller box. I am excited because now we can be "off the grid" and not dependent on RV parks.

Solar installed. Three panels in Front and one in back. Each panel 135 watts

Well just as we were finishing one of the guys there told us about a Blue Grass Festival on the outside of town. So that's what so great about this life style - we pulled up the jacks and headed that way.

We were delighted all weekend long with all sorts of picken and fiddlen.

While we were visiting one evening we ran into a couple (Ron and Bernita) we met with another group of Escapees - called the Boomer's ( I might have to do a Definition page). They said a whole group of "Boondockers'" where camped about down miles down the road and did we want to join when the festival was over.

So Monday morning saw us once again retracting the sides on "Da Bus" and pulling up the jacks and away we went to stay with them. Got there just in time for 'Happy Hour" , now this is a group I c

ould like real fast.

We are planning on staying with this group till we leave, most of them are breaking up and moving on at various times. Check out the pictures of all the fun things we did. Wum pum sticks, wiener roast, S'mores, Eggs in a Bag Bake, Pot Lucks and just good old fashion fun. Night saw the group gathering for campfires and morning saw the early birds gather for "Cowboy Coffee".

Gorgeous Sunsets, Campfires and Full Moon. This is truly spiritual is so many ways:

The Desert is the greenest I have ever seen it. Blooms are popping everyday!

Play Time with Art and Simon

2010-03-06T15:18:00.003-06:00

Click to play this cute video.

Our New Hummingbird Friends

2010-03-06T15:10:00.004-06:00

I put up a hummingbird feeder. These tiny creatures amaze me. Take a look

Cute Collage

2010-03-06T15:09:00.001-06:00

I just love the look of the Saguaro Cactus!! We saw this postcard in a gift shop and I just had to buy it. It says it all.

The postcard we bought is the one in the upper left corner. I then made a collage of some of the Saguaro cacti I had taken pictures of and made a collage out them to post. Kinda neat, don't you think?

QUIRKY QUARTZSITE

2010-03-04T20:07:00.006-06:00

Well we are still in Quartzsite and the RVers are thinning out. Very few vendors are left in Tyson Wells. No line at the laundromat. No crowds at the grocery stores. Kinda spooky. It's like watching a town become a ghost town. The Long Term Visitor Area office is closed on Tues and Wednesday since March 1.

Seems funny we have to wait till March 11 to get our solar installed. They are booked 2 weeks in advance. They are only working with one man because they have never been this busy in the past.

So now that we have some time on our hands we have been able to stop and take some pictures of things that are just "quirky". Art had noticed these signs a while back. Still cracks me up! The signs are Hwy 95.

Located at mile mark 102. Seems harmless enough. Now check out the next sign.

Next mile marker. Available?? Too funny.

Coincidence ? Seems odd that elevation and when the tow was founded end in "879".

They don't post population because it changes drastically from winter to summer.

Dumpster diving takes on a whole new meaning here is Quartzsite. The are many times throughout the day that the dumpstered are "raided" for all sorts of items, mainly recyclables that can be turned in for cash. Many people use this to supplement (or it is there only income) while here in town. I commend them. Recycling should be mandatory. But towns have to put in an effort and many do not have the budget.

There are many other "quirky" things to found in Quartzsite. It's a hilarious, strange place to visit. Check back as I take pictures and post.

DA BUS LOOKING REAL GOOD

2010-02-25T22:02:00.005-06:00

Well the coach (DA Bus) is looking real good. Windows are replaced and looking real good. A total of 10 windows were replaced. Windows and labor were a warranty item authorized by Bob Tiffin. Thank you Bob!!! Body damage has been repaired. A hitch recall was issued and since we are the second owners we were not aware of the recall - so that was done. Several other issues were also completed. After 6 days (2 were weekends - no work done) we are done and ready to leave Tucson.

Old windows out and large window (in box) still waiting.

Bus all taped for painting

We were so worried about the body damage and the repair and painting being done any place but at the factory. LA MESA RV TUSCON WAS OUTSTANDING. We were so pleased.

Painting is perfect and color and striping match perfectly

So we packed up and headed to Speedco in Casa Grande for a oil change and the works.

Visiting Tucson

2010-02-25T21:56:00.001-06:00

Well we found a unique looking Denny's that actually had great food and great service. Unlike those in St Louis. It was clean, friendly and quick to serve.

A very art deco looking Denny's

Needed a tire looked at and this great family owned place fit the bill. The are conveniently located at 1818 E Winsett Ave, in Tuscon. He even noticed that 2 of outside rear tires on PS and DS were mounted backwards from the factory and quickly rotated them for us.

San Xavier Mission.

A National Historic Landmark, San Xavier Mission was founded as a Catholic mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797.

The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church's interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. It is a place where visitors can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space.
The current church dates from the late 1700's, when Southern Arizona was part of New Spain. In 1783, Franciscan missionary Fr. Juan Bautista Velderrain was able to begin construction on the present structure using money borrowed from a Sonoran rancher. He hired an architect, Ignacio Gaona, and a large workforce of O'odham to create the present church.

Following Mexican independence in 1821, San Xavier became part of Mexico. The last resident Franciscan of the 19th Century departed in 1837. With the Gadsden Purchase of 1854, the Mission joined the United States. In 1859 San Xavier became part of the Diocese of Santa Fe. In 1866 Tucson became an incipient diocese and regular services were held at the Mission once again. Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet opened a school at the Mission in 1872. Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity now teach at the school and reside in the convent.

The Franciscans returned to the Mission in 1913. Recently, Mission San Xavier became a separate nonprofit entity. It remains a testament to the endurance of culture throughout our history.

You can see in the above picture that a storm is approaching. It has been damp and overcast most of the day. So we high tailed it back to the coach.

We had a Euro Chair in the coach that we just did not like. It was too big for the space, did not fit us comfortably and just wasn't comfortable. So we posted it on Craig's List and it sold in one day. Lucky us.
We purchased one we liked much better. It is a rocker,recliner and swivels. It has a chocolate micro suede covering which blends well with coach interior. It just needed to be assembled.

La Mesa RV Repairs

2010-02-19T22:11:00.001-06:00

Wow - it's been awhile since I posted. Seems we been doing so much running around, I have been to tired at night to update.

We spent time at Diamond J RV Park waiting on the windows and other parts to come in at La Mesa RV. We met some others Tiffin owners, Jim and Carol, Marilyn and Ray and Kenny and Roselle. We went out to the Casino with Marilyn,Ray,Kenny and Roselle. We had a great time over Mexican food.

Art and I decided to try to hike some trails in the desert to find a Saguaro cacti that has 58+arms/extensions. Our neighbors,Dick and Gaylene had hike the trail and said it was a doable 2 1/2 round trip hike. Well we had 2 set of instructions, one verbal and one on a "map"- well we decided to try the map and guess what. I thought sure I was going to die in the desert and Art had walked off into the mountains as he mentioned he was going to do many time. It ended up being a 5 hour round trip and we never did see the Saguaro cacti, but we did see some awesome sites and the whole hike was great. I paid for it the next few days but it just goes to show how out of shape I am. Check out these photos.

We noticed that one of our rear tag tires was not holding air pressure. So a call to Good Sam for tire repair replace here in Tucson. We found 'Phil's Fleet Tire Service", a really nice family owned tire repair service. He found that one of the valve extenders was leaking and fixed it quickly. He also noticed that 2 of our rear tires were mounted backwards and that could cause "cupping". He reversed them and the charge was very reasonable. Art talked to him about ordering him some "extenders" for his air pressure hose so Art can fill them easier. He would have them for us next week.

Thursday saw us at La Mesa RV for all our work to be started. Bright and early 8am we were at La Mesa. We spent the day with breakfast at Denny's. I love the new look of the Denny's here in Tucson. We then just went shopping. Our new windows were installed and they look awesome. We have 10 new windows. This is the first time we have been able to look out our windows with looking thru fog and humidity. The DA Bus looks grand. We spent the night on the parking lot and Friday saw more work to be done. The insurance settlement on the body damage was settled and the coach went to the painters. The repair and repainting is beyond words. Truly an outstanding job. However, all the work couldn't get done by the end of the day. La Mesa RV offered to let us stay on the lot over the weekend.

We also got rid of the Euro Chair and foot rest. SOLD it on Craig's list in one day. It just was way to big for the space and it wasn't comfortable for us. We want to replace it with a smaller type of chair.

Hanging Around Tucson Getting Repairs on "Da Bus"

2010-02-02T21:37:00.001-06:00

Well that last couple of days have been mainly information gathering and getting bids and phone calls for work on "Da Bus".

LaMesa RV was the first stop. We left our Bus for an evaluation. We spent the day doing laundry and looking for other places. We went back at the end of the day to get the word on our Bus.

First and biggest, were the windows. Our service advisor, indicated that Tiffin would only warrant the windows and not the labor. Hm mm - when we talked to Bob Tiffin at Quartzsite, we thought that would include labor. OUCH, with 10 windows being replaced that was a large chunk of change we didn't count on. WELLLL, a call to Bob Tiffin, took care of all that. He agreed to warrant the labor also. He said he would take care of it. Before I could look up the number for La Mesa RV and give our tech heads up, he was on the phone to La Mesa.

Now that is why Tiffin Motor Homes is still in business. Where can you call the owner of the company, talk to him directly and get action before say WOW. Thank You BOB TIFFIN. That is why I bought a Tiffin.
CUSTOMER SERVICE IS ###1 ALWAYS. Yes, I am shouting - shouting with joy.

Second: Is a problem with our transmission leaking oil. That's a Spartan problem. Our bus is out warranty in November 2009. Dang, how were we to know. If Art had not got under the coach, he would not have seen the oil leak. However, they have agreed to cover parts but not labor. Better than nothing.

Still waiting on word of our body damage from the insurance company.

Gen Start: Well, all our adjusting, figging with the gen start, comes to find out we don't have a gen start. So much for that problem.

So it looks like we will be in Tucson for awhile.

Check out the photo of Simon our dog below. I guess he didn't think there was enough good articles on pets in the latest issue of "Roughing It Smoothly", the magazine published by Tiffin Motor Homes

Such a Photo Moment

2010-01-31T20:59:00.001-06:00

Simon always presents such photographic moments. I had just finished reading a copy of "Roughing It Smoothly", a magazine the Tiffin Motor Homes puts out and set it aside to do something else. While you can tell what Simon thought about.

Exploring The Area

2010-01-31T20:49:00.001-06:00

Well on Saturday we set out in the afternoon to explore the area and see what was around us. We had heard about Desert Trails RV Resort from our friends Pam and Randy at Quartzsite, since it was only a few miles from us we head over to see if they had any openings. Since the Gem Show and a few other events are in town, they were full. Next to them is another Campground "J" and they had a few openings.

Next it off to explore Saguaro National Park. We also stopped at Gilbert Ray Campground in the park and they had space for large rigs. The sites are nice, access is good, and all sites have electric and there are community water hookups and the view is included.

On the way down the mountain we noticed the "Coyote Pause" Cafe. We always like to support the local restaurants. This one had a fish fry dinner on Friday and Saturday. So we stopped. A pleasant, clean place with good food and good portion. It was decorated in local color and design.

WOW What a Moon Don't Go Out After Dark

2010-01-29T20:08:00.004-06:00

Well the sun came out and so did the people here in the BLM area we are parked, just outside of Tucson, we are here for the weekend until we can get into La Mesa RV to have work done on "Da Bus" , motor home. We have a Monday, Feb 1 appointment.
A small but crowded area off Hwy 86 and San Joaquin Rd. We also got a visit from the BLM ranger checking on how long everyone has been here. There is a 14 day limit, every 90 days. After the 14 days you must move more than a 25 mile radius. Who makes these rules anyway. I can see moving but 25 miles. Hm mm, weird

Worked on installing a "Smart Light" with an LED light. We picked this up at the RV Show - it is a light sensor door light. Since ours was out anyway, it was a good time to replace it. Now no more leaving the door light on when we are gone awhile and then we have a sensor light when we arrive back home.

Well we have a full moon tonight! The brightest moon of the year, also known as the Wolf Moon, so don't go out after dark. Strange creatures roam on nights with a full moon. Check out these photos. To bad the telephone lines are ruining some great shoots.

How about you? Are you game to venture out tonight on the night of the Wolf Moon ?

What crazy things have happened to you ?

You know the old saying, when people are acting crazy. Is there a full moon or what ?

Quartzsite: Meeting New People: Boomerville Auction

2010-01-27T21:06:00.004-06:00

January 26, 2010

Well as the storm was getting ready to approach Quartzsite, many rigs left. We were down to 5 brave rigs, and eventually 3 rigs were left at the end. We established a new circle and strengthen friendship with 2 other couples who had stayed. We built a fire and had an impromptu potluck

I had a chance to look around and notice the vastness of the desert. Art noticed the Saguaro cacti and mentioned that it look like a man holding up his hands (see photo). I looked around and noticed that the desert contained all sorts of winter visitors and I wish I knew all their stories. I called some of them people of the land, like the lady a short distance from us living out of her van (see photo), she was courteous enough to come over and tell us that one of the coaches had left his ladder out and a his overalls had blown off and his ladder had fallen over. Art went over and took care of it. I wonder what her story is all about, how long has she been out here, how she survives?

You see fancy rigs, little rigs, homemade rigs (see photo), tents, vans, and everything in between, each with their own story to tell. How I would love to know the story behind this rig ? I wonder how many times a day he has to repeat it?

The RV Show wrapped up on Sunday and other shows will be coming. We went to La Mesa RV here in Quartzsite on Monday, because we heard Bob Tiffin, the founder of Tiffin Motor homes, (that is the manufacture of our coach) was going to be there and we wanted to meet him as we had some issues with the thermopane windows in coach and the warranty. He did not blink an eye when he said he would warrant the defective windows for replacement. WOW! No wonder they are still in business.

We also went over to “Boomerville”, the Boomer group, from the Escapee organization. They were having their annual auction for C.A.R.E. and potluck and we wanted to donate some items and visit with them. We took over several items over. It was so much fun. See the photo of Art helping out.

On Tuesday afternoon, we packed up and headed off to Tucson, to La Mesa to see about getting our windows and a few other items taken care of.

We arrived at La Mesa RV on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 and got an appointment for Monday, February 1, 2010 to address the items.

So we headed off to find BLM land to stay on for the weekend. We located some just outside of Tucson on Hwy 86 at San Joaquin Rd. It is a small patch and more rigs than I thought after seeing Quartzsite BLM land. But is beautiful and much more peaceful than a “park” not to mention the price is better (free).

Quartzsite Craziness !!!!

2010-01-17T22:45:00.002-06:00

What a blast we have had here at Quartzsite with the Tiffin Group. Someone counted a total of about 38 rigs. We are quite a site. Always a large group outside, lots of laughing, huge nightly fire, and as always, lot of eating and drinking.

Quartzsite is a meeting place for RVers who want to meet from all parts of the USA. Check back often for more pictures of craziness.

NEW TIRE and ALL CLEAN

2010-01-12T15:49:00.006-06:00

Well Good Sam ERS gave us a great recommendation for tire service in Albuquerque,NM. TDS Tires Service located at 3501 4th Street NW, Phone 505-344-1687. (I-40 at exit 159D) They had our tire, gave us great directions for driving the MH to their location (about 3 miles off the highway exit) and had us in and out in no time. Great bunch of guys. Just glad we caught it before a major blowout. WORD OF CAUTION. CHECK THOSE TIRES EVERY TIME YOU STOP. Our tires where only 2 years old with about 25,000 miles.

So looking at the coach and toad, we decided a wash was in order also. We went a few exits down the road to Corning Truck Wash, 9920 Avalon Rd NW, 1-40 at exit 153. So "DA Bus" went in looking dull and grimy and came out looking like a GRAND LADY should. The toad looked great also. They did a power spray and hand and towel dry. We can even see out the front window.

Now lets hit the road .

So we are headed to Q. AGAIN !

Heading to Quartzsite via Repair Shops

2010-01-12T11:35:00.006-06:00

Well - we seem to traveling under a "repair" cloud. Yesterday we spent time looking for a new electrical plug from the motor home to the truck. It seemed to have become disconnected and dragged along the pavement, which destroyed it. We were at a Flying J and within a quarter mile, was Custom RV that had the part in stock. Picked it up and was on our way.

Of course, that little occurrence drained the batteries on the truck, so a stop at the local Wal Mart was in order. That done we were once again on our way.

Today, Tuesday, during a routine rest area stop, I was doing my duties as Co Pilot and was checking the tires, not expecting to find anything, just looking like I knew what I was doing and OUCH I found a nice slice in the tread on the inside of the outside tire. CRAP - that signifies big $. We were about 80 miles from Albuquerque, NM. Called Good Same ERS fro a tire recommendation. Next stop, TDS Truck Tires, in Albuquerque, NM. for a new tire.

LEAVING ST LOUIS - HEADING WEST TO QUARTZSITE

2010-01-10T13:48:00.006-06:00

Finally leaving St Louis !!! It's cold out here baby. The weather is still unseasonably COLD and windy. The winds have died down since yesterday. It was gusty 25-35 mph. Took "DA Bus" (that's what we have nicknamed our Allegro Bus Motor Home ) to get fuel and then back to the park to hook up the truck. Such a site. Everyone was watching. Check out our pictures.

We are heading to Quartzsite, AZ. We are meeting up with our friends, Steve and Karen, the Tiffinrvnetwork group and several thousand other RVers. Quartzsite is a place you either love or hate.

It's virtually a ghost town, that becomes a winter sun and fun place for RVers of all kinds. January starts off with the annual RV Show and then is followed by the Rock and Gem show. It's a fun place to hunt for bargains, renew friendships, and thaw out from the winter blast of cold from all over.

December 26, 2009 Xmas Rush is Over

2009-12-26T15:33:00.003-06:00

Dec 2009

Well the year is about to end along with our stay as Camp Host here at St Louis RV Park. While we are anxious to get to warmer weather and see old friends. This has become like home to us and a new family.

Honestly, folks if you ever have a need to be in St Louis and need a great little park that is close to downtown (less than 2 miles), you can walk to Union Station, a few minutes to "The Hill" our great little Italian neighborhood and much, much more, you must check out this park. The owners are great and we will truly miss them.

Spending time with my family on Xmas Eve was wonderful.

We will finish up this year with a great traditional New Year's Eve Dinner with old friends and then pack up to travel to Quartzsite, AZ. I can't wait for warm weather. It currently is like 25 degrees outside with a windchill that makes it feel like 10.

Our New Home

2009-12-13T22:05:00.001-06:00

We upgraded to a Motor Home and we love it. It is more spacious and allows us to travel in comfort. Even Simon, our dog, loves it.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T20:51:00.001-06:00

We have been volunteering at St Louis RV Park this past summer.

We spent Thanksgiving in St Joseph, MO with our daughter in law's family. They deep fried a turkey and it was awesome. I have never had a turkey made that way and it was so moist and tasty. Of course, it came with all the trimmings and then some.

The day was perfect and we had a blast. We are spending the weekend here and we will leave on Sunday.

June thru December 2009

2009-10-22T20:30:00.001-05:00

A lot has happened since leaving Connecticut and arriving in St Louis.

We started workamping at St Louis RV Park, located at 900 N Jefferson, just about 2 miles from the downtown area and the ARCH. It is a wonderful park and has suited us perfectly. It allowed us to work our home without being there for the mess.

Art worked this past summer, taking care of the pool, cleaning the bathrooms, and parking rigs when they arrived. I took reservations, checked campers in and out and managed the store on the day we worked. It is fun.

Check out our pictures. We saw a great rainbow this summer. They have become like family and it will be sad to leave them in January.

May 2009

2009-06-17T20:56:00.001-05:00

Left Gray Hawk a few days ago and headed east to Connecticut. Stopping in Livingston, TX at the Escapees CARE Center to visit some friends from last year. We will continue on to meet Steve and Karen, our friends from California at Red Bay, AL where they are having a motor home being built at Tiffin factory.

After that we will headed to Connecticut to visit our son and fiancee. Her mother is giving an Engagement Party at the Yale Club in New York and then our son will graduate from Yale's MBA program on May 25, 2009. Our youngest son will join us in NY from St Joseph,MO

April 7,2009

2009-04-07T23:19:00.001-05:00

Well we are down to less than month here at Gray Hawk. The last several weeks we have been doing Nature Presentation here at Gray Hawk. The trees,landscape is greening up, the cottonwoods are in full bloom. The birds are singing, there are more and more birds appearing everyday. I noticed humming birds and put up a feeder and now they are always there along with a couple of Gila Woodpecker, an oriole and couple others I haven't identified

Sunday March 29,2009

2009-03-29T23:03:00.000-05:00

Bravo Company here today to work. Art took a few who are interested in gardening and planting some plants for this summer to instruct them in the proper care,sharpening , use and storage of tools to be used in the garden. A few attacked the horse corrals that needed cleaning and others helped in putting away items from the wedding reception.

This is a picture of the snake house at Gray Hawk

Then most watched as Sandy the director fed the snakes, rattle snakes include. Most had never seen a snake eat a mouse. The snakes are just beginning to come out of hibernation and are hungry, so feeding will be a regular need for now thru the beginning of next winter.

The sunset is awesome tonight. The high temp today was about 75 and the low this morning about 40. It was pretty windy today. Red Flag warning are out for today and tomorrow which means no fires.

Simon is continuing to dig his tunnels out our front porch. Not sure what he sees probably smells the gophers. We also have some deer that wander thru the yard and like to drink his water which he has a fit over. I took a video today of Simon digging and will post as soon as I get it upload.

Saturday March 28,2009

2009-03-29T22:19:00.002-05:00

Well today is the day. We are hosting a wedding reception here at Gray Hawk Nature Center for one of the couples from "Bravo" company at Ft Huachuca, here in Sierra Vista. They along with many of their friends having been coming for many weekends to Gray Hawk to help with whatever project they are needed for. Sometimes it is help in racking the grounds of large rock,twigs,etc. Sometimes, it helping clean out the horse corrals or mouse house. Fixing fences,sharpening tools or helping in the garden.

This young couple wanted a simple,outdoor wedding here at Gray Hawk with family and friends. Sandy spent Thursday in Tuscon buying food,while I went to the local farmers market for fresh vegetables and homemade chips.

A great time was had by all.

January 5, 2009

2009-01-06T00:40:00.001-06:00

Well we are off on our 2009 winter trip. Hopefully the trailer is loaded with every thing we need. Art is still feeling really poorly being diagnosed on Monday with Bronchitis. So I have had to load and pack the trailer. We will be driving slowly and I will try to drive more.

We are going thru King City,MO to drop some items off at Tyler's. Then we will head towards Quartzsite,AZ to meet up with a couple that we met last year. Steve and Karen will meet us in Quartzsite. We always have a great time with them.