December 15th
Tony’s Notes
We woke up in our large full sized queen bed. I was very comfortable to be home. However, it really did feel a little weird being home after being on the road for 109 days.
Our final average nightly cost for lodging was $24 per night. Being at Tina’s for about a week and sleeping for free in their driveway helped bring the average down. Also, as we traveled through Texas and one the way home from Tina’s we slept in rest areas and truck stops.
Like Carolina writes below, it took all day on Tuesday, December 15th, to unload Harry and clean the inside. I was able to flush out the tanks and get the meters to show them as empty; that was an issue for us on the road because both the grey and black tanks would sometime show that they were one third or two thirds full, when I know they were empty. This usually happens when there is waste stuck on the sensors. Knowing I was getting ready to put Harry in storage for the winter months, I was quite happy to get the sensors clean and showing the tanks empty. I then winterized the plumbing system, and got everything shut down. I drove Harry to the storage facility and open up our contract for monthly storage. The only thing I was not able to accomplish was getting the motorhome washed on the outside, and covered. However, that was not necessary. Harry is now winterized, and in storage.
I got a call from the company I had had the phone interview with the week before and they wanted to bring me onsite in Raleigh, North Carolina. I had wished we would have known, because Tina’s house was only 50 miles from Raleigh. Anyway, I had to fly out in the early morning hours on Wednesday, December 16th. My cold was casuing a lot of coughing, sneezing, and nose blowing; so, I really hope to make a good impression at this interview despite my cold.
Carolina’s Notes
Tony and I spent the whole day unloading and cleaning Harry. Once that was completed Tony got Harry parked in storage. I stayed behind to wait for Comcast Cable to come and repair my TV connection. Comcast Cable came on time and fixed the problem. Tony was successful getting Harry settled in storage.
Tony had to get ready to hop an airplane to North Carolina for a job interview. We didn’t know that the one potential employer wanted to meet with him. Obviously if we would have known earlier of the interview then we would have stayed at Tina’s a little longer. Tony’s cold was getting even worse but he was determined to get to that interview. I did what I could to help him get ready and better. Needless to say Tony persevered.
As I reflect on my journey across my great country, I am grateful and amazed at all the wonderful sights, sounds and experiences I had. Despite the hiccups getting along with Tony during the sabbatical, I couldn’t imagine experiencing this journey with anyone better. I am grateful for my husband and the life we have built together. On the road, I have found my commitment to myself. My commitment is to build my Mary Kay business and my health (physical, mental, spiritual). I have also come to an understanding about my mom…she needs me. The simple fact is my mom is a mess and she needs me because sometimes we just need someone. For now I am home and content to be so because I am with Tony. It just so happens that all I need is Tony.
December 16th
Well, I flew to Raleigh and got picked up at the airport by a Limo. They drove me to the corporate office. I was about three hours early for the three scheduled interviews.
I took a bunch of Dayquil and hoped to impress.
I interviewed with three area Vice Presidents. I felt that I did very well and had high hopes that I would have a job offer before the end of the year.
Flying home was a bit of an adventure because I had to fly from Raleigh, North Carolina, to Atalanta, Georgia to Metro Detroit. It was after midnight when I landed and going on 2am before I was home crawling into bed with my wife. My ears were hurting from the air pressure that I think was compounded because of my cold.
December 17th
Well, we got out and went to see our friends at our local Panera Bread. We both enjoyed catching everyone up on our cross country journey. On the way home, we stopped and looked at used cars. We had both talked about getting a car for our daughter Heather.
We found a 2007 Chevy Impala that only had 8,200 miles. I negotiated a price of $13,000 with a new car warranty (3yr or 36k). We put $5,000 down and financed the rest. We had decided to give Heather our 2002 Chevy Cavalier. So, we ran around the afternoon getting insurance for our 'new' Impala and getting Heather No Fault Insurance for the Cavalier.
December 18th
On Friday, the 18th, we gift wrapped some Mary Kay items for Heather as a Birthday/Christmas gift. We hid the Car Keys and Insurance information at the bottom of the gift basket. We gave her the gift and waited for her to figure out the surprise. We enjoyed doing this because Heather had taken care of our House, Mail Forwarding, and Carolina's Mother while we were on the road. She needed a car.
We have taken a huge gambling risk buying a car while still having no income. However, in my gut, I know I will be earning a substantial income by the first or second week of 2010.
Carolina's New Impala is so new and shiny; I plan to take my 2003 Chevy Malibu to get thoroughly auto-detailed on the inside and out to help me feel that my Malibu is new and shiny, too. :-)
Sunday, December 27, 2009
December 13th & 14th - Heading Home
Home, Safe and Sound, after Driving 9,000 miles around the United StatesDecember 13th
Tony’s Notes
We got up early and started to get ready for a travel day. Tina fixed us a nice breakfast. I got the RV on the street and hooked up the car.
Once ready to roll, we went in and said our goodbyes to everyone. We had a great visit, and now it was time to make our way home to Michigan.
I was concerned about weather. There was Ice and Snow, and Rain in many parts of the Northeast areas. We hit the road and took I-95 up through North Carolina, Virginia, and past Washington D.C. area into Baltimore. Both of us were already resolved to get home and decided not to stop. The weather was wet and grey, so stopping to sightsee or eat Crab Cakes was not that desirable for us.
We got through a good part of Pennsylvania and slept in a Rest Area on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Carolina’s Notes
Well the day came for me to get home. Tina made French toast for breakfast, which I appreciated. We visited a little longer and then left. The weather was wet and cold but the travel wasn’t bad. We drove about half way to Michigan then stayed at a Rest Area. Originally we thought that we’d stop and get Baltimore Crab Cakes but we both decided to get home to beat the snowy conditions. The day was nice yet uneventful. I was grateful because we were staying just ahead of the winter conditions.
We got up early and started to get ready for a travel day. Tina fixed us a nice breakfast. I got the RV on the street and hooked up the car.
Once ready to roll, we went in and said our goodbyes to everyone. We had a great visit, and now it was time to make our way home to Michigan.
I was concerned about weather. There was Ice and Snow, and Rain in many parts of the Northeast areas. We hit the road and took I-95 up through North Carolina, Virginia, and past Washington D.C. area into Baltimore. Both of us were already resolved to get home and decided not to stop. The weather was wet and grey, so stopping to sightsee or eat Crab Cakes was not that desirable for us.
We got through a good part of Pennsylvania and slept in a Rest Area on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Carolina’s Notes
Well the day came for me to get home. Tina made French toast for breakfast, which I appreciated. We visited a little longer and then left. The weather was wet and cold but the travel wasn’t bad. We drove about half way to Michigan then stayed at a Rest Area. Originally we thought that we’d stop and get Baltimore Crab Cakes but we both decided to get home to beat the snowy conditions. The day was nice yet uneventful. I was grateful because we were staying just ahead of the winter conditions.
December 14th
Tony’s Notes
We picked our travel days well. We made it through the mountain ranges and through most of the hilly area of Pennsylvania. We woke up and threw on clothes, and we were about 110 miles from the Ohio border. We drove through to Ohio at a good pace.
While exiting the Pennsylvania Turnpike, it cost $24 if Tolls. I was shocked. We entered the Ohio Turnpike and made our way across Ohio with hopes of getting home in the early afternoon. We stopped at a rest area that had Panera Bread and had a nice lunch.
We stopped at a Flying J near Toledo and we were able to dump the Black and Grey tanks for the last time before winterizing. I was quite happy because with it being freezing temperatures, I was not sure the dump station would be open and did not know where I would find a place near home. We were seeing snow on the ground…Yeah!
Carolina’s Notes
We got up and threw on clothes so we could get home around 2:00 p.m. We actually got home closer to 5:00 p.m. but we made it home safe and sound. Getting from Point A to Point B in one piece without incident is the most important thing.
It felt foreign being home. It was familiar but foreign. We unloaded what we could for the night. We decided to grab a burger and a beer from Little Tony’s because neither one of us wanted to cook.
Little Tony’s staff greeted us with open arms. We informed them of our journey while Tony and I enjoyed our favorite items. It felt like ‘Old Home Week.’ We decided to call it an early night because we were both tired from our journey.
We arrived home and flaked out. I watched what I could of TV but the Comcast Cable connection wasn’t working so I missed out on Monday Night Football. I called Comcast Cable and scheduled an appointment. I turned in early grateful for the uneventful journey home, my sabbatical trip and that Tony didn’t divorce me.
We picked our travel days well. We made it through the mountain ranges and through most of the hilly area of Pennsylvania. We woke up and threw on clothes, and we were about 110 miles from the Ohio border. We drove through to Ohio at a good pace.
While exiting the Pennsylvania Turnpike, it cost $24 if Tolls. I was shocked. We entered the Ohio Turnpike and made our way across Ohio with hopes of getting home in the early afternoon. We stopped at a rest area that had Panera Bread and had a nice lunch.
We stopped at a Flying J near Toledo and we were able to dump the Black and Grey tanks for the last time before winterizing. I was quite happy because with it being freezing temperatures, I was not sure the dump station would be open and did not know where I would find a place near home. We were seeing snow on the ground…Yeah!
Carolina’s Notes
We got up and threw on clothes so we could get home around 2:00 p.m. We actually got home closer to 5:00 p.m. but we made it home safe and sound. Getting from Point A to Point B in one piece without incident is the most important thing.
It felt foreign being home. It was familiar but foreign. We unloaded what we could for the night. We decided to grab a burger and a beer from Little Tony’s because neither one of us wanted to cook.
Little Tony’s staff greeted us with open arms. We informed them of our journey while Tony and I enjoyed our favorite items. It felt like ‘Old Home Week.’ We decided to call it an early night because we were both tired from our journey.
We arrived home and flaked out. I watched what I could of TV but the Comcast Cable connection wasn’t working so I missed out on Monday Night Football. I called Comcast Cable and scheduled an appointment. I turned in early grateful for the uneventful journey home, my sabbatical trip and that Tony didn’t divorce me.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
December 8th through December 12th
Pretty Girls; Friends for Life
Tina made a fantastic Lasagna Dinner, and Samantha (above) made me an Excellent Birthday Cake just for me!!!
December 8th
Happy Birthday Tony!!
Happy Birthday Tony!!
Carolina's Notes
I woke up very sick and in need of doctor’s care. Tony agreed to take me to a prompt care facility. I felt guilty Tony spending his day in a doctor’s office but he was a good sport. We did what we had to do while Tina worked. I was able to get to the doctor, get medicine and get showered and dressed before Tina and I visited.
Tina and her family rolled out the red carpet for Tony’s Birthday. Tina’s son’s girlfriend, Sam, baked the cake and Tina fixed dinner. We all ate, drank and made merry. Tina’s son, Mark even helped me to get Tony a card and a small birthday gift. I enjoyed the party and all it offered, despite having a Mac Truck weighing on my chest from my cold. I had a great day but I could do without being sick. I am glad we had a good day together…all of us!
Tina and her family rolled out the red carpet for Tony’s Birthday. Tina’s son’s girlfriend, Sam, baked the cake and Tina fixed dinner. We all ate, drank and made merry. Tina’s son, Mark even helped me to get Tony a card and a small birthday gift. I enjoyed the party and all it offered, despite having a Mac Truck weighing on my chest from my cold. I had a great day but I could do without being sick. I am glad we had a good day together…all of us!
Tony's Notes
Had a great birthday party. Tina made an excellent Lasagna Dinner, and Samantha made me an excellent birthday cake. It is my last time turning forty something; next year is the big 50.
December 9th
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up still feeling lousy but today was the day Tina had off and we were going to hang out. Tina unexpectedly was called into a work meeting. Tony and I did what we had to do while Tina attended a work meeting. The meeting was unexpected but it all worked out. I was able to rest, eat, get showered and dressed before Tina and me visited.
Once we were all together we visited for hours. We then decided to go out to dinner so Tony and me could eat real North Carolina BBQ. WE had one stop before we went. We dropped Sam off at work. Tony and I shopped around where she works then proceeded to dinner. We had a nice time until I had a coughing spell and had to get home to take some medicine.
Tina and I ran back out to pick up Sam and to run some errands. Once we were all back home, Tony showed Tina, Mark and Sam some of our Sabbatical Pictures not on Facebook or Recipe for Life Blog. It was time for the working stiffs to go to bed so we all went to bed. I had another coughing spell which made settling into bed troublesome. It was about forty-five minutes later then I was fast asleep. I was glad because I don’t want to keep Tony up or get him sick. Anyway I finally got to bed.
December 10th
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up coughing my head off. Tony helped me get medicine and some food so I wouldn’t become nauseous. Tony has been playing nursemaid and doing a fantastic job. I don’t know what I do without him. Tony and I hung out in the RV until I was ready to venture out.
He took me to try some chicken at Bojangles and to the local library to get some work done. Then Tony was going to cook for Tina and her family. We went grocery shopping to get the supplies for dinner. It is amazing that when Tony asked for a whole strip loin the whole store sprung into action. The store clerks did what they could to accommodate Tony but in the end their pricing was excessive. Tony purchased what was already cut in the counter. We arrived back at Tina’s house and no one was home so this gave us a chance to get our barrings instead of a hungry mob gazing at us. Eventually everyone got home. Tony cooked a great meal and we all ate together. I had a BLAST!! Just spending time with Tina and her family is just what the doctor ordered. We enjoyed each other’s company until the working stiffs had to go to bed. Tony and I relaxed in Harry until we crashed. It was a GREAT day despite me fighting this cold or what ever it is.
December 11th
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up and felt weak so I decided to stay in bed longer. Tony gave me Tylenol 3 along with my other medicine to prevent my coughing spell at night…I was grateful! I must say that I didn’t miss that coughing spell. Tony wanted to get out and get ready for his phone interview so he left with my blessings. I fell asleep for another few hours and to my amazement it was almost noon. I woke up feeling better than I had in days. I decided to take my morning medicine with food and to get showered and dressed. I felt even better after the shower. I do hope that I turned a corner. I was sad to find out that Tina is starting to feel ill. She tells me that her family has been fighting colds, etc. too and she got what they had. Well, I not so sure but I hope she kicks it before she has to have her own health issues address. This procedure has been set for weeks and I sure don’t want anything to get into the way. Anyway, Tina and I will do something when she get home from work and gets herself ready for the evening. In the meantime, I’m going to take it easy by watching a chick flick.
Tony’s Notes
We are thoroughly enjoying visiting with Tina and her family. I had a great phone interview today, and I hope I get called for an onsite interview. This would be the type of employment I had been hoping to find. The job would involve a lot of travel, but would allow me to work from home when not at client sites.
I am starting to get the cold Carolina has had, despite trying to keep my distance. It is difficult to keep much distance when you are living in a 300 square foot home and sleeping in the same bed.
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up and felt weak so I decided to stay in bed longer. Tony gave me Tylenol 3 along with my other medicine to prevent my coughing spell at night…I was grateful! I must say that I didn’t miss that coughing spell. Tony wanted to get out and get ready for his phone interview so he left with my blessings. I fell asleep for another few hours and to my amazement it was almost noon. I woke up feeling better than I had in days. I decided to take my morning medicine with food and to get showered and dressed. I felt even better after the shower. I do hope that I turned a corner. I was sad to find out that Tina is starting to feel ill. She tells me that her family has been fighting colds, etc. too and she got what they had. Well, I not so sure but I hope she kicks it before she has to have her own health issues address. This procedure has been set for weeks and I sure don’t want anything to get into the way. Anyway, Tina and I will do something when she get home from work and gets herself ready for the evening. In the meantime, I’m going to take it easy by watching a chick flick.
Tony’s Notes
We are thoroughly enjoying visiting with Tina and her family. I had a great phone interview today, and I hope I get called for an onsite interview. This would be the type of employment I had been hoping to find. The job would involve a lot of travel, but would allow me to work from home when not at client sites.
I am starting to get the cold Carolina has had, despite trying to keep my distance. It is difficult to keep much distance when you are living in a 300 square foot home and sleeping in the same bed.
December 12th
Carolina’s Notes
Tony got up and got moving quickly. He dashed out to do laundry while I got myself showered and dressed. I decided to go for a walk around Tina’s neighborhood to get out pent up energy. Tina and John were leisurely getting ready to start the day so I took full advantage of my opportunity to walk.
Once we were all together, we visited around the kitchen table. I started to become restless so Tony suggested that we go out and grab lunch. Tina is much better at staying at home and fixing meals. Tony and I enjoy going out and this is a habit that needs to come to an end. Anyway we went out to eat and picked up some items for the evening family meal. We got back to Tina’s house and started fixing dinner and enjoying each other’s company.
Later in the evening Tony and John made a fire for us to enjoy. The weather didn’t cooperate but we made the best of it. It was our last night in Goldsboro so we were getting in our last hurrah. When Tina’s children arrived home from work we all partied together. We had to finally call it a night.
Carolina’s Notes
Tony got up and got moving quickly. He dashed out to do laundry while I got myself showered and dressed. I decided to go for a walk around Tina’s neighborhood to get out pent up energy. Tina and John were leisurely getting ready to start the day so I took full advantage of my opportunity to walk.
Once we were all together, we visited around the kitchen table. I started to become restless so Tony suggested that we go out and grab lunch. Tina is much better at staying at home and fixing meals. Tony and I enjoy going out and this is a habit that needs to come to an end. Anyway we went out to eat and picked up some items for the evening family meal. We got back to Tina’s house and started fixing dinner and enjoying each other’s company.
Later in the evening Tony and John made a fire for us to enjoy. The weather didn’t cooperate but we made the best of it. It was our last night in Goldsboro so we were getting in our last hurrah. When Tina’s children arrived home from work we all partied together. We had to finally call it a night.
Friday, December 11, 2009
December 7th - Goldsboro, North Carolina
Carolina’s Notes
Everything was going according to plan other than a tickle I picked up leaving the cruise ship. I woke up with a scratchy throat. Tony and I drove all day. I was progressively getting a bad cold. I had wanted to stop a couple times; I wanted good coffee in the morning and I wanted to stop to get chicken soup. The requested stops didn’t take place however we did stop at later times for gas, etc. The later it got the more I wanted my chicken soup; the one stop that Tony made ended in disaster. I didn’t make myself clear because I was feeling sicker so instead of getting chicken soup I would up getting into a REAL shouting match with Tony. My throat was really ailing and yelling was only making it worse. Tony was definitely ready to kick me to the curb. He finally stopped at a Rest Area and we had a Showdown. I eventually realized how unfair I had been to Tony and asked for his forgiveness. The stops made or not made today were ‘just victims of circumstances.’ Tony and I decided to press onward toward Goldsboro, NC. Our stomachs were upset from the arguing so bunking in the Rest Area didn’t seem like the correct course of action. We drove into the night and before I knew it I was thirty-nine miles away from my friend’s home. I called my friend and she told us to get over to her A.S.A.P.
We arrived at my girlfriend Tina’s home and we enjoyed the time. This was a good stop because Tony and I were able to relax a little. I felt that we weren’t so tense. Anyway, we visited until the working stiffs had to go to bed and we went to bed ourselves. Tony and I were worn out. I was getting sicker as the hours moved. I crashed and Tony followed.
Tony’s Notes
I was very happy to have gotten on the road quickly this morning. I thought that it was 800 miles to Goldsboro, NC from Jacksonville, FL. However, it was actually about 480 miles. I had gotten confused that it was 800 miles from Goldsboro to Detroit. So, when we had made it so close to Tina and John’s house, I was glad we could actually get there that night.
We definitely were having tense words with each other today. Unfortunately, Carolina was coming down with a bad cold that she must have picked up on the ship. I do feel that I have a caring and compassionate husband (most of the time). However, when we stopped at the last rest area in the evening, I had stopped to unhook the car and put some of Carolina’s clothes in the car so that she could make her way while I go my own way, etc. I was quite fed up with her bad behavior. I am certain that the next time we take off on the road for months at a time, we will need to have individual activities, and not spend every single moment together. Anyway, we made it to Tina’s and hooked up the RV in their driveway.
Tina and John have a very nice home, and a wonderful family. The kids are all young adults and I have known them since they were babies. Our next stop after Goldsboro is home in Harper Woods. We will have to winterize the RV, get it in storage, and get back to earning a living. I think we may stay in Goldsboro a little longer than planned, and watch the weather. I have hopes to avoid snow and ice driving home.
Everything was going according to plan other than a tickle I picked up leaving the cruise ship. I woke up with a scratchy throat. Tony and I drove all day. I was progressively getting a bad cold. I had wanted to stop a couple times; I wanted good coffee in the morning and I wanted to stop to get chicken soup. The requested stops didn’t take place however we did stop at later times for gas, etc. The later it got the more I wanted my chicken soup; the one stop that Tony made ended in disaster. I didn’t make myself clear because I was feeling sicker so instead of getting chicken soup I would up getting into a REAL shouting match with Tony. My throat was really ailing and yelling was only making it worse. Tony was definitely ready to kick me to the curb. He finally stopped at a Rest Area and we had a Showdown. I eventually realized how unfair I had been to Tony and asked for his forgiveness. The stops made or not made today were ‘just victims of circumstances.’ Tony and I decided to press onward toward Goldsboro, NC. Our stomachs were upset from the arguing so bunking in the Rest Area didn’t seem like the correct course of action. We drove into the night and before I knew it I was thirty-nine miles away from my friend’s home. I called my friend and she told us to get over to her A.S.A.P.
We arrived at my girlfriend Tina’s home and we enjoyed the time. This was a good stop because Tony and I were able to relax a little. I felt that we weren’t so tense. Anyway, we visited until the working stiffs had to go to bed and we went to bed ourselves. Tony and I were worn out. I was getting sicker as the hours moved. I crashed and Tony followed.
Tony’s Notes
I was very happy to have gotten on the road quickly this morning. I thought that it was 800 miles to Goldsboro, NC from Jacksonville, FL. However, it was actually about 480 miles. I had gotten confused that it was 800 miles from Goldsboro to Detroit. So, when we had made it so close to Tina and John’s house, I was glad we could actually get there that night.
We definitely were having tense words with each other today. Unfortunately, Carolina was coming down with a bad cold that she must have picked up on the ship. I do feel that I have a caring and compassionate husband (most of the time). However, when we stopped at the last rest area in the evening, I had stopped to unhook the car and put some of Carolina’s clothes in the car so that she could make her way while I go my own way, etc. I was quite fed up with her bad behavior. I am certain that the next time we take off on the road for months at a time, we will need to have individual activities, and not spend every single moment together. Anyway, we made it to Tina’s and hooked up the RV in their driveway.
Tina and John have a very nice home, and a wonderful family. The kids are all young adults and I have known them since they were babies. Our next stop after Goldsboro is home in Harper Woods. We will have to winterize the RV, get it in storage, and get back to earning a living. I think we may stay in Goldsboro a little longer than planned, and watch the weather. I have hopes to avoid snow and ice driving home.
December 3rd to December 7th - Bahamas Cruise
Tony’s Notes
Well, we got up early, and got ourselves cleaned up and ready to get to the cruise ship. As we packed up the RV, I did things like turn off the hot water and dumped the grey and black tanks. I took some time to fill both grey and black tanks with water to allow them to soak for a few days while we were on the cruise.
Once we were unhooked and ready to go, we took the RV to a spot the campground said I could leave it for a few days. They only charged me $5 dollars per day to store it within their secure storage area. We drove the car to the cruise ship and had to pay $60 for parking the car at the parking lot for four days.
We were herded like cattle toward the cruise ship and went through security just like at an airport. I was quite thankful that we had purchased our passports a couple years ago, because it makes getting through security a bit easier. Once on the ship, we made our way to the upper open decks, and had a tropical drink. They immediately fed us lunch.
Back in 2002, we had gone on a seven night cruise with Celebrity Cruise Line to the southern Caribbean. So, I found myself making comparisons between the two different cruise lines. Celebrity was a bit more high-end and served better quality food. Celebrity was a bit more formal, and would have passengers dressed up in formal attire every night. Carnival was more of a Casual attire ship with many younger families. Both cruise lines were fantastic and great; it really just depends on what a passenger prefers.
Once we had lunch and a drink or two, we were able to go to our stateroom. Now, being that I booked at the very last minute and wanted the most inexpensive room, we were at the lowest passenger level of the ship, and a bit to the back part of the ship, or aft.
We had a nice big comfortable bed, and I was quite happy about that. Our luggage was waiting for us in the room, and we met our room steward we would have for the next few days. We unpacked, and rested for a little bit. Then, we got dressed in casual attire and went to dinner. We met and enjoyed eating with the group we would be dining with for the next couple of days. We had to go to the disaster training to learn how to put on life jackets and where to report for our assigned lifeboat. Late in the evening, at about 10:30pm, there was a ‘Welcome Aboard’ Show in the main theater. I enjoyed the dancers and singing talent. Afterwards, we stopped and had a couple drinks and went to bed.
When we woke up, we were shocked to find out it was 10:41am. We never ever sleep that late and we wanted to be sure to get some breakfast before the dining facilities were closed for breakfast. Carolina was getting ready, but time got away from us and we missed out on breakfast foods that day. While she was getting ready, our steward, Jose, knocked on the door and wanted us out, so that he could come in and clean up. Carolina was pretty upset because he was rushing her. This would be another comparison between Carnival and Celebrity. On our Celebrity cruise, the steward would have never knocked on our door. He always knew when we were out, and always came in while we were gone to clean up after us. So, Carolina was bothered and upset with our steward for the next few days.
I was disappointed because everywhere I went during the cruise I was waiting in a line for food. On Celebrity, we never had to wait in a line, and we had a better variety of food choices. Celebrity had more people onboard, but Carnival just did not have the same service to meet our spoiled fussy butts. Honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed being on this Carnival cruise. I was just very focused on being able to compare the two cruise lines.
We got off the ship in Freeport, Bahamas and took a taxi to a nearby beach. It was quite nice and I enjoyed strolling along the nice white sandy beach in my bare feet. I enjoyed the sunny warm weather. We spent sometime there for the afternoon, and then took our taxi back to the ship. We showered and changed our clothes, and got to dinner. It was a very nice lobster tail dinner. We had after dinner drinks, and went to the evening show. Tonight’s show was a juggler, and a comedian. The juggler was in the Guinness Book of world records for being the fastest juggler in the world. We enjoyed the show, and then walked around until we found ourselves in the Disco bar listening to Michael Jackson songs. Carolina took over the dance floor and ended up in second place on the Michael Jackson Dance competition; she was a maniac.
We were up late, and slept soundly in our stateroom until about 8:15am on the second morning. We were determined to get to breakfast on this day. So, we got to the sit down open seating dining room. They had a limited breakfast menu. It tasted good; I had an omelet. However, we both had stomach aches afterwards.
We docked in the Port of Nassau, Bahamas. Carolina and I walked off the ship and walked through the downtown area to the nearest beach. We played out in the Sun and I swam in the crystal clear blue waters all afternoon. It was a great day having fun in the Sun. However, in hindsight, I should have had us take a taxi to the Atlantis resort and toured through it. I heard it was quite fantastic. I did have a great time swimming at the local beach listening to live music and just relaxing.
Carolina’s Notes
Things worked according to plan with our morning plans. We boarded the Carnival Cruise ship Fascination right on time. We enjoyed brunch and hanging out on the ship until our stateroom was ready. Once in the room we unpacked and planned out the journey at sea. We had a nice dinner and evening enjoying the ‘Welcome Aboard Show.’
The next day we over slept until 10:40 a.m. by the time I was ready breakfast wasn’t being served. Things were tense for Tony and me. See Tony got ready quickly and he went to roam the ship and while I was getting ready the Steward (housekeeping) came knocking and RUDELY informed me to get moving. We tried to make the best of it but the whole day was thrown off from it. Tony and I enjoyed the fact that we were on our last hurrah so we made the best of what the ship had to offer. We looked forward to the Ports of Call.
The following day was our Freeport stop. We hung out at the beach and had a nice time. We tried not to get annoyed with one another and enjoy our time. Things weren’t perfect but the beaches were wonderful and Tony and I waded in the water as long as we could. I looked for seashells, which were NON-existent but managed to get some sand for my granddaughter. We had a nice dinner and watched the onboard ship evening show. Later that evening we stumbled into the Disco Lounge and I danced like I was seventeen years old again. I had a BLAST! Things were still tense with our bickering so I tried to get all my frustration out on the dance floor. I felt so much better. I went to sleep hoping for a cordial day with Tony.
The next day’s port is Nassau. We ate breakfast on board ship in the restaurant that serves you at your table. The food was awful but we ate it because we wanted to get into Nassau with breakfast behind us. Tony discussed how he was still unhappy with me and I tried to discuss how I was feeling. Again, we tried to stop bickering and move forward so we pressed into the Port of Call. We walked to one of the Nassau’s public beaches and all along soaked up the native environment. It was HOT and HUMID yet still over cast. Tony & I were not distracted because we wanted to get our feet into the sand. We enjoyed our afternoon despite the tense feelings we had lingering. We made it back to the ship and showered and dressed for dinner and our evening show. In spite of ourselves, we are having a great time.
The following day is our day at sea. We filled the day eating, bickering, watching shows, drinking and trying not to drive each other crazy. I honestly don’t know why I cannot get along with my husband. I love him so much yet we bicker almost every day. I’m wondering if it is because we need some breathing room. We watched a late night comedy show and the comedian touched based on love and marriage issues. These topics hit a cord with me…it actually helped. Tony and I enjoyed our late night evening and went to bed extremely late considering we had to pack and disembark the ship at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow and drive toward North Carolina. Well, despite everything I went to bed happy to be with Tony cruising the Bahamas on Carnival Cruise Lines.
The next morning we disembarked and everything went according to plan. Tony and I were cordial with one another and we both were glad that we had taken the cruise.
Tony’s Notes
We were able to disembark quickly and were at our car by 8:30am. We drove back to the campground and hooked the car up to Harry, and off we drove north. We were on the road by 9:10am and I was thrilled because we had many miles to cover.
Well, we got up early, and got ourselves cleaned up and ready to get to the cruise ship. As we packed up the RV, I did things like turn off the hot water and dumped the grey and black tanks. I took some time to fill both grey and black tanks with water to allow them to soak for a few days while we were on the cruise.
Once we were unhooked and ready to go, we took the RV to a spot the campground said I could leave it for a few days. They only charged me $5 dollars per day to store it within their secure storage area. We drove the car to the cruise ship and had to pay $60 for parking the car at the parking lot for four days.
We were herded like cattle toward the cruise ship and went through security just like at an airport. I was quite thankful that we had purchased our passports a couple years ago, because it makes getting through security a bit easier. Once on the ship, we made our way to the upper open decks, and had a tropical drink. They immediately fed us lunch.
Back in 2002, we had gone on a seven night cruise with Celebrity Cruise Line to the southern Caribbean. So, I found myself making comparisons between the two different cruise lines. Celebrity was a bit more high-end and served better quality food. Celebrity was a bit more formal, and would have passengers dressed up in formal attire every night. Carnival was more of a Casual attire ship with many younger families. Both cruise lines were fantastic and great; it really just depends on what a passenger prefers.
Once we had lunch and a drink or two, we were able to go to our stateroom. Now, being that I booked at the very last minute and wanted the most inexpensive room, we were at the lowest passenger level of the ship, and a bit to the back part of the ship, or aft.
We had a nice big comfortable bed, and I was quite happy about that. Our luggage was waiting for us in the room, and we met our room steward we would have for the next few days. We unpacked, and rested for a little bit. Then, we got dressed in casual attire and went to dinner. We met and enjoyed eating with the group we would be dining with for the next couple of days. We had to go to the disaster training to learn how to put on life jackets and where to report for our assigned lifeboat. Late in the evening, at about 10:30pm, there was a ‘Welcome Aboard’ Show in the main theater. I enjoyed the dancers and singing talent. Afterwards, we stopped and had a couple drinks and went to bed.
When we woke up, we were shocked to find out it was 10:41am. We never ever sleep that late and we wanted to be sure to get some breakfast before the dining facilities were closed for breakfast. Carolina was getting ready, but time got away from us and we missed out on breakfast foods that day. While she was getting ready, our steward, Jose, knocked on the door and wanted us out, so that he could come in and clean up. Carolina was pretty upset because he was rushing her. This would be another comparison between Carnival and Celebrity. On our Celebrity cruise, the steward would have never knocked on our door. He always knew when we were out, and always came in while we were gone to clean up after us. So, Carolina was bothered and upset with our steward for the next few days.
I was disappointed because everywhere I went during the cruise I was waiting in a line for food. On Celebrity, we never had to wait in a line, and we had a better variety of food choices. Celebrity had more people onboard, but Carnival just did not have the same service to meet our spoiled fussy butts. Honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed being on this Carnival cruise. I was just very focused on being able to compare the two cruise lines.
We got off the ship in Freeport, Bahamas and took a taxi to a nearby beach. It was quite nice and I enjoyed strolling along the nice white sandy beach in my bare feet. I enjoyed the sunny warm weather. We spent sometime there for the afternoon, and then took our taxi back to the ship. We showered and changed our clothes, and got to dinner. It was a very nice lobster tail dinner. We had after dinner drinks, and went to the evening show. Tonight’s show was a juggler, and a comedian. The juggler was in the Guinness Book of world records for being the fastest juggler in the world. We enjoyed the show, and then walked around until we found ourselves in the Disco bar listening to Michael Jackson songs. Carolina took over the dance floor and ended up in second place on the Michael Jackson Dance competition; she was a maniac.
We were up late, and slept soundly in our stateroom until about 8:15am on the second morning. We were determined to get to breakfast on this day. So, we got to the sit down open seating dining room. They had a limited breakfast menu. It tasted good; I had an omelet. However, we both had stomach aches afterwards.
We docked in the Port of Nassau, Bahamas. Carolina and I walked off the ship and walked through the downtown area to the nearest beach. We played out in the Sun and I swam in the crystal clear blue waters all afternoon. It was a great day having fun in the Sun. However, in hindsight, I should have had us take a taxi to the Atlantis resort and toured through it. I heard it was quite fantastic. I did have a great time swimming at the local beach listening to live music and just relaxing.
Carolina’s Notes
Things worked according to plan with our morning plans. We boarded the Carnival Cruise ship Fascination right on time. We enjoyed brunch and hanging out on the ship until our stateroom was ready. Once in the room we unpacked and planned out the journey at sea. We had a nice dinner and evening enjoying the ‘Welcome Aboard Show.’
The next day we over slept until 10:40 a.m. by the time I was ready breakfast wasn’t being served. Things were tense for Tony and me. See Tony got ready quickly and he went to roam the ship and while I was getting ready the Steward (housekeeping) came knocking and RUDELY informed me to get moving. We tried to make the best of it but the whole day was thrown off from it. Tony and I enjoyed the fact that we were on our last hurrah so we made the best of what the ship had to offer. We looked forward to the Ports of Call.
The following day was our Freeport stop. We hung out at the beach and had a nice time. We tried not to get annoyed with one another and enjoy our time. Things weren’t perfect but the beaches were wonderful and Tony and I waded in the water as long as we could. I looked for seashells, which were NON-existent but managed to get some sand for my granddaughter. We had a nice dinner and watched the onboard ship evening show. Later that evening we stumbled into the Disco Lounge and I danced like I was seventeen years old again. I had a BLAST! Things were still tense with our bickering so I tried to get all my frustration out on the dance floor. I felt so much better. I went to sleep hoping for a cordial day with Tony.
The next day’s port is Nassau. We ate breakfast on board ship in the restaurant that serves you at your table. The food was awful but we ate it because we wanted to get into Nassau with breakfast behind us. Tony discussed how he was still unhappy with me and I tried to discuss how I was feeling. Again, we tried to stop bickering and move forward so we pressed into the Port of Call. We walked to one of the Nassau’s public beaches and all along soaked up the native environment. It was HOT and HUMID yet still over cast. Tony & I were not distracted because we wanted to get our feet into the sand. We enjoyed our afternoon despite the tense feelings we had lingering. We made it back to the ship and showered and dressed for dinner and our evening show. In spite of ourselves, we are having a great time.
The following day is our day at sea. We filled the day eating, bickering, watching shows, drinking and trying not to drive each other crazy. I honestly don’t know why I cannot get along with my husband. I love him so much yet we bicker almost every day. I’m wondering if it is because we need some breathing room. We watched a late night comedy show and the comedian touched based on love and marriage issues. These topics hit a cord with me…it actually helped. Tony and I enjoyed our late night evening and went to bed extremely late considering we had to pack and disembark the ship at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow and drive toward North Carolina. Well, despite everything I went to bed happy to be with Tony cruising the Bahamas on Carnival Cruise Lines.
The next morning we disembarked and everything went according to plan. Tony and I were cordial with one another and we both were glad that we had taken the cruise.
Tony’s Notes
We were able to disembark quickly and were at our car by 8:30am. We drove back to the campground and hooked the car up to Harry, and off we drove north. We were on the road by 9:10am and I was thrilled because we had many miles to cover.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
December 2nd
Carolina’s Notes
Well today is the day we get to serious packing and planning for our Bahamas cruise. Tony was encouraging me NOT to be self-conscience about my body. He told me that we just need to go and have fun and this cruise is intended to be preparation as to our return to cold and snow. I am NOT looking forward to going back to cold and snow. I am planning on having lots of fun cruising the Bahamas. We’ll be without cell phones and computers so our family will not be able to reach us. Tony made arrangements with our daughter in case of an emergency.
Basically, we spent our day leisurely getting ready for the cruise. We did laundry, and packed. Once things were ready we wanted to get out. So we went to movies and got to bed early. We had a nice day.
Well today is the day we get to serious packing and planning for our Bahamas cruise. Tony was encouraging me NOT to be self-conscience about my body. He told me that we just need to go and have fun and this cruise is intended to be preparation as to our return to cold and snow. I am NOT looking forward to going back to cold and snow. I am planning on having lots of fun cruising the Bahamas. We’ll be without cell phones and computers so our family will not be able to reach us. Tony made arrangements with our daughter in case of an emergency.
Basically, we spent our day leisurely getting ready for the cruise. We did laundry, and packed. Once things were ready we wanted to get out. So we went to movies and got to bed early. We had a nice day.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
December 1st - Planning a Cruise on an Impulse
Tony’s Notes
I woke up today feeling a little rough from the margaritas. I was trying to catch up on a couple things I owed the recruiter I am working with and still have some hopes he might find me a short term engagement down here in Florida until spring.
However, I started to get curious about cruise ships that leave out of Port Jacksonville. So, after spending some time looking through Travelocity and other web sites, I decided to call Carnival Cruise line directly because the ship leaving this Thursday showed it was full. I talked with a representative and she said they had one inside stateroom available. It was a four night cruise to the Bahamas. I had hoped it went to Key West, too. However, that itinerary didn’t leave port until December 7th. I booked the cruise that left on Thursday, the 3rd of December; only two days away. It was only $200 per person and I would have spent more on gasoline driving into south Florida.
Now we had to figure out how to pack because on an RV, we did not need luggage. We ended up driving over to Walmart and bought a cheap luggage carrier that would do the trick. This will be our last little ‘fun in the sun’ time before heading north to winter.
Carolina’s Notes
Tony must have still felt romantic because he booked a cruise. Yep he booked a last minute cruise for a GREAT deal. We’re going to the Bahamas. I thought I was still sleeping when he booked it over the phone. YAHOO!! I am a little nervous because I do NOT possess a model’s figure as well as being challenged pertaining to my wardrobe. They have formal dining and I’m unable to fit into my suit present day. Well, it’ll work out; I will just enjoy. I’m stunned! That Tony really is something! He’s mentioned booking a cruise on several occasions since we’ve arrived in Florida and last night we saw several ships on the ocean. He is the most impulsive person I know! Thanks Tony! I know when we get back to Michigan we are going to be working hard to pay for all of our vacationing. Let the packing begin.
Well today was spent relaxing, doing laundry and getting ready for the cruise. I was getting bored and restless so I suggested a movie and Tony was game. We saw “Old Dogs.” I enjoyed the movie it was funny and entertaining. We grabbed a bite to eat at a Thai place and then made our way home. We flaked out in front of the TV until bed. It was a great day!
I woke up today feeling a little rough from the margaritas. I was trying to catch up on a couple things I owed the recruiter I am working with and still have some hopes he might find me a short term engagement down here in Florida until spring.
However, I started to get curious about cruise ships that leave out of Port Jacksonville. So, after spending some time looking through Travelocity and other web sites, I decided to call Carnival Cruise line directly because the ship leaving this Thursday showed it was full. I talked with a representative and she said they had one inside stateroom available. It was a four night cruise to the Bahamas. I had hoped it went to Key West, too. However, that itinerary didn’t leave port until December 7th. I booked the cruise that left on Thursday, the 3rd of December; only two days away. It was only $200 per person and I would have spent more on gasoline driving into south Florida.
Now we had to figure out how to pack because on an RV, we did not need luggage. We ended up driving over to Walmart and bought a cheap luggage carrier that would do the trick. This will be our last little ‘fun in the sun’ time before heading north to winter.
Carolina’s Notes
Tony must have still felt romantic because he booked a cruise. Yep he booked a last minute cruise for a GREAT deal. We’re going to the Bahamas. I thought I was still sleeping when he booked it over the phone. YAHOO!! I am a little nervous because I do NOT possess a model’s figure as well as being challenged pertaining to my wardrobe. They have formal dining and I’m unable to fit into my suit present day. Well, it’ll work out; I will just enjoy. I’m stunned! That Tony really is something! He’s mentioned booking a cruise on several occasions since we’ve arrived in Florida and last night we saw several ships on the ocean. He is the most impulsive person I know! Thanks Tony! I know when we get back to Michigan we are going to be working hard to pay for all of our vacationing. Let the packing begin.
Well today was spent relaxing, doing laundry and getting ready for the cruise. I was getting bored and restless so I suggested a movie and Tony was game. We saw “Old Dogs.” I enjoyed the movie it was funny and entertaining. We grabbed a bite to eat at a Thai place and then made our way home. We flaked out in front of the TV until bed. It was a great day!
November 30th - Atlantic & Neptune Beach
Carolina’s Notes
We wanted to get up and workout in the Exercise Room. We were disappointed once we arrived instead we walked the campground. We were expecting a carpet cleaning service in an hour and a half so we didn’t have much time to waste. We were in the middle of moving our belongings and the service arrived. I was just getting ready to jump in the shower…it was a bit awkward. The service came back to give me time to shower and dress. Tony helped with my embarrassment and informed me that the service was early. It all worked out in the end. While the cleaning was happening, Tony & I completed errands and we ran into some hiccups but we put it behind us and continued with our day.
Once carpets were cleaned and errands complete, we were off to the beach. We visited Neptune and Atlantic Beaches because they are neighbors. We had a blast!!! The Atlantic Ocean is much warmer than the Pacific Ocean, which enabled us to wade in the water for hours. The weather remained gorgeous into nightfall. We floated around the neighboring area eating and drinking and some establishments were better than others but we had a GREAT time. We would wander the streets then go back to the Atlantic Ocean to walk the beach. We spent almost the whole night by the water; I felt like we had the whole beach to ourselves. It was SO romantic!!
Alas we had to get home and end the night. We arrived home and went straight to bed because the furniture and carpets were still drying. I couldn’t sleep so I watched TV into the wee hours of the morning. I finally fell asleep happy and content.
Tony’s Notes
It was a beautiful Florida day. It was sunny and warm, but not muggy. We had our carpets and upholstery cleaned and Scotchguarded. It just seemed to make sense to get this maintenance done before heading back to Michigan. After all, we have been on the road for almost 100 days, and have not had a chance to vacuum in Harry.
By early afternoon, we were at Atlantic Beach walking for miles in the white sands. It was warm, and like Carolina says, the water was much warmer than on the west coast. We walked and played for several hours. There were a lot of bicycle riders on the beach. That is one thing you will never see on Lake Michigan. However, the Atlantic and Pacific coast ocean beaches are packed down enough in certain areas enough for bicycles. I have to get our bikes out here for a ride; we would be able to go miles on the beach.
The beach towns have bars and restaurants all along the beach area. So, we stopped and had some fresh raw oysters; I am finally getting used to sliding these things down my throat. We stopped at a restaurant and bar called “Ragtime” and they had top shelf margaritas for $5 during happy hour. We had a couple of margaritas and some signature red beans and rice. It was quite a good stop. Then, we walked back out on the beach in the dark. There was a full moon, and it was very romantic. There was nobody out there that we could see. Carolina had always had a fantasy to make love on a white sandy beach; so, with the full moon and the splashing of the ocean waves…it was a great night sitting on the Atlantic Beach fulfilling that fantasy.
We wanted to get up and workout in the Exercise Room. We were disappointed once we arrived instead we walked the campground. We were expecting a carpet cleaning service in an hour and a half so we didn’t have much time to waste. We were in the middle of moving our belongings and the service arrived. I was just getting ready to jump in the shower…it was a bit awkward. The service came back to give me time to shower and dress. Tony helped with my embarrassment and informed me that the service was early. It all worked out in the end. While the cleaning was happening, Tony & I completed errands and we ran into some hiccups but we put it behind us and continued with our day.
Once carpets were cleaned and errands complete, we were off to the beach. We visited Neptune and Atlantic Beaches because they are neighbors. We had a blast!!! The Atlantic Ocean is much warmer than the Pacific Ocean, which enabled us to wade in the water for hours. The weather remained gorgeous into nightfall. We floated around the neighboring area eating and drinking and some establishments were better than others but we had a GREAT time. We would wander the streets then go back to the Atlantic Ocean to walk the beach. We spent almost the whole night by the water; I felt like we had the whole beach to ourselves. It was SO romantic!!
Alas we had to get home and end the night. We arrived home and went straight to bed because the furniture and carpets were still drying. I couldn’t sleep so I watched TV into the wee hours of the morning. I finally fell asleep happy and content.
Tony’s Notes
It was a beautiful Florida day. It was sunny and warm, but not muggy. We had our carpets and upholstery cleaned and Scotchguarded. It just seemed to make sense to get this maintenance done before heading back to Michigan. After all, we have been on the road for almost 100 days, and have not had a chance to vacuum in Harry.
By early afternoon, we were at Atlantic Beach walking for miles in the white sands. It was warm, and like Carolina says, the water was much warmer than on the west coast. We walked and played for several hours. There were a lot of bicycle riders on the beach. That is one thing you will never see on Lake Michigan. However, the Atlantic and Pacific coast ocean beaches are packed down enough in certain areas enough for bicycles. I have to get our bikes out here for a ride; we would be able to go miles on the beach.
The beach towns have bars and restaurants all along the beach area. So, we stopped and had some fresh raw oysters; I am finally getting used to sliding these things down my throat. We stopped at a restaurant and bar called “Ragtime” and they had top shelf margaritas for $5 during happy hour. We had a couple of margaritas and some signature red beans and rice. It was quite a good stop. Then, we walked back out on the beach in the dark. There was a full moon, and it was very romantic. There was nobody out there that we could see. Carolina had always had a fantasy to make love on a white sandy beach; so, with the full moon and the splashing of the ocean waves…it was a great night sitting on the Atlantic Beach fulfilling that fantasy.
November 29th
Carolina’s Notes
I got up and threw on clothes because I want to shower once we have a place to stay for a few days. Tony and I drove for hours until he stopped to take a potty break. We didn’t stop long and then we were back on the road. We drove into downtown Jacksonville but decided to head to beaches. Tony had done the research on places to stay in Florida so I was unable to provide any opinions. We found a Panera on the way to the Jacksonville Beaches. While at Panera, we were able to use the Internet and that was a necessary evil. Our goal is to play outside in this gorgeous weather because the weather isn’t supposed to stay nice. For now we are doing computer work, trying to find lodging and eating Panera treats.
Mission accomplished! We found a resort in Jacksonville; the next few days Flamingo Lake RV Resort will be home. Tony and I over shot the road to get to the resort so we had to unhook the car. I felt SO bad for Tony because the timing was really inconvenient. We were out on a busy Florida road trying to get the car detached luckily the traffic was great to us. No one honked or cursed. Tony wasn’t a happy camper but we didn’t have any bickering. I just did what I could to help. Once hooked up at Flamingo Lake RV Resort, Tony began his RV maintenance. I am speculating it is pent up nervous energy. We drove many miles the past few days. We haven’t had any exercise and we missed out on some nightlife in New Orleans. So basically he needs to get outside and do. I am staying OUT of his way. I am decompressing by watching some football. This spot has the amenities that we require which is a plus. My first impression of Flamingo Lake RV Resort is a positive one. In the meantime, I’m going to watch football and leave Tony to his work.
We went out to a local steakhouse for dinner. Cross Creek Steakhouse advertised in Flamingo Lake RV Resort’s Brochure. We had a nice dinner at a discounted rate. We had a nice time then went hunting for DQ. We had to give up the search because my phone was home and Tony’s phone was running out of power. We arrived home and Tony went back out to pick up DQ. Thanks Tony!! We relaxed the rest of the night. I went to bed thankful for finding a nice place to stay and everything in my life.
Tony’s Notes
It was a long drive from Pensacola to Jacksonville. Most of this drive across the Florida Panhandle looks like Michigan. There are many pine trees, and other nice green trees. It reminded me of driving north on I-75.
I was glad to find a nice RV Resort type of park that wasn’t too high priced. Although, it is $38 per night, many others in the area were higher. After driving and sleeping in Harry for two plus days straight, we needed to get out of the house. So, going out to Cross Creek Steakhouse was fun. They had two for one on the margaritas.
I got up and threw on clothes because I want to shower once we have a place to stay for a few days. Tony and I drove for hours until he stopped to take a potty break. We didn’t stop long and then we were back on the road. We drove into downtown Jacksonville but decided to head to beaches. Tony had done the research on places to stay in Florida so I was unable to provide any opinions. We found a Panera on the way to the Jacksonville Beaches. While at Panera, we were able to use the Internet and that was a necessary evil. Our goal is to play outside in this gorgeous weather because the weather isn’t supposed to stay nice. For now we are doing computer work, trying to find lodging and eating Panera treats.
Mission accomplished! We found a resort in Jacksonville; the next few days Flamingo Lake RV Resort will be home. Tony and I over shot the road to get to the resort so we had to unhook the car. I felt SO bad for Tony because the timing was really inconvenient. We were out on a busy Florida road trying to get the car detached luckily the traffic was great to us. No one honked or cursed. Tony wasn’t a happy camper but we didn’t have any bickering. I just did what I could to help. Once hooked up at Flamingo Lake RV Resort, Tony began his RV maintenance. I am speculating it is pent up nervous energy. We drove many miles the past few days. We haven’t had any exercise and we missed out on some nightlife in New Orleans. So basically he needs to get outside and do. I am staying OUT of his way. I am decompressing by watching some football. This spot has the amenities that we require which is a plus. My first impression of Flamingo Lake RV Resort is a positive one. In the meantime, I’m going to watch football and leave Tony to his work.
We went out to a local steakhouse for dinner. Cross Creek Steakhouse advertised in Flamingo Lake RV Resort’s Brochure. We had a nice dinner at a discounted rate. We had a nice time then went hunting for DQ. We had to give up the search because my phone was home and Tony’s phone was running out of power. We arrived home and Tony went back out to pick up DQ. Thanks Tony!! We relaxed the rest of the night. I went to bed thankful for finding a nice place to stay and everything in my life.
Tony’s Notes
It was a long drive from Pensacola to Jacksonville. Most of this drive across the Florida Panhandle looks like Michigan. There are many pine trees, and other nice green trees. It reminded me of driving north on I-75.
I was glad to find a nice RV Resort type of park that wasn’t too high priced. Although, it is $38 per night, many others in the area were higher. After driving and sleeping in Harry for two plus days straight, we needed to get out of the house. So, going out to Cross Creek Steakhouse was fun. They had two for one on the margaritas.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
November 28th - Florida
Carolina’s Notes
Today is another Travel Day. I decided to get up on throw on clothes because I didn’t want to stay too long in the Flying J’s Truck Parking. Tony was up early showered and dressed and we needed to get back on the road. He takes quick showers plus guys just don’t have as much to do to get ready. Tony made coffee and we got moving. The next thing I knew we were in Alabama. That was a quick trip through Louisiana and Mississippi. We are really cruising. We decided to get off the beaten path to get to a Panera for free WiFi service. We did our computer work and had our Panera Bread treats.
After our stop at Panera, we got back on the road. We drove until we arrived at the Florida Visitor Center; there Tony made us lunch and we picked up some pamphlets. We didn’t stop long, before I knew it, we were on the road again. I was tired so I leaned my chair back and slept/rested. I suppose I didn’t sleep as soundly as I thought last evening. Tony seemed sleepy along with me. He decided to pull off to another Rest Area and rest. We actually fell asleep and took approximately an hour nap. This was definitely unexpected. I thought maybe a catnap of fifteen minutes but an hour was too long.
We got moving once we were back on the highway. During this part of the journey, we passed the time chatting and listening to music. I did experience a migraine, which was uncomfortable for me but I managed to enjoy the music and Tony’s company. We drove without stopping into the night. We needed to stop for fuel and to eat. We wanted to fuel at Flying J’s and they were busy. They were so busy that we just left and moved onward. We eventually found a place to purchase gas until we bunked down at yet another Florida Rest Area. The Florida Rest Areas appear to be nice and clean. I was ok with staying at the Florida Rest Area; it helps on keeping our lodging cost down. Tony prepared our wonderful dinner and we were able to relax until bed. These past few days of traveling have been SO terrific! I haven’t had to sit in the kitchen area as well as enjoy sitting ‘Shot Gun!’
Tony’s Notes
It was a long travel day; we drove more miles today than any other day since we have been on the road. Since we left Phoenix, the plan has been to get to the east coast, enjoy a little fun in the sun, and head north toward home. So, we drove more miles per day than prior. Anyway, we had a very nice quiet sleep at the Florida Rest Area.
Today is another Travel Day. I decided to get up on throw on clothes because I didn’t want to stay too long in the Flying J’s Truck Parking. Tony was up early showered and dressed and we needed to get back on the road. He takes quick showers plus guys just don’t have as much to do to get ready. Tony made coffee and we got moving. The next thing I knew we were in Alabama. That was a quick trip through Louisiana and Mississippi. We are really cruising. We decided to get off the beaten path to get to a Panera for free WiFi service. We did our computer work and had our Panera Bread treats.
After our stop at Panera, we got back on the road. We drove until we arrived at the Florida Visitor Center; there Tony made us lunch and we picked up some pamphlets. We didn’t stop long, before I knew it, we were on the road again. I was tired so I leaned my chair back and slept/rested. I suppose I didn’t sleep as soundly as I thought last evening. Tony seemed sleepy along with me. He decided to pull off to another Rest Area and rest. We actually fell asleep and took approximately an hour nap. This was definitely unexpected. I thought maybe a catnap of fifteen minutes but an hour was too long.
We got moving once we were back on the highway. During this part of the journey, we passed the time chatting and listening to music. I did experience a migraine, which was uncomfortable for me but I managed to enjoy the music and Tony’s company. We drove without stopping into the night. We needed to stop for fuel and to eat. We wanted to fuel at Flying J’s and they were busy. They were so busy that we just left and moved onward. We eventually found a place to purchase gas until we bunked down at yet another Florida Rest Area. The Florida Rest Areas appear to be nice and clean. I was ok with staying at the Florida Rest Area; it helps on keeping our lodging cost down. Tony prepared our wonderful dinner and we were able to relax until bed. These past few days of traveling have been SO terrific! I haven’t had to sit in the kitchen area as well as enjoy sitting ‘Shot Gun!’
Tony’s Notes
It was a long travel day; we drove more miles today than any other day since we have been on the road. Since we left Phoenix, the plan has been to get to the east coast, enjoy a little fun in the sun, and head north toward home. So, we drove more miles per day than prior. Anyway, we had a very nice quiet sleep at the Florida Rest Area.
November 27th
Carolina’s Notes
Today is another Travel Day. I got ready and packed for the road. We drove through Texas into Louisiana and Mississippi. We drove 440 miles and it was a good traveling day. Tony and I talked and talked. We talked SO much that our voices were hoarse. We talked about anything and everything; it felt like when we first met. Tony and I would talk for hours. I was SO glad that we didn’t have tension or harsh words. We were just communicating what was on our minds. It was time well spent!!
Once it got dark and many miles had been behind us, we decided to stop in New Orleans. We were going into New Orleans blindly without any planning. Once in New Orleans, we couldn’t find lodging or a place to park the RV so we had to get back on the highway. We stopped at a Lowe’s and heated up leftovers for dinner. It was after 9:00 p.m. at night; Tony asked me to be patient and he’d get us a stop to sleep. I remained patient until we arrived at a Flying J. We were able to fill up the gas tank and pick up some convenience items for enjoying our evening in the RV. We enjoyed watching a couple movies then went to bed. I enjoyed my travels with Tony. I went to bed content.
Tony’s Notes
I was disappointed that I did not stay a day or so in New Orleans. I had not planned to do so, and not planning was the problem. I should have cut over to I-12, and stayed at an RV Park off the highway, that way, we could have gone into downtown New Orleans all day and evening on Saturday, and hit the road again on Sunday.
However, instead, we drove the RV into downtown New Orleans, in the dark. The one RV Park we stopped at was booked. There was some event that weekend that brought everyone into town, and Monday night football was in town, so people were coming in for that event, as well. Just as well, because that RV resort would have been $100 per night. We drove around looking for a place to park, but there was no room anywhere for a Motorhome towing a car; after all, I am over 50 feet long.
I really want to walk up bourbon street and stop somewhere for some Cajun or something like that. Anyway, I got back on I-10 and made our way to the Flying J Truck stop. We slept between two semi-trucks. It was a nice evening, but the engines were running all night on the trucks next to us, and in the morning, I could feel a headache from the constant noise. Of course, it was free parking for the night.
Today is another Travel Day. I got ready and packed for the road. We drove through Texas into Louisiana and Mississippi. We drove 440 miles and it was a good traveling day. Tony and I talked and talked. We talked SO much that our voices were hoarse. We talked about anything and everything; it felt like when we first met. Tony and I would talk for hours. I was SO glad that we didn’t have tension or harsh words. We were just communicating what was on our minds. It was time well spent!!
Once it got dark and many miles had been behind us, we decided to stop in New Orleans. We were going into New Orleans blindly without any planning. Once in New Orleans, we couldn’t find lodging or a place to park the RV so we had to get back on the highway. We stopped at a Lowe’s and heated up leftovers for dinner. It was after 9:00 p.m. at night; Tony asked me to be patient and he’d get us a stop to sleep. I remained patient until we arrived at a Flying J. We were able to fill up the gas tank and pick up some convenience items for enjoying our evening in the RV. We enjoyed watching a couple movies then went to bed. I enjoyed my travels with Tony. I went to bed content.
Tony’s Notes
I was disappointed that I did not stay a day or so in New Orleans. I had not planned to do so, and not planning was the problem. I should have cut over to I-12, and stayed at an RV Park off the highway, that way, we could have gone into downtown New Orleans all day and evening on Saturday, and hit the road again on Sunday.
However, instead, we drove the RV into downtown New Orleans, in the dark. The one RV Park we stopped at was booked. There was some event that weekend that brought everyone into town, and Monday night football was in town, so people were coming in for that event, as well. Just as well, because that RV resort would have been $100 per night. We drove around looking for a place to park, but there was no room anywhere for a Motorhome towing a car; after all, I am over 50 feet long.
I really want to walk up bourbon street and stop somewhere for some Cajun or something like that. Anyway, I got back on I-10 and made our way to the Flying J Truck stop. We slept between two semi-trucks. It was a nice evening, but the engines were running all night on the trucks next to us, and in the morning, I could feel a headache from the constant noise. Of course, it was free parking for the night.
November 26th - Thanksgiving Day
Carolina’s Notes
I got up and sipped coffee and completed some computer work. I watched some of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade before I showered which was great! It felt just like a typical Thanksgiving Day. It was a very relaxed morning! I was able to get ready at a leisurely pace. Our plans were to go to Buca di Beppo’s for our Thanksgiving Dinner. I wanted to get dressed up because it was a holiday and we were going out. Going out might not come so frequently once back in Michigan. Anyway, I took my time getting ready while watching the Detroit Lions play their annual Thanksgiving Day game in Detroit. I was THRILLED!! I hadn’t watched a Lion’s game all year and I just enjoyed watching my hometown football team. It would be a better story if the Lions would have won the contest but alas they lost. While I watched football, Tony decided to get our laundry done. He was spared my hollering at the Lions. Thanks Tony for all you do!!
He arrived home and the game was over. It was now time to get to the restaurant. We had reservations and I didn’t want to be late. I had NO idea if the restaurant was going to be busy. Tony and I arrived on time and were greeted with a smiling face. Buca’s wasn’t busy but they did have customers. The business was significant that it was worth their while to be open. We had a great time! The service, food and establishment were terrific!! Tony and I ate, drank and made merry. We were stuffed full. Thanks Buca’s for being open.
Once at home, we watched Cable TV the rest of the night and drank water. We had communicated to friends and family through out the day so we just flaked out until bed. I went to bed grateful for everything in my life.
Tony’s Notes
I was very happy that Carolina got to watch the Detroit Lion’s play today while sitting in her own home. I had no problem running to a Laundromat; I washed the car while I was out, too. Buca’s was great.
Buca’s served us Turkey with Italian Sausage bread dressing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. We also had spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic bread, and a bottle of wine. After our meal, we sipped on some Lemoncillo to cleanse our pallet and help with digestion. We topped things off with pumpkin pie and a double shot of Espresso. We were done eating and leaving the restaurant by 5:30pm. We did not eat anything the rest of the evening. It was a nice holiday, and tomorrow is another travel day.
I got up and sipped coffee and completed some computer work. I watched some of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade before I showered which was great! It felt just like a typical Thanksgiving Day. It was a very relaxed morning! I was able to get ready at a leisurely pace. Our plans were to go to Buca di Beppo’s for our Thanksgiving Dinner. I wanted to get dressed up because it was a holiday and we were going out. Going out might not come so frequently once back in Michigan. Anyway, I took my time getting ready while watching the Detroit Lions play their annual Thanksgiving Day game in Detroit. I was THRILLED!! I hadn’t watched a Lion’s game all year and I just enjoyed watching my hometown football team. It would be a better story if the Lions would have won the contest but alas they lost. While I watched football, Tony decided to get our laundry done. He was spared my hollering at the Lions. Thanks Tony for all you do!!
He arrived home and the game was over. It was now time to get to the restaurant. We had reservations and I didn’t want to be late. I had NO idea if the restaurant was going to be busy. Tony and I arrived on time and were greeted with a smiling face. Buca’s wasn’t busy but they did have customers. The business was significant that it was worth their while to be open. We had a great time! The service, food and establishment were terrific!! Tony and I ate, drank and made merry. We were stuffed full. Thanks Buca’s for being open.
Once at home, we watched Cable TV the rest of the night and drank water. We had communicated to friends and family through out the day so we just flaked out until bed. I went to bed grateful for everything in my life.
Tony’s Notes
I was very happy that Carolina got to watch the Detroit Lion’s play today while sitting in her own home. I had no problem running to a Laundromat; I washed the car while I was out, too. Buca’s was great.
Buca’s served us Turkey with Italian Sausage bread dressing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. We also had spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic bread, and a bottle of wine. After our meal, we sipped on some Lemoncillo to cleanse our pallet and help with digestion. We topped things off with pumpkin pie and a double shot of Espresso. We were done eating and leaving the restaurant by 5:30pm. We did not eat anything the rest of the evening. It was a nice holiday, and tomorrow is another travel day.
November 25th - Traveling to Houston
Carolina’s Notes
I got up and showered and dressed as quickly as possible. Today was another travel day so I needed to get moving. Tony quickly showered and dressed then made coffee. He unhooked everything and prepared the car (Matt) and RV (Harry) for traveling; I was busy getting myself ready until departure.
We got out on the road at 11:00 a.m. We ate breakfast on the road at a Picnic/Rest Area. We arrived into downtown Houston approximately 12:30 p.m. Houston met us with two really bad accidents and road construction, which made me feel REAL comfortable. Tony and I arrived to our destination safely. Wild Country RV Park will be home base for us until Friday.
Tony set up all the amenities while I started my computer work. We ate lunch and continued to do computer work. We also are hashing out what the plan is for tomorrow, which is Thanksgiving. We have neighbors and they are VERY close to our RV. I mean CLOSE like they are in my living room. Tony and I have been fortunate not to face this until now. The neighbors happen to be from Michigan. Tony was going to try to get computer work done but instead was a good neighbor. Basically he went to let the representative know his displeasure over another guest being in our space but Tony wound up helping the new arrival out of mechanical difficulty. Of course this took him away from his duties he wanted to accomplish. Once Tony was home, we finalized our Thanksgiving Day plans and completed our computer work. Then we began relaxing until dinner; the plan is to eat dinner at home. The neighbor’s dogs are barkers so Tony may want to go out in the meantime we plan on hanging out in Harry then having a fire.
It was pretty cold last night so I decided to stay in and watch a movie on Cable TV. Tony was busy completing computer work not completed earlier in the day. The fire didn’t take place. I’m not sure if it’ll be rescheduled. We enjoyed our evening and went to bed. It was a nice day.
Tony’s Notes
It was a travel day. We drove from Lockhart, Texas to Houston. Houston was big city traffic and construction. We saw several car accidents and I prayed no one hit us. Using our Passport America book, we looked up RV parks in the area that would give us our 50% discount. That is how we ended up at Wild Country RV. We did get a good price and had full hookups that included Cable TV and Wi-Fi, but other than that, the place was a dump. It looked like most folks lived there in their older travel trailers. I was OK hooking up there, but when the older couple from Michigan pulled up next to us, I could not believe the RV management staff actually sold a spot next to us. It was very tight and close.
I had started to walk over and tell the RV staff person that it was too close, but the guy older man from Michigan stopped me and told me his car was out of gas, and wanted to know if I would drive him to a gas station to get some gas in a gas can. I could not refuse him; he needed help. It turned out he was 79 years old, and from Alpena. He seemed a little confused. Later, when I helped him put the gas in his Car, I started the car and could see he had over a quarter of a tank. I think he was just confused on how to hook up his tow car properly. I am thankful that I take the time to read up on these types of procedures; I am shocked at how many people don’t do certain things correctly.
Once we were hooked up and things settled down with the new neighbors, we relaxed and had a nice evening. I made reservations for two at Buca Di Beppo’s for Thanksgiving dinner. If we were still in the Phoenix area, at Apache Junction, we would have ate with all of the seniors at the pot luck. However, at this RV Park there was nothing like that type of group activity. Just as well, I love Buca’s and their holiday menu sounded great.
I got up and showered and dressed as quickly as possible. Today was another travel day so I needed to get moving. Tony quickly showered and dressed then made coffee. He unhooked everything and prepared the car (Matt) and RV (Harry) for traveling; I was busy getting myself ready until departure.
We got out on the road at 11:00 a.m. We ate breakfast on the road at a Picnic/Rest Area. We arrived into downtown Houston approximately 12:30 p.m. Houston met us with two really bad accidents and road construction, which made me feel REAL comfortable. Tony and I arrived to our destination safely. Wild Country RV Park will be home base for us until Friday.
Tony set up all the amenities while I started my computer work. We ate lunch and continued to do computer work. We also are hashing out what the plan is for tomorrow, which is Thanksgiving. We have neighbors and they are VERY close to our RV. I mean CLOSE like they are in my living room. Tony and I have been fortunate not to face this until now. The neighbors happen to be from Michigan. Tony was going to try to get computer work done but instead was a good neighbor. Basically he went to let the representative know his displeasure over another guest being in our space but Tony wound up helping the new arrival out of mechanical difficulty. Of course this took him away from his duties he wanted to accomplish. Once Tony was home, we finalized our Thanksgiving Day plans and completed our computer work. Then we began relaxing until dinner; the plan is to eat dinner at home. The neighbor’s dogs are barkers so Tony may want to go out in the meantime we plan on hanging out in Harry then having a fire.
It was pretty cold last night so I decided to stay in and watch a movie on Cable TV. Tony was busy completing computer work not completed earlier in the day. The fire didn’t take place. I’m not sure if it’ll be rescheduled. We enjoyed our evening and went to bed. It was a nice day.
Tony’s Notes
It was a travel day. We drove from Lockhart, Texas to Houston. Houston was big city traffic and construction. We saw several car accidents and I prayed no one hit us. Using our Passport America book, we looked up RV parks in the area that would give us our 50% discount. That is how we ended up at Wild Country RV. We did get a good price and had full hookups that included Cable TV and Wi-Fi, but other than that, the place was a dump. It looked like most folks lived there in their older travel trailers. I was OK hooking up there, but when the older couple from Michigan pulled up next to us, I could not believe the RV management staff actually sold a spot next to us. It was very tight and close.
I had started to walk over and tell the RV staff person that it was too close, but the guy older man from Michigan stopped me and told me his car was out of gas, and wanted to know if I would drive him to a gas station to get some gas in a gas can. I could not refuse him; he needed help. It turned out he was 79 years old, and from Alpena. He seemed a little confused. Later, when I helped him put the gas in his Car, I started the car and could see he had over a quarter of a tank. I think he was just confused on how to hook up his tow car properly. I am thankful that I take the time to read up on these types of procedures; I am shocked at how many people don’t do certain things correctly.
Once we were hooked up and things settled down with the new neighbors, we relaxed and had a nice evening. I made reservations for two at Buca Di Beppo’s for Thanksgiving dinner. If we were still in the Phoenix area, at Apache Junction, we would have ate with all of the seniors at the pot luck. However, at this RV Park there was nothing like that type of group activity. Just as well, I love Buca’s and their holiday menu sounded great.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
November 24th - Austin, Texas
Looking down from the dome of the State Capital Building
Late Lunch at Bess's
Just a few BatsCarolina’s Notes
I got up gingerly because of the bickering that took place yesterday. I was still raw from the harsh words. Tony and I talked through some of the issues that spark the bickering. It was a necessary evil that actually promoted our reconciliation. I was RELIEVED! We got showered and dressed. We decided to head into downtown Austin.
The journey started at Starbucks so we could figure out what sight seeing was going to be accomplished. We went to the Capitol Building. It was neat! It is also ironic because I’ve never seen Michigan’s Capitol and I’ve lived in Michigan all of my life. We wanted to grab lunch so we ate at Bess’ Bistro. The food, service and the facilities were GREAT!! Tony asked our waitress, Beth, about other sights in Austin. Beth told Tony that bats house themselves under one of their bridges. Tony wanted to see the bats come out at dusk. I wanted to stay far away so I sat at a Wine Bar. We had a blast!! Tony saw the bats and clicked pictures and I stayed away, watch football highlights, talked, and sipped great wine. It was time well spent! On the way home, I asked Tony to stop to pick up BBQ. I wanted to compare BBQ cooking and took some advice from a local consumer on other places in town. Well, Black’s BBQ still has my vote as best BBQ.
We arrived home and ate our BBQ. Tony made a fire and we enjoyed the stars and fire until bed. The night ended very nicely. I was grateful for my day and everything that I have.
Tony’s Notes
It was an awful night trying to sleep. I was not sure if I was going to get up and start driving to Michigan as fast as possible or continue this journey. I think I was ready to be a 49 year old divorced man because, after last night, I had had it. The thing is, I love my wife for who she is, and I really just pray that she can come out of her emotional funk, get it together, and be what I expect. Of course, that may sound bad, but I want what I want and I will have what I want. I cannot help that some may think of me as a control freak. Most of those people have no plan in their lives; I do. Anyway, we both put our wedding rings back on our hands.
We decided to make up and take a day trip to Austin, Texas. I wanted Carolina to see the capital city of Texas. We got downtown and found a place to park. We did some walking, and toured through the Capital building.
The capital building was very beautiful. It is taller than our national capital building; I guess everything is bigger in Texas. We walked through the downtown area and saw some pretty interesting sites. I enjoyed stopping at Bess’s. We split a bottle of wine, and had happy hour appetizers’. We had oysters, taboulli, Stilton with crackers, and some macaroni cheese balls. It was all very good.
We walked toward the bridge where the bats fly out at dusk. Austin, Texas has the largest population of Bats in any urban area. About one block from the bridge, we stepped into the Wine Bar; I think it was called “Cork & Co.” or something. Anyway, we each had a glass of wine, and I left Carolina there while I walked over to the bridge.
It was quite amazing to watch the Bats flying out from under the bridge. There were thousands of little bats’ and they looked like a cloud up in the sky. I took some snapshots, and headed back to the wine bar to check on Carolina. We had another glass of wine, and a cheese plate with pumpkin seeds. Then, we walked back to our car for the forty mile drive back to the state park and home.
We stopped and picked up some barbecue from Kraus’s, another famous BBQ place. They were getting ready to close, and they were kind of rude. Black’s BBQ was much better both with food and quality service. We did have a nice campfire and great make up sex. So, it was a great day. Tomorrow was a travel day toward Houston, so we did not have far to drive.
I got up gingerly because of the bickering that took place yesterday. I was still raw from the harsh words. Tony and I talked through some of the issues that spark the bickering. It was a necessary evil that actually promoted our reconciliation. I was RELIEVED! We got showered and dressed. We decided to head into downtown Austin.
The journey started at Starbucks so we could figure out what sight seeing was going to be accomplished. We went to the Capitol Building. It was neat! It is also ironic because I’ve never seen Michigan’s Capitol and I’ve lived in Michigan all of my life. We wanted to grab lunch so we ate at Bess’ Bistro. The food, service and the facilities were GREAT!! Tony asked our waitress, Beth, about other sights in Austin. Beth told Tony that bats house themselves under one of their bridges. Tony wanted to see the bats come out at dusk. I wanted to stay far away so I sat at a Wine Bar. We had a blast!! Tony saw the bats and clicked pictures and I stayed away, watch football highlights, talked, and sipped great wine. It was time well spent! On the way home, I asked Tony to stop to pick up BBQ. I wanted to compare BBQ cooking and took some advice from a local consumer on other places in town. Well, Black’s BBQ still has my vote as best BBQ.
We arrived home and ate our BBQ. Tony made a fire and we enjoyed the stars and fire until bed. The night ended very nicely. I was grateful for my day and everything that I have.
Tony’s Notes
It was an awful night trying to sleep. I was not sure if I was going to get up and start driving to Michigan as fast as possible or continue this journey. I think I was ready to be a 49 year old divorced man because, after last night, I had had it. The thing is, I love my wife for who she is, and I really just pray that she can come out of her emotional funk, get it together, and be what I expect. Of course, that may sound bad, but I want what I want and I will have what I want. I cannot help that some may think of me as a control freak. Most of those people have no plan in their lives; I do. Anyway, we both put our wedding rings back on our hands.
We decided to make up and take a day trip to Austin, Texas. I wanted Carolina to see the capital city of Texas. We got downtown and found a place to park. We did some walking, and toured through the Capital building.
The capital building was very beautiful. It is taller than our national capital building; I guess everything is bigger in Texas. We walked through the downtown area and saw some pretty interesting sites. I enjoyed stopping at Bess’s. We split a bottle of wine, and had happy hour appetizers’. We had oysters, taboulli, Stilton with crackers, and some macaroni cheese balls. It was all very good.
We walked toward the bridge where the bats fly out at dusk. Austin, Texas has the largest population of Bats in any urban area. About one block from the bridge, we stepped into the Wine Bar; I think it was called “Cork & Co.” or something. Anyway, we each had a glass of wine, and I left Carolina there while I walked over to the bridge.
It was quite amazing to watch the Bats flying out from under the bridge. There were thousands of little bats’ and they looked like a cloud up in the sky. I took some snapshots, and headed back to the wine bar to check on Carolina. We had another glass of wine, and a cheese plate with pumpkin seeds. Then, we walked back to our car for the forty mile drive back to the state park and home.
We stopped and picked up some barbecue from Kraus’s, another famous BBQ place. They were getting ready to close, and they were kind of rude. Black’s BBQ was much better both with food and quality service. We did have a nice campfire and great make up sex. So, it was a great day. Tomorrow was a travel day toward Houston, so we did not have far to drive.
November 23rd - Lockhart, Texas and Black's BBQ
Old County Courthouse in Lockhart, TX
Carolina’s Notes
I got up and threw on clothes because we slept at a Truck Stop and didn’t want to over stay our welcome. We went just a little ways until the next Rest Area. Tony wanted to make coffee and talk to me about our next destination. Well we started bickering; it sparked from Tony’s reaction to my annoying habits. The spark turned into a big ROARNG fire. So traveling today wasn’t very pleasant. I just don’t understand how a simple spark got into such a fire. I realize that my fuse has been short especially these last two days. I am ill over the fact that I cannot seem to communicate with Tony. I’ve have difficulty communicating with him for several years. I thought this sabbatical would help but the 24/7 contact seems to be making it worse. I feel like the harder I try to communicate or to be apologetic the more I dig myself a grave. I’ll just keep trying until I get it right. In the meantime, I do hope he doesn’t throw me out of the RV.
We got into San Antonio. We originally thought that we might finally go to Sea World but it was just out of budget. Tony inquired as to price discounts but the pricing was still high. We changed plans and decided to find lodging in Lockhart. Tony found a place and it just happened to be the Lockhart State Park. We will be here two nights and will have water and electric facilities. I quickly showered while Tony was unhooking the car by the Dump Station so once I was finished he could dump the tank. I took a military type shower but at least I am clean because I felt real grimy. According to Tony, I should be able to take a quick shower tomorrow despite the sewage facilities situation. Tony took a quick shower once we were secure in our site. Tony is ready to get into town.
We started at Black’s BBQ and it was terrific! We even received a tour of the BBQ pit and that was a treat. We then drove around downtown and stopped at the library but it was closing. We then drove farther around the downtown area closer to the campground. We were hunting for firewood and Monday Night Football. We found a place but only stayed for one because it was too early for the game and we needed firewood. We spoke to a local in the place and he instructed us on where to buy firewood. After we bought firewood, we stopped at a bar and grill across from the gas station that sold firewood. We watched the first half of Monday Night Football. During our stay, Tony had to take a call. When he returned, he gave me a message and I continued on in a manner Tony felt offensive. I was expressing myself over on a topic already discussed in private and Tony wasn’t happy with me. Apparently, I behaved VERY rudely!! It is a HOT button issue for me and I wasn’t in tune with his feelings. We got home and Tony was angry and left to cool off. He didn’t want to be around me anymore. I must say that this STINGS my core. I consider myself to be a nice person but from what Tony described to me this evening…I am NOT kind. My apologizing fell on deaf ears. Tony said that he’d had all he could stand of me and it killed me where I stood. Before he closed the door, I asked him to please come home to Harry (RV) after he cooled down and he said he would. I have been having difficulty relating to him and I hope this doesn’t drive him out of my life. It has been an eternity since his departure. Now I am left all alone wondering if Tony will return to continue spending his life with me or decide to go his own way. I MUST confess that I was lucky to have found Tony in the first place and I am at a loss on how to fix my transgressions of my words and lack of consideration. I came on this sabbatical for many reasons and one was to have better communications with Tony. Apparently, the 24/7 time with each other didn’t help. My heart is broken and I don’t know what to do to fix this terrible mess of harsh words. I type this with tears pouring out of my eyes. It is ironic that the trip of a lifetime just might be the death of my marriage. My one boss hinted to me once my resignation had been received to let Tony go on his own…in hindsight my boss might have been correct. I have caused Tony much grief with NO malice intent but it doesn’t matter at this point. I might loose the best thing that ever happened to me and I have NO answers on how to fix the brokenness.
Tony’s Notes
Wow! Well we passed right through San Antonio. Carolina and I had spent a week in San Antonio several years ago, when our daughter Mehgan had graduated from Basic Training during her short stint with the United States Air Force. So, we had been all through the River Walk area, and the Alamo. Sea World was tempting, but I think doing something like that might be more fun with my grandson, Dylan. It was over $50 per person, and another $15 for parking. With everything else, it would have been a $200 day.
Now, when I was doing some work for Ascension Health, I had been in Austin, Texas last December. While in Austin, I had taken a drive on highway 183 and found Black’s BBQ. Being that we were so close, I wanted to take Carolina there to check it out. I was glad there was a State Park near by that had hookups. It was a nice state park and we got hooked up early in the day.
We drove over to Black’s BBQ and started ordering our food. I told the guy at the counter carving our meat that we came all the way from Michigan just to come to Black’s BBQ. It turned out he was the owner, and he thanked us for being there. He told us to come see him when we were done eating. So, when we finished eating our fill of barbecued beef brisket, spare ribs, and home smoked sausage, we went to see Kent Black.
Black’s BBQ had been in business and owned by the same family since 1932. There fire pit had been burning the whole time. Kent Black, the owner, took us for a tour and showed us everything. He explained how his father had built the fire pit and smoker setup. Kent also showed us the fires, the wood, everything. Kent took our picture to post on his website. He was quite a good showman giving us the tour. There was something special with Black’s Barbecue restaurant. It was a small place with great employees that treated us right.
Afterwards, we eventually made it to a place where Carolina could watch football before going back to the RV and having a campfire. It is extremely unfortunate that Carolina allowed herself to get so nasty with her poor behavior and the night really ended very poorly. She just does not realize that poor behavior spoils a fantastic day; when it happens continuously, at some point, enough is enough. She really is a mess and I truly believe she needs help dealing with her many emotional issues.
I got up and threw on clothes because we slept at a Truck Stop and didn’t want to over stay our welcome. We went just a little ways until the next Rest Area. Tony wanted to make coffee and talk to me about our next destination. Well we started bickering; it sparked from Tony’s reaction to my annoying habits. The spark turned into a big ROARNG fire. So traveling today wasn’t very pleasant. I just don’t understand how a simple spark got into such a fire. I realize that my fuse has been short especially these last two days. I am ill over the fact that I cannot seem to communicate with Tony. I’ve have difficulty communicating with him for several years. I thought this sabbatical would help but the 24/7 contact seems to be making it worse. I feel like the harder I try to communicate or to be apologetic the more I dig myself a grave. I’ll just keep trying until I get it right. In the meantime, I do hope he doesn’t throw me out of the RV.
We got into San Antonio. We originally thought that we might finally go to Sea World but it was just out of budget. Tony inquired as to price discounts but the pricing was still high. We changed plans and decided to find lodging in Lockhart. Tony found a place and it just happened to be the Lockhart State Park. We will be here two nights and will have water and electric facilities. I quickly showered while Tony was unhooking the car by the Dump Station so once I was finished he could dump the tank. I took a military type shower but at least I am clean because I felt real grimy. According to Tony, I should be able to take a quick shower tomorrow despite the sewage facilities situation. Tony took a quick shower once we were secure in our site. Tony is ready to get into town.
We started at Black’s BBQ and it was terrific! We even received a tour of the BBQ pit and that was a treat. We then drove around downtown and stopped at the library but it was closing. We then drove farther around the downtown area closer to the campground. We were hunting for firewood and Monday Night Football. We found a place but only stayed for one because it was too early for the game and we needed firewood. We spoke to a local in the place and he instructed us on where to buy firewood. After we bought firewood, we stopped at a bar and grill across from the gas station that sold firewood. We watched the first half of Monday Night Football. During our stay, Tony had to take a call. When he returned, he gave me a message and I continued on in a manner Tony felt offensive. I was expressing myself over on a topic already discussed in private and Tony wasn’t happy with me. Apparently, I behaved VERY rudely!! It is a HOT button issue for me and I wasn’t in tune with his feelings. We got home and Tony was angry and left to cool off. He didn’t want to be around me anymore. I must say that this STINGS my core. I consider myself to be a nice person but from what Tony described to me this evening…I am NOT kind. My apologizing fell on deaf ears. Tony said that he’d had all he could stand of me and it killed me where I stood. Before he closed the door, I asked him to please come home to Harry (RV) after he cooled down and he said he would. I have been having difficulty relating to him and I hope this doesn’t drive him out of my life. It has been an eternity since his departure. Now I am left all alone wondering if Tony will return to continue spending his life with me or decide to go his own way. I MUST confess that I was lucky to have found Tony in the first place and I am at a loss on how to fix my transgressions of my words and lack of consideration. I came on this sabbatical for many reasons and one was to have better communications with Tony. Apparently, the 24/7 time with each other didn’t help. My heart is broken and I don’t know what to do to fix this terrible mess of harsh words. I type this with tears pouring out of my eyes. It is ironic that the trip of a lifetime just might be the death of my marriage. My one boss hinted to me once my resignation had been received to let Tony go on his own…in hindsight my boss might have been correct. I have caused Tony much grief with NO malice intent but it doesn’t matter at this point. I might loose the best thing that ever happened to me and I have NO answers on how to fix the brokenness.
Tony’s Notes
Wow! Well we passed right through San Antonio. Carolina and I had spent a week in San Antonio several years ago, when our daughter Mehgan had graduated from Basic Training during her short stint with the United States Air Force. So, we had been all through the River Walk area, and the Alamo. Sea World was tempting, but I think doing something like that might be more fun with my grandson, Dylan. It was over $50 per person, and another $15 for parking. With everything else, it would have been a $200 day.
Now, when I was doing some work for Ascension Health, I had been in Austin, Texas last December. While in Austin, I had taken a drive on highway 183 and found Black’s BBQ. Being that we were so close, I wanted to take Carolina there to check it out. I was glad there was a State Park near by that had hookups. It was a nice state park and we got hooked up early in the day.
We drove over to Black’s BBQ and started ordering our food. I told the guy at the counter carving our meat that we came all the way from Michigan just to come to Black’s BBQ. It turned out he was the owner, and he thanked us for being there. He told us to come see him when we were done eating. So, when we finished eating our fill of barbecued beef brisket, spare ribs, and home smoked sausage, we went to see Kent Black.
Black’s BBQ had been in business and owned by the same family since 1932. There fire pit had been burning the whole time. Kent Black, the owner, took us for a tour and showed us everything. He explained how his father had built the fire pit and smoker setup. Kent also showed us the fires, the wood, everything. Kent took our picture to post on his website. He was quite a good showman giving us the tour. There was something special with Black’s Barbecue restaurant. It was a small place with great employees that treated us right.
Afterwards, we eventually made it to a place where Carolina could watch football before going back to the RV and having a campfire. It is extremely unfortunate that Carolina allowed herself to get so nasty with her poor behavior and the night really ended very poorly. She just does not realize that poor behavior spoils a fantastic day; when it happens continuously, at some point, enough is enough. She really is a mess and I truly believe she needs help dealing with her many emotional issues.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
November 22nd - Motoring through Texas
Carolina’s Notes
I got up today and showered and dressed; I must say that it felt great!! I was in desperate need of a shower since I skipped one yesterday. Tony has surprised me with some fresh Krispie Crème donuts. The donuts aren’t part of a healthy eating plan but it was a nice treat with coffee. THANKS Tony!! We got ourselves road ready and hit the road.
Our first stop was at the Texas Visitor’s Center. We were able to pick up useful information on some of Tony’s Points of Interest. We might spend another night at a truck stop to have another zero dollar lodging night but having some visitor’s information is always helpful. We stopped at a Rest Area and Tony fixed an egg sandwich for us to split; I must say it was yummy. The ride through El Paso was a little nervy; I’m not sure why all I know is that my hands were sweating bullets. Later on down the road, I decided to call my mom only because it is a good time to reach her.
Yep, BIG MISTAKE! Tony tried to coach me along while on the phone as the conversation blew up with my mom and me. Then the conversation blew up with Tony and me. The call dropped. Then that’s when the firecrackers really went off between Tony and me. I try and I try to tell folks that I can’t reason with my mom. I do the best I can with the situations that unfold. I’m not a relationship expert. My mom and I just don’t communicate well. I don’t know how many times I have to repeat myself. It is hard to call and speak to my mom but it is a necessary evil. I eventually called my mom again so she knows that the call dropped. She was fine and we ended on a positive note. Now the ride is tense and VERY uncomfortable because Tony and I had HARSH words towards and to each other. So much for trying to call and let my mom know I was thinking about her.
Well we traveled about 430 miles today. We traveled into the night then found a Truck Stop in Junction, TX. We had dinner at a Cooper’s BBQ; it happened to be right next door to the Truck Stop. We relaxed in Harry (RV) until bed.
Tony’s Notes
Today was some real motoring. Driving over 430 miles is quite a bit in a motorhome, while pulling a car. Being that Chevrolet states to NOT drive over 65 MPH while towing the Chevy Malibu, I can’t go any faster. However, driving on cruise control at 64 MPH is actually a comfortable traveling speed. The Texas highways have speeds posted as high as 80 MPH. So, most folks on the road are passing us, including semi trucks. I think I get just as good of gas mileage pulling a car as I did when I was NOT pulling a car. This must be because I drive a little slower while towing.
Towing a car on this journey has been a huge blessing. I cannot believe that I had intended to only have our bicycle. There are so many places we would not have been able to go unless I had a car with us. I had thought about renting a car here and there along the way, instead of making the $3,000 dollar investment in a towing setup; I am very happy we made the investment. I just have to keep the 2003 Chevy Malibu on the road as long as possible because when the time comes to buy a new car, we will have to get a baseplate installed that matches up with my Blue Ox Tow Bar. A new car would have to be towable and of low weight; I am hoping to not have to buy a new car until the end of 2013.
It was a bit of a tense and depressing day because the arguing between Carolina and I. Her neurotic behavior just wears me down and after almost ninety days on the road, I think I may have had about enough.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this extended journey, and I believe we will do this again many times over the next years in our lives. There are so many things to see and do in this great country, and I do not want to be at the mercy of an employer only giving me a paid week off here and there.
I may not have achieved everything I set out to achieve on a sabbatical. However, I have gotten enough out of my system from a mid-life crisis perspective to feel good about getting back to working for a living, for a while anyway.
I got up today and showered and dressed; I must say that it felt great!! I was in desperate need of a shower since I skipped one yesterday. Tony has surprised me with some fresh Krispie Crème donuts. The donuts aren’t part of a healthy eating plan but it was a nice treat with coffee. THANKS Tony!! We got ourselves road ready and hit the road.
Our first stop was at the Texas Visitor’s Center. We were able to pick up useful information on some of Tony’s Points of Interest. We might spend another night at a truck stop to have another zero dollar lodging night but having some visitor’s information is always helpful. We stopped at a Rest Area and Tony fixed an egg sandwich for us to split; I must say it was yummy. The ride through El Paso was a little nervy; I’m not sure why all I know is that my hands were sweating bullets. Later on down the road, I decided to call my mom only because it is a good time to reach her.
Yep, BIG MISTAKE! Tony tried to coach me along while on the phone as the conversation blew up with my mom and me. Then the conversation blew up with Tony and me. The call dropped. Then that’s when the firecrackers really went off between Tony and me. I try and I try to tell folks that I can’t reason with my mom. I do the best I can with the situations that unfold. I’m not a relationship expert. My mom and I just don’t communicate well. I don’t know how many times I have to repeat myself. It is hard to call and speak to my mom but it is a necessary evil. I eventually called my mom again so she knows that the call dropped. She was fine and we ended on a positive note. Now the ride is tense and VERY uncomfortable because Tony and I had HARSH words towards and to each other. So much for trying to call and let my mom know I was thinking about her.
Well we traveled about 430 miles today. We traveled into the night then found a Truck Stop in Junction, TX. We had dinner at a Cooper’s BBQ; it happened to be right next door to the Truck Stop. We relaxed in Harry (RV) until bed.
Tony’s Notes
Today was some real motoring. Driving over 430 miles is quite a bit in a motorhome, while pulling a car. Being that Chevrolet states to NOT drive over 65 MPH while towing the Chevy Malibu, I can’t go any faster. However, driving on cruise control at 64 MPH is actually a comfortable traveling speed. The Texas highways have speeds posted as high as 80 MPH. So, most folks on the road are passing us, including semi trucks. I think I get just as good of gas mileage pulling a car as I did when I was NOT pulling a car. This must be because I drive a little slower while towing.
Towing a car on this journey has been a huge blessing. I cannot believe that I had intended to only have our bicycle. There are so many places we would not have been able to go unless I had a car with us. I had thought about renting a car here and there along the way, instead of making the $3,000 dollar investment in a towing setup; I am very happy we made the investment. I just have to keep the 2003 Chevy Malibu on the road as long as possible because when the time comes to buy a new car, we will have to get a baseplate installed that matches up with my Blue Ox Tow Bar. A new car would have to be towable and of low weight; I am hoping to not have to buy a new car until the end of 2013.
It was a bit of a tense and depressing day because the arguing between Carolina and I. Her neurotic behavior just wears me down and after almost ninety days on the road, I think I may have had about enough.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this extended journey, and I believe we will do this again many times over the next years in our lives. There are so many things to see and do in this great country, and I do not want to be at the mercy of an employer only giving me a paid week off here and there.
I may not have achieved everything I set out to achieve on a sabbatical. However, I have gotten enough out of my system from a mid-life crisis perspective to feel good about getting back to working for a living, for a while anyway.
November 21st
Tony’s Notes
We had a great breakfast hosted by the RV resort activities committee. We are kids compared to all of the senior citizens filling up this RV Park. It is snowbird season; they laugh seeing me in a t-shirt and shorts, while they all are wearing sweaters.
We were up to eat early, so it helped get us packed up and on the road early, as well. We drove 400 miles today, and it is the most miles in one day since we headed out on the road over 87 days ago. Typically, I do not want to drive that many miles; however, we need to make time through New Mexico and West Texas. Plus, I figured, if I am sleeping in a truck stop, I better drive until it is late because it is not like I would want to get there early to hang out.
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up and threw on clothes so we could partake in the breakfast social hosted by Carefree Manor RV Resort. We ate and got ready for the road. We aren’t sure how far we are going to travel. Tony originally planned on Tucson, AZ but may travel farther. He eventually wants to land in Texas to pursue more contract work. I’m planning on starting my journey sitting in the passenger seat but if things change then I’ll move to the kitchen. The weather is gorgeous so that helps to promote a smooth running travel day.
I had a TERRIFIC travel day!! The terrain was flat and the weather stayed gorgeous as well as we ate our own food. I was able to ride shotgun the whole trip. We traveled a little over 400 miles today. It was a terrific ride. We drove and drove; we traveled through Arizona right on by New Mexico into Texas. We bunked at a Flying J’s in Anthony, TX; it was coincidence but cool. We ate our own food in Harry (RV) and settled down for the night. I was SO grateful to eat my own food today. I went to bed safe and grateful. I can’t ask for anything else.
We had a great breakfast hosted by the RV resort activities committee. We are kids compared to all of the senior citizens filling up this RV Park. It is snowbird season; they laugh seeing me in a t-shirt and shorts, while they all are wearing sweaters.
We were up to eat early, so it helped get us packed up and on the road early, as well. We drove 400 miles today, and it is the most miles in one day since we headed out on the road over 87 days ago. Typically, I do not want to drive that many miles; however, we need to make time through New Mexico and West Texas. Plus, I figured, if I am sleeping in a truck stop, I better drive until it is late because it is not like I would want to get there early to hang out.
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up and threw on clothes so we could partake in the breakfast social hosted by Carefree Manor RV Resort. We ate and got ready for the road. We aren’t sure how far we are going to travel. Tony originally planned on Tucson, AZ but may travel farther. He eventually wants to land in Texas to pursue more contract work. I’m planning on starting my journey sitting in the passenger seat but if things change then I’ll move to the kitchen. The weather is gorgeous so that helps to promote a smooth running travel day.
I had a TERRIFIC travel day!! The terrain was flat and the weather stayed gorgeous as well as we ate our own food. I was able to ride shotgun the whole trip. We traveled a little over 400 miles today. It was a terrific ride. We drove and drove; we traveled through Arizona right on by New Mexico into Texas. We bunked at a Flying J’s in Anthony, TX; it was coincidence but cool. We ate our own food in Harry (RV) and settled down for the night. I was SO grateful to eat my own food today. I went to bed safe and grateful. I can’t ask for anything else.
November 20th
Tony’s Notes
Our last day in Apache Junction, near Phoenix, was a stay at home type of day to get chores and things done. It was a nice day. I also enjoyed having Carolina help me prep the fruit and veggies. We had gone to a produce market that had inexpensive produce.
When we got home, I had four cantaloupes that would definitely not fit into the small RV refrigerator. So, by cutting them all up at once, I could fit them into a Tupperware container that would fit in the fridge. Carolina cut up two quarts of strawberries. Through teamwork, we had our produce prepped to be used. I cooked up some tofu with grapeseed oil, red peppers, and fresh ground black pepper. Once the tofu was seared a bit, I threw in some green onion, green pepper, fresh garlic, and fresh chopped tomato. I let that all cook a little bit and tossed it with some egg noodles. It made a great lunch and had a good kick to it.
Going out to eat later in the evening for dinner was good. We like to go to the local establishments, and my 14 oz. New York Strip was quite excellent. Yet, I know that I could have driven down the road to a local Texas Roadhouse and have a 6 oz. sirloin, enjoyed it just as much, and saved a bunch of dollars.
We had been in the Phoenix area for a full week and it was now time to head east.
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up with a headache and puzzled as to why. Tony sprang out of bed and quickly showered and dressed. I lingered in bed until he was finished. He suggested throwing on clothes and bicycling to Starbucks but I declined. I briefly explained that I woke up out of sorts. He said, “That’s ok.” I responded, “I’d like to bicycle later to get a Starbucks’ Pumpkin Latte and definitely wanted to bike.” I was being conscience of the calories. We sipped coffee at home while listening to the music Tony had purchased at the Arizona Opry. I am glad he did; I am thoroughly enjoying Tony’s selections. The choices are a BIG hit! I’ll finish my computer work then get cleaned up. I should shower because the steam should help me from sneezing. I have been sneezing since I awoke and it is annoying.
I did get myself cleaned up and dressed. I was SO stir crazy that I asked Tony to take me grocery shopping and he was willing. We went to the grocery store and produce market. We got home and processed our groceries so they wouldn’t spoil. Tomorrow is a travel day and we should be able to eat our own food that is already prepared. It was fun working in the kitchen with Tony. He was leisurely packing up our bikes and other outdoor gear. I asked him if we could take a short bike ride and he agreed. I am sorry to say that it was challenging because I am SO out of shape. I need to get myself back to a healthy life style. Anyway, we’ve been enjoying ourselves today. I even called my mom and was able to help her resolve a nagging issue for her; it’ll take help from Heather but for mom issue resolved…YAHOO!! We’re going to do the laundry so it’ll be done for travel day. Things are taking shape nicely. I am looking forward to a nice evening with Tony.
Tony and I decided to go out to dinner. We remembered a sign that stated best steaks in town while touring Tonto National Forest. We finished laundry and went in search for our steak. We found it; best steaks resided at Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon. It was VERY quiet for a Friday Night. The establishment had live entertainment and they were good. We unfortunately only heard two songs then the band went to eat and by the time the band was finished eating so were we. Tony and I didn’t want to have another cocktail so we headed home. We got home and enjoyed the rest of our evening together. I went to bed thankful for everything in my life.
Our last day in Apache Junction, near Phoenix, was a stay at home type of day to get chores and things done. It was a nice day. I also enjoyed having Carolina help me prep the fruit and veggies. We had gone to a produce market that had inexpensive produce.
When we got home, I had four cantaloupes that would definitely not fit into the small RV refrigerator. So, by cutting them all up at once, I could fit them into a Tupperware container that would fit in the fridge. Carolina cut up two quarts of strawberries. Through teamwork, we had our produce prepped to be used. I cooked up some tofu with grapeseed oil, red peppers, and fresh ground black pepper. Once the tofu was seared a bit, I threw in some green onion, green pepper, fresh garlic, and fresh chopped tomato. I let that all cook a little bit and tossed it with some egg noodles. It made a great lunch and had a good kick to it.
Going out to eat later in the evening for dinner was good. We like to go to the local establishments, and my 14 oz. New York Strip was quite excellent. Yet, I know that I could have driven down the road to a local Texas Roadhouse and have a 6 oz. sirloin, enjoyed it just as much, and saved a bunch of dollars.
We had been in the Phoenix area for a full week and it was now time to head east.
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up with a headache and puzzled as to why. Tony sprang out of bed and quickly showered and dressed. I lingered in bed until he was finished. He suggested throwing on clothes and bicycling to Starbucks but I declined. I briefly explained that I woke up out of sorts. He said, “That’s ok.” I responded, “I’d like to bicycle later to get a Starbucks’ Pumpkin Latte and definitely wanted to bike.” I was being conscience of the calories. We sipped coffee at home while listening to the music Tony had purchased at the Arizona Opry. I am glad he did; I am thoroughly enjoying Tony’s selections. The choices are a BIG hit! I’ll finish my computer work then get cleaned up. I should shower because the steam should help me from sneezing. I have been sneezing since I awoke and it is annoying.
I did get myself cleaned up and dressed. I was SO stir crazy that I asked Tony to take me grocery shopping and he was willing. We went to the grocery store and produce market. We got home and processed our groceries so they wouldn’t spoil. Tomorrow is a travel day and we should be able to eat our own food that is already prepared. It was fun working in the kitchen with Tony. He was leisurely packing up our bikes and other outdoor gear. I asked him if we could take a short bike ride and he agreed. I am sorry to say that it was challenging because I am SO out of shape. I need to get myself back to a healthy life style. Anyway, we’ve been enjoying ourselves today. I even called my mom and was able to help her resolve a nagging issue for her; it’ll take help from Heather but for mom issue resolved…YAHOO!! We’re going to do the laundry so it’ll be done for travel day. Things are taking shape nicely. I am looking forward to a nice evening with Tony.
Tony and I decided to go out to dinner. We remembered a sign that stated best steaks in town while touring Tonto National Forest. We finished laundry and went in search for our steak. We found it; best steaks resided at Mammoth Steakhouse and Saloon. It was VERY quiet for a Friday Night. The establishment had live entertainment and they were good. We unfortunately only heard two songs then the band went to eat and by the time the band was finished eating so were we. Tony and I didn’t want to have another cocktail so we headed home. We got home and enjoyed the rest of our evening together. I went to bed thankful for everything in my life.
November 19th
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up feeling lethargic. I slept ok or so I presumed. I planned to catch up on journalizing while Tony showered and I sipped coffee. Plans change…
My mom phoned while I was completing some of my computer work. My mom was on a warpath!! She wants me home and now she’s throwing everything at me. See, my mom has always felt that it is MY responsibility to take care of her. I have done everything I have known what to do for my family; this includes my dad, my mom, my two brothers and their families, Tony and my own children (technically they’re step children but my heart doesn’t know the difference). My relationship with my mother hasn’t been a good one…EVER!! I haven’t come up with an answer to my oil and water relationship with my mom. My mom is eccentric and has been almost as long as I have lived. She also has NO concept of others whether it is their feelings, opinions or actions; she dismisses everyone but what she wants/needs. Not an admirable quality when you are a mother of three children. When I finally got off the phone, Tony had things to say and I really didn’t need or want to talk or hear what he had to say…PERIOD!! I don’t need WORLDLY advice about how to handle my mother because the relationship is dysfunctional. The fact is I do the best I can with the situations as they happen. I told Tony to kindly SHUT UP!! I knew what my mom was doing on the telephone and I certainly didn’t need anyone to point it out. He got angry which only made my feelings more intense. I had a home cooked breakfast waiting for me. I managed to eat my breakfast with Tony, but breakfast time was tense at the table. My food was FABULOUS!! I thanked Tony for cooking. This phone call/tension took a lot out of me. I’m running out of time to bath and dress if Tony and I are going back to Tortilla Flats and Tonto National Forest. We are staying another day to float around on Canyon Lake in Tonto National Forest. I’ll see how things go.
I managed to get showered and dressed while Tony was driving around to receive a good cell phone reception. When he returned, I was crying and ruining my make up that I just applied. He consoled me and asked me to calm down so we can continue with our original plan; this was to float on Canyon Lake in the Tonto National Forest. I let him know that I didn’t know how because I was SO upset that my stomach was in turmoil. He lovingly coaxed me back to sanity. I went to Canyon Lake in the Tonto National Forest and had a blast!! We even managed to get home before dark. Tony mentioned going to the movies and I was game. I had wanted to see Law Abiding Citizen and we had just enough time to make show time so we dashed out the door.
We made it to the movie. Law Abiding Citizen isn’t my typical movie but I was intrigued by the story. There were scenes in the movie that were gruesome and unnecessary for the viewer to watch; the audience had enough information to draw the correct conclusion/assumption. I ignored these scenes and focused on the story. Warning: this movie definitely has ADULT content and children should NOT watch this film! Despite the unnecessary graphic scenes, I was glad I saw this film. Tony and I arrived home and relaxed the rest of the night until bed. I went to sleep grateful and content for everything I have in my life!
Tony’s Notes
I love our inflatable boats. We have two, one is a two person Kayak, and the other is a row boat. They both store in one large compartment on the RV. We took the row boat out to Canyon Lake.
During the summer, in Michigan, we usually use the row boat on some inland lake to row around and take naps in the sunshine. It is perfect for the both of us to comfortably lay back and sleep an afternoon away. Last summer, before this journey, we did not get a chance to do that and I longed for the chance. So, getting out to Canyon Lake and floating around in the Valley of the Sun sounded awesome.
The Kayak is a fine inflatable. However, it is best for a trip down a river or, if out on a lake, we need to buy some floatation devices, because it tips fairly easy. I did not want to be on some mountain lake and flip upside down; it was too unfamiliar to me.
Anyway, we had a great afternoon rowing out to the middle of the lake and taking a nap. I would have stayed out even longer, but I did not want to get caught out there when the Sun set. It would get dark fast, and where we were there were NO lights. So, we got back to shore and deflated the boat, packed it up, and prepped for the drive home to Harry. We had eaten some barbecue chicken and fresh asparagus that I had prepared prior to taking the boat out. It was good eating our own food after such high fat eating the past couple of days.
Driving out in the Tonto National Forest is very beautiful. There is a great view of the Superstition Mountain range and Apache Trail. I know if we stayed a couple more days, we could take a day trip further out to Roosevelt Lake. These Lakes were formed over one hundred years ago when they built Roosevelt Damn. This desert area has thrived because of the water Man has brought to it. This is a very interesting area but I know it is time for us to head east before we end up going North and home to Michigan for the winter.
Both Carolina and I want to stay on the road until spring. We both want to avoid Snow this winter in Michigan. In fact, when I told Carolina that we will most likely be home in Michigan by Christmas she started crying. I was actually quite surprised because I truly believe that most women would have wanted to be home by now and tired of RV’ing with the small bathroom accommodations and so forth; I truly do not mean that to sound sexist in any way. It is just what many have commented about; they always ask, ‘so, is your wife OK with that, because I wouldn’t be and you are very lucky’.
The truth is we both have the Fulltime or Extended RV’ing Itch or fever. That means that even if we go home to Michigan for a while, we will end up back out on the road again. I enjoyed our outdoor adventures this day, and going to the movies this evening.
I woke up feeling lethargic. I slept ok or so I presumed. I planned to catch up on journalizing while Tony showered and I sipped coffee. Plans change…
My mom phoned while I was completing some of my computer work. My mom was on a warpath!! She wants me home and now she’s throwing everything at me. See, my mom has always felt that it is MY responsibility to take care of her. I have done everything I have known what to do for my family; this includes my dad, my mom, my two brothers and their families, Tony and my own children (technically they’re step children but my heart doesn’t know the difference). My relationship with my mother hasn’t been a good one…EVER!! I haven’t come up with an answer to my oil and water relationship with my mom. My mom is eccentric and has been almost as long as I have lived. She also has NO concept of others whether it is their feelings, opinions or actions; she dismisses everyone but what she wants/needs. Not an admirable quality when you are a mother of three children. When I finally got off the phone, Tony had things to say and I really didn’t need or want to talk or hear what he had to say…PERIOD!! I don’t need WORLDLY advice about how to handle my mother because the relationship is dysfunctional. The fact is I do the best I can with the situations as they happen. I told Tony to kindly SHUT UP!! I knew what my mom was doing on the telephone and I certainly didn’t need anyone to point it out. He got angry which only made my feelings more intense. I had a home cooked breakfast waiting for me. I managed to eat my breakfast with Tony, but breakfast time was tense at the table. My food was FABULOUS!! I thanked Tony for cooking. This phone call/tension took a lot out of me. I’m running out of time to bath and dress if Tony and I are going back to Tortilla Flats and Tonto National Forest. We are staying another day to float around on Canyon Lake in Tonto National Forest. I’ll see how things go.
I managed to get showered and dressed while Tony was driving around to receive a good cell phone reception. When he returned, I was crying and ruining my make up that I just applied. He consoled me and asked me to calm down so we can continue with our original plan; this was to float on Canyon Lake in the Tonto National Forest. I let him know that I didn’t know how because I was SO upset that my stomach was in turmoil. He lovingly coaxed me back to sanity. I went to Canyon Lake in the Tonto National Forest and had a blast!! We even managed to get home before dark. Tony mentioned going to the movies and I was game. I had wanted to see Law Abiding Citizen and we had just enough time to make show time so we dashed out the door.
We made it to the movie. Law Abiding Citizen isn’t my typical movie but I was intrigued by the story. There were scenes in the movie that were gruesome and unnecessary for the viewer to watch; the audience had enough information to draw the correct conclusion/assumption. I ignored these scenes and focused on the story. Warning: this movie definitely has ADULT content and children should NOT watch this film! Despite the unnecessary graphic scenes, I was glad I saw this film. Tony and I arrived home and relaxed the rest of the night until bed. I went to sleep grateful and content for everything I have in my life!
Tony’s Notes
I love our inflatable boats. We have two, one is a two person Kayak, and the other is a row boat. They both store in one large compartment on the RV. We took the row boat out to Canyon Lake.
During the summer, in Michigan, we usually use the row boat on some inland lake to row around and take naps in the sunshine. It is perfect for the both of us to comfortably lay back and sleep an afternoon away. Last summer, before this journey, we did not get a chance to do that and I longed for the chance. So, getting out to Canyon Lake and floating around in the Valley of the Sun sounded awesome.
The Kayak is a fine inflatable. However, it is best for a trip down a river or, if out on a lake, we need to buy some floatation devices, because it tips fairly easy. I did not want to be on some mountain lake and flip upside down; it was too unfamiliar to me.
Anyway, we had a great afternoon rowing out to the middle of the lake and taking a nap. I would have stayed out even longer, but I did not want to get caught out there when the Sun set. It would get dark fast, and where we were there were NO lights. So, we got back to shore and deflated the boat, packed it up, and prepped for the drive home to Harry. We had eaten some barbecue chicken and fresh asparagus that I had prepared prior to taking the boat out. It was good eating our own food after such high fat eating the past couple of days.
Driving out in the Tonto National Forest is very beautiful. There is a great view of the Superstition Mountain range and Apache Trail. I know if we stayed a couple more days, we could take a day trip further out to Roosevelt Lake. These Lakes were formed over one hundred years ago when they built Roosevelt Damn. This desert area has thrived because of the water Man has brought to it. This is a very interesting area but I know it is time for us to head east before we end up going North and home to Michigan for the winter.
Both Carolina and I want to stay on the road until spring. We both want to avoid Snow this winter in Michigan. In fact, when I told Carolina that we will most likely be home in Michigan by Christmas she started crying. I was actually quite surprised because I truly believe that most women would have wanted to be home by now and tired of RV’ing with the small bathroom accommodations and so forth; I truly do not mean that to sound sexist in any way. It is just what many have commented about; they always ask, ‘so, is your wife OK with that, because I wouldn’t be and you are very lucky’.
The truth is we both have the Fulltime or Extended RV’ing Itch or fever. That means that even if we go home to Michigan for a while, we will end up back out on the road again. I enjoyed our outdoor adventures this day, and going to the movies this evening.
Friday, November 20, 2009
November 18th - Tortilla Flats & Arizona Opry
Carolina’s Notes
I woke up feeling ill from my late night fast food dinner. I know better than to eat like a teenager but I just can’t seem to stop. I feel like a food addict. I will try to make a real effort to eat healthier…wish me luck! Since I am feeling a little under the weather, I am going to sip coffee while doing some computer work before getting cleaned up. Tony mentioned he wanted to walk/jog to exercise. Tony has a phone interview this morning so we didn’t leave ourselves enough time before the call. I like to exercise on an empty stomach and prior to showering. The weather is nice and I’d like to get out and enjoy. Meanwhile, I’ll complete my computer work.
Instead of the plan to eat better today, Tony and I went to the community hamburger social here at Carefree Manor RV Resort. I enjoyed the socializing and the food was very good. Later in the afternoon we toured Tortilla Flats and Tonto National Forest. Tony was feeling rough from eating like a teenager. I enjoyed our journey despite our recuperation. We didn’t spend lots of time sight seeing. We made plans to see the Arizona Opry so we got home. I started feeling VERY ill driving home; I wasn’t sure if it was from the lack of hydrating properly or the hamburgers were disagreeing. I started wondering if I was going to make it to our evening engagement. I got home and drank lots of water and laid down and rested. It did the trick.
We got ourselves to the Arizona Opry. We had a marvelous time!! The guests at our table were great! In summary the show, company and food were terrific and I was glad I went! We arrived home and enjoyed a movie until it was time for bed.
Tony’s Notes
The Day started with the Hamburger’s at the Clubhouse. It was a great event, and I enjoyed talking with the folks there that had arrived to spend the winter here. One older gentleman mentioned that we need to take a drive to Tortilla Flats and Canyon Lake, and if we planned a full day trip we should go as far as Roosevelt Lake.
I thought it was a great idea to take an afternoon sightseeing drive. So after the hamburgers, which were really our breakfast because of sleeping in quite late, we got ready for a drive over to the Tonto National Forest near the Superstition Mountains.
Both of us started feeling pretty rough from the eating we had been doing for the past 12 hours. I think between late night popcorn, pizza, ice cream and starting the day with hamburgers, pickles, and chips, we were having a hard time digesting such stuff. We had a great drive out to Tortilla Flats and decided that we should stay and extra day and come back with our inflatable boat to row around the lake and bask in the Sun.
Once home, we took a short nap, and then got ready to go to the Arizona Opry . This was a fantastic show. They fed us a nice roast beef dinner, and provided phenomenal entertainment. I bought five CD’s of their music for $40 during intermission; I hope I enjoy listening to it. I am just trying to do my best to support our economy. I really enjoyed the Arizona Opry, and if we were staying for a couple weeks, I would come back for their Thanksgiving show, their Gospel Show, and their Holiday program.
I woke up feeling ill from my late night fast food dinner. I know better than to eat like a teenager but I just can’t seem to stop. I feel like a food addict. I will try to make a real effort to eat healthier…wish me luck! Since I am feeling a little under the weather, I am going to sip coffee while doing some computer work before getting cleaned up. Tony mentioned he wanted to walk/jog to exercise. Tony has a phone interview this morning so we didn’t leave ourselves enough time before the call. I like to exercise on an empty stomach and prior to showering. The weather is nice and I’d like to get out and enjoy. Meanwhile, I’ll complete my computer work.
Instead of the plan to eat better today, Tony and I went to the community hamburger social here at Carefree Manor RV Resort. I enjoyed the socializing and the food was very good. Later in the afternoon we toured Tortilla Flats and Tonto National Forest. Tony was feeling rough from eating like a teenager. I enjoyed our journey despite our recuperation. We didn’t spend lots of time sight seeing. We made plans to see the Arizona Opry so we got home. I started feeling VERY ill driving home; I wasn’t sure if it was from the lack of hydrating properly or the hamburgers were disagreeing. I started wondering if I was going to make it to our evening engagement. I got home and drank lots of water and laid down and rested. It did the trick.
We got ourselves to the Arizona Opry. We had a marvelous time!! The guests at our table were great! In summary the show, company and food were terrific and I was glad I went! We arrived home and enjoyed a movie until it was time for bed.
Tony’s Notes
The Day started with the Hamburger’s at the Clubhouse. It was a great event, and I enjoyed talking with the folks there that had arrived to spend the winter here. One older gentleman mentioned that we need to take a drive to Tortilla Flats and Canyon Lake, and if we planned a full day trip we should go as far as Roosevelt Lake.
I thought it was a great idea to take an afternoon sightseeing drive. So after the hamburgers, which were really our breakfast because of sleeping in quite late, we got ready for a drive over to the Tonto National Forest near the Superstition Mountains.
Both of us started feeling pretty rough from the eating we had been doing for the past 12 hours. I think between late night popcorn, pizza, ice cream and starting the day with hamburgers, pickles, and chips, we were having a hard time digesting such stuff. We had a great drive out to Tortilla Flats and decided that we should stay and extra day and come back with our inflatable boat to row around the lake and bask in the Sun.
Once home, we took a short nap, and then got ready to go to the Arizona Opry . This was a fantastic show. They fed us a nice roast beef dinner, and provided phenomenal entertainment. I bought five CD’s of their music for $40 during intermission; I hope I enjoy listening to it. I am just trying to do my best to support our economy. I really enjoyed the Arizona Opry, and if we were staying for a couple weeks, I would come back for their Thanksgiving show, their Gospel Show, and their Holiday program.
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