tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87015668632882764292024-03-13T05:18:23.891-07:00The AdventureJerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-6971586883924911032015-01-22T20:12:00.001-08:002015-01-22T20:12:45.720-08:00Arizona Snowbirds, 2014-2015: Part 2<p>The Samples prepared dinner for us the evening we arrived at Quartzite. There must be thousands of RVs parked in the Arizona desert.</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-apLRxTkaM_0/VMHJ9oUS_rI/AAAAAAAAILg/tE1zhTZgyYg/s1600-h/IMG_2796_thumb12.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2796_thumb[1]" border="0" alt="IMG_2796_thumb[1]" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cIwthwgxGeQ/VMHJ-cEiM2I/AAAAAAAAILo/5pkWOH7Bk-E/IMG_2796_thumb1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="251" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Nothing is more beautiful than a starlit Arizona sky, unless it’s a desert campfire with good friends! </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pi0rXv6HI_w/VMHJ_OMw8hI/AAAAAAAAILw/A6iviRR_ZL8/s1600-h/IMG_2800_thumb12.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2800_thumb[1]" border="0" alt="IMG_2800_thumb[1]" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wKuGb7iiLx0/VMHJ_lDk7kI/AAAAAAAAIL4/rhEpkjtjl5M/IMG_2800_thumb1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="422" height="311" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The combined Quartzite shows, RV, mineral, car, etc., expects over 150,000 visitors.</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mtfNDkHlnQc/VMHKAniTU2I/AAAAAAAAIMA/UWv4M0LlJeA/s1600-h/IMG_29344.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2934" border="0" alt="IMG_2934" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wc8-V3l0LKE/VMHKBstsPXI/AAAAAAAAIMI/_4zujgHwYLQ/IMG_2934_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="299" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>All types of unusual things can be found at the Quartzite shows . . .</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QfMGEWprJ2Q/VMHKCOibHbI/AAAAAAAAIMQ/78q1DVNYCw8/s1600-h/IMG_2818_thumb22.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2818_thumb[2]" border="0" alt="IMG_2818_thumb[2]" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8Z9DL-CLVoE/VMHKDKjzRvI/AAAAAAAAIMY/OGTWeKcF99s/IMG_2818_thumb2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="497" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5dDWpTpMoR0/VMHKDpMydSI/AAAAAAAAIMg/m2NqFxVM1o8/s1600-h/IMG_2839_thumb22.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2839_thumb[2]" border="0" alt="IMG_2839_thumb[2]" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5ToZSfxFcMA/VMHKEZvWoRI/AAAAAAAAIMo/jrn4jWCy81o/IMG_2839_thumb2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="510" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Many Arizona OHV trails require flags flown for safety, but take a closer look at this fella’s flag:</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NHU3vBHH_k0/VMHKExZtQeI/AAAAAAAAIMw/_fEwXQeuMmg/s1600-h/IMG_2840_thumb22.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2840_thumb[2]" border="0" alt="IMG_2840_thumb[2]" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SMN3TqzbbZs/VMHKFg-GjPI/AAAAAAAAIM4/IAtx-JFEhw4/IMG_2840_thumb2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="384" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Many people visit the “Naked Bookseller” each year. </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1Y_RCohu2uU/VMHKGXsiKoI/AAAAAAAAINA/Pjd1ifQdqK0/s1600-h/IMG_2812_thumb12.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2812_thumb[1]" border="0" alt="IMG_2812_thumb[1]" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aFaL9ihNAxg/VMHKHMziQwI/AAAAAAAAINI/KDZnfIrbQV8/IMG_2812_thumb1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="387" height="317" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We hear he’s quite the musician! And, he’s indeed naked, but I spared the embarrassment to some of our viewers by cropping his photo . . . .</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Q7EhVsG3CW4/VMHKHic6vOI/AAAAAAAAINQ/TfL8E4Yu4ZQ/s1600-h/IMG_2811_thumb32.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2811_thumb[3]" border="0" alt="IMG_2811_thumb[3]" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UApf7MtbNCw/VMHKImcUJLI/AAAAAAAAINY/By9cVj6lVHw/IMG_2811_thumb3_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="382" height="313" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We’re learning a great deal about self-maintenance of our coach. The Monaco has so far been a good RV, probably the best we’ve ever owned. But, like any other piece of machinery, it requires regular maintenance and repair. </p> <p>At this point in our winter adventure, we’ve encountered two problems, both pertaining to the electrical system of the coach. First, the variable speed switch for the Fantastic Fan in the galley quit working properly. It comes on/off, but instead of regulating the fan speed, it remains on high at all times.  And second, the remote monitor for the Magnum inverter stopped working.  </p> <p>I found a wonderful RV forum, irv2.com, which I’ve subscribed to and registered with the “Monaco Owners’ Club.” Here, I can ask questions specific to a technical problem with the coach, or simply monitor previous posts regarding numerous topics. </p> <p>Checking for posts related to Fantastic Fans and variable speed switch operation, I discovered that another subscriber experienced the identical problem. Upon contacting the fan manufacturer, they sent him a new switch free of charge! So, I emailed Fantastic Fan, who requested the fan model number and manufacture date. Because of the inconvenient access to the fan motor, which is situated at the top of the vent and under the rooftop dome, I used what is likely one of my handiest tools, my iPhone, and snapped a picture of the manufacturer’s label on the side of the motor.</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dq0mb9wan44/VMHKJDdkHQI/AAAAAAAAINg/JPBK2l9ln1o/s1600-h/IMG_2842_thumb22.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2842_thumb[2]" border="0" alt="IMG_2842_thumb[2]" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tqdOuSgdQVs/VMHKJ9WWrLI/AAAAAAAAINo/KlamSUNDW2U/IMG_2842_thumb2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="368" height="512" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I emailed the information to Fantastic Fan, and within a few days received a new switch in the mail – at no cost! </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8Lp8lrj7xt4/VMHKKSnnsrI/AAAAAAAAINs/lhPNxzqfJuA/s1600-h/IMG_2711_thumb2.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2711_thumb" border="0" alt="IMG_2711_thumb" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KzgmrVXmUEo/VMHKK7-fJLI/AAAAAAAAIN4/PGrvhDD9ZXA/IMG_2711_thumb_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="196" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jowvI-iDIEg/VMHKLRWFkzI/AAAAAAAAIOA/TBzvx5Bp78I/s1600-h/IMG_2924_thumb12.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2924_thumb[1]" border="0" alt="IMG_2924_thumb[1]" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ut1htnD1leo/VMHKML7Ah3I/AAAAAAAAIOI/Trz2kjrRGT4/IMG_2924_thumb1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="256" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I then consulted the Monaco forum on irv2 regarding the faulty inverter monitor, where I found an older thread regarding the problem.  Several posts suggested to simply “unplug the RJ11 telephone wire from the back of the monitor, go have a cup of coffee, then plug it back in, and it should work.”  The delay in reconnecting the monitor allows the capacitor in the monitor to discharge and reset itself.  </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fFiwzPkxtqg/VMHKMroIziI/AAAAAAAAIOQ/TIgG40kAXAw/s1600-h/IMG_29333.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2933" border="0" alt="IMG_2933" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IgkePBzm2fQ/VMHKNltqAZI/AAAAAAAAIOY/X09Y5bhL4rI/IMG_2933_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="188" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0lVHqXJ40QA/VMHKOWLHAsI/AAAAAAAAIOg/JAqyaNFa4vE/s1600-h/IMG_29263.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_2926" border="0" alt="IMG_2926" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1oJ3KTlnYx0/VMHKO4CaNKI/AAAAAAAAIOo/2w1KGb5xMs0/IMG_2926_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="157" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It worked!  Prior to finding the information on irv2, I was checking eBay and Amazon for replacement monitors at about $200.00.  Unless you have unlimited resources, I strongly suggest to find resources such as irv2.  </p> <p>Another excellent source of information regarding RVs is “Big Rig RV” on Facebook.  In making our decision to purchase Red Fred, Susan and I were concerned about triple towing (Coach – Equinox – RZR on utility trailer).  I inquired whether any other followers of the site had experience with triple towing and I received numerous responses.  Not all were helpful, but many were.  The consensus was that we would not likely encounter any trouble from law enforcement, and many that had pulled similarly configured rigs had no mechanical or drivability issues.  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-7385257538748455762014-12-20T12:56:00.001-08:002015-03-13T08:52:03.512-07:00Arizona Snowbirds, 2014-2015: Part 1<p>Tired of Oklahoma winters and black ice?  Then, come along with us as we journey to the land of sun and spend the winter of 2014-2015 in Apache Junction, Arizona.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td width="192" align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gScL7kusaHQ/VJ8ALaOKAzI/AAAAAAAAH3k/FeY-J-pNqWc/s1600-h/IMG_256119.jpg"><img title="IMG_2561" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2561" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ub-8VLe9za4/VJ8AMDfmyxI/AAAAAAAAH3s/VLW7Defn3y8/IMG_2561_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="266" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We enjoyed a large Thanksgiving celebration with family, and a small, but enjoyable Christmas with Nana, children and grandchildren, before departing Oklahoma City on December 8.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Vxm6q9Gw_BQ/VJ8AMxR3FaI/AAAAAAAAH30/4I_wOOUVLeM/s1600-h/IMG_24758.jpg"><img title="IMG_2475" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2475" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K5QD-HsBNfI/VJ8ANaIZ5KI/AAAAAAAAH38/JwSdzqq889I/IMG_2475_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="264" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We originally planned this trip to occur last winter, but illness and family issues caused delay.  Once we saw the path was clear for this year, we made our reservations in July and watched weather and road predictions as the departure date grew near. </p> <p>Because we winterized the coach upon our return from Albuquerque, we set it up at Rockwell RV Park in OKC so it would be easier to load groceries and other items and ensure that all systems were operating properly.  </p> <p>The first day of travel was met with light winds and plenty of sunshine, which allowed us to travel 368 miles to Tucumcari, NM.  We once again stayed the night at our favorite spot, “Cactus RV Park.”</p> <p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-02FyzxPTnu4/VKCEuGUejOI/AAAAAAAAH4M/9qtN4W_uhjo/s1600-h/IMG_2485%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2485" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2485" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ReEEAuSSpHg/VKCEu8CET6I/AAAAAAAAH4U/37rDLktCGag/IMG_2485_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="247" height="348" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </p> <p>Although it was cold the next morning, the skies and wind were cooperative and we drove an additional 312 miles to Gallup, NM.  There, we stayed the night at “USA RV Park,” which is the sister park to Amarillo’s “Oasis.”  This is a “no frills” park, but it serves as a great overnighter.  </p> <p>An interesting Christmas decoration greeted us at the office of the “USA RV Park” . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K0jrpqOdYts/VKCLhktVX9I/AAAAAAAAH5E/tiWRUnAfKaU/s1600-h/IMG_2489%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2489" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2489" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CfXhl5BvPB4/VKCLic4T2mI/AAAAAAAAH5I/QpWmhp_Zo60/IMG_2489_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="356" height="277" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Gallup is also home to “El Rancho Hotel & Restaurant,” a long ago “home to the stars!” </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wSzbfzvxDe8/VKCEvTosCHI/AAAAAAAAH4c/PqGNfnz9v_g/s1600-h/IMG_2491%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2491" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2491" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--GLc46ISQEM/VKCEwUiowZI/AAAAAAAAH4k/dGhQKhgvv4c/IMG_2491_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="246" height="335" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I’ve written about this establishment in previous blog episodes, and once again, the food was excellent, but the service was terrible.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jAAfRVzwI3o/VKCExEeu0lI/AAAAAAAAH4s/P6GO9UrquFY/s1600-h/IMG_2492%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2492" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2492" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Zhc_SrbSB7I/VKCExnhuBkI/AAAAAAAAH4w/ayv-HHjidV0/IMG_2492_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="356" height="277" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p> </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6FC9qQSG1uw/VKCTC7hiCrI/AAAAAAAAH6s/qhEQFEikGQI/s1600-h/IMG_2490%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2490" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2490" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-m9lXBD5omZA/VKCTDYZemHI/AAAAAAAAH6w/TW0RJwBhFlk/IMG_2490_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="353" height="274" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>On future trips to Arizona, we’ll probably wait for Mexican cuisine until we reach Apache Junction (to be further addressed later in this segment).  </p> <p>We intended to leave early the next morning in hopes of making Apache Junction before sunset.  However, travelers’ advisories had been issued due to the dense and freezing fog.  Nevertheless, we departed Gallup around 10 a.m. and cautiously headed west . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iSEgOMDhR6E/VKCLir8WfhI/AAAAAAAAH5U/X3NK58yM5-U/s1600-h/IMG_2480%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2480" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2480" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ceF7NVkkn64/VKCLjvwj7ZI/AAAAAAAAH5c/N19HAzNsGec/IMG_2480_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" height="178" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xOtVmi3HlM4/VKCLkLDlQ3I/AAAAAAAAH5k/F_DsptMtoQ8/s1600-h/IMG_2483%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2483" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2483" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EszaDBMOe7Q/VKCLkUfJ8DI/AAAAAAAAH5o/AiLaelBYp6g/IMG_2483_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="216" height="181" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Within an hour the fog cleared and we once again had clear skies!  Occasionally, fog would appear in the canyons and around the mountains as we climbed into the high country around Flagstaff.</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4MFIBGwarvM/VKCLlLU_m7I/AAAAAAAAH50/lnMJ3LxSquU/s1600-h/IMG_2496%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2496" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2496" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NPETLAx2yfg/VKCLl4S6QzI/AAAAAAAAH54/lGtNY47LMYI/IMG_2496_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="361" height="286" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We originally planned four days for the trip to Apache Junction, averaging about 250-300 miles per day (970 miles via I-40, I-17).  But because of the clear skies and roads, we were able to shave off a day; albeit, they were long, hard drives for this old boy!  </p> <p>I was recently asked if I “get bored driving the coach on long trips?”  Bored?  Really?  Not with all these gadgets!  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SJm10KonPJk/VKCZyx0kPCI/AAAAAAAAH8E/BDphdhL7mVQ/s1600-h/IMG_2488%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2488" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2488" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0iftxKSLVfE/VKCZzoAWooI/AAAAAAAAH8M/dSVK5jDlF1s/IMG_2488_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="278" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>With Susan as navigator and Maynard as co-pilot, we finally reached our destination at “Shiprock RV Resort,” 1700 West Shiprock Street, Apache Junction, AZ  85120.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--BWYCe5vUBs/VKCOczcUMTI/AAAAAAAAH6I/vbDt5Nh6AnU/s1600-h/IMG_2506%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2506" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2506" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-20xVoyDAMsg/VKCOdqHGDxI/AAAAAAAAH6Q/ScloTUwtCeI/IMG_2506_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="365" height="284" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This is an upscale, age 55+ RV resort.  It features many activities, i.e., bingo, cards, community dinners, dances, etc.  But, it has no “membership free” RC airplane field nearby, which is important to me (member parks require you to have someone else with you as you fly to act as spotter for other aircraft, which is not always convenient).  I brought my RC plane with me and I look forward to getting in a little “stick time” while we’re here! </p> <p>Shiprock is a beautiful park and well maintained.  The sites have concrete patios and the streets are level and paved, and there is a beautiful heated pool and hot tub.</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="257" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="249"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QSEa2ls3riA/VKCOeOnWoCI/AAAAAAAAH6Y/Ey-Bh807WUo/s1600-h/IMG_2530%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2530" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2530" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-f4w7MFBrmdY/VKCOe33T89I/AAAAAAAAH6g/YuFR4gCQRFc/IMG_2530_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="280" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The great thing about wintering in Arizona is the weather!  After sitting up the coach and getting settled in, we went out for a quick dinner and I wore short sleeves (71 degrees at 7:05 p.m. on December 10) . . . . <br /></p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W2_RHjxZYXQ/VKCTDwMe7bI/AAAAAAAAH68/4DoAMpr6XUQ/s1600-h/IMG_2498%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2498" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2498" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4VXN7wC6_VA/VKCTEmZI7yI/AAAAAAAAH7E/yJJ6YEenw_I/IMG_2498_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="275" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The wind is generally calm and humidity is low, which makes for a very pleasant day if the temp is 60 or above.  The nights average in the mid 40s, and as of the day of this writing, we have used no propane heat – just one heat pump or a small electric space heater.  </p> <p>In spite of the fair weather, our neighbors reminded us it is the holiday season . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="257" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="249"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m8y-Vemfn4Q/VKCTFD-msXI/AAAAAAAAH7M/bDPuHVnEtXM/s1600-h/IMG_2510%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2510" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2510" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5EgJUfUoEws/VKCTFslj1NI/AAAAAAAAH7U/zs9lKuf8USM/IMG_2510_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="361" height="281" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>So, we did our best to join in!</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FDeSGvJy6dY/VKCTGYIuINI/AAAAAAAAH7c/qGPxWOKRIkc/s1600-h/IMG_2512%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2512" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2512" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3Z_MyjZPrEg/VKCTGyyGLNI/AAAAAAAAH7k/jr4Cv1QAY9w/IMG_2512_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="217" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5YZsZn465TI/VKCTHWKxfNI/AAAAAAAAH7s/sxdFvWPPJL0/s1600-h/IMG_2553%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2553" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2553" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gvZXWmAdNJo/VKCTH-N3v1I/AAAAAAAAH7w/j3kJ--jr8ho/IMG_2553_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="280" height="218" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>My friend, Mike Colaizzi, who lives here in AJ, came by to visit us in his 1966 Corvette.  What a car!  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9joSWR1hmy4/VKCZ0dP6lKI/AAAAAAAAH8U/ydqriBjU0SE/s1600-h/IMG_2529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2529" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2529" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T3jgH0KuM7Y/VKCZ0zw5rqI/AAAAAAAAH8c/sJBSk9UIswk/IMG_2529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="393" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We also had the opportunity to visit my mother’s youngest sister, Bobbie Lavato, who lives in Phoenix.  She and her husband, Joe, moved here in 1967 when he was transferred for his job with the U.S.P.S.  Aunt Bobbie treated Susan and me to some fabulous enchiladas! </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9lnJfVYWLh8/VKCZ1pICYRI/AAAAAAAAH8k/pdv9fQzcP_M/s1600-h/IMG_2584%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2584" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2584" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yMxxmYtVnHU/VKCZ2cAfc5I/AAAAAAAAH8s/m2ZVb1q8NLg/IMG_2584_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="339" height="325" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>As alluded to earlier, Susan and I also found some great Mexican food in AJ – “Elvira’s Mexican Restaurant.”  It’s located at 1520 W. Apache Trail, and we strongly recommend it!  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MULWiBJ4-_c/VKCZ3LHgZII/AAAAAAAAH80/ZVTzqAAX37I/s1600-h/IMG_2536%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2536" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2536" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gSDwPv4sM8Y/VKCZ37kY65I/AAAAAAAAH84/d1E48c5f0ko/IMG_2536_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="335" height="261" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Bob and Jan Samples also told us about “In/Out Hamburgers.”  There are several locations in and around AJ, and they serve a great hamburger, fries and drink at a reasonable price.</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ueIwl7NR5MQ/VKCZ42LhskI/AAAAAAAAH9E/1vqZuSqc8u0/s1600-h/IMG_2505%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2505" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2505" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UB_tDUsjEVM/VKCZ5vMmLOI/AAAAAAAAH9M/07YUow_KDVs/IMG_2505_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="327" height="254" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>AJ is a great seniors community!  It has wide streets with very little traffic, and all the usual stores, fast food, and other conveniences you may require, i.e., Walgreens, CVS, cleaners, etc.  And, you can see very unusual things here . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--9iIEsecieI/VKCZ6cN7KdI/AAAAAAAAH9U/GDDVJt5RRzU/s1600-h/IMG_2597%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2597" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2597" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3D9vvWL2wDM/VKCZ7GYpATI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/9gIv35raxuk/IMG_2597_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="332" height="270" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>You can even find a walker for sale on the side of the road:</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2XzFrFN6SCg/VMAES8RXRcI/AAAAAAAAH_4/askrhqMBHSM/s1600-h/IMG_2635%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2635" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2635" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-phmAEC7f-68/VMAETYBcXEI/AAAAAAAAH_8/aUBoV18NHX8/IMG_2635_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="333" height="229" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Susan has found her gaming paradise at Shiprock, where she regularly plays Bingo, Hand & Foot, and Mahjong.  I will occasionally join her for the weekly bingo game, but generally, I find some project to work on at the coach.  </p> <p>Recently, I decided to install an LED light strip to the curb side slide of the coach under the awning.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kVor_T3LfNM/VKCgbRrPeLI/AAAAAAAAH9s/Ef9K0eaWEks/s1600-h/IMG_2567%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2567" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2567" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5GbPI1BWScc/VKCgb4BfxgI/AAAAAAAAH90/f_InmgFVyBA/IMG_2567_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="331" height="281" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We had installed the same type of light strip to the side of our previous coach and it worked great.  The light strip has 7 different color lights that can be programed to pulsate, alternate in color, or remain steady.  They provide good lighting for the outside of the coach after dark.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WI-L81KnF80/VKCgc1MFsaI/AAAAAAAAH98/_Rj4zQk-crs/s1600-h/IMG_2564%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2564" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2564" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2F8en--Dz8Y/VKCgdfqJ-6I/AAAAAAAAH-A/OKH-7g_4Rwc/IMG_2564_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="246" height="246" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qQBiOylF8M4/VKCgd5F28zI/AAAAAAAAH-M/MDMcsdx1ZPs/s1600-h/IMG_2565%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2565" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2565" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f2Hed3htA7Q/VKCgeTmXUVI/AAAAAAAAH-Q/-ELRXIHKquw/IMG_2565_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I installed the LED controller behind the refrigerator in the outside compartment, and used the 12-volt transformer (which came with the unit) by plugging it into the ice-maker outlet using a multiplex plug.  The light strip has 3M self-adhesive tape, which applies easily on a clean, dry surface, and I ran the electrical connection through the top access vent and down to the lower vent for a clean appearance. </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R7ONoHvxRGI/VKCge1p5CMI/AAAAAAAAH-c/G2mOA5pIN2g/s1600-h/IMG_2562%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2562" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2562" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yeDA1fqwuRM/VKCgfXwNQbI/AAAAAAAAH-k/IuiM0eg-35w/IMG_2562_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="345" height="334" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>No electrician needed!  Huh, Susan?  </p> <p>As Christmas Day approached, Susan and I decided to take in a local dinner show at the “Arizona Opry.”  Barbara and Brenda Barleen, twin sisters, own the dinner theatre and not only serve good food (roast beef, chicken breast, mashed potatoes and gravy, wild rice, vegetable medley, whole wheat roll, and chocolate cake), but also put on a “Branson class” music show!  Their dinner theatre is located at 2275 E. Old West Highway, (480) 982-7991.  <a href="http://www.azopry.com">www.azopry.com</a>  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xXu02E1ESHY/VKCgf5OcTKI/AAAAAAAAH-s/vqwWPfimLb0/s1600-h/IMG_2590%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2590" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2590" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-c9K2fp9Jm-A/VKCggtZsFhI/AAAAAAAAH-w/vHiphGIPtyg/IMG_2590_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="279" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>From the age of 12, I accompanied my father in his long search for the “Lost Dutchman” gold mine.  The mine is thought to be somewhere in the Superstition Mountains, just east of Apache Junction.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r2-YyYfuLH8/VKCjiDLhPoI/AAAAAAAAH_A/TlzMQvU1t-s/s1600-h/IMG_2600%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2600" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2600" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GZcC2r496S0/VKCji3M5VYI/AAAAAAAAH_I/r1J9qRpAINQ/IMG_2600_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="356" height="277" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>My dad was a private investigator for more than 34 years, and was hired to find the mine by a group of attorneys in the early 1960s.  For more than twenty years, my father searched for the mine by doing extensive research and observation, but rarely dug a hole or picked at a rock.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8cZcSiTYj_8/VKCjjdsJkjI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/7fp1gQjK4TU/s1600-h/IMG_2557%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2557" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2557" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wQ0BLJPz664/VKCjkEXSH5I/AAAAAAAAH_Y/I3mKB8RShjg/IMG_2557_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="278" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>A book written by Curt Gentry, “The Killer Mountains,” describes dad’s venture for the mine and gives a good history of the Peralta family who was once believed to mine the gold in the Superstitions.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="227" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="219"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8QuAUGvpuWY/VQMHmifl-cI/AAAAAAAAIPQ/BPrJtFLyz2Y/s1600-h/00224_s_9acjtubc20115%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="00224_s_9acjtubc20115" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="00224_s_9acjtubc20115" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1PeEDGPe_oA/VQMHnPkSePI/AAAAAAAAIPY/THnLZiWym08/00224_s_9acjtubc20115_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="345" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I have many fond memories of spending time in these mountains with my father, especially the early morning campfires and coffee from the vantage point in the following photo. Thus, my desire to return to Apache Junction and the surrounding area! </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BgN_b6awumM/VQMHn4Bos8I/AAAAAAAAIPg/otjX86pRQpA/s1600-h/Superstition%252520Mountains%2525202%252520025%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img title="Superstition Mountains 2 025" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Superstition Mountains 2 025" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AD3FrIYyrxU/VQMHoSs588I/AAAAAAAAIPk/44IIgQ4uV6o/Superstition%252520Mountains%2525202%252520025_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="367" height="303" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VFxQ2zlqDC8/VKCjkslj_dI/AAAAAAAAH_g/srVP5Bh8BjY/s1600-h/IMG_2578%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2578" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2578" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K1RciSsWp04/VKCjlNFK-MI/AAAAAAAAH_o/UpB0PMbIO2A/IMG_2578_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="281" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>By December 31, we had settled in and prepared to ring in our first New Year while on the road in the Coach.  My son, Keith, gave Susan and me several gift cards for local Phoenix and Mesa area restaurants as Christmas gifts.  We enjoyed a wonderful New Year’s dinner at “The Keg” in Mesa. </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WDJdMOsZO34/VMAET_wXsPI/AAAAAAAAIAI/C6uAgIe7e0U/s1600-h/IMG_2623%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2623" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2623" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uy3Pte1SU0o/VMAEUgiqbVI/AAAAAAAAIAQ/37pTk681zmE/IMG_2623_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="357" height="278" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I’ve visited Apache Junction and the Superstition Mountains numerous times during my life, but January 1, 2015 was the first time I ever saw snow dusted upon the mountain.  The sight was a beautiful New Year’s Day gift! </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v-KNe6_uihw/VMAEVIQwUTI/AAAAAAAAIAY/A0-lfgazKus/s1600-h/IMG_2625%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2625" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2625" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-64yYNScdkgc/VMAEVxhjL2I/AAAAAAAAIAg/KUD2mh7hJo4/IMG_2625_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="363" height="176" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Our friends, the Samples, will be joining us in just a few days.  So, while I had a little free time before their arrival, I thought I’d complete another project.  </p> <p>I read on an online RV forum that adding small electric fans to the back of the refrigerator would assist in reducing heat buildup on the coils and help the fridge run more efficiently.  I found several 12-volt, desktop computer cooling fans for sale on Amazon and had them delivered to our park.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="257" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="249"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2pfGIghIewU/VMAEWt7Z7lI/AAAAAAAAIAo/mwsR1JoUkkQ/s1600-h/IMG_2641%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2641" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2641" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fG2YGEDVE1w/VMAEXGZkLyI/AAAAAAAAIAw/5SukG3OH69o/IMG_2641_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="336" height="261" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="249"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ibr-P89Bo0Q/VMAEXwmVHII/AAAAAAAAIA4/I9qXJ3jjkRY/s1600-h/IMG_2644%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2644" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2644" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jq1u6CXcFFM/VMAEo0bquEI/AAAAAAAAIBA/n2vDH5NoX_4/IMG_2644_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="343" height="275" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I attached four fans to the back of the upper refrigerator vent with plastic zip ties, and wired them to the available 12-volt wiring in the lower outdoor refrigerator compartment.  It’s important to ensure that the airflow is directed to the outside of the compartment so that the fans exhaust the hot air from the coils.  It so happens that Monaco had factory-installed two similar fans midway up from the lower compartment near the center of the coils, in a horizontal position, which assist in pushing the hot air upwards toward the upper vent.  Once the hot air rises to the upper area, the newly installed fans push it out of the compartment.  I can now place my hand over the upper compartment and feel warm air being discharged while the fans are running.  </p> <p>To prevent unnecessary battery drainage and wear on the fans, I also installed a snap disk temperature switch on the positive line leading to the fans.  The switch activates the fans at 70 degrees, and turns them off at 65 degrees . . . . </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VO9WQ5-hXyk/VMAEpXvcveI/AAAAAAAAIBI/yLAoxgcUgWE/s1600-h/IMG_2656%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2656" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2656" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tMnYt-WDqg0/VMAEqOiFL0I/AAAAAAAAIBQ/O3j4Za4645I/IMG_2656_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="400" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Within a day after the installation, I noticed no buildup of hot air inside the rear refrigerator compartment, and a fall in the interior storage compartment of two degrees.  The daily outside air temperature at the time was about 76 degrees.  </p> <p>The Samples arrived – Yea!  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Sc1fq9lhLoY/VMAhmfM6EPI/AAAAAAAAIE4/hfN9k9cfsVM/s1600-h/IMG_2703%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2703" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2703" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8Ezdyu8iEws/VMAhoPVJZHI/AAAAAAAAIFA/-v0JzOR40u4/IMG_2703_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="335" height="483" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Susan and I deliberately held off  visiting some of the local sites pending the Samples’ arrival, because we knew they’d want to accompany us.  We made a day trip of visiting several sites, including the ruins of “The Superstition Inn,” where my father, myself, and his crew would lodge when entering and exiting the mountain range.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jRDLh5r83Eo/VMAY4Q0pV2I/AAAAAAAAIBg/f4KX5GHztHU/s1600-h/IMG_2559%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2559" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2559" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K95_QInM_AA/VMAY47B3-FI/AAAAAAAAIBo/_NNGa6FRVNE/IMG_2559_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="258" height="351" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The “Superstition Mountain Museum,” where many artifacts and history of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine and Superstition Mountains are available for viewing . . . ,</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-isVxlzg2Z50/VMAY5nxODZI/AAAAAAAAIBw/AWPjywhfBC8/s1600-h/IMG_2661%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2661" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2661" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cC7nz8s64ak/VMAY6vLtVRI/AAAAAAAAIB4/XsJcZeJNBiI/IMG_2661_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="398" height="226" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jwNqiLt9Ajw/VMAY7KKF7FI/AAAAAAAAICA/Ah6PUhWseb4/s1600-h/IMG_2665%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2665" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2665" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lhZn669plWU/VMAY8EC5IxI/AAAAAAAAICI/V0p3uHZ8THg/IMG_2665_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="399" height="287" /></a> <br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>including the Curt Gentry book, “The Killer Mountains,” describing my father’s search for the Lost Dutchman Mine (second row from top, 7th book from the left). </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jBZAjSmknKc/VMAY8w079OI/AAAAAAAAICQ/pjowsp-_Vtk/s1600-h/IMG_2666%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2666" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2666" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X8FNw3r2eU4/VMAY9hH3ynI/AAAAAAAAICY/KaMM8NXUElc/IMG_2666_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="394" height="301" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>“Tortilla Flat,” a former stagecoach stop . . . . </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NDxDTgTmf6Q/VMAY-fbSnyI/AAAAAAAAICg/bsrrWOQLXuo/s1600-h/IMG_2691%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2691" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2691" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cNWk3E23oKk/VMAY-94iJTI/AAAAAAAAICo/hhbB5fscoo8/IMG_2691_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="390" height="302" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kdl4el_sMkA/VMAY_rRiEXI/AAAAAAAAICw/LVBQKA-IMiM/s1600-h/IMG_2685%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2685" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2685" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4hIll6OEAgo/VMAZAZDrpTI/AAAAAAAAIC4/0mEvOGkWpi0/IMG_2685_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="393" height="302" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>“Canyon Lake,” along the Apache Trail on the east side of the Superstition Mountain range . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3SdJtQbPNjM/VMAZA1FiugI/AAAAAAAAIDA/wW_-oS5Mqeo/s1600-h/IMG_2813%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2813" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2813" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z8kbxJ1KcPQ/VMAZBvcc9MI/AAAAAAAAIDI/l_QMpgQAGh0/IMG_2813_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="332" height="468" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>And, the interior of the Superstition Mountains and the pathway to the Lost Dutchman Mine . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0imYEwc5yj4/VMAZCAK_8yI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/6PimpP02fqk/s1600-h/IMG_2668%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2668" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2668" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZwoI4F4wKjg/VMAZC5WsccI/AAAAAAAAIDY/XX-T-BtLdvU/IMG_2668_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="383" height="255" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EeOZL-iRx_E/VMAZDVuGDjI/AAAAAAAAIDg/ev92QCNmnbU/s1600-h/IMG_2684%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2684" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2684" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dkIZ7OgkB98/VMAZEM_CUKI/AAAAAAAAIDk/BEfr7fEeZeE/IMG_2684_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="382" height="297" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CTnQ4BpufQs/VMAZEhuUa3I/AAAAAAAAIDw/U5OQLhBPXTg/s1600-h/IMG_2706%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2706" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2706" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2xHrI-gjPP4/VMAZFZB7aFI/AAAAAAAAID4/_QMWNhr-1Og/IMG_2706_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5I7JjLOOdes/VMAZF0_nJZI/AAAAAAAAIEA/dZ5MsrpHNqQ/s1600-h/IMG_2708%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2708" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2708" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ne4rU51epNg/VMAZGcJJ5aI/AAAAAAAAIEI/3I9qTF4JPEE/IMG_2708_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jwaw30TRMm8/VMAZHEwbjkI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/O0FohDoqwG4/s1600-h/IMG_2707%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2707" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2707" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7I_p2u2t4JE/VMAZH4mNUVI/AAAAAAAAIEY/q--FUAhjkgM/IMG_2707_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="372" height="515" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pVX8r-0kEvQ/VMAZId3k8BI/AAAAAAAAIEg/PPMAnTBL_Z0/s1600-h/IMG_2705%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2705" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2705" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Pl7HattS0_k/VMAZI73j9FI/AAAAAAAAIEo/t6xqKvU9Vyk/IMG_2705_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="522" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Storms over Superstition Mountain are often spectacular, especially with lightening.  But on this early morning, I got a great shot of the clouds hanging in the valleys of the mountain! </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cGDn7ydB97U/VMAhpOQvlhI/AAAAAAAAIFI/vrgOugJkMh4/s1600-h/IMG_2741%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2741" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2741" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NdMd1bmwVig/VMAhpiyf16I/AAAAAAAAIFQ/PKDZy1pDQZA/IMG_2741_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="294" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Along with RVing, off-road vehicles have become another very popular activity in and around the Arizona mountains.  Susan and I first became interested in UTVs (Utility-Terrain-Vehicles), or sometimes referred to as OHVs (Off-Highway-Vehicles), when we visited Colorado last summer.  Our park, Shiprock, has a “four-wheeler group” that gets together one morning per week and explores the various OHV trails in the Apache Junction area.    </p> <p>It so happened that one of our fellow Shiprock neighbors decided to sell his 2012 Polaris RZR, and Susan and I added a new concept to our RVing experience.  </p> <p>Meet “Red Fred.”  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ibepIDgkXnQ/VMAhqQ3WZdI/AAAAAAAAIFY/SN3GkvIoij4/s1600-h/IMG_2769%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2769" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2769" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Dq9zKEiaX3k/VMAhrOT7jPI/AAAAAAAAIFg/DJQlWNPYW4c/IMG_2769_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="335" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>I know you must think Jerry’s lost his mind.  This machine is black or dark gray, but certainly not red.  Well, if you’ve read previous segments of “The Adventure,” you’ll recall that our past two golf carts were also named “Red Fred.”  The first was, in fact, red, while the second was white in color.  Nevertheless, it was also called “Red Fred” because the grandchildren insisted upon such.  Thus, “Red Fred” shall live on – only now in the form of a black or dark gray RZR!</p> <p>Bob Samples and I were anxious to break loose on the trails and see what Fred was capable of.  And, I thought it would be wise for me to get the feel of it and learn its limits and capabilities before taking Susan along.  So, we trailered old Fred over to Bulldog Canyon OHV Area.  A permit is required to operate a UTV on the trail system, which is available online.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-D-DPa2xw31Q/VMAhsMFUP5I/AAAAAAAAIFo/txYp-SIfIjQ/s1600-h/IMG_2759%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2759" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2759" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Lv9zv_bftrc/VMAhs2GuQiI/AAAAAAAAIFw/z9uUxJrpLzQ/IMG_2759_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="397" height="309" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9je_vrMWHS0/VMAht31YLfI/AAAAAAAAIF4/kK4DeIKgB44/s1600-h/IMG_2767%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2767" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2767" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r65d29RfWz8/VMAhu7HOaoI/AAAAAAAAIGA/yBHPYvIMZU4/IMG_2767_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="312" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oMNLQAPOaHY/VMAhviipjyI/AAAAAAAAIGI/dQkYrjL4f1c/s1600-h/IMG_2772%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2772" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2772" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2unhs-nGfEQ/VMAhwqjvn5I/AAAAAAAAIGQ/f9o5_qDDiaE/IMG_2772_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="314" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lEpkb4wuDyU/VMAhx_XiFQI/AAAAAAAAIGY/72cL726HBWg/s1600-h/IMG_2774%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2774" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2774" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bhzR2P0rWcI/VMAhyr5w3cI/AAAAAAAAIGg/ot4aYhWgbc4/IMG_2774_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="415" height="323" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The annual RV migration to Quartzite began January 16, when thousands of avid RVers flock to the small western Arizona town for the RV and mineral show, as well as one of the largest flea markets you’ll ever see.  We first visited Quartzite in 2012, but joined the Samples for a return visit this year.  Below, is a photo of Maynard preparing for the trip to Quartzite (sissy dog). </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Lxr40wU5kQk/VME87v5ecfI/AAAAAAAAIGw/zFUz4nFcczw/s1600-h/IMG_2799%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2799" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2799" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kYaxKZqBzZY/VME88m8GDnI/AAAAAAAAIG0/WIOH6-9qLxo/IMG_2799_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="318" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The Samples will boondock in the desert, while Susan and I reserved a site at nearby Brenda, AZ, at “Desert Gold RV Park,” 46628 E. Hwy 60, Salome, AZ  85348, (800) 927-2101.  Although the physical address is “Salome,” which I plotted into our trusty Good Sam GPS, the actual location of the park is in Brenda.  We followed our GPS directions, which detoured us off I-10 east for about 20 miles, and actually had us arrive in the center of Salome.  But, after a telephone call to the RV park, we realized we were approximately 30 miles east of the park and our true destination.  So much for the accuracy of the Good Sam GPS manufactured by Rand McNally! </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tWReSEp0zhU/VMFDw_6qtLI/AAAAAAAAIKU/6AftEMR-U18/s1600-h/IMG_2828%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2828" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2828" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vwfx1PsZVhM/VMFDxQtW8ZI/AAAAAAAAIKc/oNjhbt4-W5w/IMG_2828_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="335" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>“Desert Gold” is a clean park with nice amenities.  They have various games throughout the week, and hold regular dances with live music.  There are many permanent residents, but many more available RV sites for temporary stays.  </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cxUpskE0bjA/VMFDyPovr9I/AAAAAAAAIKk/LA0G1yoClSY/s1600-h/IMG_2821%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2821" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2821" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-foGyFrKVbTo/VMFDyqwR1CI/AAAAAAAAIKs/0Ev11p3rwck/IMG_2821_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="394" height="306" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2e_wngorYsE/VMFDzVREQUI/AAAAAAAAIK0/HJI9Yyi32bY/s1600-h/IMG_2827%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2827" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2827" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iM9zg5KYAoA/VMFDz6h-TTI/AAAAAAAAIK8/gOOqugtdN4Y/IMG_2827_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="398" height="309" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ox0YbE-lXIo/VMFD0iCMRaI/AAAAAAAAILE/8xHS9Jm72ik/s1600-h/IMG_2823%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2823" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2823" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NKbixZJCY9I/VMFD1N0cu5I/AAAAAAAAILM/254W0BMVt4o/IMG_2823_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="402" height="312" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Now, that we own Red Fred, I especially found the gate access to the BLM desert very convenient . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9qSanQw58CI/VME9CzD6IJI/AAAAAAAAIIA/C9FfYzZiaUg/s1600-h/IMG_2832%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2832" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2832" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5pnqsSEKUFE/VME9Dz9cGjI/AAAAAAAAIII/v29CyhDTY9Q/IMG_2832_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="307" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pl1j--ba0aQ/VMFBe45dubI/AAAAAAAAIJU/612-XmmtDdY/s1600-h/IMG_2831%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2831" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2831" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-y46WPxStw5Y/VMFBflxc59I/AAAAAAAAIJc/iRuCR5RrYpo/IMG_2831_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="408" height="294" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The following photos reflect what I discovered during my walk through the BLM land, including a grave/memorial, a desert golf course, and a small grave marker. </p> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dXjbNZfVRoM/VMFBghzTrYI/AAAAAAAAIJk/VgNY5NhRhrU/s1600-h/IMG_2835%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2835" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2835" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4Lrw2KydauA/VMFBhD9UN3I/AAAAAAAAIJo/7nxHFryvhnQ/IMG_2835_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="313" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lX2AgC02maA/VMFBiXs0tiI/AAAAAAAAIJ0/rr-FUJbTKpE/s1600-h/IMG_2837%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2837" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2837" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EORrVzzuFQw/VMFBjajHPfI/AAAAAAAAIJ8/coi8c1Tkdzo/IMG_2837_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="413" height="327" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="1" width="200" border="2"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lojE04qSm8A/VMFBkdrS3RI/AAAAAAAAIKE/b1qGviPN1Fw/s1600-h/IMG_2833%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2833" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2833" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HfpC_SEWzHw/VMFBlM8UCaI/AAAAAAAAIKM/2lubko-dwG0/IMG_2833_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="364" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>To be continued in “Arizona Snowbirds, 2014-2015: Part 2.”</p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-58984227524462167122014-11-23T14:47:00.001-08:002014-11-27T14:55:48.700-08:00Year 2014 in Review . . . .<p>We took a break from keeping up our travel blog for the past year, but we’re back with a pictorial review of our travels through 2014.  </p> <p>Susan and I began our travel season in March when we journeyed to Fredericksburg and San Antonio, Texas, with our good friends, Bob and Jan Samples.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="246" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="244"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HLPtTWb-6TM/VHR_bojWHTI/AAAAAAAAHVA/ZdKFbhLnilQ/s1600-h/DSCN4459.jpg"><img title="DSCN4459" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4459" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hnw23NaBa_A/VHJjDGIdtbI/AAAAAAAAHVI/yax5b24ohDY/DSCN4459_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="361" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Late March was a great time to visit south central Texas with its warmer climate, which afforded us an opportunity to de-winterize the RVs. </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="251" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="249"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GoF-lYluc_4/VHJjEjqyiBI/AAAAAAAAHVQ/WKauvxuT3OM/s1600-h/DSCN4453.jpg"><img title="DSCN4453" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4453" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z0JAujukHxI/VHJjFEKUowI/AAAAAAAAHVY/tpaSKslmJXs/DSCN4453_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="427" height="350" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We found a nice overnight RV park in Waco while in route to Fredericksburg.  It’s called “North Crest RV Park,” and is located at 104 Old House Loop, Waco, TX  76705.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="148" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="99"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GwiMjYEo7w4/VHJjFwoUVDI/AAAAAAAAHEI/Cvl37z_LeYs/s1600-h/DSCN4439%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4439" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4439" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jfDGlfidVKA/VHJjGVyuObI/AAAAAAAAHEM/6ucYUAaOhHE/DSCN4439_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="47"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IVifnIAgeDo/VHJjHtxpIqI/AAAAAAAAHEY/ivQe9kIYf4w/s1600-h/DSCN4437%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4437" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4437" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xURdokiTsZ4/VHJjIK_C_2I/AAAAAAAAHEc/NOd7H13-iG4/DSCN4437_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" height="190" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="99"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KuWPd90y_W4/VHJjJZ1sHqI/AAAAAAAAHEo/jUf3whQJsIU/s1600-h/DSCN4436%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4436" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4436" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8rRSWjlib_I/VHJjJ3prFlI/AAAAAAAAHEs/bEbsTsIsJIk/DSCN4436_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="47"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yuGBWHGxxE4/VHJjLDO2H1I/AAAAAAAAHE4/f71YR-0A3QQ/s1600-h/DSCN4438%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4438" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4438" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9x9kzCIXYTE/VHJjLmyYvBI/AAAAAAAAHE8/AizrdaPkc1w/DSCN4438_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="186" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The overnight price is reasonable, and the owner was friendly and helpful.  If you’re in the area and need a reservation, contact Mark at (254) 799-3963.  </p> <p>We’ve stayed overnight at “I-35 RV Park,” also in the Waco area, but don’t recommend it.  Grass is scarce and Susan spent way too much time pulling grass burrs from Maynard’s hair.  </p> <p>Upon our arrival in Fredericksburg, a cold front came through with strong gusts and falling temperatures.  We had made reservations for our 2-3 night stay at the Fredericksburg KOA.     </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-x03_0-ESVN4/VHJjMrBRoZI/AAAAAAAAHFI/YHoDD96kb7Q/s1600-h/DSCN4448%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4448" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4448" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fbRbfEMGnHY/VHJjNP58hPI/AAAAAAAAHFM/s_OJEPz9ZtY/DSCN4448_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-otluSr9z7MU/VHJjOGVF-MI/AAAAAAAAHFY/RH-QLIVzF-U/s1600-h/DSCN4447%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4447" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4447" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-COE_R8XldUo/VHJjOuADNmI/AAAAAAAAHFc/0lOk7UkUb4I/DSCN4447_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="183" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The park is arranged nicely and had a convenient store in the lobby, but the power continuously failed and the management refused to check on the problem because of the cold temperature.  Out of desperation to ensure our heat stayed on and our plumbing didn’t freeze, I traced the electrical service back to its source and found this . . . </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rg9yWU5YMA4/VHJjPCYX_cI/AAAAAAAAHVg/_TAfuicaclQ/s1600-h/IMG_1739.jpg"><img title="IMG_1739" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1739" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ne3VzblfN5U/VHJjPozKyGI/AAAAAAAAHVo/vE3h5vhUpy0/IMG_1739_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="430" height="421" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>An open utility box behind a rotted stockade barrier with exposed electrical connections.  I disconnected the power supply and tightened the connections leading to our electric post, which solved the problem.  Apparently, the loose connections would short when the wind blew.  I hope my complaint to the management resulted in prompt action so that no child or other unskilled RVer gets injured.  </p> <p>While in Fredericksburg, we returned for a second visit to the “National Museum of the Pacific War” and the “Admiral Nimitz Museum.”  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EBMD_fqjSvU/VHJjQ5-1gqI/AAAAAAAAHF4/nspwA6cPJGk/s1600-h/DSCN4441%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4441" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4441" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CK1ptVS22e0/VHJjRuVTTKI/AAAAAAAAHF8/AEWtIINzDPQ/DSCN4441_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nPCFId1ocyU/VHJjS-1-64I/AAAAAAAAHGI/7HLu9uIZRoM/s1600-h/DSCN4442%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4442" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4442" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8tl7xKclSHw/VHJjTNkFAMI/AAAAAAAAHGM/ICLFm1HCM_o/DSCN4442_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KpL_PBy__60/VHJjT9ZnGII/AAAAAAAAHGY/eSgcy9NiAR8/s1600-h/DSCN4445%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4445" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4445" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mHvha1tg3Tw/VHJjUWUg_-I/AAAAAAAAHGc/9kFGNNel4kI/DSCN4445_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NVZj5AWiUyg/VHJjVQjC46I/AAAAAAAAHGo/mLprxB4Q88U/s1600-h/DSCN4450%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4450" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4450" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_JBbDdgWKhg/VHJjV3yFs0I/AAAAAAAAHGs/DK3i1eV2RPg/DSCN4450_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It warmed up as we moved further south toward San Antonio, and the San Antonio KOA is a good place to stay while visiting the area.  It’s cleaner and much better managed than the park in Fredericksburg!   </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-38I4N4hOs9s/VHJjXKU_MnI/AAAAAAAAHVw/yGzOW-yW2wM/s1600-h/DSCN44741.jpg"><img title="DSCN4474" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4474" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gC55sqPX4GY/VHJjXnvza1I/AAAAAAAAHV4/-Qv_TGj7kmk/DSCN4474_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="396" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4Mbk9gd3Qts/VHJjYZb0KgI/AAAAAAAAHWA/RcxCDC1fe2Q/s1600-h/DSCN4475.jpg"><img title="DSCN4475" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4475" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jTcK-e_m-jo/VHJjZNvmglI/AAAAAAAAHWI/MOJg8IBNpzs/DSCN4475_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="453" height="361" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The following photos reveal our tour of the San Antonio area (Thanks for sharing your photos, Bob & Jan).  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wntIZxrAXBs/VHSL9s2FvUI/AAAAAAAAHXo/ELmYL7kscB8/s1600-h/DSCN4471.jpg"><img title="DSCN4471" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4471" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4HdVnnySYzg/VHJjasRInxI/AAAAAAAAHXw/_1CyjaUerH8/DSCN4471_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="359" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p> </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="205" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="6"> <br /> <br /> <br /></td> <td valign="top" width="191"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qb2V8CjJkmY/VHJjbCFhbGI/AAAAAAAAHHo/ZfchO4sdVr8/s1600-h/IMG_1742%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1742" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1742" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gkUF4c1AnD4/VHJjborDpZI/AAAAAAAAHHs/KiFhLV3WdsE/IMG_1742_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="6"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8RLSCjpGKYs/VHJjcMf6XhI/AAAAAAAAHH4/wJcnyXUpQ90/s1600-h/IMG_1743%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1743" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1743" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eD5UADRPVhI/VHJjc_jCw5I/AAAAAAAAHH8/6TPRqt_HeN0/IMG_1743_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="6"> </td> <td valign="top" width="191"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9SQSzUo-Gco/VHJjd7Jms9I/AAAAAAAAHII/FMxK5LXrqEs/s1600-h/IMG_1745%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1745" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1745" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z8w49430v6s/VHJjeatopgI/AAAAAAAAHIM/dzx5w9SsUwA/IMG_1745_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="6"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_FZJB005ono/VHJjfPUeNFI/AAAAAAAAHIY/K0yvqbshbYc/s1600-h/IMG_1749%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1749" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1749" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C4Cjj_XFUFs/VHJjfqo4U4I/AAAAAAAAHIc/3hbxluiCd4A/IMG_1749_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="6"> </td> <td valign="top" width="191"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1qcRhPAhxQo/VHJjgdXXJUI/AAAAAAAAHIo/ZJSatIqBAVY/s1600-h/IMG_1747%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1747" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1747" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-srLM08K86AE/VHJjgyw3A5I/AAAAAAAAHIs/IwtQBtPpPKM/IMG_1747_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="6"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IrUxfFfN4MU/VHJjhkt5BnI/AAAAAAAAHI4/WvQ4Ylw23o8/s1600-h/IMG_1750%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1750" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1750" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-06TVG8Joiuc/VHJjh0L49WI/AAAAAAAAHI8/IW3y9A9VfJs/IMG_1750_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p> </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="264" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="253"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YvVtECSK3MY/VHJjjEFunEI/AAAAAAAAHJI/SUsb9PWSRXw/s1600-h/DSCN4455%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4455" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4455" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G5HVHEdGE3c/VHJjjgiIvgI/AAAAAAAAHJM/CVTLnwAWIn8/DSCN4455_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4Vqe5gKPcfE/VHJjkzajiYI/AAAAAAAAHJY/huE_SNlAi0g/s1600-h/DSCN4467%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4467" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4467" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ar58qpRYI4A/VHJjlG2dTWI/AAAAAAAAHJc/v5g0vJkVcxk/DSCN4467_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="9"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uBCtwffPOlY/VHJjmUz3X8I/AAAAAAAAHJo/-8AKDH6Fs-M/s1600-h/DSCN4461%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4461" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4461" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SjloDXcr-c8/VHJjm2UYhoI/AAAAAAAAHJs/ErWxokbKk9I/DSCN4461_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F0pjjgjCGwI/VHJjn2ynG3I/AAAAAAAAHJ4/L5D35kLH-qc/s1600-h/DSCN4458%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4458" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4458" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lgcAfUhdJ2U/VHJjoUTF_uI/AAAAAAAAHJ8/aych0maPOms/DSCN4458_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="253"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WZTT0RPaK0I/VHJjpq1gpMI/AAAAAAAAHKI/2ZS7mHOogc0/s1600-h/DSCN4454%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4454" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4454" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Qpdk2Pn7nYI/VHJjqLq3xoI/AAAAAAAAHKM/UHe5g3qpU30/DSCN4454_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="10"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q4DvpUN_7_0/VHJjrcB4ZiI/AAAAAAAAHKY/qI5xSKcGyHk/s1600-h/DSCN4462%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCN4462" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4462" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zaCXaa8ZDD0/VHJjrzctz_I/AAAAAAAAHKc/WuLJRKnrVVQ/DSCN4462_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1Hh3WJtK6_A/VHJjtEW9VRI/AAAAAAAAHX4/dS0BlAjW02s/s1600-h/DSCN4470.jpg"><img title="DSCN4470" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN4470" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Gp4j17lTZLU/VHJjtsf7RpI/AAAAAAAAHYA/IZp52q0xZFE/DSCN4470_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="358" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We traveled to Wichita Falls, Texas, in April to visit Susan’s daughter, Katherine, and her husband, Andrew (Elwood).  Katherine, who serves our country in the U.S.A.F., was being transferred to “Joint Base Lewis-McChord,” southwest of Tacoma, Washington.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZS03Lsch6mc/VHJjuby2YxI/AAAAAAAAHYI/DGKsolcYpl8/s1600-h/IMG_1764.jpg"><img title="IMG_1764" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1764" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hQ0hXkTZr3o/VHJju_6xJVI/AAAAAAAAHYQ/bMmveIgV47s/IMG_1764_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="309" height="428" /></a></p> <p>We also joined “The Modern Wagoneers,” our local Good Sam chapter, for a weekend campout in Checotah, Oklahoma (home of American Idol and Country Music Star, Carrie Underwood).  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SD8MRuI3-NQ/VHJjwUsMl6I/AAAAAAAAHYY/HFf0qIN1kKg/s1600-h/IMG_1804.jpg"><img title="IMG_1804" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y8LNkxchh80/VHJjxPR_YCI/AAAAAAAAHYg/yeKGdoKwz7w/IMG_1804_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="374" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Checotah 2014 was not a good trip for me, personally.  Continuous rain, wind and hail, combined with a kidney stone attack, made Jerry an unhappy camper!  </p> <p>However, after undergoing what would be the first of three kidney stone procedures in 2014, I began to feel better and we headed west with the Modern Wagoneers to Palo Duro Canyon, south of Amarillo, Texas.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mhMIGZTEFyc/VHJjyMQ3_0I/AAAAAAAAHYs/P4_06vFaX9w/s1600-h/IMG_1847.jpg"><img title="IMG_1847" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1847" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X_gOoQxXsXA/VHJjyi7LiLI/AAAAAAAAHY0/QEVcLdVRlv4/IMG_1847_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="364" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This trip was hosted by Gary Tidball and Rose Wagner, and it was simply wonderful!  A new destination, good weather, and good friends, are the perfect ingredients for a fun trip.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LwUQkwEMNW8/VHJjzSgqtSI/AAAAAAAAHY8/v-l5qojOhEw/s1600-h/IMG_1874.jpg"><img title="IMG_1874" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1874" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-luVSeD-L79U/VHJjz9t2BfI/AAAAAAAAHZE/sBPoHfGxDBo/IMG_1874_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="457" height="363" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HZA_d0RR9VY/VHJj1Ah1KMI/AAAAAAAAHL4/SULQ4FRbAGc/s1600-h/IMG_1853%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1853" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1853" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yFi6gsSvooM/VHJj110GsfI/AAAAAAAAHL8/cSjVa4WE_Eo/IMG_1853_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/---Uh7TwrMX4/VHJj3fx5l5I/AAAAAAAAHMI/Sm1xCn9q130/s1600-h/IMG_1856%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1856" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1856" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Tlw15wDqVaM/VHJj33l7UuI/AAAAAAAAHMM/IJJlpSygvX4/IMG_1856_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iNjFLrcqm6o/VHJj40khMGI/AAAAAAAAHMY/8sDPJvR1W30/s1600-h/IMG_1850%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1850" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1850" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hIyJa7BnKho/VHJj5ZMSAYI/AAAAAAAAHMc/-RHLD1TZEgg/IMG_1850_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9y34U1slX7s/VHJj6gUQhAI/AAAAAAAAHMo/gwfpjs5fqnM/s1600-h/IMG_1854%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1854" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1854" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VBWE_Fc9DQQ/VHJj7I7C1AI/AAAAAAAAHMs/TaTtE0subUQ/IMG_1854_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We had the opportunity to visit the “Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum” in Amarillo.  It’s located at 4341 Canyon Dr., Amarillo, TX  79110.  Their telephone number is (806) 358-4891.  If you’re a serious RVer, it’s a “must see!”  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rnWeN4Samo8/VHJj75Dhc0I/AAAAAAAAHZM/bYVAWEq-VMM/s1600-h/IMG_1858.jpg"><img title="IMG_1858" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1858" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-i63p62XxhNY/VHJj8q46g3I/AAAAAAAAHZU/Ypz3kP4mypc/IMG_1858_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="348" /></a> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bpkMfKwtM14/VHJj9WuGauI/AAAAAAAAHNI/viFAdv2j07g/s1600-h/IMG_1864%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1864" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1864" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UisZR0x8WNI/VHJj9xp1muI/AAAAAAAAHNM/49dJXkjSg70/IMG_1864_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TKwrVfpbjvU/VHJj-l2jDzI/AAAAAAAAHNY/TPqUA0VIFFw/s1600-h/IMG_1863%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1863" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1863" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-56W55N-e0sM/VHJj_JruRYI/AAAAAAAAHNc/eQV1KnQsjdU/IMG_1863_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The top picture is of Susan standing in the doorway of the RV used in the movie “RV,” starring Oklahoma’s own, Kristin Chenoweth.  </p> <p>Susan also found several quilts on display . . . </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="198" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="190"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QDqEtyczwBM/VHJj_0eVUxI/AAAAAAAAHNo/DE2bGKRCUfc/s1600-h/IMG_1866%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1866" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1866" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pnNe3QMQSPE/VHJkASY9VaI/AAAAAAAAHNs/NPq6ejrmgl4/IMG_1866_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="6"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6j4lwNfvsNw/VHJkA9UZjTI/AAAAAAAAHN4/AYEDk51QA9U/s1600-h/IMG_1867%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1867" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1867" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bAivA-2x5X4/VHJkBcNZtiI/AAAAAAAAHN8/us5WqvL8PTI/IMG_1867_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="192" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="190"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v8aHafXEv0M/VHJkBzDY8II/AAAAAAAAHZc/sg9Bn_J9o5k/s1600-h/IMG_1869.jpg"><img title="IMG_1869" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1869" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j4TTsgcz09E/VHJkCW3EF2I/AAAAAAAAHZk/NqSWsu7GNO4/IMG_1869_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="326" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It seemed that most couples went different directions when leaving the campground.  A visit with my cousin, Cynthia Calderon, and her family was long overdue.  So, Susan and I traveled to Hobbs, New Mexico, and met Cynthia, Nick, and their two beautiful daughters for dinner.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P8G1Dj9jzWw/VHNgdyiJhAI/AAAAAAAAHZs/9nZ9g2KB1IE/s1600-h/IMG_18797.jpg"><img title="IMG_1879" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1879" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Xkc6Sa3wl-w/VHNge1oMeyI/AAAAAAAAHZ0/WrlenvbsPMQ/IMG_1879_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="389" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It’s been no secret that Susan and I have missed the convenience of motorhome travel since we transitioned to a 5th wheel coach.  But the expense of maintaining our former motorhome, a 2001 Newmar Mountain Aire with 50K miles, became excessive and discouraging.  </p> <p>I’d been researching various brands and models on the Internet for several months, and resolved that a new and unused diesel coach is simply outside our budget ($324K – $645K).  But RV Professional Sales, 1809 John McCain Rd, Colleyville, TX 76034, (817) 488-9542, had several late model high-end used coaches that appeared to be reasonably priced.  With Katherine relocating to Washington, cross country trips in a high-end motor coach would be far more comfortable than in a pickup.  (At least that’s the tool I used to convince Susan to make the trip to look at motorhomes in Colleyville on the way home from Hobbs!)</p> <p>So, once again we transition our mode of travel!  We spent a full day comparing several models and chose a 2008 Monaco Diplomat.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P7EWY47_ZeI/VHNgfp8ttkI/AAAAAAAAHZ8/eQqzT2ZaADo/s1600-h/IMG_01075.jpg"><img title="IMG_0107" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0107" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sFi--v5U-ls/VHNggHLBEFI/AAAAAAAAHaE/kFKv_5iM6CI/IMG_0107_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="442" height="341" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Neal, at RV Professional Sales, was great!  He allowed us to freely look at his inventory without any sales talk.  Susan and I narrowed our decision down to two coaches; a 2008 Tiffin Bus and the 2008 Monaco, both one-owner and low mileage (the Monaco had 22,026 miles at delivery).  But the test drive of both coaches was decisive.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GpqyG_z2Xcg/VHSPiMSnSUI/AAAAAAAAHaM/Z6lPwI8d13Q/s1600-h/IMG_01087.jpg"><img title="IMG_0108" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0108" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u2aB2Y30LkU/VHSPilFHW_I/AAAAAAAAHaQ/aTZsP6UMzCA/IMG_0108_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sdvP0aKiYUE/VHSPjl2YtrI/AAAAAAAAHac/vu4b1bjObgw/s1600-h/IMG_01147.jpg"><img title="IMG_0114" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0114" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W4Msc6V-cA8/VHSPkDdKj7I/AAAAAAAAHag/Z5rfC7j-PYA/IMG_0114_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Bz-HcLG3xlg/VHNgj9uxYkI/AAAAAAAAHQI/9-5Y7FJ60kE/s1600-h/IMG_0110%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0110" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0110" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TXJMoQ2cDZ8/VHNgka6u2NI/AAAAAAAAHQM/gkudn0gSXLU/IMG_0110_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vANboOM0KyI/VHNglNCWNNI/AAAAAAAAHQY/BxrWDWBsaZQ/s1600-h/IMG_0128%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0128" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0128" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XCQ5X1n8X2I/VHNglsdnmgI/AAAAAAAAHQc/PKvFNU3hWNU/IMG_0128_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="178" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kpfSr7GpI6g/VHNgmRCKv4I/AAAAAAAAHQo/a1idpFb0Wss/s1600-h/IMG_0117%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0117" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0117" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WdGlvdZHzT4/VHNgmjufwPI/AAAAAAAAHQs/V4-mptce-Uw/IMG_0117_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IZvT4TrLRjk/VHNgnkCgkkI/AAAAAAAAHQ4/nqMfOpWr_Tc/s1600-h/IMG_0127%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0127" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0127" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2sWECspxYi4/VHNgoDpkciI/AAAAAAAAHQ8/577qO3W9j8I/IMG_0127_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="178" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We drove the Tiffin first and the sloppy handling, combined with wind noise and rattles, was very disappointing.  We next drove the Monaco, and there was no comparison in the quality, ride, and handling.  The Monaco has a Roadmaster chassis, which was manufactured by Monaco specifically for the Diplomat.  </p> <p>Where Tiffin and other manufacturers utilize one air bag per wheel, the Roadmaster installs two per wheel, providing for a much smoother ride.  The Monaco displayed no wind noise, handling was very tight and stable for a 42 foot, 36K lb. coach, and absolutely no rattles were audible.  (At the time of writing this segment, we have now driven the Monaco over 8K miles and have not yet needed repair due to manufacturer defect or part failure; whereas, in the same period of time, the Newmar had been back to the dealer for numerous repairs with high out-of-pocket expense!) </p> <p>Our Monaco has a residential size refrigerator, LCD television with Blue-Ray and surround sound, fireplace, ceramic tile flooring, a 400 HP Cummins turbo diesel, new Goodyear “LHS Fuel Max” 22.5 inch, “H” rated, tires, and many other options.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XB6GXti5yPo/VHSPlAqZMRI/AAAAAAAAHas/-Zcmz6AgdX8/s1600-h/IMG_018815.jpg"><img title="IMG_0188" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0188" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oZ_lMY-X1zs/VHSPlnX1W_I/AAAAAAAAHaw/m_VD1m8O2GE/IMG_0188_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="317" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Interestingly, the Diplomat was a mid-level coach in the Monaco lineup in 2008.  But after going through bankruptcy during the recent recession, Monaco has “returned to power,” as its advertising suggest, and now offers only its highest end, Dynasty, for 2015, but will reintroduce the Diplomat in 2016.  I’m happy to know that the Diplomat has survived!  </p> <p>Anxious to get on the road with our new coach, Susan and I made a brief trip to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, the home of Frank Phillips and Phillips Petroleum Company.  We enjoyed a private tour of the “Frank Phillips Home,” which is operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society.  Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and the home is displayed as it was in the 1920s.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4bJC0Bxf4HM/VHSPmgAx6mI/AAAAAAAAHa8/leo0PQb9ixY/s1600-h/IMG_19725.jpg"><img title="IMG_1972" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1972" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-exFSzRb8hwk/VHSPnlJ4F-I/AAAAAAAAHbA/KBiiE2NkSv0/IMG_1972_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="341" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We stayed at “Riverside RV Resort,” which is at 1211 SE Adams Blvd, Bartlesville, OK  74003, (918) 336-6431.  The management was very friendly and the park was clean and quiet.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Q5iKe__Bs54/VHSPotONtPI/AAAAAAAAHbM/ya42JjSVsKA/s1600-h/IMG_19694.jpg"><img title="IMG_1969" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1969" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yfUR2qmBsr4/VHSPpE3TDUI/AAAAAAAAHbQ/T7H23z1ANQQ/IMG_1969_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="312" height="425" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Although we sold our Cedar Blue RV lot later in the year, we made a few trips to the “Lake of the Arbuckles” with the new coach . . . . </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jvRt2i5X9LY/VHSPqNGuMFI/AAAAAAAAHbc/YnX_aDNLCeA/s1600-h/IMG_19164.jpg"><img title="IMG_1916" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1916" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-p79k3XS9D6E/VHSPq2G2IFI/AAAAAAAAHbg/LdtA0Q7fn1E/IMG_1916_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="238" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The Southern Oklahoma Good Sams chapters held their annual “Friendship Rally” at Durant, Oklahoma, in June, and I served my final year as their Assistant State Director . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-osdVBq9g-L4/VHSPrUh1MeI/AAAAAAAAHbs/kzYJsiOHyOo/s1600-h/IMG_01694.jpg"><img title="IMG_0169" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0169" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NPocN4EU93A/VHSPsBukiPI/AAAAAAAAHbw/re8y5lrlxMw/IMG_0169_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="241" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2a0wJ_adDBA/VHSPtKlJjrI/AAAAAAAAHb8/etGFdP7SO0k/s1600-h/IMG_01663.jpg"><img title="IMG_0166" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0166" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3RIbiKEMJ0U/VHSPtkRpn_I/AAAAAAAAHcA/_t3_qP3gB9c/IMG_0166_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XXIfpG1jSto/VHSPuaOI0bI/AAAAAAAAHcM/_AxolAJG9FU/s1600-h/IMG_19333.jpg"><img title="IMG_1933" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1933" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MThlavqHGbU/VHSPuwqpZoI/AAAAAAAAHcQ/GFOTQe68OW8/IMG_1933_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QiV53Zb1OoA/VHSPvlEofQI/AAAAAAAAHcc/wuXPGfkquaY/s1600-h/IMG_19353.jpg"><img title="IMG_1935" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1935" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pOiqeAVGp34/VHSPwO98DnI/AAAAAAAAHcg/ufHUYml8x-M/IMG_1935_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sVi-4iSOOsE/VHSPwiT6gxI/AAAAAAAAHcs/ZlCoSYvnZqM/s1600-h/IMG_19453.jpg"><img title="IMG_1945" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1945" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BrGK7u0biUU/VHSPxIS-WMI/AAAAAAAAHcw/yk3Oi3HC0NY/IMG_1945_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="98"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TmYV6em8sc8/VHSPyHO1i6I/AAAAAAAAHc8/6GRT1mYK4eY/s1600-h/IMG_19394.jpg"><img title="IMG_1939" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1939" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ychbt_sTTq4/VHSPy7A4yaI/AAAAAAAAHdE/0iWz5-DBj1Q/IMG_1939_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" height="365" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Susan and I really enjoyed making many new friends through our participation with the Southern Oklahoma chapters.  We hope to continue our travels with them or see them on the road again soon!  </p> <p>The Samples would be hosting the Modern Wagoneer’s upcoming August trip to South Fork, Colorado.  Although the month of July is generally too hot for RV travel, I wanted to gain as much on-the-road experience with the new coach as possible before venturing into the Colorado mountains.  As a result, Susan and I took an Ozark Mountain trip into Arkansas and Missouri . . . . </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HOGLp5wEhyo/VHSP0AiAGII/AAAAAAAAHdM/vgKlZIpM7qI/s1600-h/IMG_19884.jpg"><img title="IMG_1988" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1988" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w5VqfED4gGk/VHSP0ogotPI/AAAAAAAAHdU/NMtCnj3MWIM/IMG_1988_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="352" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This would be a two-destination trip, with the first stop at “Ozarks RV Resort” on beautiful Table Rock Lake.  The park is simply gorgeous!  It’s located at 1229 CR 663, Oak Grove, AR  72660, (888) 749-7396.  Be prepared for steep, winding, two-lane roads, which are not enjoyable with a forty-two foot diesel coach towing an SUV.  But it served me well in preparing for the upcoming Colorado trip!  </p> <p>Many of the sites are privately owned, but the park’s management company offers the sites for overnight rental.  We stayed three nights, in spite of the 100 degree temperatures.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Je3zr9pgKjg/VHSP1hnOQsI/AAAAAAAAHdc/BBn0i92MV2k/s1600-h/IMG_19913.jpg"><img title="IMG_1991" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1991" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cBizLmCSJR4/VHSP1zODLeI/AAAAAAAAHdg/sLnfLYOKKlg/IMG_1991_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dy84pYrVmb4/VHSP3HM8tSI/AAAAAAAAHds/k9Cb4MSw4Qo/s1600-h/IMG_19933.jpg"><img title="IMG_1993" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1993" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s3JJuuZbUdc/VHSP3gbFngI/AAAAAAAAHdw/OszqOsHmoCs/IMG_1993_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o9YXa-O-5Gg/VHSP4p-2NpI/AAAAAAAAHd8/D4fXagmehvA/s1600-h/IMG_19903.jpg"><img title="IMG_1990" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1990" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tsMfN3hlIuU/VHSP5tEmg4I/AAAAAAAAHeA/mUnCqw7JP-I/IMG_1990_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bbvEoZ1sS1M/VHSP6nGmv_I/AAAAAAAAHeM/SsiGbl9FfyU/s1600-h/IMG_19993.jpg"><img title="IMG_1999" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1999" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Waa17IGF-BY/VHSP7HcBdcI/AAAAAAAAHeQ/ZnF0LY7fAes/IMG_1999_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ehJ4J8TF0AY/VHSP7zndP9I/AAAAAAAAHec/aKfxwRHNbe4/s1600-h/IMG_199713.jpg"><img title="IMG_1997" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1997" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IF5YhA_YjuA/VHSP8SzvcqI/AAAAAAAAHek/leRPf2fGNhM/IMG_1997_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="401" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We then made the short hop over the Arkansas/Missouri line to Branson, which is one of our annual destinations.  We had reservations for a 2-night stay at the Branson KOA, where we usually stay while visiting Branson.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zdcowD_wDtw/VHSZ-Z-Kk9I/AAAAAAAAHe0/fLZkhsTMOXw/s1600-h/IMG_0182%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0182" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nc6zsTfl1qc/VHSZ_BqS8BI/AAAAAAAAHe4/ZQgJPE3TWg4/IMG_0182_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="471" height="360" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The KOA has patio sites, which we were able to utilize with the benefit of the passing cool front in the area.  But when wanting to extend our stay for an additional night, we were told there was “no room at the Inn.”  So, we ventured across the road to “Oak Grove RV Park,” 780 State Highway 165, Branson, MO.  65616, (888) 334-4781 . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-K2Xc3HHIDDM/VHSZ_myKl5I/AAAAAAAAHfA/KJKt-KV9OhE/s1600-h/oak%252520grove%252520rv%252520park%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="oak grove rv park" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="oak grove rv park" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JW-InMP7q1A/VHSaAH5ubYI/AAAAAAAAHfM/siSkPpdWBl4/oak%252520grove%252520rv%252520park_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="323" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The Branson KOA site was $65 per night, compared to Oak Grove’s rate of $32.  Oak Grove doesn’t offer patio sites, but all sites are paved with full service utilities, and easy access to Highway 165 and Branson attractions.  Oak Grove is certainly a more affordable park for senior RVers on a budget!</p> <p>The big trip of the year was finally upon us, and the Modern Wagoneers rallied in the Walmart parking lot in El Reno, Oklahoma, to begin the trek to Colorado.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kN5ug3dwrVM/VHSbcwY_lXI/AAAAAAAAHfY/LEXck0vDpgk/s1600-h/IMG_2035%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2035" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2035" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LDacG8ZbHAg/VHSbdfF7CwI/AAAAAAAAHfc/Ikij1le-qRk/IMG_2035_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="236" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Bob and Jan planned a 3-day trip to our destination at South Fork.  We would stay the first night at Oasis RV Park west of Amarillo, then turn north to Capulin, NM, where we’d stay the night at “Capulin RV Park,” Highway 64/87 & 325, Capulin, NM 88414, (575) 278-2921.  It’s a nice little park, but be sure to make advance reservations as there are not many sites.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xcpWz599iuM/VHSyrTV9N6I/AAAAAAAAHfw/iOgPa0DG1jY/s1600-h/IMG_0313%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0313" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0313" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xT_uPWx8C0k/VHSy24h2n9I/AAAAAAAAHf4/9zYkdtOEWRo/IMG_0313_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="353" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The park is across the highway from “Capulin Volcano National Monument,” which stands over 8K feet high.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"> <p><a href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.summitpost.org%2Fcapulin-volcano%2F152322&ei=-Kh0VKb6OIGzyASwmYDgAw&bvm=bv.80185997,d.aWw&psig=AFQjCNGAZjbfa-I0JtE46E6Wvbn6dyK9UQ&ust=1417017985162909"><img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRPmHRml107bGNwivnZK3R4VMF5UBCfJ0Zx_Lx-uBKzqyHBc7FZ" width="466" height="311" /></a></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>A few of our travelers journeyed to the top, but got caught in a hail/rain storm before getting back to camp.  </p> <p>We arrived the next afternoon in South Fork.  The drive from Interstate 25 west across Colorado is beautiful!  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TZfo7ZY5Bsg/VHSy3nyJstI/AAAAAAAAHgA/uInXk-uSHE4/s1600-h/IMG_2054%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2054" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2054" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Yn0cY225yHA/VHSy4Co8BgI/AAAAAAAAHgE/ORp6iVLeO4w/IMG_2054_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="325" height="471" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mzHit542ruY/VHSzB-uMTqI/AAAAAAAAHgQ/zYU8gQ4d4bE/s1600-h/IMG_0289%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0289" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0289" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UhrkwOrDGXw/VHSzCSgsTeI/AAAAAAAAHgU/pQYu2vBFnjI/IMG_0289_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" height="256" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ayrOelWpRpY/VHSzDLVlswI/AAAAAAAAHgg/zqOQEfiYqT8/s1600-h/IMG_0288%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0288" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0288" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mdUjzUO6f4g/VHSzDqZ-XrI/AAAAAAAAHgk/0I4liSNazug/IMG_0288_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="224" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kLQ1GCEGK5Q/VHSzEcGEH6I/AAAAAAAAHgw/kmycG_XnyuA/s1600-h/IMG_2064%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2064" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2064" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GJh5rX9BbMc/VHSzE1d_1YI/AAAAAAAAHg0/Yl3NLheMBKg/IMG_2064_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-727ohwplbYc/VHSzFUSZDrI/AAAAAAAAHhA/-2_ZN3mmEJc/s1600-h/IMG_2055%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2055" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2055" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LltJhwUpuZk/VHSzF2tUE1I/AAAAAAAAHhE/2cTjCmiulVM/IMG_2055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="216" height="294" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The group stayed in South Fork at “Fun Valley Family Resort,” 36000 U.S. 160, South Fork, CO 81154, (817) 279-1016.  This is a family oriented RV park, and has activities for all ages.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BZYVpqUDFkg/VHS9ofiOLFI/AAAAAAAAHhY/R6IY1WFAols/s1600-h/IMG_2233%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2233" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2233" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BbPaTbyWBs8/VHS9pI7RRxI/AAAAAAAAHhg/5OTRuoVSFR8/IMG_2233_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="393" height="552" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Bob and Jan planned day trips to Creede and Pagosa Springs, which offered many breathtaking sites along the way . . . . </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lj93h0ENyic/VHS9qjitreI/AAAAAAAAHho/eNgQ-FZoAh0/s1600-h/IMG_0303%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0303" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0303" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-baqabtv3flY/VHS9rKTl-rI/AAAAAAAAHhs/zqfVoUVs2VM/IMG_0303_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xc8mLknXGsM/VHS9sSYwr4I/AAAAAAAAHh4/AlSI20X-Dy0/s1600-h/IMG_0261%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0261" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0261" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OqU-TATaMzM/VHS9s1QYcxI/AAAAAAAAHh8/f5DYK1NC6CE/IMG_0261_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="178" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HAhS9sAUg20/VHS9uC0evDI/AAAAAAAAHiI/bmPzgr6wPxM/s1600-h/IMG_2076%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2076" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2076" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nKBpT346C3k/VHS9u4h6_sI/AAAAAAAAHiM/b5wZqycofjc/IMG_2076_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="176" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UON9Yer62_c/VHS9wdcVd7I/AAAAAAAAHiY/QUhE5-zK1ks/s1600-h/IMG_2082%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2082" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2082" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Sc1O7pX__X8/VHS9w95jQKI/AAAAAAAAHic/ooOkgImZLxY/IMG_2082_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>And the prettiest picture of all . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bBvrQHxb5EQ/VHUJuseDkdI/AAAAAAAAHtw/HYMHzPsN888/s1600-h/IMG_0204%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0204" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0204" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YFXOL9xCxgs/VHUJvH00qqI/AAAAAAAAHt4/gJsRN3zx7fo/IMG_0204_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="568" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>In Creede, the girls found plenty of stores to shop . . .,</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YWo-AhOrV84/VHS9yOI8XjI/AAAAAAAAHio/wPuF2OGO_7s/s1600-h/IMG_2090%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2090" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2090" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-85295VgVNVw/VHS9y0VmCdI/AAAAAAAAHis/-ZtfciNvkI8/IMG_2090_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zWZOmojjPbM/VHTA8HepkSI/AAAAAAAAHmM/tVXqq6akbGw/s1600-h/IMG_0260%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0260" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0260" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0hkxO4eVYgk/VHTA9AaUxgI/AAAAAAAAHmQ/BY96grjr_Ds/IMG_0260_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>while the guys enjoyed the comfortable climate and visiting in the park.  Afternoon temps here average in the 70s-80s, while nighttime lows fall to around the high 40s.  Sure beats Oklahoma Augusts with 100+ temps and high humidity! </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9riwO2UCqF8/VHS92JgmQOI/AAAAAAAAHjI/RKFfEKdEx3k/s1600-h/IMG_0276%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0276" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0276" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r3Gzmkqat3A/VHS93PH5jzI/AAAAAAAAHjM/90lvUYw7mHU/IMG_0276_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="182" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5LoaSLl2nbw/VHS95Otyi3I/AAAAAAAAHjY/oaDy4uTv8IQ/s1600-h/IMG_2093%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2093" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2093" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2rf3_oYza2w/VHS95je5YuI/AAAAAAAAHjc/o9MjzWuzwI0/IMG_2093_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="178" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>While in Creede, Susan and I found what could very well be our summer home . . . “Mountain Views at Riverside” RV park, 539 Airport Road, Creede, CO  81130, (719) 658-2710.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AQwR4G7fjXg/VHS98dW3yYI/AAAAAAAAHj4/wKch74FM42k/s1600-h/IMG_2121%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2121" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2121" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QAJagW42hqE/VHS98wpFeVI/AAAAAAAAHj8/EAX4WHIJFT4/IMG_2121_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="457" height="355" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The park is restrictive to age and condition of RV, and has a 360 degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountains (note the view through the windshield of our coach). </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gctw_G6kZG8/VHS99gk73iI/AAAAAAAAHkI/VK3Dy15H7QM/s1600-h/IMG_0202%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0202" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0202" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VWYldvOxfm4/VHS9-dTDw0I/AAAAAAAAHkM/HOz8Q0TVLK0/IMG_0202_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="355" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p> </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ugcLVJ8HSdM/VHS9_QD0oJI/AAAAAAAAHkY/dlud-NYu0BI/s1600-h/IMG_0219%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0219" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0219" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NYg8j7rT3e4/VHS9_yQGfKI/AAAAAAAAHkc/xHqU06YDx48/IMG_0219_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="180" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r9LlwvmAVDY/VHS-BLdIUtI/AAAAAAAAHko/Z8_8ueE-dqA/s1600-h/IMG_0220%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0220" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0220" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-g4XyHIUsaDE/VHS-BmCtANI/AAAAAAAAHks/BFdoN-zeNDE/IMG_0220_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="182" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SMTXkxY0Tsg/VHS-CSKo3CI/AAAAAAAAHk4/NoMPPY8OWUM/s1600-h/IMG_0224%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0224" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0224" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZmhuWh-UdWc/VHS-C_SkJJI/AAAAAAAAHk8/XJAPTAb5Mio/IMG_0224_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="217" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u7fRRPoFU2U/VHS-EbiXdaI/AAAAAAAAHlI/pJk5UNV7UeA/s1600-h/IMG_0227%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0227" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0227" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YYh_H1-lT0w/VHS-E2EAZ9I/AAAAAAAAHlM/w1Y4wkIKpgc/IMG_0227_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="224" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eygF0zWVcPU/VHS-GNK7R2I/AAAAAAAAHlY/cEOspqoB3Ko/s1600-h/IMG_0230%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0230" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0230" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-woWZ4qifGqc/VHS-Gy5F_CI/AAAAAAAAHlc/Ps_dYVqaMSo/IMG_0230_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lS1XdfWMQSQ/VHS-IPlUBZI/AAAAAAAAHlo/VfRLhdQkE-o/s1600-h/IMG_0231%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0231" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0231" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZZT6jeTQyTY/VHS-IwqhE8I/AAAAAAAAHls/vqxKAgEp_EA/IMG_0231_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="190" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>While walking Maynard, Susan came across the vacant lot in the following picture.  She rushed back to the coach to tell me it was available for sale, but we mutually agreed not to contact the seller for it could lead to our financial demise! </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xahBchBN2r4/VHS-KFUjBwI/AAAAAAAAHl4/fE5RhnC4jzs/s1600-h/IMG_2116%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2116" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2116" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-w9gQ2M9xLWU/VHS-Kr1BjaI/AAAAAAAAHl8/NxBzaB6U3qU/IMG_2116_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="350" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This is one of the prettiest parks we’ve visited.  It’s adorned with bronze statuary throughout the park . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OUlpf3jPv8s/VHTA-BslrHI/AAAAAAAAHmc/1v-6mQqOU0k/s1600-h/IMG_2112%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2112" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2112" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0hwLM5zuT7E/VHTA-o4I9cI/AAAAAAAAHmg/GP9L4hT6exE/IMG_2112_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-23_3VlZX8fw/VHTA_8bGYxI/AAAAAAAAHms/tK2oG3JLj8o/s1600-h/IMG_0257%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0257" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0257" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v54oVpdm5H8/VHTBAdpCtcI/AAAAAAAAHmw/Nz3m06OnXto/IMG_0257_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Before leaving Creede, Susan and I made the scenic trip northwest about 50 miles to Lake City, CO.</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e-wvj358Fj0/VHUBCqVED_I/AAAAAAAAHnU/6Y3W6LnT5q8/s1600-h/IMG_0206%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0206" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0206" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hKeaLNxD0hs/VHUBDOd2zBI/AAAAAAAAHnY/345Yhqq8Ipw/IMG_0206_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="337" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Again, we encountered many beautiful views along the way.</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YX1HLd4IAPI/VHUBDsVSWYI/AAAAAAAAHnk/qNjUEpWakg8/s1600-h/IMG_0208%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0208" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0208" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PFszB8gS6Bs/VHUBEEC4pAI/AAAAAAAAHno/OW--c59nvC0/IMG_0208_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="182" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XMYxJJt9OOE/VHUBEnQmq_I/AAAAAAAAHn0/-92SHpFhbiI/s1600-h/IMG_0207%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0207" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0207" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-M3uXvqh_wfI/VHUBFNrXEhI/AAAAAAAAHn4/Eb2zJXC_Dho/IMG_0207_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The road to Pagosa Springs took us over Wolf Creek Pass (Elevation 10,856 ft.). </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-odFP5J3N3XY/VHTBBzGTKpI/AAAAAAAAHm8/xjimsG4B8Eo/s1600-h/IMG_0329%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0329" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0329" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M8GvTTRavbE/VHTBCngg60I/AAAAAAAAHnE/VKCvy5JCeCE/IMG_0329_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="356" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>After several days, the group split up and went in different directions.  Susan and I accompanied the Samples to Durango, CO., and Junction Creek Campground. </p> <p>The “Strater Hotel,” at 699 Main Avenue, Durango, CO  81301, (970) 247-4431, offers Victorian charm.  My daughter, the general manager of an Oklahoma City Holiday Inn, would appreciate the hotel’s décor . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YDKseuHvmuY/VHX5RC5XYsI/AAAAAAAAHuI/CR-VP7Dyu-Q/s1600-h/IMG_2157%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2157" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2157" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OYiDACAjawQ/VHX5Ri8oniI/AAAAAAAAHuM/cHL1qI3-RFM/IMG_2157_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="199" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8pIT2bGzGO8/VHX5TBWFhII/AAAAAAAAHuY/g8BDa8vqnME/s1600-h/IMG_0212%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0212" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0212" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RB5BFfVynSI/VHX5TlfnceI/AAAAAAAAHuc/XL5W98ytVzw/IMG_0212_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="195" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>While in Durango, Susan and I booked seats onboard the “Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad,” 479 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301, (970) 247-2733. </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wANKyCs4uq0/VHUBGTd4HgI/AAAAAAAAHoE/smFA8k27JFY/s1600-h/IMG_2213%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2213" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2213" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7Dl9g7y8D9w/VHUBHNt7yLI/AAAAAAAAHoI/fbmJj-EZo7s/IMG_2213_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="360" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>According to their museum, the railroad has been in continuous operation since 1882.  </p> <p>Because the Samples wanted to revisit Silverton, Susan and I purchased one-way tickets and the Samples met us at the Silverton train depot for a ride back to camp.  Here are some scenes we viewed along the way . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KSpognh8KN4/VHUBIDP5n-I/AAAAAAAAHoU/RTZMifXN_WI/s1600-h/IMG_0239%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0239" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0239" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ae_osDLVV1Q/VHUBI90TAyI/AAAAAAAAHoY/rVHi1qTH9lo/IMG_0239_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="177" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-id-8pF7sTcI/VHUBJ6jSYWI/AAAAAAAAHok/sWB687g_ZJ4/s1600-h/IMG_0241%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0241" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0241" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GUCsUgFNTI8/VHUBKdZa1uI/AAAAAAAAHoo/jQ81WfqE3s8/IMG_0241_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XzlvvljdE_k/VHUBLyosdPI/AAAAAAAAHo0/9EUCZ5jJg4g/s1600-h/IMG_0244%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0244" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0244" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8ioK5Xy8VG8/VHUBMW4oPkI/AAAAAAAAHo4/5Y0xUyf0pZ0/IMG_0244_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O1Lnej9SxU4/VHUBNoPlnYI/AAAAAAAAHpE/XPNa_Po7VUA/s1600-h/IMG_2189%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2189" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2189" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PU4hK8LD-dY/VHUBN397_iI/AAAAAAAAHpI/Q6kk4whB9aQ/IMG_2189_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="174" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6UdLrmDvXqc/VHUBO5QJJ3I/AAAAAAAAHpU/GHkm56e7CA0/s1600-h/IMG_2200%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2200" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2200" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gh6kPmeu6MY/VHUBPZguNmI/AAAAAAAAHpY/OhTySqwAxt0/IMG_2200_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="174" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tTg1F4bWRcg/VHUBQoVDTeI/AAAAAAAAHpk/7AU2kKW0eFY/s1600-h/IMG_0245%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0245" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0245" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y2Atta171NE/VHUBRIswV6I/AAAAAAAAHpo/kW0Nh1hhVwM/IMG_0245_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Silverton was established in 1874 as the center of numerous mining camps.  It still maintains its 19th Century appearance. </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="252" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4yjrpOhla_Y/VHUBR1fHH8I/AAAAAAAAHp0/kEqBEN4wXNI/s1600-h/IMG_0254%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0254" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0254" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qfaN65i4yyI/VHUBSavFwVI/AAAAAAAAHp4/J5GfvRRpZIM/IMG_0254_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" height="258" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The highway scenery on the drive back to Durango and Junction Creek Campground was just as spectacular.</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4e-ra50seCE/VHUBWkXrCLI/AAAAAAAAHr8/6abMSwU8cjk/s1600-h/IMG_2220%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2220" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2220" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fxdUsAtZrvQ/VHUBXG82oLI/AAAAAAAAHsE/P7zx60DlqE8/IMG_2220_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="199" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m9wLcFKlfeU/VHUBYH8RYTI/AAAAAAAAHsM/lvp1n0L6nc0/s1600-h/IMG_2219%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2219" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2219" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7cS0uJUADAk/VHUBYtToEII/AAAAAAAAHsU/pq3MW4Vj07s/IMG_2219_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="193" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The Samples had camped at Junction Creek several times, but this was our first visit and we didn’t know what to expect.  Bob and Jan told us the road leading into the park was dirt/gravel, but we didn’t realize the campground was at the top of a mountain with narrow roads and no guardrails.  As depicted in the following photo, the Colorado drought took a toll on the park roads and our new coach! </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yrHujNd_AJA/VHUBZ04HmrI/AAAAAAAAHrE/KtAkkgjHZVk/s1600-h/IMG_0314%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0314" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0314" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rPkWAVm2M-k/VHUBaQaE9II/AAAAAAAAHrM/cfyC-KEEJwk/IMG_0314_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="472" height="353" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>But the campground was wonderful; 100 ft. pine trees and plenty of fresh air!</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_T2mIW94AwE/VHUHWqWX47I/AAAAAAAAHsc/AJ1PZhDZVtQ/s1600-h/IMG_0318%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0318" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0318" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pmW9-xlPEi4/VHUHXGc2ilI/AAAAAAAAHsg/wZsJP2OmgyU/IMG_0318_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="478" height="371" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7DRbnxqObX4/VHUHYXdnd3I/AAAAAAAAHss/fGKMgfhFrZc/s1600-h/IMG_2169%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2169" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2169" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DMfPmXfB4v4/VHUHY6rIvLI/AAAAAAAAHsw/q9ZYSB07tSM/IMG_2169_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="483" height="375" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_hrDYkx46zY/VHUIXGR1eaI/AAAAAAAAHtc/8z3qToPZrDk/s1600-h/IMG_2155%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2155" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2155" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-daHX_RR1rXI/VHUIXxAH3JI/AAAAAAAAHtk/tMdCqvTl2ks/IMG_2155_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="487" height="378" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>And food always tastes better in the wilderness!</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KS29Ha9dDag/VHUHZ_3O78I/AAAAAAAAHs8/1RGLUOVJDpw/s1600-h/IMG_2154%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2154" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2154" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W2AB1BF4n8o/VHUHaUO3qUI/AAAAAAAAHtA/H3i5ECp4z3U/IMG_2154_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PTatZ1nMHdg/VHUHbg5jryI/AAAAAAAAHtM/oeOTv7Cbpo8/s1600-h/IMG_2167%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2167" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MGhinlCjaWw/VHUHbwiBdHI/AAAAAAAAHtQ/knS1saoEqS8/IMG_2167_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>After two nights at Junction Creek, Susan and I left the Samples and started the journey home.  We drove back through Pagosa Springs and spent a couple of days at a “Class ‘A’ Motor Coach Exclusive” RV park called “Wolf Creek Run.”</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aF1GP16ff5A/VHX9Q28TtII/AAAAAAAAHuo/Yd7AaePgq9Y/s1600-h/IMG_0322%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0322" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0322" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-okQALAUQTY8/VHX9RoxfO2I/AAAAAAAAHuw/rnnon_DmFTE/IMG_0322_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="439" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This park is what we consider “high-end,” in that it is very well maintained, beautifully landscaped, and offers numerous amenities and services.  Sites are limited (only 27), and reservations are required.  The park is located at 169 Pagosa St., Pagosa Springs, CO  81147, (970) 264-1415.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZVLxe74Ep5w/VHX9SziufMI/AAAAAAAAHu4/QlX671ZXBZU/s1600-h/IMG_0327%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0327" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0327" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zojplu753-M/VHX9TeddolI/AAAAAAAAHu8/mJINsjlPiqM/IMG_0327_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="226" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4CPzgT0yqmQ/VHX9UScg2wI/AAAAAAAAHvI/XkhJMqAPDHw/s1600-h/IMG_2230%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2230" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2230" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-59GU-ZnNQFU/VHX9U7ME_MI/AAAAAAAAHvM/buXaWGl7sYs/IMG_2230_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-R1sTtUx-wik/VHX9Wb34esI/AAAAAAAAHvY/cYPSSoJnjvg/s1600-h/IMG_2229%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2229" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2229" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ydzR-NFu7x8/VHX9WloPSKI/AAAAAAAAHvc/em8u_48SdFc/IMG_2229_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lTD06NGnCuU/VHX9Xm39VTI/AAAAAAAAHvo/l4pKUsz_lGs/s1600-h/IMG_0321%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0321" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0321" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9GSwq4Sx0HE/VHX9YADtmXI/AAAAAAAAHvs/mkbccsdVN-k/IMG_0321_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="249" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We left Pagosa Springs and “Wolf Creek Run” for Oklahoma City with only overnight stops along the way.  Upon our arrival at the storage facility in OKC, our Aladdin trip computer offered the following data . . . .</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C1LahTFoBN4/VHX-_7QOtzI/AAAAAAAAHv4/P8P6up3b1lQ/s1600-h/IMG_2244%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2244" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ho0DGzN0v_I/VHX_At7AwyI/AAAAAAAAHwA/uLJxgwHKX8s/IMG_2244_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="356" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We traveled over 1596 miles on our Colorado trip, and averaged 7.6 mpg.  Our Newmar coach averaged 7.5 mpg with the Cummins 350, so I guess we’re ahead achieving 7.6 mph with the more powerful Cummins 400.</p> <p>We had a three day break to restock the coach before leaving again.  This time we headed south out of OKC to Fort Worth, Texas, where we joined my son, Keith, and his friend, Aaron, for the “Red Bull Air Races” at Texas Motor Speedway.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SzK7iSs2q8A/VHYp1zZdsnI/AAAAAAAAHzA/3HdNQeS8WoQ/s1600-h/IMG_2257%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2257" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2257" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Sd9TEMdNg0U/VHYp2Y3a10I/AAAAAAAAHzI/k0qtXH5bVoA/IMG_2257_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="441" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We stayed at “Northlake Village RV Park,” 13001 Cleveland-Gibbs Road, #79, Northlake, TX  76262, (817) 430-3303.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WdwchUyeNto/VHYp2xY2x2I/AAAAAAAAHzQ/8I55pZQZuqk/s1600-h/Splash-Page-2012%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Splash-Page-2012" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Splash-Page-2012" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-86J9mjN7tUA/VHYp3kg8e0I/AAAAAAAAHzU/nhEmaLC0yx0/Splash-Page-2012_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="372" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>This is the closest park we found to the speedway, and it’s very well maintained.  </p> <p>I’ve had many goals in life, one of which was to learn to fly, which I accomplished in 1978.</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3qe4bM2_aFo/VHYolGkVFvI/AAAAAAAAHww/KF_kCrhPdSE/s1600-h/IMG_0024%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0024" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0024" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sqNGVeREoW8/VHYol5ZFi9I/AAAAAAAAHw0/yDxVJ3c2vf4/IMG_0024_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-if1uTVKLySo/VHYome1gUgI/AAAAAAAAHw8/WsSek8ctsm8/s1600-h/IMG_0025%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0025" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0025" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yNsBaAQ_iF4/VHYom7oXLVI/AAAAAAAAHxE/vr8Jg9FDRAY/IMG_0025_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="185" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>But observing first hand the skills of the Red Bull pilots was an exhilarating experience!</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aSJICH3O5NU/VHer8F7jiCI/AAAAAAAAH3I/l7Lk2LlETLU/s1600-h/10442655_10152719577348781_10152719573998781_55146_618_b%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="10442655_10152719577348781_10152719573998781_55146_618_b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="10442655_10152719577348781_10152719573998781_55146_618_b" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-af1Ml4UCB74/VHer8qCa7cI/AAAAAAAAH3M/LI1wUTpfLn8/10442655_10152719577348781_10152719573998781_55146_618_b_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="694" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EIPI_kRs2KY/VHYooek4adI/AAAAAAAAHxQ/KdCYx2S4EBk/s1600-h/IMG_2266%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2266" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2266" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cWXvq-nXMTw/VHYoo9S3Z3I/AAAAAAAAHxU/cxlQtFBqhZE/IMG_2266_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="179" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9vqLXCAseK4/VHYopgYzZUI/AAAAAAAAHxg/K3ysxgvFcTc/s1600-h/IMG_2269%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2269" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2269" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aEpuU83oGAg/VHYoqO8qe3I/AAAAAAAAHxk/iyFuKKAsImI/IMG_2269_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XbyIJI_hemU/VHYoq8h_32I/AAAAAAAAHxw/rODEHMA6uyU/s1600-h/IMG_2251%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2251" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2251" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lKWStosFj4Y/VHYorUiqwoI/AAAAAAAAHx0/O9wfo5sewEM/IMG_2251_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YEpYHpqiPcE/VHYosJI4O2I/AAAAAAAAHyA/9sIzrOR9ObA/s1600-h/IMG_2252%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2252" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2252" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-faeKdEL733I/VHYosgglSvI/AAAAAAAAHyE/4C8ztvQTRK0/IMG_2252_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="160" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1JHBFOSkiG0/VHYotXnbpZI/AAAAAAAAHyQ/k67vOeo7D1k/s1600-h/IMG_2253%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2253" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2253" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uw7odNnh_Uo/VHYotyzfkPI/AAAAAAAAHyU/QDGInD6Nc9c/IMG_2253_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SWBn8gx8SyQ/VHYoumkCAGI/AAAAAAAAHyg/SwBiQKy3tX4/s1600-h/IMG_2254%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2254" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2254" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h0QKIM7ui1U/VHYovKav5NI/AAAAAAAAHyk/GC1eLH_ua9o/IMG_2254_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Thanks for taking the “old man” and his beautiful wife along, guys!  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--NUN4rYQraU/VHYovyX2_-I/AAAAAAAAHyw/qd2NDDprWRs/s1600-h/IMG_2271%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2271" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2271" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G9Gq11ILKcI/VHYowtY_BmI/AAAAAAAAHy4/4eOkcn53ZrU/IMG_2271_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="361" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We joined our new friends, Mike & Geletta White, for a weekend at the Oklahoma City East, KOA, 6200 S. Choctaw Rd., Choctaw, Oklahoma  73020, (405) 391-5000.  This is an OKC metro area park, and it serves as a good place just to get away.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kbZUqWc2r2U/VHY8w3FAYdI/AAAAAAAAHzo/T7RzQTUxodA/s1600-h/IMG_2321%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2321" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2321" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3wXOJYrNZvI/VHY8xa4g_sI/AAAAAAAAHzs/ckefY2DXgS8/IMG_2321_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="475" height="288" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It just so happened to be my birthday, so the four of us celebrated at “Old Germany Restaurant,” 15920 SE 29th St., Choctaw, OK  73020, (405) 390-8647.  It was Susan’s first experience, and my second.  Much better this time than what I remember from before.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BD8m4XP2n1g/VHY8yOapNyI/AAAAAAAAHz4/E3c4QDWVhZ0/s1600-h/IMG_2323%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2323" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2323" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ldE3OjMxN8Q/VHY8y5VX9EI/AAAAAAAAHz8/ilUdsuAt7gs/IMG_2323_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VCe2y5u5iUk/VHY8znpx96I/AAAAAAAAH0I/bA5JlWu2mPM/s1600-h/IMG_2322%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2322" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2322" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Yf0aA97yGAA/VHY80ZcMx6I/AAAAAAAAH0M/rLgdIOoBjUo/IMG_2322_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="180" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>We also took the opportunity to visit the Town of Jones “Ole Timers’ Day,” which is an annual town festival.  Jones is Susan’s hometown! </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="116" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="49"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BPwB6S-W2eQ/VHY81ryUdaI/AAAAAAAAH0Y/Xh_P-ph66ec/s1600-h/IMG_2325%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2325" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2325" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ysrImW8HYnI/VHY82M1NK6I/AAAAAAAAH0c/n1Z_7fn5orc/IMG_2325_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="65"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W85c7QtzniM/VHY83Y-_yeI/AAAAAAAAH0o/UIcdNcV3G1Q/s1600-h/IMG_2326%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2326" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2326" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CzmYHy73jzU/VHY831WFNMI/AAAAAAAAH0s/WN1w1F3AMqQ/IMG_2326_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="178" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>When we left the Choctaw Rd. KOA, Susan and I drove directly to the “Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center” in Shawnee, Oklahoma, for the 2014 Oklahoma Samboree.  This would be our final year serving as Oklahoma Good Sam Club state staff members.  We made many good friends and hope to see them on the road soon!  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7cwJ54RYDEE/VHZJVFq7PII/AAAAAAAAH1A/CvVdhQxyq3w/s1600-h/IMG_2132%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2132" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2132" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mztVkaJqv9M/VHZJVoPG14I/AAAAAAAAH1E/c7OlrvnmEXQ/IMG_2132_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="315" height="496" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Susan and I took a short break after the week-long Samboree, but then reloaded the coach and headed to Albuquerque, NM.  This trip would be dual-purpose; Susan would officiate a grave marking memorial service for three deceased members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and we would bring my mother home to OKC after her visit with family living in Albuquerque.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dLUmdQTUhHk/VHZKUaOeDzI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/eRP4xZ22Eyo/s1600-h/IMG_0881%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0881" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0881" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wN9Y9VSIb4c/VHZKVJNjAbI/AAAAAAAAH1Y/alTDp77RFUk/IMG_0881_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="354" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>While visiting Albuquerque, we generally stay at “American RV Park,” 13500 Central Ave., SW, Albuquerque, NM  87121, (505) 831-3545.  It’s a nice, well-maintained park, and offers plenty of good grass for Maynard.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fr87c6BevfA/VHZKWim65ZI/AAAAAAAAH1g/qT33MAfCBow/s1600-h/IMG_2400%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2400" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2400" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-65lbVD4MGaA/VHZKXFxOlZI/AAAAAAAAH1k/cEvL_AZjbQ4/IMG_2400_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="462" height="300" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Along the way, we made a stop in Tucumcari, NM, and visited the “Tucumcari Historical Museum,” 416 S. Adams St., Tucumcari, NM  88401, (575) 461-4201.  We’ve intended to visit it on previous trips through the area, but never before had the opportunity.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G384Z6JXlr0/VHZKYVDDxXI/AAAAAAAAH1w/MSR2u9YutNk/s1600-h/IMG_2394%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2394" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2394" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sPbJ9iumsMo/VHZKY-UmmCI/AAAAAAAAH10/hzWjdIOHdoQ/IMG_2394_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="328" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QbpwmIWuFr4/VHZKaIbwQrI/AAAAAAAAH2A/tKc8Ib5kuGg/s1600-h/IMG_2393%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2393" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2393" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xUf0nYM4jTI/VHZKantNZjI/AAAAAAAAH2E/8vkCfZbFVrk/IMG_2393_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="233" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="50"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zIAPF-SoLnA/VHZKbrJczbI/AAAAAAAAH2Q/8rOUlprvIr4/s1600-h/IMG_2392%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2392" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2392" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--6lkY6et8eY/VHZKcBe6QqI/AAAAAAAAH2U/EqELqNT3Szw/IMG_2392_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="237" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>If you visit Tucumcari in your RV, we highly recommend “Cactus RV Park,” 1316 E. Tucumcari Blvd, Tucumcari, NM  88401, (575) 461-2501.  </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pDWFNEdFw4Q/VHZKcxu3TEI/AAAAAAAAH2g/Bq0ddLe8M2o/s1600-h/tucumcari%252520rv%252520park%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="tucumcari rv park" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="tucumcari rv park" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ETO6j23r1Ys/VHZKdjLFh-I/AAAAAAAAH2o/cmwzvi1_GDo/tucumcari%252520rv%252520park_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="459" height="313" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>It’s a simple, clean, quiet, and friendly park, that was an original Route 66 motel.  The management is very friendly and accommodating!  </p> <p>For great New Mexican cuisine, we recommend “La Cita” restaurant, 820 S. 1st St., Tucumcari, NM  88401, (575) 461-7866.</p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YAff3SZWV9c/VHZKeIK6nqI/AAAAAAAAH2w/xGZgyOOOMpA/s1600-h/IMG_2395%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2395" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2395" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PKBWkc_0XhU/VHZKe3jLcNI/AAAAAAAAH24/GUAJ-DrcshI/IMG_2395_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="385" height="552" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Also, “Del’s Restaurant,” 1202 Hwy 66, Tucumcari, NM  88401, (575) 461-1740. </p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="100" border="0"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="100"><img src="http://www.delsrestaurant.com/Not%20Used/delscow.jpg.JPG" width="372" height="272" /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>Susan and I plan to spend most of the winter in Arizona.  I’ll try to do a better job of keeping the blog up to date next year!  </p> <p>Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  Jerry & Susan</p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-90000015220149567962013-11-24T11:32:00.001-08:002013-11-24T15:11:23.087-08:00My New Affair!<p>Susan and I took a deviation from our regular mode of travel this month.  We flew American Airlines to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and purchased a used car, sight unseen, which we have previously done only with new vehicles.  Fortunately, there were no disappointments and the 700-mile road trip was uneventful. </p> <p>Why the fascination with this car?  Well, the explanation begins in March 1975.  As a young private investigator, I was assigned a case in search of two missing children.  My client lived in Maryland and recently divorced.  The court granted him custody of his children, but the ex-wife took the children and fled to Oklahoma.  After several days of surveillance, I located my client’s children in Duncan, where they were attending school.  They were living in nearby Marlow with their mother and her acquaintance.  </p> <p>Upon confirming the identity of the children and their mother, I accompanied my client’s attorney back to Duncan to gain the district court’s issue of a Writ of Habeas Corpus, which would allow my client to regain custody of his children.  The attorney owned a “1975 Lincoln Continental Mark IV,” and the trip to Duncan was my first experience in riding in such a beautiful vehicle.  </p> <p>I never was before, nor am I now, a “Ford man,” as I have always favored General Motors products.  But the Mark IV engraved itself in my mind and heart as the most luxurious and strikingly beautiful automobile ever made, foreign or domestic.  </p> <p>My client was reunited with his children, and I’m happy to say that he and I stay in touch today.  In fact, Susan and I visited him and his lovely wife on our way home from an RV trip to Washington, D.C. in 2012.  </p> <p>As for my newly acquired interest in the Mark IV, I bought a new “Cartier Designer Series” in March 1976 (similar to the car pictured below) . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pW2BQeQ-mDo/UpJUCDtCu5I/AAAAAAAAG68/wU_5YyuNXm4/s1600-h/cartier%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="cartier" border="0" alt="cartier" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BIWlkK8ErPE/UpJUCxgLLFI/AAAAAAAAG7E/kMVKg5pXRZ4/cartier_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>My new Lincoln was purchased from Marion Davidson Lincoln-Mercury in Weatherford, Oklahoma, at a cost of $12,888 (roughly $65,000 today).  It was triple Dove Grey (body, seats, and landau top).  I drove the car for about three years, and have missed it ever since.  I later purchased a new 1981 Lincoln Mark VI, which was also a “Cartier Designer Series,” but it simply didn’t compare to the 1976 model.  The ‘81 Mark VI was shorter in length, lighter in weight, and underpowered (302 cubic inch V8).  Whereas, the ‘76 Mark IV is 19’1” in length, weighs over 5200 lbs, and is powered by a 7.5L 460 cubic inch V8.  </p> <p>RVing keeps me occupied during the warm seasons, but retirement doesn’t bode well for me during the winter.  As a result, I easily get bored and find myself looking for new projects.  I’ve looked for a project car for several years.  Susan and I have owned a T-Bird and Corvette, and although we liked them both very much, neither fulfilled my interests.  I knew I wanted a classic luxury car to tinker with, and I’ve always been a fan of the early 1960’s Cadillacs.  But when comparing the architecture of the Cadillac to the Lincoln, I was always drawn back to the Mark IV.  </p> <p>While doing my weekly Internet search I came across this “1976 Pucci Designer Series” with 36,001 actual miles.  The vehicle was originally sold by Antietam Motors, Inc. in Hagerstown, MD in July 1976.  The car was built at the Ford Wixom Plant on May 7, 1976.  The following are actual photos of my car:  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QPWPX48XK38/UpJUDqwwu6I/AAAAAAAAG7M/TIB4UHOnp1Y/s1600-h/photom2%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photom2" border="0" alt="photom2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D4KxDuE_C18/UpJUEhTDXYI/AAAAAAAAG7U/fLjEPjmrGwI/photom2_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="194" /></a> </p> <p>In the 1976 model year, Lincoln commissioned four internationally known designers to choose color combinations and accents for specially labeled models of the Mark IV.  They included the “Cartier,” “Bill Blass,” “Givenchy,” and “Emilio Pucci.”  All carried the designer’s signature in the opera windows in 22 Karat gold . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wiYMpJpXt-w/UpJUFbtXprI/AAAAAAAAG7c/GYQOLJTqlts/s1600-h/pucci%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="pucci" border="0" alt="pucci" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1Zw2dRT7zHw/UpJUF5UxncI/AAAAAAAAG7k/yMYwqV2FC-w/pucci_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="258" /></a>    </p> <p></p> <p>The “Designer Series” added a $2,000 premium to the window sticker, but was worth every dollar in increased elegance to an already luxurious car.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P5_J0OaT88I/UpJUGjO7H1I/AAAAAAAAG7s/fk7YzTttFBk/s1600-h/photom4%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photom4" border="0" alt="photom4" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jdhPIZwOKxk/UpJUHg93daI/AAAAAAAAG7w/8u5naNYuurM/photom4_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="180" /></a> </p> <p>As you can see in the photos, this car has a white landau half-top with white body side-moldings.  The original issue “Pucci” came with a silver “Normande Grain” top and matching body side-moldings.  In my opinion, the original silver top and moldings appeared dull and lackluster.  Apparently, the previous owner agreed and dyed the top and moldings white.  I plan to replace the dyed vinyl top with new fabric, but I will retain the white color scheme as I think it better accents the Moondust Metallic paint.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SRCqi_qT08g/UpJUIStVBfI/AAAAAAAAG78/To86mnkd6yg/s1600-h/photom5%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photom5" border="0" alt="photom5" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5DmXU27GWXU/UpJUJIfbfdI/AAAAAAAAG8E/DgRlCLF-CaU/photom5_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VAmQT0ZRfks/UpJUKHggMxI/AAAAAAAAG8M/FYBVRjvhHjE/s1600-h/photom6%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photom6" border="0" alt="photom6" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YpJgeRCj4iw/UpJUKz3YG_I/AAAAAAAAG8U/Mb2mExFNles/photom6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> </p> <p>Seating options for the 1976 “Pucci” were leather or dark red Majestic cloth.  This car came with cloth, which was a $2000 upgrade.  Note the factory plastic still intact on the rear seatbelts in the following picture . . . .</p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I8sRPE_0YaU/UpJULrjPzbI/AAAAAAAAG8c/VJT0VKiQi5o/s1600-h/intrra%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="intrra" border="0" alt="intrra" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vl3oHAOX6Cg/UpJUMT1z4MI/AAAAAAAAG8g/a4hKFmGSJzM/intrra_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="258" /></a> </p> <p>The car was previously owned by a collector who sold it at auction with over 150 other vehicles, none of which had been started or driven in over twenty years.  The ash trays and cigar lighters show no sign of use.  The seating areas, carpet, headliner and dash are in original condition.  And, the original Michelin spare tire is in the trunk and has never been on the ground.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-54qRb3wq8vU/UpJUM8j6H4I/AAAAAAAAG8s/vM__C0ezKdQ/s1600-h/hdlnra%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hdlnra" border="0" alt="hdlnra" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--VBtLPj5knY/UpJUN1kTmaI/AAAAAAAAG8w/iW5B7nGzq2I/hdlnra_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W_Qz40U5hvU/UpJUOXvzCUI/AAAAAAAAG84/eKUvTgpLlsg/s1600-h/trnk%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="trnk" border="0" alt="trnk" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aKeVSIbEX58/UpJUO9pRyHI/AAAAAAAAG88/rz9DYTyZXDA/trnk_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> </p> <p>The engine and chassis are as clean as the body and interior . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EqYRgZesQfw/UpJUPvtrcMI/AAAAAAAAG9I/HjqaPKMnKAo/s1600-h/engc%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="engc" border="0" alt="engc" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PjWizuwFXQU/UpJUQEgb9UI/AAAAAAAAG9Q/2eNta3ycT4w/engc_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RPaGcvagUC4/UpJUQ19mh6I/AAAAAAAAG9Y/VTz856o1m6Q/s1600-h/uc%252520%2525283%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="uc (3)" border="0" alt="uc (3)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IaZIV8GaweM/UpJURpQdwuI/AAAAAAAAG9k/ETkUAGAhvZE/uc%252520%2525283%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> </p> <p>There is no sign of body damage or repaint, but the original paint does show a light patina . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZB_bDi97ZQA/UpJUSd-Vh1I/AAAAAAAAG9s/d463frwx3k4/s1600-h/ps3%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ps3" border="0" alt="ps3" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nntVsiXAANI/UpJUTEOGCQI/AAAAAAAAG90/WqiuUZl8ri8/ps3_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wI7tHsEm_Ok/UpJUT1nswzI/AAAAAAAAG98/DTI3deE-19U/s1600-h/ps1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="ps1" border="0" alt="ps1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bE6TsvuKaGI/UpJUUv-oa4I/AAAAAAAAG-E/-pG387Ecm6U/ps1_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="138" /></a> </p> <p>The present tires are not original, but have excellent tread and appear new.  However, I can’t get them to balance properly and I believe they may have flat spots from sitting in one position for an extended period of time.  The only option may be to replace them.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WjkbVX7lQBQ/UpJUVYGv14I/AAAAAAAAG-M/G81sgJhVWgU/s1600-h/wheel%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="wheel" border="0" alt="wheel" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eu9ug5WDIGc/UpJUWYkGMcI/AAAAAAAAG-U/65mZDwxhbyE/wheel_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="258" /></a> </p> <p>The engine has a slight miss, but after replacing the base carburetor gasket, installing new spark plugs, and using a can of Chem-tool gasoline additive, it’s improving.  Below, I’m changing out the electric seat controls on the passenger door. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zmMJxrHHPfw/UpJUXAsaaNI/AAAAAAAAG-Y/mbLsFRIQlnY/s1600-h/photom1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photom1" border="0" alt="photom1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z9rEQZ-C5BQ/UpJUYKIY43I/AAAAAAAAG-k/2pyBk_Uxwjg/photom1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Like I said, I’ve been looking for a project to keep me busy during my idol months.  What could be better?  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-27nWd0wY5yE/UpJUYzUTQKI/AAAAAAAAG-o/D54oi4nsxqY/s1600-h/rr%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="rr" border="0" alt="rr" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ojG7IDBB_vE/UpJUZrHAWKI/AAAAAAAAG-0/QCjUm48Te2s/rr_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="258" /></a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-3413555849606167812013-08-15T14:36:00.001-07:002013-08-16T12:28:24.620-07:00Modern Wagoneers Visit Van Buren/Fort Smith, Arkansas!<p>The August campout was hosted by David and Wilma Adams & Gary Tidball and Rosie Wagner.  For the first time that I can remember, our chapter finally made a trip out-of-state!  Van Buren may be only seven miles east of the Oklahoma border, but at least we’re venturing out.  </p> <p>A total of nine rigs met in Van Buren, with four arriving on Wednesday and five more caravaning in on Thursday.  The wagonmasters reserved several tree-covered sites at “Park Ridge RV Park” in Van Buren.  <a title="http://parkridgerv.com/" href="http://parkridgerv.com/">http://parkridgerv.com/</a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TdeLgSd33hU/Ug1IdJCaRNI/AAAAAAAAGwM/viiJy2Gr0m8/s1600-h/IMG_1386%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1386" border="0" alt="IMG_1386" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t2cxLDcsTY4/Ug1IdodRRZI/AAAAAAAAGwU/rjoRVs2EP7I/IMG_1386_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sWeKzn95IJw/Ug1IfdqGmTI/AAAAAAAAGwc/9-4ebYYjyak/s1600-h/IMG_1292%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1292" border="0" alt="IMG_1292" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pBdb0tQ1KMs/Ug1IgRdsQyI/AAAAAAAAGwk/-3UVbn7kNeI/IMG_1292_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>This is a beautiful park!  My only reservation is that when it rains the grounds are rather messy.  But it’s nestled in the trees along a tributary of the Arkansas River, and provides a peaceful and relaxing setting for the outing.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JoK1rKkrsWM/Ug1IhMEWUMI/AAAAAAAAGws/mC9McezsFng/s1600-h/IMG_1304%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1304" border="0" alt="IMG_1304" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ATRvFhkZZLw/Ug1Ih4GZEHI/AAAAAAAAGw0/XU5X0yJxGXk/IMG_1304_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="250" /></a> </p> <p>I noticed the trailer brakes were fading during a rest break on our way to Van Buren.  Upon our arrival at the RV park, I manually activated the trailer brakes and they did not engage at all.  Obviously, the trip home will be slow and cautious.</p> <p>The coach has traveled approximately 22K miles since new in August 2011.  I can’t imagine that the brakes have worn out so soon.  I wish all travel trailers and 5th wheels were sold with hydraulic brake systems, which I truly believe are much safer and reliable!</p> <p>The RV park has a very nice club room, and our hosts provided a taco/nacho supper on the night of arrival, followed by breakfasts the next two mornings. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uMgsOfSUhH4/Ug1IihKKiwI/AAAAAAAAGw8/RZOtORtY3Qc/s1600-h/IMG_1295%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1295" border="0" alt="IMG_1295" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HTCzo4r4-T8/Ug1IjQBUcvI/AAAAAAAAGxE/JVS4j5iqIdg/IMG_1295_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Below is a picture of Gary Tidball’s “Banana Walnut Upside-Down French Toast.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UzNUk6GRw7M/Ug1IkXhkatI/AAAAAAAAGxM/CUSgXAWIHV4/s1600-h/IMG_1299%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1299" border="0" alt="IMG_1299" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ytlOLpTMonw/Ug1IlJc-5EI/AAAAAAAAGxU/rhlmSZ8kDvg/IMG_1299_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="324" /></a>   </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Way too sweet for me!  But, Gary, the fine man that he is, made me a special order of plain French toast to accompany my sugar-free syrup.  </p> <p>Van Buren, Arkansas, is a quaint little town founded in 1831.  The town’s name is derived from former Secretary of State, Martin Van Buren, and it is near the 1862 Civil War battle site that ended in a defeat for the Confederate Army.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R0PWnQW9S7Q/Ug1IlgUeuYI/AAAAAAAAGxc/0tAPpzW-cr0/s1600-h/IMG_1402%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1402" border="0" alt="IMG_1402" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EyCcqeMH2Bw/Ug1ImypYs7I/AAAAAAAAGxk/AxaiZohxY0g/IMG_1402_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="264" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AbXOvz4tilQ/Ug1IpMcPjXI/AAAAAAAAGxs/aILG1ni-Z3A/s1600-h/IMG_1300%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1300" border="0" alt="IMG_1300" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UFwico1LTPs/Ug1IpsTWt6I/AAAAAAAAGx0/eHTwGkT7dAI/IMG_1300_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X4k08L7aCSs/Ug1Iqkdq0uI/AAAAAAAAGx8/VQlViu7xkek/s1600-h/IMG_1301%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1301" border="0" alt="IMG_1301" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1jWbr67zW9I/Ug1IrDCuTbI/AAAAAAAAGyE/Zg-gQcWV07Q/IMG_1301_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>I usually throw in a picture or two of a law office or courthouse (below left), and at the right is two familiar fellows I like to refer to as “two old men on the street,” otherwise known as Gary Tidball and David Adams.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ycLlILV2Dxs/Ug1IsAQlppI/AAAAAAAAGyM/-3p-YuhyTKI/s1600-h/IMG_1302%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1302" border="0" alt="IMG_1302" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r_QAq7JPfmw/Ug1Is_ph6jI/AAAAAAAAGyU/tToBUgNEGbM/IMG_1302_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ggtreQ4Lm9g/Ug1Itv4-LYI/AAAAAAAAGyc/wFFR0YTNFL0/s1600-h/IMG_1390%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1390" border="0" alt="IMG_1390" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Oh3EAl0yu8g/Ug1IuG-VKLI/AAAAAAAAGyk/weHeSS1cc4U/IMG_1390_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="162" /></a> </p> <p>If you visit Van Buren, a good restaurant to keep in mind is “Big Jake’s Cattle Co.” <a title="http://bigjakescattleco.com/" href="http://bigjakescattleco.com/">http://bigjakescattleco.com/</a>  Not only was the food and service excellent, but the wait staff put up with all of us!    </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZWaiy70iYLo/Ug1Iv6TvmsI/AAAAAAAAGys/di8IaoLtTBk/s1600-h/IMG_1291%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1291" border="0" alt="IMG_1291" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qcag1pVJ2A8/Ug1IwgQ2i1I/AAAAAAAAGy0/dmhGNuGwu_8/IMG_1291_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6fxGA9D9LLI/Ug1IxoVpAgI/AAAAAAAAGy8/KWi4xNsxFMY/s1600-h/IMG_1290%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1290" border="0" alt="IMG_1290" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3Cn8RjC08w0/Ug1IyGBXWII/AAAAAAAAGzE/6Kjvrdhneto/IMG_1290_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Another point of interest in Van Buren is the “King Opera Theater.”  It’s located at 427 Main Street and features live entertainment.  The theater is a 19th Century Victorian performance hall, which was restored in 1979 and now listed on the “National Register of Historic Places” and is part of the “Van Buren Historic District.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ifs9sPKmvpU/Ug1Iy-40xdI/AAAAAAAAGzM/-iGUZoqIYaU/s1600-h/IMG_1392%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1392" border="0" alt="IMG_1392" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IJcAFT-OXBE/Ug1I0NCl9pI/AAAAAAAAGzU/_2zsOb2SPHo/IMG_1392_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KQZtV0tsOn0/Ug1I2jiRnNI/AAAAAAAAGzc/fd3XkKSM9Iw/s1600-h/IMG_1399%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1399" border="0" alt="IMG_1399" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-a8eUn0DsT-U/Ug1I3XpPO4I/AAAAAAAAGzk/c5luYOGMtjY/IMG_1399_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Van Buren, Arkansas is a great place for Oklahoma RVers to visit!  It’s only 190 miles from Oklahoma City (3 hrs. 15 min.), has a great RV park, good food, and historic charm.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-66_5erbI--s/Ug1I8pcaGDI/AAAAAAAAGzs/mYPn_cjXUV4/s1600-h/IMG_1403%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1403" border="0" alt="IMG_1403" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oj7P98_cnoU/Ug1I9xpA7XI/AAAAAAAAGz0/OXVjwZJMuWM/IMG_1403_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>We also toured Fort Smith, Arkansas, which highlighted two historical sites.  “Miss Laura’s Social Club” was first and foremost on my list of things to see!   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e1I6mFaFwi8/Ug1JJ4GS77I/AAAAAAAAGz8/pA4JOyPVk_A/s1600-h/Miss%252520Laura%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Miss Laura" border="0" alt="Miss Laura" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-30XzjfJN3K8/Ug1JWl8KzAI/AAAAAAAAG0E/_0o_uIsrqKM/Miss%252520Laura_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="271" /></a> </p> <p>Sometime around the turn of the century (early 1900s), Laura Zeigler transformed a river-front hotel into one of the “most refined and healthiest” bordellos in the area.  At a time when a “lady of the evening” generally charged $1.00 for her services, Miss Laura’s ladies earned $3.00. </p> <p>Carolyn Joyce, the beautiful lady pictured above, portrays Laura Zeigler as she conducts personalized tours of the well-preserved brothel house.  Carolyn became associated with “Miss Laura’s” in 1992 when the building reopened as the Fort Smith Visitor Center.  <a title="http://www.fortsmith.org/visitors/welcome-center.aspx" href="http://www.fortsmith.org/visitors/welcome-center.aspx">http://www.fortsmith.org/visitors/welcome-center.aspx</a></p> <p>Below, Carolyn Joyce leads our group on a tour of “Miss Laura’s.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-87LJgP9X1yo/Ug1JYsqy4sI/AAAAAAAAG0M/3EZ7gJ5RN8g/s1600-h/IMG_1315%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1315" border="0" alt="IMG_1315" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EigSX8CJI1c/Ug1JZw3T_NI/AAAAAAAAG0U/vf4Rigyxl6I/IMG_1315_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QaUDwAUP90o/Ug1JdubZ7wI/AAAAAAAAG0c/ihkXC_ChVK8/s1600-h/IMG_1317%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1317" border="0" alt="IMG_1317" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cW6tCQ8SWXo/Ug1JeV0C3CI/AAAAAAAAG0k/JfaIs8WXgi8/IMG_1317_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WlR0G6CKy-g/Ug1JfLykT3I/AAAAAAAAG0s/Z796Ee8nl64/s1600-h/IMG_1319%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1319" border="0" alt="IMG_1319" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3Lv3tSwDlcA/Ug1Jga3f4eI/AAAAAAAAG00/nOVBbfisCnc/IMG_1319_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tTdZN0lOqK4/Ug1JiMIP0pI/AAAAAAAAG08/wQ9WWrYGy7o/s1600-h/IMG_1320%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1320" border="0" alt="IMG_1320" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WNvtASfUmu8/Ug1JlNW5rsI/AAAAAAAAG1E/d--ZCYo9uPI/IMG_1320_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TFBaNeDsOoE/Ug1Jo8bLuzI/AAAAAAAAG1M/tijMe2zMvpo/s1600-h/IMG_1321%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1321" border="0" alt="IMG_1321" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XnF9N6S-tec/Ug1Jpes6OmI/AAAAAAAAG1U/h9KeIM0GwHQ/IMG_1321_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KSiTBzpV1OY/Ug1Jr5bBb_I/AAAAAAAAG1c/l8R0MX1ik_0/s1600-h/IMG_1322%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1322" border="0" alt="IMG_1322" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LAdBTGv_zHI/Ug1JtYVEbXI/AAAAAAAAG1k/41va5kNo7So/IMG_1322_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n4A5wwTvXtc/Ug1JuXQKccI/AAAAAAAAG1s/ujhWLFMZrhM/s1600-h/IMG_1325%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1325" border="0" alt="IMG_1325" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C-GtYL3NoZ0/Ug1JvHC9J9I/AAAAAAAAG10/8MhUhKsqdsE/IMG_1325_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CCvemh8cVjQ/Ug1Jvse7lvI/AAAAAAAAG18/pZevVwGbqOE/s1600-h/IMG_1350%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1350" border="0" alt="IMG_1350" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hpjUCxxbS-Q/Ug1JwCb17gI/AAAAAAAAG2E/db7E9qvwAiM/IMG_1350_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--RuowCiq1_Y/Ug1Jw2LQXyI/AAAAAAAAG2M/AveTfSNWue8/s1600-h/IMG_1331%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1331" border="0" alt="IMG_1331" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-53NBkJZWEZE/Ug1JxRofCgI/AAAAAAAAG2U/vk5GYoZj8Wo/IMG_1331_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Rkt1wV-KrAY/Ug1JxzULJLI/AAAAAAAAG2c/3TEk3AgCAcA/s1600-h/IMG_1340%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1340" border="0" alt="IMG_1340" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Hek1ZUUp2yw/Ug1JygVbuMI/AAAAAAAAG2k/Om-zVf_6L_w/IMG_1340_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>It’s said that champagne, chilled in a bathtub similar to the one pictured below, was served to Miss Laura’s customers at no charge. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-85KCfAj4tug/Ug1JzDwv4hI/AAAAAAAAG2s/hWU7lj-Z6oY/s1600-h/IMG_1341%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1341" border="0" alt="IMG_1341" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9X8S7X9m_4o/Ug1JzgFRjDI/AAAAAAAAG20/DSliB5W-G1Q/IMG_1341_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>“Miss Laura’s” is a “must see” if you visit Fort Smith!  Below, the Modern Wagoneers pose for a group picture outside my favorite bordello . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--YjDA_oNv-Q/Ug1J0vCrNKI/AAAAAAAAG28/r3MYv4uenKU/s1600-h/IMG_1313%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1313" border="0" alt="IMG_1313" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ds8OcqHxH-Q/Ug1J1RsmpfI/AAAAAAAAG3E/PRxNaxTJI2o/IMG_1313_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a></p> <p>The other highlight on our Fort Smith tour was the “Fort Smith National Historic Site,” which among other things, was the courthouse, jail, and gallows of “hanging judge,” Isaac C. Parker.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DDt32gHWM2U/Ug1J2GDEDAI/AAAAAAAAG3M/mzOC8-a0rkY/s1600-h/IMG_1363%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_1363" border="0" alt="IMG_1363" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u_-XWfpbXnc/Ug1J29OMySI/AAAAAAAAG3U/zO561CX2LCA/IMG_1363_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="349" /></a> </p> <p>Known as the “Hell-on-the-Border” jail, the Barracks-Courthouse-Jail has a very rich and colorful history.  For more information, go to <a title="http://www.nps.gov/fosm/index.htm" href="http://www.nps.gov/fosm/index.htm">http://www.nps.gov/fosm/index.htm</a></p> <p>Judge Parker, who previously served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri, served as District Judge for the U.S. Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas for 21 years.  Though most federal district judges hear civil cases, Judge Parker heard thousands of criminal cases and sentenced over 150 people to death, of which 79 were executed during his tenure as federal judge.  When Congress created the Western District of Arkansas in 1851, it failed to provide an appeals process.  As a result, convicted felons had no recourse other than seeking a presidential pardon, which was rarely granted.  This process continued for fourteen years before Congress established a Circuit Court of Appeals for the District.  </p> <p>Judge Parker’s desk and chair used in Washington during his congressional term, 1871-1875 (lower left).  Judge Parker’s walking sticks (lower right). </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fr5fDi8JyQQ/Ug59FybYUkI/AAAAAAAAG3k/K7h4u3Jllzs/s1600-h/IMG_1379%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1379" border="0" alt="IMG_1379" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NDu6JbAoo-U/Ug59GoM5Q1I/AAAAAAAAG3s/Yd75LhN5hJY/IMG_1379_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XJhMoZEX8WU/Ug59HEsn81I/AAAAAAAAG30/sKbNqz8Dml0/s1600-h/IMG_1381%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1381" border="0" alt="IMG_1381" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NofrHsJFwiM/Ug59HrmhDOI/AAAAAAAAG38/tzoHZjCiKNg/IMG_1381_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p>The courtroom from where justice was served, or was it? </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DcYjPrS-O68/Ug59Ie4K69I/AAAAAAAAG4E/Od-XG8MQk3g/s1600-h/IMG_1368%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1368" border="0" alt="IMG_1368" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NVL6D4wKDeo/Ug59I8vfCrI/AAAAAAAAG4M/dMbQ9ZEA_ZE/IMG_1368_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OfKMs6xn2Ls/Ug59JWwY6HI/AAAAAAAAG4U/8YgzncQWazs/s1600-h/IMG_1369%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1369" border="0" alt="IMG_1369" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dO3bK2kvRQo/Ug59KFhtG4I/AAAAAAAAG4c/OZ9qPYzS-A0/IMG_1369_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TYPXNDNcu_Q/Ug59KgWHhcI/AAAAAAAAG4k/LvlrZYCrWu0/s1600-h/IMG_1370%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1370" border="0" alt="IMG_1370" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-98f9kBSIooE/Ug59LFVV0UI/AAAAAAAAG4s/umwpeegVsXI/IMG_1370_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1oQRHWWArKI/Ug59L1ItE5I/AAAAAAAAG40/sdh2EH7auE4/s1600-h/IMG_1373%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1373" border="0" alt="IMG_1373" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OcczTsygc2I/Ug59MhI3_HI/AAAAAAAAG48/1S53Y5_WD14/IMG_1373_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Judge Parker is pictured above at work from the bench sometime between 1890-1896.  With over 50 prisoners locked in one of two cells, the basement of Judge Parker’s courthouse became known as the “Hell-on-the-Border” jail (pictured below). </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c9JFq3IY02I/Ug59NFlutzI/AAAAAAAAG5E/vTtLalyWS_w/s1600-h/IMG_1365%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1365" border="0" alt="IMG_1365" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_FFqICXfUXI/Ug59NjolYfI/AAAAAAAAG5M/Rd1zUKzqEJQ/IMG_1365_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Before sending a group of prisoners to their death at the gallows, Judge Parker once said, “I do not desire to hang you men, it is the law.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QSwZTguLktc/Ug59OQ93G4I/AAAAAAAAG5U/nVJQFIeS07g/s1600-h/IMG_1355%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1355" border="0" alt="IMG_1355" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P7m63da1z6M/Ug59O0IBi1I/AAAAAAAAG5c/0U-8lA033zo/IMG_1355_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ys5lWQV3GOE/Ug59PYgL0PI/AAAAAAAAG5k/JZG7JFGGE_A/s1600-h/IMG_1357%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1357" border="0" alt="IMG_1357" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZvgdXPJbr8w/Ug59PwYWfaI/AAAAAAAAG5s/70XVg-Zv_j0/IMG_1357_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I8R-PhJ5V4I/Ug59QR8xCFI/AAAAAAAAG50/rep75Fkrs54/s1600-h/IMG_1356%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1356" border="0" alt="IMG_1356" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bzg65TiYqqI/Ug59QxfyPFI/AAAAAAAAG54/mJpQBvSSFeU/IMG_1356_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="131" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Looking up from below the spring door of the gallows (top left).  George Maledon, known as “Prince of Hangmen,” served as executioner at over half of the Fort Smith hangings (top right).  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LtbCYiGQnRQ/Ug59RiLQxkI/AAAAAAAAG58/ymMi7Ih4bwA/s1600-h/IMG_1385%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1385" border="0" alt="IMG_1385" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BVVd7DAHXz0/Ug59SGhQy2I/AAAAAAAAG6I/sGGqiRCTyTk/IMG_1385_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Pictured above is David and Kristi Cline (left), with Susan and me (right) on the grounds of the National Historic Site.  </p> <p>A great way to finish a morning of touring is with a good hamburger.  We recommend “The Hamburger Barn” at 317 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, AR.  Good food and service!  </p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O30KVrsBklw/Ug59S3Qn4VI/AAAAAAAAG6U/X389gjCHw-g/s1600-h/IMG_1360%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1360" border="0" alt="IMG_1360" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-41bXO4RIl7Y/Ug59UVZi58I/AAAAAAAAG6c/en1EhLlvSg0/IMG_1360_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9pnZMDxZp0A/Ug59VIvgXWI/AAAAAAAAG6k/APc9tYXPXho/s1600-h/IMG_1362%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_1362" border="0" alt="IMG_1362" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LwWlcmQdPb8/Ug59VpRx52I/AAAAAAAAG6s/hD55xKhi0O8/IMG_1362_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a></p> <p>They have a very interesting decor, especially all the OSU memorabilia (considering it’s located in the State of Arkansas and we saw very little Razorback recognition!).    </p> <p>“Hats Off” to the Adams, Gary and Rosie for a great outing.  And thanks for taking us out-of-state for a change!  How about Colorado next time? </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-315562506447967112013-07-29T18:34:00.001-07:002013-07-30T14:12:11.314-07:00Branson Times Two!<p>The July campout with our Good Sam chapter, “The Modern Wagoneers,” was more than a week away and I was getting cabin fever.  So, Susan suggested “let’s leave a few days early, go to Eureka Springs and Branson, then drop down through Missouri via I-44 and meet the group in Grove.”  Because I always do what I’m told, I readied the truck and coach and off we went.  </p> <p>On the road to Eureka Springs, we saw a few nice cars on a transport parked at a truck stop . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RnTGKSho_cQ/UfcXDi5epoI/AAAAAAAAGZA/5EfbojpkxW8/s1600-h/DSCN3952%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3952" border="0" alt="DSCN3952" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AopyVr6E6V0/UfcXEI56KAI/AAAAAAAAGZI/nzfA9y0cEfc/DSCN3952_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>My weakness is clean, sixties, Cadillacs.  The car pictured above is a 1964 Cadillac, Coupe de Ville, convertible.  Except for a little underbody rust, she looked sweet!  Susan wouldn’t let me inquire whether it was for sale.   </p> <p>Susan called ahead and reserved an RV site at “Wanderlust RV Park” in Eureka Springs, which is located at 468 Passion Play Rd., Eureka Springs, Arkansas 72632.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JiaWiTqNCX4/UfcXE4KcVNI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/jgkJbmWr1OU/s1600-h/photo%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo" border="0" alt="photo" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-leJT_zmCp-E/UfcXF8eGdeI/AAAAAAAAGZY/boEBFzfT-20/photo_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>Their telephone number is (479) 253-7385.  The park is a Good Sam “approved” park and offers 90 full-hookup sites, but be sure to ask for site 47, if it’s available.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QPaBbOmB820/UfcXGjQujcI/AAAAAAAAGZg/jm-8Jl-loGM/s1600-h/photo10%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0gt5W0u3h7A/UfcXHeMjDGI/AAAAAAAAGZo/lX7F6C1S4ZI/photo10_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>We had a site along the road frontage.  Traffic noise didn’t present a problem, but the site had no view.  Site 47 is in the back portion of the park and has a beautiful view of the Ozark surroundings.  </p> <p>The park manager recommended “Catfish Cabin” and “La Familia” for dinner, and “Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down” for an evening show.  Don’t eat at La Familia in Eureka Springs!  The food was disgusting, and the service was just as bad.  Catfish Cabin, on the other hand, was excellent!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cUdHddcEgvY/UfcXIA4z8NI/AAAAAAAAGZw/5OuedjZiNmA/s1600-h/photo1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DfY01a64Lpk/UfcXIleRASI/AAAAAAAAGZ4/52-_lU3Ff7E/photo1_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tEGzoWR6blw/UfcXJc2Qk4I/AAAAAAAAGaA/nVi7M4ae80s/s1600-h/DSCN3954%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3954" border="0" alt="DSCN3954" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OC8HP7ktOaw/UfcXJ5DfdVI/AAAAAAAAGaI/fpc1fsiovj8/DSCN3954_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>If you care to take in a show, definitely see Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down!  We laughed for over an hour, and the music wasn’t bad, either!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L2HZu2eAYos/UfcXKpwXgAI/AAAAAAAAGaQ/eI2d2sn0V3Q/s1600-h/DSCN3976%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3976" border="0" alt="DSCN3976" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GamnQhlHVz4/UfcXLJUZpQI/AAAAAAAAGaY/eIuLmC_rvuY/DSCN3976_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rbl24cw08_s/UfcXLkwOj3I/AAAAAAAAGag/zDmCXw3sZUk/s1600-h/DSCN3978%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3978" border="0" alt="DSCN3978" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DiJMidO008Y/UfcXMIQrYbI/AAAAAAAAGao/UyipEh9ztCM/DSCN3978_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>The singer/comedian, pictured above-right, bares a striking resemblance to our youngest granddaughter, Sheridyn, in her cheer uniform.  Both restaurants and the music show are located along Highway 62 through Eureka Springs.</p> <p>We discovered a long time ago that if we really want to learn an area and its history well, we should hire a local guide service to give us a tour.  Eureka Springs has a transit system that offers an open-air guide, and we highly recommend it.  The depot is located at 137 W. Van Buren (Hwy. 62 West), and the telephone number is (479) 253-9572.  Go to <a href="http://www.eurekatrolley.org">www.eurekatrolley.org</a> for more information.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aZnijoW9bis/UfcXMzSHmsI/AAAAAAAAGaw/f_EVZfeP5b4/s1600-h/DSCN3982%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3982" border="0" alt="DSCN3982" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RoLldqnRWRA/UfcXNTgZJiI/AAAAAAAAGa4/1eUaL-MTBf4/DSCN3982_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0t2nCnN079E/UfcXOD5e5VI/AAAAAAAAGbA/cGdrUmsyas0/s1600-h/DSCN3981%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3981" border="0" alt="DSCN3981" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dPzevMPBnLk/UfcXOjJLjLI/AAAAAAAAGbI/73lx1pb_UEc/DSCN3981_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>The trolley operates year round and we had a narrated tour conducted by Tim Garrison.  Ask for his tour if he’s available.  Tim is a native of Eureka Springs and has an extensive knowledge of the area and its history.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bCVRnFBWzPY/UfcXPRB_5bI/AAAAAAAAGbQ/S6MXEkFe6IU/s1600-h/DSCN3983%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3983" border="0" alt="DSCN3983" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tZRhbo-pgNg/UfcXP5rmUyI/AAAAAAAAGbY/iZEAoiGh35c/DSCN3983_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a>  </p> <p>One of the first stops on the tour was the “Crescent Hotel,” billed as “The haunted hotel where some guests checked out . . . but never left.”  The “Crescent” was built in 1886 and offers nightly ghost tours.  The following are a few views from our visit . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BU_7nLOTj4I/UfcXQsOyUlI/AAAAAAAAGbg/vZ4BckqWeNs/s1600-h/DSCN3986%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3986" border="0" alt="DSCN3986" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EmXmqq8f0lE/UfcXRZFJFII/AAAAAAAAGbo/tu29D7KTvUA/DSCN3986_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EL-dQs45TBY/UfcXSI3huVI/AAAAAAAAGbw/na5o9c4eWXQ/s1600-h/DSCN3987%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3987" border="0" alt="DSCN3987" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-muI-Ls6SsRM/UfcXSoEc1lI/AAAAAAAAGb4/R5zsghA4ELc/DSCN3987_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jk-wt0iWNjY/UfcXTQHf4EI/AAAAAAAAGcA/YZ7ooZrCyfQ/s1600-h/DSCN3988%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3988" border="0" alt="DSCN3988" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ijkWI0qdVCM/UfcXUM-w_1I/AAAAAAAAGcI/GP6Wy51ALtc/DSCN3988_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kEYKpZb-h_c/UfcXUlak0XI/AAAAAAAAGcQ/3PJ33tStRZw/s1600-h/DSCN3990%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3990" border="0" alt="DSCN3990" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bxbCGO3NZh0/UfcXVfRBVjI/AAAAAAAAGcY/O9XIEOYR6C8/DSCN3990_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a>   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QDPM0tyjyKw/UfcXWVUD-HI/AAAAAAAAGcg/ziL2HWcZS-Y/s1600-h/DSCN3989%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3989" border="0" alt="DSCN3989" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hQNr8yKETjs/UfcXW9DEFsI/AAAAAAAAGco/tMfYIzz1-iM/DSCN3989_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YR9uIdcPpi8/UfcXXqqU8AI/AAAAAAAAGcw/x4PzGmTMN88/s1600-h/DSCN3994%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3994" border="0" alt="DSCN3994" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xIkk4ZrBReE/UfcXYM41L_I/AAAAAAAAGc4/PUQQIAYePYI/DSCN3994_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Qk0Ue7Sp08/UfcXY1HsJNI/AAAAAAAAGdA/NltZZgiZv5Y/s1600-h/DSCN3998%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3998" border="0" alt="DSCN3998" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ncacssmIF54/UfcXZT59ZTI/AAAAAAAAGdI/tMZO0j_1A5I/DSCN3998_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sHet1XER8mg/UfcXaOtYscI/AAAAAAAAGdQ/Yb0PNnXRnh4/s1600-h/DSCN4001%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4001" border="0" alt="DSCN4001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uQDk-jps-EA/UfcXaosyy9I/AAAAAAAAGdY/0Vdu_nCwD2s/DSCN4001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KMbF7di9kSI/UfcXbfUOMAI/AAAAAAAAGdg/EyYLBfUT8e8/s1600-h/DSCN3995%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3995" border="0" alt="DSCN3995" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L2G58prXI68/UfcXcKQhiyI/AAAAAAAAGdo/DfAVM9MYVCE/DSCN3995_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KqsNmQD2Uww/UfcXcs-Z8II/AAAAAAAAGdw/B6WybPLiymo/s1600-h/DSCN3993%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3993" border="0" alt="DSCN3993" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yBPCk5vWLOA/UfcXdWXovQI/AAAAAAAAGd4/YGHGh1FS4es/DSCN3993_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>The hotel is located at 75 Prospect Avenue, Historic Loop, Eureka Springs, Arkansas 72632.  You can call (800) 342-9766 for reservations, or visit <a href="http://www.americasmosthauntedhotel.com">www.americasmosthauntedhotel.com</a></p> <p>“Grotto Spring” was another interesting stop on the tour.  It is one of 62 original springs in the community, and the water flows from a natural grotto.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CPKePhfoAcY/UfcXeNGBnkI/AAAAAAAAGeA/yoil7PXiu3o/s1600-h/DSCN4004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4004" border="0" alt="DSCN4004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Er8oq5Q8yac/UfcXe9jR-CI/AAAAAAAAGeI/pmaGdUaHtXQ/DSCN4004_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>The City of Eureka Springs employees a full-time gardener to maintain the landscaping around the springs, and what a beautiful job he does.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EkXzWGa_hHs/UfcXfiEhyDI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/rqIw_26rnyM/s1600-h/DSCN4005%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4005" border="0" alt="DSCN4005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_ZOhWI4AsEc/UfcXgTzAClI/AAAAAAAAGeY/YA4i7ktXveg/DSCN4005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nyqzCj0UHbw/UfcXhCNuRxI/AAAAAAAAGeg/4EngQ8fUaog/s1600-h/DSCN4008%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4008" border="0" alt="DSCN4008" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Cnq0dXpzO6M/UfcXhqFdBmI/AAAAAAAAGeo/2uNiFK0Yen8/DSCN4008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7VEmuFFvX7Y/UfcXiRei2vI/AAAAAAAAGes/_KnAqhwJUns/s1600-h/DSCN4007%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4007" border="0" alt="DSCN4007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mod9WmirfDQ/UfcXjKcvnwI/AAAAAAAAGe4/5tQU1MCUqe4/DSCN4007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Dj8_5uVeCXc/UfcXj-fcUJI/AAAAAAAAGfA/vxWGlEXj2v4/s1600-h/DSCN4009%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4009" border="0" alt="DSCN4009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KBEcRMvjbFI/UfcXkQ9M64I/AAAAAAAAGfI/pL-Z44HM0q8/DSCN4009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W2dhG57TFWs/UfcXlaCF22I/AAAAAAAAGfQ/Axjra7aMgwU/s1600-h/DSCN4006%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4006" border="0" alt="DSCN4006" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dsntvjt29lk/UfcXlw1UgxI/AAAAAAAAGfY/ae7TmqeI_e4/DSCN4006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q8xpP5zQ7FQ/UfcXmvaiBNI/AAAAAAAAGfg/qDr1W2pf75w/s1600-h/DSCN4012%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4012" border="0" alt="DSCN4012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-b0yyscnx1S0/UfcXm-QUCTI/AAAAAAAAGfo/-8mDwhJB-iM/DSCN4012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BIPXioWPaVs/UfcXnv9D6CI/AAAAAAAAGfw/kbbd1nsVbek/s1600-h/DSCN4016%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4016" border="0" alt="DSCN4016" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MWYnk47IV2Y/UfcXoLcQW_I/AAAAAAAAGf4/7HR-wF-p0Bc/DSCN4016_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a></p> <p>One of the most jaw-dropping characteristics about Eureka Springs is the architecture . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CitX8WsdqXU/UfcXo2FbicI/AAAAAAAAGgA/V_yT2x9en8E/s1600-h/DSCN4018%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4018" border="0" alt="DSCN4018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xlAkTBKWwfY/UfcXpfFhQAI/AAAAAAAAGgI/TKwtRUYWX3I/DSCN4018_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RFB4JFZ3hk0/UfcXqNggKcI/AAAAAAAAGgQ/-x_xGmp4kAA/s1600-h/DSCN4020%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4020" border="0" alt="DSCN4020" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QrwCb0hX6WY/UfcXqlx7cxI/AAAAAAAAGgY/Z0_jHAfwyA4/DSCN4020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n4Y9jsJbqRQ/UfcXrj7NlBI/AAAAAAAAGgg/WlRs5NzkVic/s1600-h/DSCN4019%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4019" border="0" alt="DSCN4019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R9UA_G9b0RU/UfcXsVisXQI/AAAAAAAAGgo/NAqtZKpDAE0/DSCN4019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tzD9i_bnUC8/UfcXtN5vKMI/AAAAAAAAGgw/YTaYKmgfNjw/s1600-h/DSCN4021%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4021" border="0" alt="DSCN4021" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zYjaEzKSQYs/UfcXtvuyniI/AAAAAAAAGg4/rqIPh4Q0pIc/DSCN4021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I92VSdHcyO0/UfcXuTqnOUI/AAAAAAAAGhA/BKTz3ABdlZw/s1600-h/DSCN4022%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4022" border="0" alt="DSCN4022" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Z4_RUVnGbWM/UfcXuyMK0jI/AAAAAAAAGhI/cEHiaMQMZNk/DSCN4022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-d1WmguzxEZw/UfcXvsVKM9I/AAAAAAAAGhQ/00XFcxeyWmc/s1600-h/DSCN4032%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4032" border="0" alt="DSCN4032" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7PO9vcnE8TM/UfcXwDtl3qI/AAAAAAAAGhY/sy7yp3O9Zjc/DSCN4032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iESWSaL_-BA/UfcXwtzMvmI/AAAAAAAAGhg/UlCUfNirYBI/s1600-h/DSCN4033%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4033" border="0" alt="DSCN4033" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ysZI7oS2_V0/UfcXxFtLv3I/AAAAAAAAGho/k3PQXB08AAI/DSCN4033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XMXZbeMkBPM/UfcXxz-0PaI/AAAAAAAAGhw/Xf-4yfEseks/s1600-h/DSCN4034%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4034" border="0" alt="DSCN4034" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YZp0_KZg4ss/UfcXyU9VJnI/AAAAAAAAGh4/NZGbQ7Su8WU/DSCN4034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>And, another is the atmosphere . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Zu4hVODYUEw/UfcXzK4odTI/AAAAAAAAGiA/MMp-5oc7mGo/s1600-h/DSCN3959%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3959" border="0" alt="DSCN3959" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7nD_J4RVNxk/UfcXzscpT9I/AAAAAAAAGiI/bOvkfrTEJsw/DSCN3959_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lyafS73uFSo/UfcX0X5R0ZI/AAAAAAAAGiQ/Zg-LpGEG7XE/s1600-h/DSCN3963%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3963" border="0" alt="DSCN3963" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_mPQC6bkcLA/UfcX056Xa-I/AAAAAAAAGiY/5eCq0d7EkQE/DSCN3963_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f9PDCr-liwU/UfcX1kHgknI/AAAAAAAAGig/Z5QHfj6txco/s1600-h/DSCN3968%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3968" border="0" alt="DSCN3968" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CLtLEe4l6HA/UfcX2LAhPII/AAAAAAAAGio/rbDjfd_CK-k/DSCN3968_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qe-kiSVSs5s/UfcX256if0I/AAAAAAAAGiw/qdfonH-yKgo/s1600-h/DSCN3967%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3967" border="0" alt="DSCN3967" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LHf0ECL1uhA/UfcX3dU5SdI/AAAAAAAAGi4/VtP7oc-wbwg/DSCN3967_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>The winding and twisting roads to Eureka Springs are much better today than they were 20 years ago, but still challenging for an RVer.  Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful place to visit and you should go if you have the opportunity.  </p> <p>We left Eureka Springs after two nights and headed across the state line to Branson, Missouri.  If you read previous segments of this blog you are probably aware that our coach incurred substantial hail damage earlier in the year.  I initially thought our truck escaped the ravages of the storm, but today the light hit the hood just right and revealed a few small dents.  About half way to Branson, an 18-wheeler loaded with gravel (and no screen) tossed a rock and chipped our windshield.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-loHeHqUevR4/UfcX4NQOtGI/AAAAAAAAGjA/liJkpyAwZn8/s1600-h/photo8%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo8" border="0" alt="photo8" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PTiOmIZ_Vb0/UfcX4kUefFI/AAAAAAAAGjI/yYYkPyMfeFI/photo8_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a>  </p> <p>Only two years old and 29K miles.  “Hey Sue, maybe it’s time for a new one!”  Her reply: “NOT!”</p> <p>We had reserved a site where we regularly stay at the Branson KOA.  The luxury sites are numbered 130-134.  If we’re with another couple, we generally try to reserve sites 130 and 131 because they face each other.  In other words, the RV doors open toward one another.  All these sites have concrete patios with outdoor furniture and chimineas.  A little pricy, but worth it! This trip, however, we stayed in site 151, which is classified as a premium site.  It’s immediately adjacent to the grassy picnic area, which Maynard prefers for obvious reasons.  </p> <p>If you visit the Branson KOA, be sure to go next door and buy a cinnamon roll or two from the “Cedar Creek Coffee” store.  The business operates to support disabled individuals by providing them employment opportunities while teaching them new skills.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ahxJXCfkMNg/UfcX5XatIjI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/KQPAb15idZY/s1600-h/DSCN4037%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4037" border="0" alt="DSCN4037" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SkXZ-ruN_Cc/UfcX6ByXUgI/AAAAAAAAGjY/1nJn0N4aUmk/DSCN4037_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>And the cinnamon rolls are excellent! </p> <p>   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-e2YKWHadG-U/UfcX6tuwHpI/AAAAAAAAGjg/m5jokqOBorw/s1600-h/DSCN4036%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4036" border="0" alt="DSCN4036" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qR_7oemsQqg/UfcX7XcRIMI/AAAAAAAAGjo/jMIXN-shnkA/DSCN4036_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Being our first trip to Branson this season (Branson x 1), we purchased the “Branson Guest Card.”  The cost of the card is about $20, but considering the discount it provides at most restaurants, music shows, and attractions, it’s well worth the nominal investment.  The card can be purchased at most participating businesses where it is accepted.  </p> <p>We haven’t seen the Shoji Tobuchi show in 16 years, so we thought it was about time to see it again.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CQfczWxC4D0/UfcX75dgGfI/AAAAAAAAGjw/16gjTZVQguU/s1600-h/photo6%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rJAWjouZfog/UfcX8gEn6DI/AAAAAAAAGj4/AGn25r2hhCM/photo6_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>Shoji has a fantastic laser show to accompany his skillful fiddle performance, but what I found most interesting is his theater and lavish restrooms . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--6tJTonM0zs/UfcX9HGk-GI/AAAAAAAAGkA/Y8BmVe-5QjY/s1600-h/photo2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C2eIk6MOwz8/UfcX9k-ouKI/AAAAAAAAGkI/mTtb7cisI0k/photo2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3YId4c4Vykg/UfcX-luK7EI/AAAAAAAAGkQ/-U5Zrqi7pqw/s1600-h/photo7%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yiVOb9Zt3Ic/UfcX_LnFmhI/AAAAAAAAGkY/c1C89YxVQWs/photo7_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Yes, that’s a billiard table in the men’s room!  </p> <p>We also saw Paul Harris and the Cleverlys.  Paul Harris has been a comedian around Branson for some time, but if you haven’t seen the Cleverlys perform, you’re missing out.  These guys are hilarious!  </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:de10531f-aad4-4fca-92c4-e9fb2a4dcef6" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="25a366b6-4c5f-4c2c-91df-01ac3f252b9c" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFdy8yIPYtg" target="_new"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4gwsV2hKhbk/UfgsKN3T7VI/AAAAAAAAGv8/wu-OTvRBewU/video69e326cf8c48%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('25a366b6-4c5f-4c2c-91df-01ac3f252b9c'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HFdy8yIPYtg&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HFdy8yIPYtg&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> <p>Now, every time we visit Branson, Susan makes it a point to visit the Scrapbook store. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7puQyrluwC4/UfcYAUes1DI/AAAAAAAAGko/9GT7b922l20/s1600-h/DSCN4038%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4038" border="0" alt="DSCN4038" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z1U8Via4LWo/UfcYBBWD5EI/AAAAAAAAGkw/QjeI_hGGewM/DSCN4038_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>A Blue Bell ice cream store used to be next door and I would enjoy my favorite malt while she shopped.  Upon our arrival at the Scrapbook store we quickly learned that the ice cream store closed at the end of last season.  Well, rather than wait in the truck for about an hour, I visited the nearby dulcimer store.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RABBe3Y_QAI/UfcYBwVWxnI/AAAAAAAAGk4/q1Dr7U4W-pQ/s1600-h/DSCN4043%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4043" border="0" alt="DSCN4043" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VbmF64tfl7A/UfcYCZ5rDsI/AAAAAAAAGlA/OMQuZxeMK2s/DSCN4043_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Guess what Susan and I now own?  Not only does she have a dulcimer, but I have a chord stick! <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qOBuiDyeDjE/UfcYDAwApLI/AAAAAAAAGlI/Kmr2a8J9l5s/s1600-h/DSCN4042%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4042" border="0" alt="DSCN4042" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hA8yya9Qpx0/UfcYDyqZbYI/AAAAAAAAGlQ/WDa0uXrhzpw/DSCN4042_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>With a little more practice I may be good enough to join the Cleverlys!  </p> <p>We left Branson after 3 nights and headed west toward Grove for the campout.  For me, Branson gets old after 2 nights and I’m ready to move on.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VEkuwS-KwZA/Uff7W3F1U1I/AAAAAAAAGmM/0N45rmmDy4Q/s1600-h/DSCN4062%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4062" border="0" alt="DSCN4062" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YpLceOTDaYI/Uff7XsqxOrI/AAAAAAAAGmU/C0mgyrXySKk/DSCN4062_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Cedar Oaks RV Resort is located at 1550 83rd Street, Grove, Oklahoma, and on a point of Grand Lake.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-akFUN5L0YNQ/UfcYEo34E3I/AAAAAAAAGlY/v1SRqN5d_ko/s1600-h/DSCN4056%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4056" border="0" alt="DSCN4056" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cPtIybP0_IY/UfcYFRQM9zI/AAAAAAAAGlg/HHxfMGvjiBE/DSCN4056_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a></p> <p>Typically, we all park under the beautiful grove of trees (as pictured above), but this time only a few had shade while the rest of us were in an unmowed field in the blazing sun.  I’ve always championed this park, but I was sorely disappointed that management didn’t do a better job of providing better sites for our club.  After all, RV clubs is their bread and butter!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BX8oqXfYhek/Uff7YLnA6VI/AAAAAAAAGmc/X9wKg6jc91s/s1600-h/DSCN4058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4058" border="0" alt="DSCN4058" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Dgh-vCXsnsY/Uff7YoUOgoI/AAAAAAAAGmk/FghiKB-zKXc/DSCN4058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Because the consumption of good food is one of my favorite pastimes, I regularly rave about my wife’s and fellow RVers’ cooking skills.  This campout was no exception! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-x5H0wn04MYw/Uff7ZALy8YI/AAAAAAAAGms/OQxoVdRXTcc/s1600-h/DSCN4055%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4055" border="0" alt="DSCN4055" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iLx-10VlE4U/Uff7ZkzsGVI/AAAAAAAAGm0/B6s5UpX7sT0/DSCN4055_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QDlwS9CO4JQ/Uff7aea_qrI/AAAAAAAAGm8/8wNnuRUHJfU/s1600-h/DSCN4057%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4057" border="0" alt="DSCN4057" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3iXsPk_MTPc/Uff7a_4Z9II/AAAAAAAAGnE/C-oCsvoJU3A/DSCN4057_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Vl2dZB7syCM/Uff7becN42I/AAAAAAAAGnM/smId-0sxKJY/s1600-h/DSCN4067%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4067" border="0" alt="DSCN4067" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1NcnI_YCtco/Uff7bwlDYdI/AAAAAAAAGnU/VpxkAZya5EU/DSCN4067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ly3-cCQdez8/Uff7cSnZcYI/AAAAAAAAGnc/Qw-T0skm2qY/s1600-h/DSCN4070%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4070" border="0" alt="DSCN4070" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0cN95_8I56c/Uff7cwg36cI/AAAAAAAAGnk/0v68og5EOVM/DSCN4070_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Below, we shared a rally room with our friends from Drumright, Oklahoma, the “Sim-R-On Sams.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6pOGHvvqQfE/Uff7djTEwiI/AAAAAAAAGns/vrz1Tl82n0I/s1600-h/DSCN4068%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4068" border="0" alt="DSCN4068" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s4w6ZrSN7H8/Uff7eCSv3tI/AAAAAAAAGn0/OLv8EhGDD8Y/DSCN4068_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>This campout was extra special, as we welcomed back a former member, Rose Wagner (pictured with Gary Tidball) . . . ,</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Zqqo3ArYC1Q/Uff7eg754aI/AAAAAAAAGn8/7dkNgsXkdcM/s1600-h/photo4%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dLtVHA7OaHE/Uff7fYrC7MI/AAAAAAAAGoE/xgE38czmwE0/photo4_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>And our newest members, David and Christy Cline . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ONE5aNgcCW0/Uff7f3S_q4I/AAAAAAAAGoM/c9BeSUcjgZ8/s1600-h/DSCN4071%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4071" border="0" alt="DSCN4071" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vhf5dhQ6zWs/Uff7gQEwifI/AAAAAAAAGoU/VPTlj-qMI4M/DSCN4071_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DWhTo_k_RYI/Uff7g8n_OLI/AAAAAAAAGoc/1JEZyqGQBqU/s1600-h/photo5%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fVzcq3PMFNE/Uff7hotTTtI/AAAAAAAAGok/ON7UxS0vGsY/photo5_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>Above, Mary Wier assists Wilma Adams with her new phone.  Below left, Rosie and Donna Keever strike a pose for the photographer, while Ann Fowler enjoys a book under the shade of her RV awning (lower right).  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pmpuvsN_rk0/Uff7iGYDeJI/AAAAAAAAGos/YzfJo4N3KJQ/s1600-h/DSCN4066%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4066" border="0" alt="DSCN4066" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WzfcoUphDEk/Uff7in7fTuI/AAAAAAAAGo0/iowmmN_SGxk/DSCN4066_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yYjnrbFAfOA/Uff7jYDHQfI/AAAAAAAAGo8/1X8USb15Hjg/s1600-h/DSCN4061%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN4061" border="0" alt="DSCN4061" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Qa0V_2Dyl84/Uff7j-wSb2I/AAAAAAAAGpE/b7p8__KpU-8/DSCN4061_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>It’s always sad when we leave a chapter campout and head home, but we were looking forward to an extended trip to Fun Valley, Colorado with the grandchildren the following week.  But with limited time and news that the recent fires may have left Fun Valley with minimal staff, we opted to return to Branson (Branson x 2) with a trip itinerary planned around preteen activities.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FLGIMyvHoZk/UfgleSUJPSI/AAAAAAAAGpc/pQ-2b0hmMDU/s1600-h/photo3%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7SaczySmX0Y/UfglfNvDH4I/AAAAAAAAGpk/BOzMlz0VoxI/photo3_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>Above, are Sheridyn (Tumbleweed) and Trenton (Thumper).  All grandchildren receive a nickname upon birth which is characteristic of their newborn personality.  Yes, we have a strange family, but I bet you do, too!  We also have “Cindy Pecos” and “Baby Leo,” but Cindy, the oldest, was too busy to accompany us on this trip, and Baby Leo is just too little.  </p> <p>It seemed no sooner than we got home that we were on the road again to Branson.  Susan caught the following picture as we pulled out of OKC . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kWsXlX2iBI4/Ufglfu1FXjI/AAAAAAAAGps/xOHlf8nU4tw/s1600-h/photo1%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vvJ649nKbco/UfglgX6JcUI/AAAAAAAAGp0/9oZSOojz9FU/photo1_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>See, other folks are just as weird as we are!  </p> <p>As Susan read her book and the kids watched movies in the backseat, I monitored the truck and coach and kept a steady hand on the wheel, until the left, inside, truck tire blew out.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Hp91N6YMZAw/Ufglg4N4gfI/AAAAAAAAGp8/TWsbW3LK274/s1600-h/photo2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XMuqWmuAblE/UfglhSFJ_iI/AAAAAAAAGqE/Ipmx-q50CsE/photo2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Thanks to the help of the attendant at “Hood Service Center,” I-44, Exit 61 in Missouri, we got the spare on and resumed our trip toward Branson.  I didn’t get the attendant’s name that helped us change the tire, but I strongly recommend Hood’s if you find yourself in need of help along this stretch of highway.  Not only helpful, but quick and courteous!  </p> <p>Hood’s didn’t have a matching Michelin for the truck, but I bought a replacement in Branson.  Upon our return to OKC, I took the truck to Discount Tires where I previously purchased warranty certificates for all the tires.  Pay attention to your sidewalls!  Even if you have plenty of tread, minimal cracking can cause a blowout!  These tires had only 29K miles, but the folks at Discount Tire replaced an additional four tires under warranty.  Better safe than sorry!    </p> <p>Once in Branson, we returned to the KOA.  The grandkids enjoyed the pool and inflated pillow between music shows and attractions.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ly_FSBoIC6s/Ufglh-a8wxI/AAAAAAAAGqM/KUClp4ANEmM/s1600-h/photo5%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X2dT3r9PQE0/UfgliT8jsJI/AAAAAAAAGqU/SyGkz7ZAuoo/photo5_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nB9lfpmFD4Y/UfgljJdoE1I/AAAAAAAAGqc/Sn8qDO5GDrM/s1600-h/photo6%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4Lzq0QIqTXQ/UfgljvbscbI/AAAAAAAAGqk/i2PtXqrG3KQ/photo6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>They each had the option of choosing a music show or other activity.  Tumbleweed picked “Hannah’s Mirror Maze,” and Thumper picked “Ripley’s Believe it or Not!”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dst5dqe2QFU/UfglkITJjJI/AAAAAAAAGqs/vTs-NU6WXaU/s1600-h/photo9%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo9" border="0" alt="photo9" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uOOs3X0nY08/Ufglkh0pL0I/AAAAAAAAGq0/E-jRL49bcPg/photo9_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Qxf13DxX6hw/UfgllZYVItI/AAAAAAAAGq8/wLX9QCUi6m0/s1600-h/photo21%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo21" border="0" alt="photo21" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fS1-9ZbLJww/UfgllwpVNRI/AAAAAAAAGrE/rurySHa4P1Q/photo21_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VEwlllgPPiQ/Ufglmcn323I/AAAAAAAAGrM/ZgYWz-qlHPI/s1600-h/photo22%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo22" border="0" alt="photo22" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AS2BITUHBkA/UfglmzASasI/AAAAAAAAGrU/VCG8gtHr0ik/photo22_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>They pulled me through this thing at least four times.  I was totally worn out by the end of the day, both physically and mentally.  Although I never had any trouble navigating the legal system, I couldn’t seem to find my way out of the mirror maze!   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tc98HIFfRmc/UfglnUXZVTI/AAAAAAAAGrc/QtOJHcrc09c/s1600-h/photo23%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo23" border="0" alt="photo23" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-efOgUyTe8co/Ufgln-qNboI/AAAAAAAAGrk/5ym9m6K7We8/photo23_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>At least Ripley’s was at a much slower pace . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C_GQMJtsxwY/UfgloubztgI/AAAAAAAAGrs/Grh-8diUWno/s1600-h/photo16%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo16" border="0" alt="photo16" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8jd3zhgNPYs/UfglpPyTuzI/AAAAAAAAGr0/uP68qi66feY/photo16_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>From shrunken heads (lower left), and the tallest man (lower right) . . . , </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vVxiDCuiGvU/UfglpkZbdaI/AAAAAAAAGr8/R055iazJQFg/s1600-h/photo10%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aBSZCd7QMzY/UfglqcVucKI/AAAAAAAAGsE/rFOKuJGAnCo/photo10_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bnbqeNHAJ44/Ufglq-o9QAI/AAAAAAAAGsM/v8dhadGwMng/s1600-h/photo15%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo15" border="0" alt="photo15" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G-OSIukQxcM/UfglrRCdEZI/AAAAAAAAGsU/BxdYxIR3pCA/photo15_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r0YBlc827XA/Ufglr5NflNI/AAAAAAAAGsc/ahgx7FT3em4/s1600-h/photo14%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo14" border="0" alt="photo14" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PTwI9xsEUns/UfglsayqazI/AAAAAAAAGsk/k6ifQlLkaJY/photo14_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FDOf9QTP_zE/UfglsxgNEwI/AAAAAAAAGss/JUE0N3HEwvk/s1600-h/photo11%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo11" border="0" alt="photo11" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Zx1BsxU_01g/UfglthfP8bI/AAAAAAAAGs0/ZIahgEa3L4c/photo11_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>to the spiraling tunnel (upper left) and the shooting gallery (upper right), Ripley’s turned out to be good, clean, family amusement!  </p> <p>For a 1950’s “soda and malt shop” experience, visit “Jackie B. Goode’s Uptown Cafe,” 285 Hwy. 165, Branson, Missouri.  They have a great grilled chicken sandwich on croissant!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-h2t0vVk-24M/UfgluJM4NnI/AAAAAAAAGs8/Wkh-iw9bOxo/s1600-h/photo26%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo26" border="0" alt="photo26" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-75JSoCbPJOg/Ufglu-XJl3I/AAAAAAAAGtE/K0-Xh2heGy4/photo26_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-a0r5Pqfnju0/UfglvcigVMI/AAAAAAAAGtM/UHCTo0lVacI/s1600-h/photo18%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo18" border="0" alt="photo18" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sqh1DetRons/Ufglv1F0PJI/AAAAAAAAGtU/8whUL4goJ28/photo18_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LjgJmZ5edDc/UfglwU3MAxI/AAAAAAAAGtc/W_z6TaLb-pc/s1600-h/photo25%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo25" border="0" alt="photo25" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-f9npXP_goPM/UfglxCsqBMI/AAAAAAAAGtk/VkNm9-qsB_4/photo25_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>We treated the kids to “The Magic Comedy of Taylor Reed” on the second night of our stay in Branson.  Taylor’s a great illusionist and was a previous contestant on “America’s Got Talent.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z_44zvLXYE8/UfglxhikDLI/AAAAAAAAGts/RqBr6vCDMHc/s1600-h/photo19%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo19" border="0" alt="photo19" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nmkeQHi_O6k/UfglyN8QS8I/AAAAAAAAGt0/QiMzHbyzEJg/photo19_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-P4OY1rRhkbQ/UfglyhqffTI/AAAAAAAAGt8/JA9fjg_0J1s/s1600-h/photo7%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bMRoGDk7w8o/UfglzURnsrI/AAAAAAAAGuE/O0DJNQzIxUU/photo7_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QRKjoSRYlBA/UfglzwFEqdI/AAAAAAAAGuM/exaoGjR0Vvs/s1600-h/photo24%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo24" border="0" alt="photo24" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MfoAcn2_dd8/Ufgl0e6KiWI/AAAAAAAAGuU/W2OH7Zd3kcY/photo24_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Srx1i433pwY/Ufgl0xmvgtI/AAAAAAAAGuc/2vJ1ewjjSDI/s1600-h/photo8%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo8" border="0" alt="photo8" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FphUY8Tv2Zs/Ufgl1Y4WguI/AAAAAAAAGuk/jI3znyX5l50/photo8_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Sbtd-QxtpOA/Ufgl15Y0UfI/AAAAAAAAGus/_IJOlZFGzFM/s1600-h/photo20%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo20" border="0" alt="photo20" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bmUPOwNPlGM/Ufgl2E4X7ZI/AAAAAAAAGu0/uwQCk4ymxmc/photo20_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Of course we couldn’t get away without seeing “Six” again!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-niNIiPjzKNg/Ufgl2hg5xOI/AAAAAAAAGu8/8zlKFHdVWrQ/s1600-h/photo3%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PjDOj83d4kg/Ufgl3OjoBsI/AAAAAAAAGvE/94xVNSc6aQE/photo3_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p>Arguably, “Six” is the best current music show playing in Branson.  If you go, it’s at the “Mickey Gilley Theatre” on Hwy. 76.  It, too, is pricey, but well worth the money.  </p> <p>Finally, something for me!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NP23wuRGnHA/Ufgl35sw0II/AAAAAAAAGvM/vA1HPWb2hL4/s1600-h/photo17%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo17" border="0" alt="photo17" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-egUx5DU2COs/Ufgl4fMwTxI/AAAAAAAAGvU/UALZ4vw_5sA/photo17_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>A 1969 Cadillac, Coupe de Ville, convertible.  With the exception of the orange peel paint and cracked dash, she looks pretty clean!  What I appreciate about the two vehicles depicted in this segment of “The Adventure” is that they both appear to be “stock.”  That is, no after-market accessories, i.e., custom wheels, modified body, etc.  My best observation is that they are all original.  I wonder if this ‘69 can be towed with all four down? </p> <p>Well, two trips to Branson in as many weeks (Branson Times Two!).  Susan and I agree that we’ve seen enough of Branson for awhile.  But one final question; why do people have to take their dogs everywhere?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-97f2UYfGsrI/Ufgl5MK9ePI/AAAAAAAAGvc/lg1PCUy6TAs/s1600-h/photo12%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo12" border="0" alt="photo12" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uQ0v4H1Sdps/Ufgl5l2enQI/AAAAAAAAGvk/XTwbODVFr98/photo12_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="289" height="384" /></a> </p> <p>At least Maynard waits patiently in the coach! </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-12213707641280311252013-06-17T13:37:00.001-07:002013-06-17T13:37:45.442-07:00Camping with Kiamichi Sams!<p>Susan and I assisted Tommy and Luralei Cravens host the first campout of the newly established “Kiamichi Sams,” Oklahoma Good Sam Chapter.  Based in McAlester, Oklahoma, Kiamichi Sams currently has eight couples (rigs).  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9lstr5aT5XE/Ub9zaNm6AUI/AAAAAAAAGVo/S0B5Prbpfl0/s1600-h/photo94.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="photo9" border="0" alt="photo9" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wW9piE9U4bA/Ub9zatIVtFI/AAAAAAAAGVw/L6jtidYyWkg/photo9_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The chapter held its first campout at “Checotah KOA Kampground” near Lake Eufaula.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KKYcQfDmU6k/Ub9zbEE-AEI/AAAAAAAAGV4/E9BTig-b85U/s1600-h/photo85.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo8" border="0" alt="photo8" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r__jvP1hpbY/Ub9zbhEYkvI/AAAAAAAAGWA/GFyjF7pb7pY/photo8_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-U5Y4pY3wOT8/Ub9zcAzqKlI/AAAAAAAAGWI/N71THOCK__g/s1600-h/photo142.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo14" border="0" alt="photo14" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N49TQ_qjUHw/Ub9zccDHzyI/AAAAAAAAGWQ/Iu1x8PMg5Qc/photo14_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>Susan and I have camped here several times and we’ve adopted this campground as one of our favorites.  It’s owned and operated by Dave & Peggy Ruzicka, who are very accommodating hosts.  Although the RV sites are grass/gravel, they are mostly level and have full hookups.  The grounds are generally level and make for easy walking to and from the onsite cafe and rally room.  They also have a nice swimming pool and shaded playground area for the grandkids.  To visit Checotah KOA, take Exit 255 at I-40 and Pierce Rd., or call Dave & Peggy at (918) 473-6511 for more information.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d7KWFOGuw3w/Ub9zc_LuWFI/AAAAAAAAGWY/-kS7jbSupz8/s1600-h/photo12.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1kNjF2PV2wM/Ub9zdVw-iPI/AAAAAAAAGWg/h5atM-8LPUA/photo1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--h1WEMRZF_0/Ub9zd_EXkRI/AAAAAAAAGWo/acd4y8BP2cI/s1600-h/photo2%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s9CZWvWD0yo/Ub9zeYPQKJI/AAAAAAAAGWw/bJIBhvcvGjI/photo2_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>As the Assistant State Director of the Southeast Area for the Oklahoma Good Sam Club, Susan and I hosted a charcoal hotdog dinner the first evening of the campout.  This worked well as a “meet & greet” so everyone could get acquainted.  The dinner was followed by a lively game of “9-Card Golf.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_bUAo5H4p78/Ub9zex9OLwI/AAAAAAAAGW4/ylrsN1AYJBw/s1600-h/photo35.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cmYgA_IoJ9w/Ub9zfesBm_I/AAAAAAAAGXA/6eHPxzqz0yk/photo3_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Xa4swCGb28Q/Ub9zfxfbS-I/AAAAAAAAGXI/SqDTl5rWM30/s1600-h/photo102.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_9ojKjNhUMs/Ub9zgYfsYcI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/9oMBrsIt5KI/photo10_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>The next evening we caravanned to Henryetta for Mexican food at “El Charro,” then returned to the rally room for a game of “Bunko.”  Les Smith, lower right, earned the nickname “Bunko Man,” by making three Bunkos in one game.  Pretty good job for his first time to play Bunko!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t61QCTuK1pQ/Ub9zg_FvnCI/AAAAAAAAGXY/MbYoTsDRDYA/s1600-h/photo11%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo11" border="0" alt="photo11" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UgZSAifM37o/Ub9zhWxSgXI/AAAAAAAAGXg/aSRrLiDT_28/photo11_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Oox1NQpO3eI/Ub9zh-voNfI/AAAAAAAAGXo/PZMytQcEDMU/s1600-h/photo12%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo12" border="0" alt="photo12" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X_8yOR01Qgg/Ub9ziDhaDhI/AAAAAAAAGXw/POQE9WVIGXA/photo12_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Coincidently, the campground erected it’s new flagpole on the day we arrived, which was also “Flag Day” (lower left).  The former flagpole was destroyed when an inexperienced driver swung the rear of his coach too close to the pole.  The opposite picture depicts the campground staff helping a guest repair his awning after he forgot to retract it before driving out and hitting a low tree branch.  It appears that RV parks may encounter many mishaps by negligent or inexperienced RV operators!      </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x7C22QX-5ww/Ub9zijCqwkI/AAAAAAAAGX4/alGrIASQ-4E/s1600-h/photo6%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D7WZn6nxW_4/Ub9zjDc_wHI/AAAAAAAAGYA/OIq4ZZyMtaU/photo6_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jmJQ4YkjgXo/Ub9zj3otwNI/AAAAAAAAGYI/Lv4RSqqq05Q/s1600-h/photo7%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M4lxoxaXYQE/Ub9zkBocptI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/DiGFMs5AZ3U/photo7_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Les and Dorothy Smith sport quite a hauler for their coach (lower left).  Les tells me it’s a Freightliner with dual exhaust stacks, air-ride, and a specially designed tow dolly (I sure think those chrome exhaust stacks would look good on my truck).  Lower right, Susan exits our coach in preparation for the potluck luncheon on the final day of the campout.  </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DSr_U9hUQMg/Ub9zk3TratI/AAAAAAAAGYY/_X2yhVqUyCQ/s1600-h/photo4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wl01iJoDLSk/Ub9zlIIhJBI/AAAAAAAAGYg/lYG3ceeT2VM/photo4_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--XsYATfeqmk/Ub9zlttd0YI/AAAAAAAAGYo/YDHK-57IRtA/s1600-h/photo5%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-x2A78WqcKYA/Ub9zmGumUdI/AAAAAAAAGYw/nL7M-EHuJF8/photo5_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>Other than the typical hot, humid, Oklahoma climate, the four days spent with the new Kiamichi Sams was a fantastic time for Susan and me.  We thoroughly enjoy meeting new people who share our interest in RVing.  We are so grateful that we’ve been blessed with the resources to engage in this activity during our retirement, and the opportunity to become acquainted with so many wonderful people along the way.  We’re confident Kiamichi Sams’ membership will continue to grow and become a very active chapter of the Oklahoma Good Sam Club.  Susan and I wish them our best and safe travels!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-8241288899848287402013-06-05T17:57:00.001-07:002013-06-05T17:57:46.068-07:002013 Oklahoma Spring Samboree!<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rOz50eQwrgs/Ua_ehjzs_RI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/NrdHBWlQPJ0/s1600-h/Around%252520the%252520World.pic.%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Around the World.pic." border="0" alt="Around the World.pic." src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3BSG1x88JKk/Ua_eiNxrx-I/AAAAAAAAGVY/kRA44EzvyFY/Around%252520the%252520World.pic._thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="172" /></a> </p> <p>The 2013 Oklahoma Spring Samboree was held in Shawnee, Oklahoma, April 25-28.  The theme for the event was “Around the World.”  As many of you know, Susan and I currently serve on the Oklahoma Good Sam Club State Staff and we actively participated in the event.  If you wish to view the Samboree blog, simply click on the following link for a pictorial review: <a title="http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/" href="http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/">http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/</a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-60546299566127236582013-05-25T10:54:00.001-07:002013-05-25T10:54:05.233-07:00Darn Wind & Hail!<p>We left late Wednesday afternoon for the lake lot to take new golf cart batteries for installation in “Red Fred,” i.e., the name we give our golf carts.  We enjoyed a simple replacement of the batteries, followed by a fine steak dinner, golf cart ride, and view of a distant neighbor’s campfire.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pEbyZbiBy7E/UaD6i29RTQI/AAAAAAAAGSI/tPmX1lx83aU/s1600-h/photo1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LybVSSIBY6g/UaD6jbOKlfI/AAAAAAAAGSQ/i58qxUh3ti4/photo1_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HZ7VcFDuvTo/UaD6kJCuvlI/AAAAAAAAGSY/1H0lEa2TsKk/s1600-h/photo4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BXS57x4jfe8/UaD6kcf2srI/AAAAAAAAGSg/YdfG-7lHY00/photo4_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>After a good night’s rest, all hell broke lose about 8:00 a.m. the following morning.  Scattered showers were expected in the Murray County area until about noon, but no mention of strong winds and hail.  We’ve ridden out severe thunderstorms in the coach before, but this was frightening.  </p> <p>Susan, Maynard, and myself huddled in the hall away from windows while hail pounded the top and side of the coach.  The large awning (we have two on the door-side of the coach) was closed, but not secured due to a malfunction the previous evening.  So, it appears an accumulation of rain coupled with high winds broke it lose and mangled it.  Several large tree branches also fell near the coach. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dVzcb1Dcsws/UaD6lMKGOMI/AAAAAAAAGSo/t3sOLppx9WY/s1600-h/DSCN3942%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3942" border="0" alt="DSCN3942" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6SEZ1A0ke1U/UaD6lsasulI/AAAAAAAAGSw/4si530bQrIo/DSCN3942_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fxc4LJoBdbM/UaD6mHQ4rII/AAAAAAAAGS4/qqfQbfwzpMw/s1600-h/photo3%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uuEBW9-Ar1g/UaD6mgDaQZI/AAAAAAAAGTA/IVobV6aYpAE/photo3_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="204" /></a></p> <p>The coach also received numerous small hail dents along the door-side, which will require repair.  It appears the truck was spared. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MPDnxJxbD1I/UaD6nKKKrnI/AAAAAAAAGTI/KrnTrwzLKLA/s1600-h/DSCN3939%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3939" border="0" alt="DSCN3939" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IPeELYw9HLQ/UaD6nnZJoUI/AAAAAAAAGTQ/iPJYyQePxbY/DSCN3939_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n_okxcn5yxg/UaD6oEJuHJI/AAAAAAAAGTY/w1D68WLk1NE/s1600-h/DSCN3940%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3940" border="0" alt="DSCN3940" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xlzgz5Qwy5g/UaD6oj-EJ7I/AAAAAAAAGTg/IYkAPRPgkbU/DSCN3940_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wegwF4dIL9M/UaD6paO04zI/AAAAAAAAGTo/V04OGy6fBLk/s1600-h/DSCN3941%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3941" border="0" alt="DSCN3941" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lc5Mh_N9fjI/UaD6p2dcltI/AAAAAAAAGTw/u-NC8TelyLc/DSCN3941_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bDawqUqqaEI/UaD6qsvGIgI/AAAAAAAAGT4/g2oA-bebXz4/s1600-h/DSCN3943%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3943" border="0" alt="DSCN3943" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0SnEQwcHBzY/UaD6qwAs-1I/AAAAAAAAGUA/mr-P3iMi1pE/DSCN3943_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Could have been much worse.  We’re just grateful to be here and our hearts go out to those who lost much, much, more during the previous days!  </p> <p>Below, pictures of the devastation from the May 20, 2013, tornado near Newcastle, Oklahoma . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-khHB_5deFkE/UaD6rrZER8I/AAAAAAAAGUI/8XCZacR-dvY/s1600-h/DSCN3947%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3947" border="0" alt="DSCN3947" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PLRSPwyY5Uw/UaD6rzI3i6I/AAAAAAAAGUQ/IpS5l68_DeM/DSCN3947_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nfmndo_rdZY/UaD6sqoqHAI/AAAAAAAAGUY/KeFq35t5ogU/s1600-h/DSCN3948%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3948" border="0" alt="DSCN3948" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Svr7XqSCwus/UaD6tAUeT1I/AAAAAAAAGUg/CfB2_mAQ6Cg/DSCN3948_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kDCwnBZ52h0/UaD6tjOjwqI/AAAAAAAAGUo/puFgStpwbPY/s1600-h/DSCN3951%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3951" border="0" alt="DSCN3951" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OWTwZSFomsA/UaD6uK208PI/AAAAAAAAGUw/TFuFJUoVZjk/DSCN3951_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-exvc4w8i2ZQ/UaD6uqbeWDI/AAAAAAAAGU4/SwHasQymCJw/s1600-h/DSCN3950%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3950" border="0" alt="DSCN3950" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lr-CmDCTZJ8/UaD6u76MS1I/AAAAAAAAGVA/BU_kHqwfhdk/DSCN3950_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-90580758471759760182013-05-18T09:34:00.001-07:002013-05-18T09:41:50.011-07:00Local Campout with SOS!<p>Our good friends with the Southern Oklahoma Sams (SOS) invited us to join their<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1h73EkEXuxM/UZetQbcz0DI/AAAAAAAAGOE/mNpAkd46OI8/s1600-h/DSCN3925%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3925" border="0" alt="DSCN3925" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6ehtyyVJ_-4/UZetREk84KI/AAAAAAAAGOM/d6k5CVuks8U/DSCN3925_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="174" /></a> Oklahoma City campout at Rockwell RV Park. They held a midweek campout beginning on Tuesday and ending on Friday.  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-76ntKGAleNI/UZetRgZ0r1I/AAAAAAAAGOU/nY-L2wlS7vI/s1600-h/DSCN3926%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3926" border="0" alt="DSCN3926" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RYymtLuFeg0/UZetSMK5gtI/AAAAAAAAGOc/cJKo9JEP_FA/DSCN3926_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="122" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Five couples participated in the event, which was hosted by Don and Addie Petersen.  We experienced typical Oklahoma spring weather with partly cloudy skies and scattered showers.  But, the temperatures were mild and made for a comfortable setting for outdoor meals and short excursions.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FUsrJyp5jt4/UZetSuBl9JI/AAAAAAAAGOk/pNb9N57iP0U/s1600-h/DSCN3923%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3923" border="0" alt="DSCN3923" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2nBzDmYXyDI/UZetTGGFpCI/AAAAAAAAGOs/NZE7jkT-brk/DSCN3923_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="137" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_5edWQYxUUg/UZetT_rDCMI/AAAAAAAAGO0/2uTKIJJfh9Q/s1600-h/DSCN3924%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3924" border="0" alt="DSCN3924" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-B8naOYmJFuU/UZetU3HHMWI/AAAAAAAAGO8/B2jq0xW2Z50/DSCN3924_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="146" /></a>  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>While the girls went basket shopping, the guys (and Susan) visited “The 45th Infantry Division Museum.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_o7hEeuYa4A/UZetWeNBTFI/AAAAAAAAGPE/l5tmOPq9ZIs/s1600-h/DSCN3927%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3927" border="0" alt="DSCN3927" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ad32G3IVLcE/UZetW8ruiuI/AAAAAAAAGPM/xURMgEJTfkg/DSCN3927_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>According to General George S. Patton, Jr., “The 45th is one of the best if not actually the best division in the history of American arms.”  The museum is said to be “Oklahoma’s only state operated museum dedicated to military history . . . , and collects, preserves and exhibits objects and equipment relevant to the history of Oklahoma’s military heritage from the Spanish exploration to the present day.”    </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wU1csx__wwg/UZetXmqEztI/AAAAAAAAGPU/vAzfrDIeLhE/s1600-h/DSCN3932%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3932" border="0" alt="DSCN3932" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bQLaIQ1WpQI/UZetZAam61I/AAAAAAAAGPc/9znGBhkVTHM/DSCN3932_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xTKEWdUQQkg/UZetZ0SvIOI/AAAAAAAAGRo/R3aYfO1oxHY/s1600-h/DSCN3933%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3933" border="0" alt="DSCN3933" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_tg9xZ3OS2U/UZetaarTvEI/AAAAAAAAGRs/5TnPxJa9ve4/DSCN3933_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="143" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pQB6g_H9Mas/UZeta9g7OjI/AAAAAAAAGP0/PRSllpXAV3I/s1600-h/DSCN3930%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3930" border="0" alt="DSCN3930" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-poysUh2Lsss/UZetbWAIgbI/AAAAAAAAGP8/C4ZurQBtYZY/DSCN3930_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TZd5Doj_ibA/UZetcJOjRxI/AAAAAAAAGQE/eFMsiADC_1Q/s1600-h/DSCN3934%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3934" border="0" alt="DSCN3934" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n7I56SMaQy0/UZetciCfVhI/AAAAAAAAGQM/7R11wzYzu2s/DSCN3934_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="190" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mHqz6DdvTeE/UZevSmrF4XI/AAAAAAAAGRw/78m3uVvRr6U/s1600-h/DSCN3928%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3928" border="0" alt="DSCN3928" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qo8iLCPkRSc/UZevTFfP3eI/AAAAAAAAGR4/j-uHaiIOnqk/DSCN3928_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> </p> <p>Among other things, the museum houses the “Reaves Military Weapons Collection,” which is an extensive collection of firearms dating back to the Revolutionary War.</p> <p> </p> <p>As do most Oklahoma Good Sam chapters, SOS folks like to eat.  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IzJ-ljm4JUk/UZetfX9NuKI/AAAAAAAAGQ0/8buWjbk8lz4/s1600-h/DSCN3935%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3935" border="0" alt="DSCN3935" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fGOe7xG-6hQ/UZetf0qWYAI/AAAAAAAAGQ8/5A0EBaUCxF0/DSCN3935_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a> We took in the buffet at “Golden Corral,” and I especially enjoyed the chocolate-dipped marshmallows!  In addition to a pancake and egg breakfast, Don and Addie prepared the next evening’s meal,  a “Low Country Boil,” which contained shrimp, potatoes, corn cobbettes, kielbasa, onions and seasoning.  Wow, was that good!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wgisKfGDOr0/UZetgbyd_FI/AAAAAAAAGRE/jHAyb-mlTPw/s1600-h/DSCN3937%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN3937" border="0" alt="DSCN3937" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SpUet_Pzs00/UZethAH4P1I/AAAAAAAAGRM/YyttCsAgrHc/DSCN3937_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="154" /></a></p> <p>We thank our SOS friends for thinking of us when they planned this campout, and we look forward to seeing them again at the Southeast Area Friendship Rally, July 17-20, at the Citizen Pottawatomi Campground in Shawnee. </p> <p>Maynard loves to RV, but hopes he’ll be able to participate more next time . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FCNY640bDDQ/UZeths5MVUI/AAAAAAAAGRU/FMq7F5_hEKs/s1600-h/DSCN3938%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3938" border="0" alt="DSCN3938" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4apsHNNeOlo/UZetiLuWMlI/AAAAAAAAGRc/DVgwJ_sPyCY/DSCN3938_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="183" /></a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-82397227091414294122013-05-12T12:50:00.001-07:002013-05-12T13:01:30.858-07:00Checotah – Where’s Carrie Underwood?<p align="left">Our local travel club, “The Modern Wagoneers,” visited the Checotah KOA for our April campout.  Checotah, a little-known Lake Eufaula community until 2005, is the home of “American Idol” winner, Carrie Underwood.     <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xAYsd8bWV68/UY_yNVHOOZI/AAAAAAAAGJ0/yOhyOj_yCOo/s1600-h/photo10%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 15px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wMruiBxBw38/UY_yON5EjeI/AAAAAAAAGJ8/i2dRLH0e_K4/photo10_thumb%25255B19%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="189" /></a></p> <p align="left">Carrie and Kellie Pickler are my two favorite American Idol celebrities, and I expected to find Carrie cruising the local Sonic or crooning to a crowd on Main Street.  Such was not the case, however; and as a group of retired RVers must often do, we made for our own entertainment.</p> <p>Our arrival at the Checotah KOA was met with clear skies and mild temperatures.  But that didn’t last long as an unseasonal late April cold front moved in bringing cloudy skies and cold temperatures.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fw-g0yZfg-Q/UY_yPNkCaKI/AAAAAAAAGKE/3EA2glyXacU/s1600-h/DSCN3902%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3902" border="0" alt="DSCN3902" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ykNV2tydcpI/UY_yP7aW4FI/AAAAAAAAGKM/VjiJ_ArMtM0/DSCN3902_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-um5cMVBtKJc/UY_yQpxPhjI/AAAAAAAAGKU/Wat9OZIhc6M/s1600-h/DSCN3903%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3903" border="0" alt="DSCN3903" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q4BAi24tqd4/UY_yRns7e-I/AAAAAAAAGKc/G_Dir37kouU/DSCN3903_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d4xgE8jBrqc/UY_ySTd5vyI/AAAAAAAAGKk/MEaDzmO-20U/s1600-h/photo2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mjTJ7MVdAmI/UY_yTOTRW4I/AAAAAAAAGKs/eYGGlsCEWpQ/photo2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="346" /></a></p> <p>Several couples arrived early on Wednesday, so Susan offered to cook up a spaghetti dinner for lunch.  Our Heartland 5th wheel has four slides that expand the overall width to about 12-feet, which provides abundant room for entertaining a small group. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Qi5lt2Rkb3M/UY_yT9KAkBI/AAAAAAAAGN4/OBZqncrwxoQ/s1600-h/photo15%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 15px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo15" border="0" alt="photo15" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CTostrh5F7I/UY_yU43INfI/AAAAAAAAGN8/hU6gs9K0jFg/photo15_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LJ_A-RXl_ls/UY_yVetbZRI/AAAAAAAAGLE/C8IWLbbJ800/s1600-h/DSCN3904%25255B6%25255D.jpg"></a></p> <p> </p> <p>We opted to drive into Eufaula for dinner at “JM’s Restaurant.”  They serve good home-cooked meals and it’s one of our favorites in the area.  </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LJ_A-RXl_ls/UY_yVetbZRI/AAAAAAAAGLE/C8IWLbbJ800/s1600-h/DSCN3904%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3904" border="0" alt="DSCN3904" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--yUsBmicB-c/UY_yV0kQX3I/AAAAAAAAGLM/FjLjRCiTriQ/DSCN3904_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="176" /></a></p> <p>The main event for the weekend turned out to be great food, fellowship, and a shopping outing for the women.  We attempted to tour “The Katy Depot,” but it was closed for renovation.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7g3tqArskk0/UY_yWoMe3EI/AAAAAAAAGLU/1ypnNzC2jDM/s1600-h/photo11%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo11" border="0" alt="photo11" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mY9-Ur_LkX4/UY_yXV6gboI/AAAAAAAAGLc/65CrYb0Jt_0/photo11_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="289" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-reB5UJO3reM/UY_yXySwcSI/AAAAAAAAGLk/GOqcu0xZbMs/s1600-h/photo4%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oPCi5HIXK9Y/UY_yYtWNVII/AAAAAAAAGLs/XLp_oBo0Nkg/photo4_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="153" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6R9_CfXhVJI/UY_yZNTnqvI/AAAAAAAAGL0/kydcyFfiMB4/s1600-h/photo5%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UP7UAniLvhE/UY_yZmmH52I/AAAAAAAAGL8/qSP4hM6pVZA/photo5_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="188" height="153" /></a></p> <p>The Katy Depot and the town of Checotah share common early beginnings.  In 1882 and in honor of the Chief of the Creek Nation, Samuel Checote, the M-K-T Railroad called the local railhead “Checote Switch.”  Chief Checote, who also served with distinction as a lieutenant colonel in the Civil War, was born in Alabama in 1819 and died 1882.  He was educated in Methodist missionary academies and licensed to preach in 1852.  According to the Checotah Landmark Preservation Society, a mapmaker’s error changed the spelling of the town’s name to “Checotah.”  </p> <p>Jonathan Bonanno and Bob Samples prepare ten racks of ribs for smoking . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5DYPJpeAXzE/UY_yauS5s3I/AAAAAAAAGME/dAz-nhorIyA/s1600-h/photo13%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo13" border="0" alt="photo13" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6lRixWt0Uvw/UY_ybS-Y69I/AAAAAAAAGMM/qbdShMh_G1w/photo13_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="451" height="414" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t72xGTjWaP0/UY_ycTMyBnI/AAAAAAAAGMU/edYkHXxbGWQ/s1600-h/photo12%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo12" border="0" alt="photo12" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rVuAYrJZf3A/UY_yc_cb-eI/AAAAAAAAGMc/aiQVa8njXww/photo12_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="228" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YT4eGAnz4Lc/UY_ydtP_fUI/AAAAAAAAGMk/cm1aoNGdH2s/s1600-h/photo9%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo9" border="0" alt="photo9" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-06sone5LSdI/UY_yeqnrMuI/AAAAAAAAGMs/VV3EfWZ2GkA/photo9_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="212" height="228" /></a></p> <p>The smoked rib and pot-lock dinner was followed by lively games including 9-Hole Golf, Chicken Foot, and Bunco! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OEN2lXlgOsU/UY_yfig9LhI/AAAAAAAAGM0/Cn1WxnLfSBw/s1600-h/photo1%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Sw-yuZYHPyo/UY_yhDlNuYI/AAAAAAAAGM8/tc2sEfdjY1E/photo1_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="245" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O5oTy81uKkY/UY_yhzCP18I/AAAAAAAAGNE/YcCAcpgVlT4/s1600-h/photo7%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_662mkyyy6w/UY_yioxwJoI/AAAAAAAAGNM/Nk70P7p46D4/photo7_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="195" height="244" /></a></p> <p>A “pioneer woman” with her two dogs was camped behind us for the night . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JgxQcnMucTg/UY_yjWQUpkI/AAAAAAAAGNU/rpsteaPegTc/s1600-h/photo3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wA_xjkuXvDk/UY_ykKjgbyI/AAAAAAAAGNc/wga70OkydzQ/photo3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="225" /></a> </p> <p>And, they were large dogs! Must have been a very tight fit.  </p> <p>Below, our new LED lights lit up the campground . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z1Y5Xg5zu5o/UY_ykxzYtpI/AAAAAAAAGNk/8AsZ60N1uPA/s1600-h/photo6%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ej8gJCQEvpw/UY_yluU2N-I/AAAAAAAAGNs/Zx3VpMXpm88/photo6_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="296" /></a> </p> <p>We’ll be staying local next trip as we camp and tour Oklahoma City sites with “Southern Oklahoma Sams” (SOS)!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-35681635635479722782013-02-06T13:48:00.001-08:002013-02-13T11:07:25.499-08:00On the Road to Quartzsite (and other points along the way)!<p>Quartzsite, Arizona, has been the site of the largest RV show and flea market in the U.S. since 1984.  750,000 to over 1 Million RV enthusiasts from all across America make the trek to Quartzsite in early January to partake of this annual event.  Organizers boast it will be “the largest gathering of RVs and RVers on earth,” and that the main exhibit area is capable of handling the expected crowd with over 69,000 square feet of fully carpeted space.  Although other shows run from October through April, the RV show is scheduled from January 19th through the 27th.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qtk97VifI4Y/URLPZoYDUjI/AAAAAAAAFJw/pm1sjuh_AUQ/s1600-h/DSCN03578.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0357" border="0" alt="DSCN0357" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--Kovk3LyTMo/URLPaTXbl5I/AAAAAAAAFJ4/GuYi4aZ5TwA/DSCN0357_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Two other couples will be joining Susan and me on this “Adventure,” Bob and Jan Samples and Johnathan and Angela Bonanno, fellow members of the Modern Wagoneers Good Sam Club.  The trip will take us more than 2,700 miles and consume over 300 gallons of diesel averaging 9.2 mpg.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rf6cicYZ7Qs/URLPbQyKHEI/AAAAAAAAFOE/Y2mW9aGaflc/s1600-h/DSCN0034%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN0034" border="0" alt="DSCN0034" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vorM0kw1y_o/URLPcMytjSI/AAAAAAAAFOI/X2CnA1E3fEc/DSCN0034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a></p> <p>Above, the travelers conduct their organizational meeting over dinner the weekend before departure.  </p> <p>We left Oklahoma City under overcast skies.  Interstate 40 through Amarillo and into New Mexico can experience heavy snowstorms this time of year.  In order to avoid inclement weather and dangerous driving conditions along the route, we agreed to take the southern route through Wichita Falls and connect with I-20 to I-10 West.  </p> <p>The first day of our trip would have put us in Midland, Texas, which is 434 miles from Oklahoma City.  But because that distance can be tiring when towing RVs, we opted to meet up a day early and at our individual convenience in Wichita Falls, thereby leaving only 300 miles of travel (4:45 hrs) the second day of the trip.  This also gave us the opportunity to visit Susan’s daughter, Katherine, who’s stationed at Sheppard AFB.  </p> <p>Below, a group picture with Katherine after dinner in the Samples’ coach.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DINNsLIzC7I/URLPcjgRYtI/AAAAAAAAFKQ/J6qo4UgU2E8/s1600-h/DSCN00351.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0035" border="0" alt="DSCN0035" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U_60p2x2J0M/URLPdj_6CmI/AAAAAAAAFKY/HsHkSSsZMNI/DSCN0035_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a></p> <p>We awoke to dreary skies the following morning, but the sun began to break through as we neared Midland.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JGFdA0di7Y4/URLPeP9-f6I/AAAAAAAAFKg/spqF-FKgAbE/s1600-h/DSCN00364.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0036" border="0" alt="DSCN0036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6H8-ucDLV5s/URLPe8V2WXI/AAAAAAAAFKo/X2AuwkkRqpQ/DSCN0036_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is the courthouse in Anson, Texas.  I’m always intrigued by courthouses we come upon during our travels (I wonder why?), especially those out West . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bow308Dw3GA/URLPfbU23pI/AAAAAAAAFKw/NUaNN-sI2wI/s1600-h/DSCN00375.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0037" border="0" alt="DSCN0037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rQ2ENHq5-gI/URLPf9aYbsI/AAAAAAAAFK4/bgeGHk5yXDQ/DSCN0037_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Below, windmills and refineries – competing sources of energy. In the long run, I hope the refineries win; otherwise, “The Adventure” may someday come to a close for lack of diesel funds.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pA2ClP3_Li8/URvGfo1bhTI/AAAAAAAAGD8/I-ollAT_Q0E/s1600-h/DSCN0041%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0041" border="0" alt="DSCN0041" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uAnZ5gyVr6g/URvGgPaEI4I/AAAAAAAAGEE/XAIb5l_0GIc/DSCN0041_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="150" /></a>  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3rnL0GPL4E8/URvGgjoI_mI/AAAAAAAAGEM/EYGDirIl0ak/s1600-h/DSCN0049%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0049" border="0" alt="DSCN0049" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w5iIkouRcHQ/URvGhUp6EXI/AAAAAAAAGEU/zJqNcXE8dSY/DSCN0049_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="149" /></a> </p> <p>Upon our arrival in Midland, a recent, and much needed, downpour of rain left deep puddles of water throughout the RV park.  In fact, many RV sites were inaccessible because of deep, standing water.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GZUwR5jiRqo/URLPj4qd7OI/AAAAAAAAFLk/S5YV6jGAOW4/s1600-h/photo1%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VVgnscRLLn4/URLPkUaneKI/AAAAAAAAFLs/cy1KiPzHABM/photo1_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="204" /></a> </p> <p>To my knowledge, there are only two respectable RV parks along I-20 through Midland.  The “Midland RV Park,” where we stayed this trip, and the “Midland/Odessa Oil Patch RV Park,” where Susan and I stayed on a previous trip through the Midland area.  I prefer the latter.  Both parks have gravel drives and pads, but in my opinion, the overall condition of the Midland/Odessa park is much better.  In such circumstances, Susan often says, “It’s not a resort, only a place to sleep!.”  </p> <p>All agreed that we’d try to contain costs by preparing most meals in the coaches along the way.  This is certainly my preference since you simply can’t find better food in any restaurant!  </p> <p>Below, Johnathan and Angie serve up Johnathan’s famous smoked ribs, while the Samples provide coleslaw and baked beans . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-g-MvBbnqoNc/URLPlA9bPnI/AAAAAAAAFL0/B0QRVBiNaIY/s1600-h/DSCN0055%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0055" border="0" alt="DSCN0055" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xT9Vu6WWXOE/URLPltb8dmI/AAAAAAAAFL8/k5G3vU01xcU/DSCN0055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kqpy90V4T6s/URLPmbGAr0I/AAAAAAAAFME/2oV0FFvOa_I/s1600-h/DSCN0050%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0050" border="0" alt="DSCN0050" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iIijpNXjSRE/URLPm1WOsKI/AAAAAAAAFMM/vE_fG9IYu8M/DSCN0050_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Our next stop will be west of El Paso in Anthony, Texas.  As a group, we try to travel no more than 300 miles in a day (about 4 hours).  The short distance prevents us from being fatigued upon our arrival at the RV park for the evening, and also allows us ample daylight to setup the coaches, prepare dinner, and relax with a game of cards, television, or DVD movie.  </p> <p>Below, a brief rest area break on the road to Anthony . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fsV3OGoTMC4/URPeTRNys3I/AAAAAAAAFQU/DMV2804RGrg/s1600-h/DSCN0056%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0056" border="0" alt="DSCN0056" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w6rqGfWWaNw/URPeT8cU_JI/AAAAAAAAFQc/bjfEaSmBwI0/DSCN0056_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Bob and Jan agreed to coordinate the trip out to Quartzsite and choose the RV parks along the route.  Because the crime rate has risen sharply in El Paso in recent years, the Samples felt we’d be safer staying on the outskirts of El Paso.  Bob and Jan chose “American RV Park” in Anthony, which is situated directly behind the local Camping World.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-04wTOnta-dM/URLPntczR7I/AAAAAAAAFMU/9zsNECmt6S4/s1600-h/DSCN0058%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0058" border="0" alt="DSCN0058" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Zy2lsJKDuEk/URLPoVWk6WI/AAAAAAAAFMc/e2XxQF0P534/DSCN0058_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>As you can see in the above picture, this park gave us a beautiful view of the nearby mountain range.  And from an RVer’s perspective, every site was “pull-thru” with sewer hookups at both ends.  Full hard-surface parking and the adjacent Camping World makes this park hard to beat.  Good choice Bob and Jan!</p> <p>The drive from Anthony to legendary Tombstone offered beautiful scenery and interesting skies . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G1pkC-rGtRE/URLPo-Cu4UI/AAAAAAAAFMk/qOCMVdwAsXo/s1600-h/DSCN0062%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0062" border="0" alt="DSCN0062" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UbhGxxW6YZ8/URLPpWJP3bI/AAAAAAAAFMs/I0A50tLCgpY/DSCN0062_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-H6mmENEU_dY/URLPqMeyMwI/AAAAAAAAFM0/qbAYqZM7J0M/s1600-h/DSCN0067%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0067" border="0" alt="DSCN0067" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AMYcbevsqC0/URLPq7lQMyI/AAAAAAAAFM8/BboKTj9WQlQ/DSCN0067_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Aiv_Ed2Hjkw/URvEcSv9wOI/AAAAAAAAGA8/cI1Ha0yZV2E/s1600-h/photo23%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo23" border="0" alt="photo23" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TyDDyZeXtnA/URvEdKmqJgI/AAAAAAAAGBE/PMW06GfLqu8/photo23_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="422" height="459" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lCzm1eLWRkM/URLPrQ0BN0I/AAAAAAAAFNE/z3bHAKp5A0E/s1600-h/DSCN0060%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0060" border="0" alt="DSCN0060" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Q8BX-U4AAGg/URLPr64HLyI/AAAAAAAAFNM/2e5hbNvxwig/DSCN0060_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uim6HsRz6RQ/URLPstygxdI/AAAAAAAAFNU/lJAkAeUFgpc/s1600-h/DSCN0064%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0064" border="0" alt="DSCN0064" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A6acuP22qDo/URLPtM_5RCI/AAAAAAAAFNY/5dU2-7ByjM4/DSCN0064_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>We made reservations at the Stampede RV Park & Restaurant in Tombstone.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DQXBl_YP0pU/URLPt84Q8SI/AAAAAAAAFNk/KxiPYFZoYaw/s1600-h/DSCN0071%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0071" border="0" alt="DSCN0071" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fKXotVl0mPA/URLPuvQCiLI/AAAAAAAAFNs/db7Fag3CF0M/DSCN0071_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4tfFBYekWOA/URLPvCwnNXI/AAAAAAAAFN0/bWQT30ii2Lg/s1600-h/DSCN0070%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0070" border="0" alt="DSCN0070" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IaXgZ6lmfa4/URLPvuJhkHI/AAAAAAAAFN8/GYqvSWZ4wso/DSCN0070_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>They serve breakfast daily from 7:15 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  But, I don’t recommend it!  Click on the upper-left picture to enlarge it and you’ll see that the owner collects junk and stacks it all around the outside of the home/office/restaurant.  The inside of the establishment is just as cluttered, and the kitchen and dining area was filthy.  Moreover, the breakfast gravy had a funny taste, and when Johnathan asked for coffee cream, he was given spoiled milk.  Likely, the spoiled milk was the reason for the funny-tasting gravy.  Yuck!</p> <p>The park, itself, was gravel, confined, and lacked easy access to the utility connections.  Because of its tight space, backing into assigned sites was difficult with 40-foot rigs.  But, hey, what can you expect in Tombstone?  We’re here to see history, and we don’t expect to find a 5-star resort!  </p> <p>The desert southwest experienced an unusual cold front during our visit.  The low temperature on our first night in Tombstone dropped to 17 degrees, but the second night dropped even lower to 14 degrees!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QK-9ptfD4DY/URLYha2pYRI/AAAAAAAAFPI/pNVh57wcqbI/s1600-h/photo27%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo27" border="0" alt="photo27" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QbNfJdSek9M/URLYiJljygI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/eSbiBVzGq_o/photo27_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="199" /></a> </p> <p>Pipes were bursting throughout the area and the locals didn’t know how to react.  Thankfully, the coaches stayed cozy, and other than a small break in the exposed ice-maker line under our slide, nobody experienced any plumbing problems as a result of the cold snap.  </p> <p>Of all our travels, visiting Tombstone ranks next to Hawaii, at least for me.  I’ve always been fascinated with the “Old West,” particularly historic boarder towns.  Tombstone, Arizona was founded in 1879 and is situated in Cochise County, Arizona, just south of I-10.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-daQXVuPeiKM/URPeUcNMbpI/AAAAAAAAFQk/y2O56XYLMu4/s1600-h/DSCN0111%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0111" border="0" alt="DSCN0111" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rpFw-3SuPFs/URPeVOVI5qI/AAAAAAAAFQs/1zVIZncIi_o/DSCN0111_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Sadly, Tombstone has changed considerably since my last visit in 1983.  The original buildings and old west atmosphere remains, but a strong commercial aspect has since taken over what was once almost a ghost town.  </p> <p>The movie, “Tombstone,” starring Kurt Russell as Wyatt Earp, was released in December 1993, and obviously rejuvenated Tombstone’s tourism and local economy.  On my previous visit in 1983, a walk down the boardwalk streets of yesteryear was marked with the passing of a lone “stranger,” and the faint odor of musty leather and dust.  Today, those same boardwalk streets have been barricaded at each end to prevent traffic from interfering with regularly scheduled gunfight reenactments, and the odors that lingered from the late 1880s into the 1980s, are no more.  But, the newfound economy may continue to preserve Tombstone as “The Town too Tough to Die.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J6i3JM4AGXI/URPeV7xovQI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/w9FGAuPQJM0/s1600-h/DSCN0072%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0072" border="0" alt="DSCN0072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Axbq6hrKmdY/URPeWkjaMmI/AAAAAAAAFQ8/7W5U7qnbvI4/DSCN0072_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Above, “Tombstone Courthouse and State Historic Park,” is the former Cochise County Courthouse originally built in 1882.  It is the site of several hangings, which are reflected in the following pictures . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-A1zeZSaVVMM/URPeXKcPRfI/AAAAAAAAFRE/TGd8cSnHTm4/s1600-h/DSCN0084%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0084" border="0" alt="DSCN0084" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Nl4L9MVoNmU/URPeXrBLiPI/AAAAAAAAFRM/bgbXxgpLxQA/DSCN0084_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sKIWfG4Y30w/URPeYbTUQzI/AAAAAAAAFRU/xdp7l8BL0qI/s1600-h/DSCN0086%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0086" border="0" alt="DSCN0086" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ItEd1DWczaI/URPeY_qUykI/AAAAAAAAFRc/2wPh4tMKSPE/DSCN0086_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mfT_xjWvubk/URPeZTJZWMI/AAAAAAAAFRk/K8_ZW3WUtn0/s1600-h/DSCN0087%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0087" border="0" alt="DSCN0087" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UL7U98PXnJM/URPeZ4N13dI/AAAAAAAAFRs/n8t7PPKaEyk/DSCN0087_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9bcyQQuOe1o/URPeaYr_GtI/AAAAAAAAFR0/m345ygnuHeI/s1600-h/DSCN0085%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0085" border="0" alt="DSCN0085" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v4KzUM9bksA/URPebIyDTXI/AAAAAAAAFR8/E8ZfSzjQBFA/DSCN0085_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qxDaJx4amB4/URPeb1F811I/AAAAAAAAFSE/gqTrA4pD4Ik/s1600-h/DSCN0088%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0088" border="0" alt="DSCN0088" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pwe6xH2uhAI/URPecgmO8EI/AAAAAAAAFSM/0RkcSQjIYy8/DSCN0088_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ICJtnomFtcA/URPedPZlC1I/AAAAAAAAFSU/eKh2muPal2c/s1600-h/DSCN0081%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0081" border="0" alt="DSCN0081" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9FCzhs2rXsI/URPedtVqdQI/AAAAAAAAFSc/92m1z4B0OYQ/DSCN0081_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a></p> <p>Below, are photos of the courthouse interior . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H0WKaJyRKmw/URPeeJdnEfI/AAAAAAAAFSk/dyNfUUVVpMk/s1600-h/DSCN0082%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0082" border="0" alt="DSCN0082" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J-7OuNCAxFo/URPeepXOycI/AAAAAAAAFSs/_jahRdPJEpI/DSCN0082_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rYwcWJLcIc8/URPefO8jcDI/AAAAAAAAFS0/xxSGV9yp5bA/s1600-h/DSCN0089%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0089" border="0" alt="DSCN0089" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2RNLb81NiWg/URPefyNQPpI/AAAAAAAAFS8/oZaQuUv3q48/DSCN0089_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZmZ2fzR1fdo/URPegeXzoAI/AAAAAAAAFTE/mf786JT0BMI/s1600-h/DSCN0080%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0080" border="0" alt="DSCN0080" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hjQzGe_euwg/URPeg7o2bZI/AAAAAAAAFTM/fzCUv2kNiCQ/DSCN0080_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S40ip8fxgPY/URPehUhcKNI/AAAAAAAAFTU/YPYLiOfsGto/s1600-h/DSCN0092%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0092" border="0" alt="DSCN0092" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yFKGiQCK90A/URPehxD1FOI/AAAAAAAAFTc/RTaTaPOW3Ig/DSCN0092_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vKaY-W_602Y/URPeiQgNyKI/AAAAAAAAFTk/XYGSWfG-Z24/s1600-h/DSCN0090%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0090" border="0" alt="DSCN0090" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UbAL6-BD7NA/URPei-kRt4I/AAAAAAAAFTs/1fMfxA5CJXI/DSCN0090_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7r7MF_uQb4U/URPejXrOokI/AAAAAAAAFT0/oB9_8-5bfqs/s1600-h/DSCN0091%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0091" border="0" alt="DSCN0091" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-08Yc8eNpAPI/URPekKGSM-I/AAAAAAAAFT8/vkUKptQvSDc/DSCN0091_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BTyAL3cChT4/URPekpxZIFI/AAAAAAAAFUE/R02C-Y5ELNA/s1600-h/DSCN0093%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0093" border="0" alt="DSCN0093" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J5qQm-zSg7M/URPelG8lSFI/AAAAAAAAFUM/uanJQ7M_zK8/DSCN0093_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-07oN_dFIlvw/URPelpP0NVI/AAAAAAAAFUU/dIuPlBvJFxM/s1600-h/DSCN0095%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0095" border="0" alt="DSCN0095" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gjR13ZcS5A8/URPelzBxpHI/AAAAAAAAFUc/8gG5HqXz0Gg/DSCN0095_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="136" /></a> </p> <p>Following, are photos from the streets of Tombstone and local saloons . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-92Hx4tM_MJw/URPemYZi-XI/AAAAAAAAFUk/MqTXV2WcUcc/s1600-h/DSCN0073%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0073" border="0" alt="DSCN0073" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_tKgBGhf3AE/URPenJu3y0I/AAAAAAAAFUs/oZ4DNHGoViQ/DSCN0073_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aASYF_uYkhs/URPenYi7vzI/AAAAAAAAFU0/-zZvAJbXNsk/s1600-h/DSCN0102%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0102" border="0" alt="DSCN0102" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8YEL0OpneDE/URPeoMcFgHI/AAAAAAAAFU8/f7kRk5lduc8/DSCN0102_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4WkoymtgVb8/URPeoWBZIBI/AAAAAAAAFVE/OLJxqbpf0_A/s1600-h/DSCN0104%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0104" border="0" alt="DSCN0104" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Zr-4CRFskcs/URPepRnlsgI/AAAAAAAAFVM/Vn4wxx3GEpU/DSCN0104_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SK_kCWnBt6Q/URPeqM_SmAI/AAAAAAAAFVU/12XYQUu-PIA/s1600-h/DSCN0113%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0113" border="0" alt="DSCN0113" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A3cwNGO3ywg/URPeq1TFfYI/AAAAAAAAFVc/RJ1nfpYl19I/DSCN0113_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9FJkgv7FJYI/URPerQeOY1I/AAAAAAAAFVk/LL2F62QCmL4/s1600-h/DSCN0115%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0115" border="0" alt="DSCN0115" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-txvRggEMWdA/URPervdFusI/AAAAAAAAFVs/GRzH2LTQfeQ/DSCN0115_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C61lucANEho/URPesS89e2I/AAAAAAAAFV0/dL1ac9A9foI/s1600-h/DSCN0117%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0117" border="0" alt="DSCN0117" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LXSGeQ6K9qw/URPes3-jGoI/AAAAAAAAFV8/w0ssA533ZKM/DSCN0117_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is “Big Nose Kate’s Saloon & Restaurant.”  Big Nose Kate was said to be Doc Holiday’s longtime girlfriend.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XCvRBoIPGOg/URPetkfVtXI/AAAAAAAAFWE/tMcSa_cjzb0/s1600-h/DSCN0210%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0210" border="0" alt="DSCN0210" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LufG-FcaNuI/URPeuQDLW3I/AAAAAAAAFWM/XHpvH9yvNQY/DSCN0210_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iN1s6P59bko/URPeu21LJeI/AAAAAAAAFWU/U9G55C6gOgI/s1600-h/DSCN0211%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0211" border="0" alt="DSCN0211" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RqLXKkFFkS0/URPevU844MI/AAAAAAAAFWc/bJJeAUm4-lg/DSCN0211_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Below, Johnathan said to the waiter, “I want a big ass beer!”  That’s exactly what the waiter brought him . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-949x5FXEfJA/URPev0jhFhI/AAAAAAAAFWk/vok8s2-Kq-s/s1600-h/DSCN0216%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0216" border="0" alt="DSCN0216" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Nxtktggw6yY/URPewnsLcTI/AAAAAAAAFWs/4Auq2ktk9rI/DSCN0216_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YC-VKAVebu8/URPexBNqoXI/AAAAAAAAFW0/Yuq_KwzG2H4/s1600-h/DSCN0214%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0214" border="0" alt="DSCN0214" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vv0SkzXdnoU/URPexm9TBrI/AAAAAAAAFW8/_Bb6zRPWSGk/DSCN0214_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>The following pictures are of the “Crystal Palace Saloon,” which is said to be the “best historically accurate saloon” by “True West Magazine.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ghPTK94YVBQ/URPeyIwIJII/AAAAAAAAFXE/aHdxYrq80eQ/s1600-h/DSCN0110%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0110" border="0" alt="DSCN0110" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vN51CJ1tJAA/URPeyhxh-AI/AAAAAAAAFXM/eEa6v6ob5SE/DSCN0110_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lbWSk3TJpcg/URPezhUkFXI/AAAAAAAAFXU/V5wdWlcTj2A/s1600-h/DSCN0105%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0105" border="0" alt="DSCN0105" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_DnczBi6b2Y/URPe0AXrfjI/AAAAAAAAFXc/yrHPPVu2RTE/DSCN0105_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0JDPKTwY0-o/URPe01ZcvdI/AAAAAAAAFXk/oK0z_xdpSjg/s1600-h/DSCN0109%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0109" border="0" alt="DSCN0109" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MrG2uaDKHZQ/URPe1KmO7VI/AAAAAAAAFXs/KRwVEXnnsEk/DSCN0109_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Here, we met a local who portrays the town marshal.  Below, he displays his 1881 Commemorative Wyatt Earp .22 cal. pistol, which he claimed once belonged to Josephine Earp, Wyatt Earp’s widow . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9bk9H3HnBes/URPe12GucNI/AAAAAAAAFX0/gtcIYr0Uxak/s1600-h/DSCN0107%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0107" border="0" alt="DSCN0107" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VZFs6Hzz49w/URPe2Wg9ZtI/AAAAAAAAFX8/pnVSDOHw5tw/DSCN0107_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="165" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xD0UyySzLA4/URPe256P-uI/AAAAAAAAFYE/mCI4eR01Y_I/s1600-h/DSCN0108%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0108" border="0" alt="DSCN0108" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-W2avTfdPDn8/URPe3dT79jI/AAAAAAAAFYM/tH78CMSAWFs/DSCN0108_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="159" /></a> </p> <p>The historic “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” took place on October 26, 1881.  Virgil, Wyatt, and Morgan Earp, along with Doc Holiday, engaged in a 30-shot firefight in the lot behind the corral.  After the smoked cleared, Tom McLaury, Frank McLaury, and 19-year-old Billy Clanton were dead.  Both Virgil and Morgan were seriously wounded, while Doc suffered a superficial hip would.  Wyatt walked away unscathed.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_q-yraHg7LE/URluIg1_0yI/AAAAAAAAFZY/IPOK59ljpPc/s1600-h/DSCN0124%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0124" border="0" alt="DSCN0124" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1H9Ftx0cR4U/URluJA3nj8I/AAAAAAAAFZg/0FjKa2xMwH8/DSCN0124_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-km55U3ET0DE/URluJ9mzXXI/AAAAAAAAFZo/H06TnmYTcf0/s1600-h/DSCN0135%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0135" border="0" alt="DSCN0135" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KcdCTZrPhe0/URluKuyyOII/AAAAAAAAFZw/5xZdVR9z8RQ/DSCN0135_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Above is the reenactment of the famous gunfight and the outlaws’ graves at Boothill Cemetery. Below, are a few additional pictures of graves at Boothill . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Sdt-9igmDKA/URluLTCO5RI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/KEnThihkGvI/s1600-h/DSCN0130%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0130" border="0" alt="DSCN0130" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q8i59PM9Z4U/URluMO_Gw1I/AAAAAAAAFaA/o4yb6ZmmUoc/DSCN0130_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nsHiZ29kI1E/URluMj_aKjI/AAAAAAAAFaI/14xqh8BQiRM/s1600-h/DSCN0140%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0140" border="0" alt="DSCN0140" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0n4DenVw2Qs/URluNPcFvdI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/udFJacqIl9k/DSCN0140_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2IiQ_3Ta9f4/URluN0LCl-I/AAAAAAAAFaY/XXGgD1nfbR0/s1600-h/DSCN0143%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0143" border="0" alt="DSCN0143" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-W7W7auvA-rg/URluOdbtW3I/AAAAAAAAFag/JwojPyXDDeU/DSCN0143_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GnMK3g28qzk/URluPKlGc9I/AAAAAAAAFao/IiLfQN3XOzI/s1600-h/DSCN0148%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0148" border="0" alt="DSCN0148" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aHDtfWAb17U/URluP3P9qoI/AAAAAAAAFaw/AjaTMhTa4No/DSCN0148_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cnhoU17DNYQ/URluQi1mcII/AAAAAAAAFa4/Q8-SSBCO9RM/s1600-h/DSCN0149%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0149" border="0" alt="DSCN0149" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HBKZtQ2pzG0/URluROAAwII/AAAAAAAAFbA/jF5YpjaSb-c/DSCN0149_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-biPGr_H0dW4/URluRli-ZoI/AAAAAAAAFbI/23dD5Kl4boI/s1600-h/DSCN0154%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0154" border="0" alt="DSCN0154" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dBiFM-MyuV8/URluSCTBmKI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/czZSQpTXNsY/DSCN0154_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Amab5ljoDB0/URluSwqvVqI/AAAAAAAAFbY/Y_C-zw3EL7s/s1600-h/DSCN0156%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0156" border="0" alt="DSCN0156" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FYglL7X16Ow/URluTW2rI8I/AAAAAAAAFbg/Na_3UZdC7VU/DSCN0156_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The view from high upon Boothill is spectacular . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-x4s3M1Ez1MQ/URluULYJizI/AAAAAAAAFbo/n_4NtZ-Z0KI/s1600-h/DSCN0136%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0136" border="0" alt="DSCN0136" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1fIRb3svKS0/URluU5Ox9TI/AAAAAAAAFbw/1Dp_RKQWmMk/DSCN0136_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is a statue standing in tribute to the lawman, Wyatt Earp . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZWZMdRilrSg/URluVWVkgcI/AAAAAAAAFb4/dVcjqvvifLI/s1600-h/DSCN0232%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0232" border="0" alt="DSCN0232" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_i8cq08HMQs/URluWORleQI/AAAAAAAAFcA/dvIMPq9FvfY/DSCN0232_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--YMrw4RHkoI/URluXMaI3lI/AAAAAAAAFcI/855NYQA51sE/s1600-h/DSCN0230%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0230" border="0" alt="DSCN0230" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WiZ0c-Z5DmI/URluXSW57TI/AAAAAAAAFcQ/A8ClIh6VM5o/DSCN0230_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QycWLtgtxOc/URluYFd9LiI/AAAAAAAAFcY/rTEDoFoCWIk/s1600-h/DSCN0127%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0127" border="0" alt="DSCN0127" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T1RguU6omZ0/URluYpDJaoI/AAAAAAAAFcg/CepMQwfIzj0/DSCN0127_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Above, Wyatt Earp’s Tombstone home and his personal saddle.  Below, the Oriental Saloon, where Earp obtained an interest in the gambling concession upon his arrival in Tombstone . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-paJ7wCiMO0A/URluZUZaejI/AAAAAAAAFco/XiTEQysg9_I/s1600-h/DSCN0229%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0229" border="0" alt="DSCN0229" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SJq0v-YkCpI/URluacGOTlI/AAAAAAAAFcw/-8rg26s1eZw/DSCN0229_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>And, below, “The Tombstone Epitaph,” the newspaper that enlightened the world about the famous gunfight on the streets of Tombstone . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0hPl6Wl5SEY/URlubECHHAI/AAAAAAAAFc4/MTZgi7tmtEI/s1600-h/DSCN0203%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0203" border="0" alt="DSCN0203" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YZi_HuQ5Ayk/URlubt1E0cI/AAAAAAAAFdA/DUeklIcHNSI/DSCN0203_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OxMJdEmRLGU/URlucCcqzZI/AAAAAAAAFdI/HQI-jv3GLZM/s1600-h/DSCN0202%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0202" border="0" alt="DSCN0202" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SGMFy8zb_Yg/URluci06lQI/AAAAAAAAFdQ/EwPl07SGBQI/DSCN0202_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Although the foregoing sights are truly fascinating, the jewel of the entire trip, before and after our stop in Tombstone, has to be the “Bird Cage Theatre.”  If ghosts exists anywhere, the Bird Cage is where they can be found.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-H3BXteCQBP0/URludN_ixWI/AAAAAAAAFdY/2fP0Y3lAaO8/s1600-h/DSCN0161%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0161" border="0" alt="DSCN0161" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LrodOB5Rz_c/URlud78tDxI/AAAAAAAAFdg/8SqorxUujJY/DSCN0161_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The interior of the theatre is very well preserved, and the curators strive to retain the original appearance while visitors view the building and artifacts up close.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oBADsMWmEKg/URlued4L0lI/AAAAAAAAFdo/-Yw6wRMnOkk/s1600-h/DSCN0162%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0162" border="0" alt="DSCN0162" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wyNmcf_gtS8/URluexkTMXI/AAAAAAAAFdw/pVY0gnWdvjQ/DSCN0162_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GtXWERE1eeg/URluf2_uFII/AAAAAAAAFd4/ZrDXEd23tqQ/s1600-h/DSCN0163%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0163" border="0" alt="DSCN0163" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Leh_c0JbwkU/URlugfFg--I/AAAAAAAAFeA/NFhXAju50zo/DSCN0163_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Click on the above left picture to enlarge, and read about “Fatima,” an original oriental belly dancer who played the Bird Cage in 1881. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JISIab59bbQ/URluhL7aRCI/AAAAAAAAFeI/w4RHhEP20Hc/s1600-h/DSCN0165%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0165" border="0" alt="DSCN0165" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4RFFdhDbtO8/URluhrSVPXI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/y7r13WBtht4/DSCN0165_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a>  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z5XvdtA9fvg/URluiF8cE1I/AAAAAAAAFeY/sw63cRN56mI/s1600-h/DSCN0166%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0166" border="0" alt="DSCN0166" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nqNy2O3aAOA/URluixz6EaI/AAAAAAAAFeg/tDleQQ19wcA/DSCN0166_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pxnd2awyyhI/URlujazvMjI/AAAAAAAAFeo/u2Ut8A_Nhbk/s1600-h/DSCN0167%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0167" border="0" alt="DSCN0167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KXANa7_nsYE/URlukINm6wI/AAAAAAAAFew/6YgpdILe7UQ/DSCN0167_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E4r82J-9go4/URluk0sI7II/AAAAAAAAFe4/paxHbbu3VLc/s1600-h/DSCN0170%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0170" border="0" alt="DSCN0170" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CQrWeyFjrUY/URlulQaAabI/AAAAAAAAFfA/ihEY9nILMLM/DSCN0170_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>In the lower right picture (above), Curly Bill Brocius, who murdered Marshal Fred White in 1880, was recognized while getting a haircut in this chair.  He was later tracked down by Wyatt Earp and killed.  In the picture below, bullet holes can be seen in the ceiling where cowboys fired into the air during stage performances. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s49HHxwOOns/URlumCBNb-I/AAAAAAAAFfI/ltFcaSew-9Y/s1600-h/DSCN0169%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0169" border="0" alt="DSCN0169" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_NAs0G6nBUI/URlum9G5GDI/AAAAAAAAFfQ/B2SS_4qpAvE/DSCN0169_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Pictured below are several views from behind, and under, the stage . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XF--lUATOuY/URlunswkHiI/AAAAAAAAFfY/MsVKes1Kh7g/s1600-h/DSCN0175%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0175" border="0" alt="DSCN0175" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AWihsjrAuLQ/URluoMyQcYI/AAAAAAAAFfg/8oDxEH34wJM/DSCN0175_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OVe8Z4eOAlY/URluosG-bHI/AAAAAAAAFfo/qeedPq2i6aw/s1600-h/DSCN0176%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0176" border="0" alt="DSCN0176" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wndB6qgQ3Cc/URlupkztzNI/AAAAAAAAFfw/SJXRLctuI20/DSCN0176_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9BYgCy_vdJM/URlupxg2_6I/AAAAAAAAFf4/9g87caTJ5as/s1600-h/DSCN0179%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0179" border="0" alt="DSCN0179" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xSwSxE0q0Dg/URluqigMMjI/AAAAAAAAFgA/_GC8iVHzaz8/DSCN0179_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-etmntUFVwtY/URlurS-FP3I/AAAAAAAAFgI/K7ywHjzr8UM/s1600-h/DSCN0180%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0180" border="0" alt="DSCN0180" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s59GA6BATaU/URlusP0D2ZI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/37Crgvf070s/DSCN0180_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uCKMvYnGCt4/URlus563hAI/AAAAAAAAFgY/WpWT03hgWI0/s1600-h/DSCN0181%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0181" border="0" alt="DSCN0181" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KIO0HQ8OwFg/URlutUh8pTI/AAAAAAAAFgg/7LLKV12uFV4/DSCN0181_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cFJYoeYzHKo/URlutxLm-MI/AAAAAAAAFgo/luCCVGzmV1k/s1600-h/DSCN0182%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0182" border="0" alt="DSCN0182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FTLoY0qT2Z8/URluurdR24I/AAAAAAAAFgw/mvg24Ha3k5Y/DSCN0182_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lxUwd9PhvxE/URluvU2NY0I/AAAAAAAAFg4/0UmUD60DRQQ/s1600-h/DSCN0197%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0197" border="0" alt="DSCN0197" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-M4d2nkrDpio/URluvxfINSI/AAAAAAAAFhA/0dk-2k-lDHU/DSCN0197_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NtvUOq_81VE/URluwpKzHxI/AAAAAAAAFhI/C_EJH3Fv1rc/s1600-h/DSCN0183%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0183" border="0" alt="DSCN0183" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lw4SDz9p96M/URluxO130HI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/J6v8MDJLSEk/DSCN0183_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I46d8xSx1nU/URluxtyaWlI/AAAAAAAAFhY/rO37wSErq_w/s1600-h/DSCN0174%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0174" border="0" alt="DSCN0174" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cuiSxE7eG3o/URluyTIZ4RI/AAAAAAAAFhg/GnfW4V9kq28/DSCN0174_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XN22fqaykJM/URluzMksa-I/AAAAAAAAFho/XtPyh_uEwRU/s1600-h/DSCN0193%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0193" border="0" alt="DSCN0193" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tUFZ4k_9WsA/URluzxSayGI/AAAAAAAAFhw/gCFcq7_8YCQ/DSCN0193_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WLtNvN3ZjvM/URlu0TW7jNI/AAAAAAAAFh4/GMcQxZ6_ueA/s1600-h/DSCN0178%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0178" border="0" alt="DSCN0178" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cRAS_r04Zc4/URlu1CL7d-I/AAAAAAAAFiA/Yfs5Ylj_P8U/DSCN0178_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Brothels were common in the wild west of the late 1800s, and Tombstone was no exception.  In fact, the “bordello room,” pictured below, is situated in the basement of the Bird Cage Theatre and was used by Josephine Marcus, also known as “Sadie Jo,” who was later married to Wyatt Earp until his death in 1929.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j_UyY5NLRXA/URlu1tlu8TI/AAAAAAAAFiI/qnLbo6PtZvA/s1600-h/DSCN0192%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0192" border="0" alt="DSCN0192" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MkPil-TaOWs/URlu2TJVE3I/AAAAAAAAFiQ/A0xmomqwZCo/DSCN0192_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Below is “Sadie Jo’s” license to engage in her profession, which, by the way, was signed by Wyatt Earp . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-klIGb2Bke5o/URlu3N1TAZI/AAAAAAAAFiY/yuRSZYjKZ5A/s1600-h/DSCN0188%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0188" border="0" alt="DSCN0188" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oKzVF1srAtM/URlu3pfhU-I/AAAAAAAAFig/33KrR6iehBs/DSCN0188_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N0601L45vlA/URlu4aKyK3I/AAAAAAAAFio/X5lW6vEoKU4/s1600-h/DSCN0194%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0194" border="0" alt="DSCN0194" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bTJzKP_28D0/URlu4vk-wtI/AAAAAAAAFiw/_9LY9wMtwCM/DSCN0194_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Click on the above pictures to enlarge, and observe the “Notice to Female Employees” posted in the hallway of the Bird Cage Theatre bordello (right).  </p> <p>Tombstone is a “must see” if you’re ever in the area!  And, by all means, don’t miss the Bird Cage Theatre.  It alone, is a destination location in my opinion.  If you go, plan on spending at least two (2) nights in Tombstone to see all it has to offer, and for more information, visit <a title="http://www.tombstoneweb.com/" href="http://www.tombstoneweb.com/">http://www.tombstoneweb.com/</a> </p> <p>After a fulfilling visit to Tombstone, we readied the coaches for the short trip to Tucson (70 miles).  There, we would spend the next three nights at the “Far Horizons Tucson Village,” which is an upscale RV resort.  <a href="http://www.tucsonvillage.com">www.tucsonvillage.com</a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MuenCyy0f0s/URqdikA0OaI/AAAAAAAAFkI/KkBkQWw7C2I/s1600-h/photo3%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8GyfatIqdTQ/URqdjYexiWI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/IJK-lfosKGY/photo3_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Far Horizons is mostly a warm-climate retirement village, but reserves several nice sites for temporary visitors.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ShV1ac68AHw/URqdj2KriLI/AAAAAAAAFkY/VDoJT3zX6Nk/s1600-h/photo24%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo24" border="0" alt="photo24" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xNylmXd_iaw/URqdkuufFQI/AAAAAAAAFkg/0Fv8uHLDgYY/photo24_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aJ6etM5CXEE/URqdlPLO_nI/AAAAAAAAFko/t1df6zb7eh8/s1600-h/DSCN0237%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0237" border="0" alt="DSCN0237" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wOL58CAmfNE/URqdme4TuXI/AAAAAAAAFkw/ShGX_8BFacc/DSCN0237_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PjuMUCpYP40/URqdnL6TayI/AAAAAAAAFk4/Lqb969m2Isg/s1600-h/photo25%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo25" border="0" alt="photo25" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zUx02kSfGbw/URqdncrGg5I/AAAAAAAAFlA/AGwfkt71xhU/photo25_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="150" height="200" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-z-DsneEewSc/URqdoO-BGHI/AAAAAAAAFlI/XbLv5wgXCa0/s1600-h/photo30%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo30" border="0" alt="photo30" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rd8k0SalYDs/URqdolW6RRI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/dppsLw2bR18/photo30_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="180" /></a> </p> <p>Parked across from us was my “dream coach,” a full-body-paint Mobile Suites . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0vQ4NVmhQZ0/URqdpMLaOoI/AAAAAAAAFlY/zXpyCX82NOE/s1600-h/DSCN0323%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0323" border="0" alt="DSCN0323" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0a1KwD08tHo/URqdp_3t8DI/AAAAAAAAFlg/rLMjimEH2yM/DSCN0323_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>Now, don’t get me wrong.  I’m very pleased with our San Antonio.  But, as I constantly remind my wife, every man has to have a dream and continue to strive to reach a goal.  Otherwise, what does all his effort accomplish?  In reality, she need not worry.  At $130K, it will likely remain only a “dream.”  </p> <p>During our 3-night stay in Tucson, we had the opportunity to visit the “Pima Air & Space Museum,” which is one of the largest aviation museums in the world.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ymwhT6zdjus/URqdqdfRZmI/AAAAAAAAFlo/wkpgJYvtm6c/s1600-h/DSCN0239%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0239" border="0" alt="DSCN0239" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hidsKWL9MCE/URqdrKiu94I/AAAAAAAAFlw/KkkeGNmL5Tg/DSCN0239_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The museum maintains five hangers full of unique aviation history, plus an additional 80-acre outdoor aircraft exhibit.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hhESSKkys_E/URqdrq9_SrI/AAAAAAAAFl4/-M948q70QKw/s1600-h/DSCN0242%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0242" border="0" alt="DSCN0242" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dOcMvfHv6pI/URqdsV1jJhI/AAAAAAAAFmA/7BMLEHZHtRg/DSCN0242_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xLvIcfXT4rY/URqds1rkQVI/AAAAAAAAFmI/AA0qKCvsbX0/s1600-h/DSCN0243%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0243" border="0" alt="DSCN0243" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KlxeUmcquDs/URqdtP2u7JI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/Rbw_TMRq_Is/DSCN0243_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ssTxa-3182Q/URqdt_pEMEI/AAAAAAAAFmY/ln-C3kIdHBo/s1600-h/DSCN0247%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0247" border="0" alt="DSCN0247" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZW9wk0lgWEA/URqduHTTyoI/AAAAAAAAFmg/-n690G2FSxE/DSCN0247_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s2WeMzvJxpk/URqduuvqBVI/AAAAAAAAFmo/NO6jt3jjBOU/s1600-h/DSCN0254%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0254" border="0" alt="DSCN0254" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-19V5Bh4mlFs/URqdvUyuTLI/AAAAAAAAFmw/E3aHCtIYggg/DSCN0254_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a>   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rrpZXdophwA/URqdv_sFajI/AAAAAAAAFm4/2lAPmZbCwn8/s1600-h/DSCN0250%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0250" border="0" alt="DSCN0250" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4HJ-7Ky5XpE/URqd0LcRfyI/AAAAAAAAFnA/neWfQw0VE00/DSCN0250_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2_d7bV84o2M/URqd2fZn3OI/AAAAAAAAFnI/vv01NffYWFc/s1600-h/DSCN0251%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0251" border="0" alt="DSCN0251" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vzFmKNCXzdg/URqd3Mzw_mI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/oGM6t7H4BJM/DSCN0251_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Various aircraft are pictured above, such as SR-71 Blackbird “Spy Plane” (top right), and the Fairchild A-10A Thunderbolt II, “Warthog” (center), which carries a 30mm rotary cannon that can fire up to 4200 rounds per minute.  The A-10 proved its worth in the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War by destroying several thousand Iraqi tanks and other enemy vehicles.  </p> <p>The hangers also housed two additional planes of special interest to me, the B-17G “Flying Fortress,” and the B-29 “Superfortress.” </p> <p>Below, are several views of the B-17G . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3YIb038g0Hg/URqd7TtTaGI/AAAAAAAAFnY/0jmYTEUE934/s1600-h/DSCN0292%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0292" border="0" alt="DSCN0292" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZfDJMbTvcRs/URqd78v0KiI/AAAAAAAAFng/SZY5SlV9db4/DSCN0292_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lSTsHM8z8ZM/URqd8tnK-HI/AAAAAAAAFno/tycC8Arjznc/s1600-h/DSCN0299%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0299" border="0" alt="DSCN0299" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Fl53jRtHzss/URqd9AE7PfI/AAAAAAAAFnw/C4Ph92kswGo/DSCN0299_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eqyTr-Unr90/URqd9gWld_I/AAAAAAAAFn4/O-Q__hdnpEs/s1600-h/DSCN0302%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0302" border="0" alt="DSCN0302" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SkaOUVeiitE/URqd-OFqwjI/AAAAAAAAFoA/a-QZAGXJEi4/DSCN0302_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4kZSikLxhuE/URqd-nl1WLI/AAAAAAAAFoI/s8vDeRQbGlw/s1600-h/DSCN0296%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0296" border="0" alt="DSCN0296" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1veCWPF1Ofo/URqd_F3AF5I/AAAAAAAAFoQ/Qq41dgFXQAw/DSCN0296_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZrlMBQoodbY/URqd_8KEPgI/AAAAAAAAFoY/xY3ZuOESbFY/s1600-h/DSCN0297%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0297" border="0" alt="DSCN0297" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SxR5x_wUXzY/URqeAecFLMI/AAAAAAAAFoc/mAE6sh2ysbU/DSCN0297_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8uqjzo5vyHY/URqeA2w87TI/AAAAAAAAFoo/olOWe_3ZF0k/s1600-h/DSCN0305%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0305" border="0" alt="DSCN0305" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RmFjXmJFGKw/URqeBti1dgI/AAAAAAAAFow/Jcy86Ap-nIU/DSCN0305_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>What a magnificent war bird!  Unfortunately, time did not allow us to view the B-29.  But, that gives us reason to revisit Tucson real soon!  </p> <p>The outdoor exhibit was also impressive . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CnIaBPdC4lo/URqeCZ6-CzI/AAAAAAAAFo4/lJVAn7wBI0k/s1600-h/DSCN0260%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0260" border="0" alt="DSCN0260" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sVRSq-uV_No/URqeC2AQu2I/AAAAAAAAFpA/8dKlObRaXXQ/DSCN0260_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2MOOap6PT4g/URqeDd2z22I/AAAAAAAAFpI/0Xd29td1L8g/s1600-h/DSCN0264%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0264" border="0" alt="DSCN0264" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BF29XQ3sVs4/URqeD8CJG1I/AAAAAAAAFpQ/B6byGXh-0VA/DSCN0264_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nO_Pxk-zuq8/URqeEceZOiI/AAAAAAAAFpY/I1JSAJpEIaE/s1600-h/DSCN0280%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0280" border="0" alt="DSCN0280" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YifPdefNPD4/URqeE87oPOI/AAAAAAAAFpg/O_NtEF_Fog0/DSCN0280_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-42_II4MLOB0/URqeFfALk_I/AAAAAAAAFpo/GA-ILPLg_f8/s1600-h/DSCN0286%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0286" border="0" alt="DSCN0286" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EX4Oj5SQqao/URqeF61hbUI/AAAAAAAAFpw/AIGCKB8a514/DSCN0286_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0lvdeKliE9Y/URqeGdWKv5I/AAAAAAAAFp4/NE4-Jd3YKrk/s1600-h/DSCN0262%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0262" border="0" alt="DSCN0262" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d4lstSFCxkA/URqeGzSz1JI/AAAAAAAAFqA/yp66R7-Gs2M/DSCN0262_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>If you click on the lower-right picture (above), you’ll notice the piston sticking out through the engine cowling.  When the plane was being ferried to the museum to be placed on display, the engine threw the piston on landing approach to the runway.  </p> <p>The following photos are aircraft previously designated “Air Force One,” which were both used by presidents Kennedy and Johnson . . . .  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LrhHqj7ebpU/URqeHneNO7I/AAAAAAAAFqI/jl8RoBmSTK4/s1600-h/DSCN0268%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0268" border="0" alt="DSCN0268" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rX-oHwnNysQ/URqeIHF4QRI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/uoayM3gsKSs/DSCN0268_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-l5hrytMF9aU/URqeIrLVLhI/AAAAAAAAFqY/o_t3RVY2Foo/s1600-h/DSCN0269%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0269" border="0" alt="DSCN0269" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7n9nKaO_-Uo/URqeI7Rt-RI/AAAAAAAAFqg/4jvGnGrBmPg/DSCN0269_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Those of you who are loyal followers of this blog may remember our submission from May 2010, when we visited the LBJ Ranch near Johnson City, Texas.  One of the photos of the grounds surrounding the ranch reveals President Johnson’s private airstrip, which was used to land his small business jet (below) . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oW3rQFOPWnE/URqeJSUSNWI/AAAAAAAAFqo/P3vU6u2eSRI/s1600-h/DSCN0274%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0274" border="0" alt="DSCN0274" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wgDlDF_lLNU/URqeKdftDTI/AAAAAAAAFqw/cUR-h0_4Cvk/DSCN0274_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The pictures seen here of the “Pima Air & Space Museum” are just a sampling of the many aircraft of display.  If you have an interest in aviation, I strongly recommend you take the time to visit this museum if you find yourself in the Tucson area.  For more information, visit <a href="http://www.pimaair.org">www.pimaair.org</a> </p> <p>Our dear friends, Johnathan and Angela Bonanno, who accompanied us on this trip with the Samples, paid their respect at the Tucson graves of Johnathan’s grandparents and uncle.  Johnathan never met his relatives, but had the opportunity to speak with his uncle by telephone before he passed away.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1Eg5w1zn3tg/URqeKkWWqRI/AAAAAAAAFq4/S8Eerxgq3mM/s1600-h/DSCN0314%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0314" border="0" alt="DSCN0314" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3rK4AVLVgFg/URqeLS_NtkI/AAAAAAAAFrA/vbbsle3s8NI/DSCN0314_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zFmoWR6bosI/URqeL_aIg2I/AAAAAAAAFrI/No9b8jt07Co/s1600-h/DSCN0315%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0315" border="0" alt="DSCN0315" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DTaROyWBNew/URqeMXQN9EI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/FCPinZCvQHE/DSCN0315_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J4NzGybOnf0/URqePgPCR2I/AAAAAAAAFrY/iEC1RAKOueY/s1600-h/DSCN0321%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0321" border="0" alt="DSCN0321" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cMRSl4CTZ3c/URqeQHFbH-I/AAAAAAAAFrg/oAtas7O-iNQ/DSCN0321_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Our original plan called for all three couples to dry-camp (no utilities) in the Quartzsite desert.  But as our departure time from Tucson grew closer, Susan and I made a few calls to nearby Quartzsite RV parks to see if any available sites remain.  The more we discussed it, we both agreed that we’re simply too “soft” to camp out.  After all, that’s why we bought a 41-foot condo on wheels.  </p> <p>Surprisingly, we received a return call from “Black Rock RV Village” in Brenda, Arizona.  <a href="http://www.blackrockrv.com">www.blackrockrv.com</a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HYcCiL2XdmA/URrD4rWbf_I/AAAAAAAAFtA/kqwHXu9q0mU/s1600-h/DSCN0364%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0364" border="0" alt="DSCN0364" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QjxPIaJ8VFQ/URrD5R3ThuI/AAAAAAAAFtI/8O6wmz_m05M/DSCN0364_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ObTFDQmejHM/URrD53Ty92I/AAAAAAAAFtQ/5r6sMZI2PaE/s1600-h/DSCN0327%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0327" border="0" alt="DSCN0327" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v45GIYsUlGQ/URrD7XIzeFI/AAAAAAAAFtY/3usGcezoYRw/DSCN0327_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Brenda is just 14 miles east of Quartzsite, and the park had three remaining sites with full hookups.  It also had an adjacent cafe that served an excellent breakfast.  The Samples chose to stay the course and dry-camp, but the Bonannos agreed to join us in Brenda.  </p> <p>Upon leaving Tucson, Susan and I made a brief stop in Phoenix to visit my mother’s sister, Bobbie Lavato, while the Bonannos continued west to Brenda where we would join up with them later that evening.  </p> <p>The Arizona desert has clear, open skies that make for a beautiful starlit night and cozy campfire . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-24UZCOkpcyo/URrD8GwlIBI/AAAAAAAAFtg/z1lyIN-N2Zo/s1600-h/DSCN0362%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0362" border="0" alt="DSCN0362" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t_k5YOiqOHs/URrD8t-YSsI/AAAAAAAAFto/dh_cT0AzldY/DSCN0362_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>And, thanks to my friend and fellow Heartland Chapter member, Mike Finnegan, the clear night sky gave me my first opportunity to try out our new flag light . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-R__fH4IBOvE/URrD9GERPrI/AAAAAAAAFtw/wQBnOf1ZaJQ/s1600-h/DSCN0359%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0359" border="0" alt="DSCN0359" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DGJLacIF9hw/URrD99J6EYI/AAAAAAAAFt4/XzT99JsIrp0/DSCN0359_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The next morning, we joined up with the Samples at our destination point - Quartzsite!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J9ocS6yRqtA/URrD_YHSnGI/AAAAAAAAFuA/1AmHo_ZeIAs/s1600-h/photo20%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo20" border="0" alt="photo20" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mSsq3xcKMro/URrEAKjvHyI/AAAAAAAAFuI/5d0wfBuxLHg/photo20_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="338" /></a> </p> <p>RVs were parked everywhere throughout the desert surrounding the rally.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UDBLf0iDBKI/URrEA75ai3I/AAAAAAAAFuQ/bODVLHz6gtc/s1600-h/DSCN0356%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0356" border="0" alt="DSCN0356" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6u8eVFn9CTM/URrEBRQ-rUI/AAAAAAAAFuY/UEM6zZGVd0A/DSCN0356_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>The best way to describe this phenomena is through the following pictorial . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gc1gtNj3AeM/URrECLJmlVI/AAAAAAAAFug/7thcB4inVZw/s1600-h/DSCN0337%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0337" border="0" alt="DSCN0337" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v4j1j62ByKs/URrECr8HQ2I/AAAAAAAAFuo/9-C5EMahJ0Q/DSCN0337_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-57bsyUqVOyE/URrEDdMtcaI/AAAAAAAAFuw/0v-9-Hgosfk/s1600-h/DSCN0340%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0340" border="0" alt="DSCN0340" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yXJiN-6X8t4/URrED_aRYsI/AAAAAAAAFu4/txmvkgH2vr8/DSCN0340_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_YsMY9Mnrno/URrEEfFnsDI/AAAAAAAAFvA/vKqIHTlb54M/s1600-h/DSCN0350%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0350" border="0" alt="DSCN0350" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-csu6HRFvkpM/URrEFDbBHLI/AAAAAAAAFvI/AAAv3wLTn_c/DSCN0350_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DNdvr7_weZI/URrEGH1K_lI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/Qc-D5TPWzWA/s1600-h/DSCN0346%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0346" border="0" alt="DSCN0346" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-shcaV6xSDPA/URrEGmlrh9I/AAAAAAAAFvY/qDkP2qwYfGY/DSCN0346_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tSA7Ww09e-E/URrEHMZz62I/AAAAAAAAFvg/VSRNdTehgHc/s1600-h/DSCN0343%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0343" border="0" alt="DSCN0343" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m-bFmz8gXCw/URrEH9-BodI/AAAAAAAAFvo/HwBSmh05Hds/DSCN0343_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Yo-Ce-eP9Bo/URrEIoMFHqI/AAAAAAAAFvw/ImMlP8JKE9g/s1600-h/DSCN0348%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0348" border="0" alt="DSCN0348" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FutcJf-R4Og/URrEJxRsiwI/AAAAAAAAFv4/XjI9Nt-9Mio/DSCN0348_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>The Rock & Gem Show, Sell-A-Rama, and Art & Craft Fair, are all produced by Tyson Wells, and as depicted in the above pictures, the rally takes on the atmosphere of a carnival or state fair. </p> <p>We did see some very nice RVs for sale.  In fact, the diesel coach in the lower left picture had just sold . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_Dc_1CeW664/URrEKoEmc5I/AAAAAAAAFwA/JNmiXdn37to/s1600-h/DSCN0375%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0375" border="0" alt="DSCN0375" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KArUWCGR10w/URrELZA4KhI/AAAAAAAAFwI/gRWZSbdXcpk/DSCN0375_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zsVoiS9I8fU/URrEWeivGAI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/qdQqqF_GnsI/s1600-h/DSCN0372%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0372" border="0" alt="DSCN0372" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MqlxdQPInf4/URrEWx7IYoI/AAAAAAAAFwY/X4tro0uCyEA/DSCN0372_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a></p> <p>Below, Susan tries out a motorized scooter, while I couldn’t help but photograph “Flo,” who bares a striking resemblance to my younger sister . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QooWMEPVSDg/URrEXudNevI/AAAAAAAAFwg/iTLaSunqS-w/s1600-h/DSCN0371%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0371" border="0" alt="DSCN0371" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RWwhxM5CEDA/URrEYHXdLeI/AAAAAAAAFwo/l8mtQV835aU/DSCN0371_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KYooMusZJLE/URrEY1SqcQI/AAAAAAAAFww/rgkXHRA0zYQ/s1600-h/DSCN0335%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0335" border="0" alt="DSCN0335" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_wcyVJUr2jw/URrEZXBTUfI/AAAAAAAAFw4/KxtEZ6YH0qA/DSCN0335_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="178" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>This rally was packed with some wild and crazy sights . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_ugh8qwZngE/URrEavv2guI/AAAAAAAAFxA/r4AS1aql9gI/s1600-h/DSCN0354%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0354" border="0" alt="DSCN0354" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jNhMBAwnbLo/URrFk156kKI/AAAAAAAAFxU/U2qZ6uc5_BM/DSCN0354_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9713nrdCg-c/URrFlT5MfTI/AAAAAAAAFxc/jMTEKjYOzmc/s1600-h/DSCN0342%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0342" border="0" alt="DSCN0342" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QGu7kLHcqA0/URrFnDmJzjI/AAAAAAAAFxk/scwCwp_Doos/DSCN0342_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oiRdojp_3RM/URrFnlT5EZI/AAAAAAAAFxs/t2x7uzTxATQ/s1600-h/photo5%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2dV9x_zaYRw/URrFovo1foI/AAAAAAAAFx0/XXJekUphaoA/photo5_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="270" /></a> </p> <p>The craziest sight we experienced, however, had to be “the naked book-seller!”  Yes, Susan and Angela were on a mission to find this character.  A few of our fellow RV friends (you know who you are), insisted that we go to his bookstore and see him while we were in Quartzsite.  Not only did we see him, but the girls had their picture made with him.  </p> <p>In an effort to maintain the dignity of this blog, and to avoid the embarrassment it may cause my wife and Angie at a later date, I share only the following pictures with you . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jWH-ul1TkzQ/URrFpEDpI5I/AAAAAAAAFx8/TzUzTIbrojE/s1600-h/photo21%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo21" border="0" alt="photo21" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KJNa8UBJKn0/URrFp1HtQyI/AAAAAAAAFyE/-4z2jsbhQT4/photo21_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="200" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6NQKRvgpq3E/URrUEDNlGmI/AAAAAAAAFzo/BEFB1D2XVgw/s1600-h/photo197.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo19" border="0" alt="photo19" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-93Pt6zNymq0/URrdiL89eGI/AAAAAAAAF5Q/rn0BlxvP2Wc/photo19_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="150" height="202" /></a> </p> <p>Regrettably, I’m afraid I’ll associate the “naked book-seller’s”  image with Quartzsite the rest of my life.  Seriously, the annual Quartzsite rally is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  Meaning that every serious RVer should see it at least once.  For additional information, visit <a title="http://www.quartzsitervshow.com/" href="http://www.quartzsitervshow.com/">www.quartzsitervshow.com/</a></p> <p>With the Quartzsite experience behind us (no pun intended), a decision had to be made as to which route we’d take home.  A review of The National Weather Service forecast, satellite, and radar images, revealed no inclement weather down the I-40 corridor for several days.  So, the Bonannos continued on with us to Lake Havasu City, where we’d connect with I-40 East, while the Samples remained a few days longer in Quartzsite.  The Samples would eventually drive north through Lake Havasu City, but would continue on to Bullhead City, Arizona, where they would extend their trip and visit additional sites.  </p> <p>We took Arizona State Highway 95 North, which is a very scenic route into Lake Havasu City.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vy9sByN9gKs/URrdi-Pnz5I/AAAAAAAAF5Y/RAwPQRJM_WQ/s1600-h/DSCN03793.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0379" border="0" alt="DSCN0379" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JpjlTTFx0uY/URrdjTuSoqI/AAAAAAAAF5g/-xEfLNiTM-0/DSCN0379_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kGlFRO9hXO0/URrdl6utmfI/AAAAAAAAF5o/XWD9tLyRQkU/s1600-h/DSCN03803.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0380" border="0" alt="DSCN0380" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lEqngvOwE2E/URrdmcRp8LI/AAAAAAAAF5w/NbaJjNMlRO4/DSCN0380_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eheo3-EA1gM/URrdm3EfDSI/AAAAAAAAF54/XWIu9gbJ-Xc/s1600-h/DSCN03817.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0381" border="0" alt="DSCN0381" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uk5Id2r3i7o/URrdnhdl_3I/AAAAAAAAF6A/bLRpyy2yIVA/DSCN0381_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="292" /></a> </p> <p>We called ahead and made reservations for a single-night stay at “Havasu Falls RV Resort.”  This is another upscale RV resort along the bank of the Colorado River.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-e3HQRiSDmmo/URrdoeq9d1I/AAAAAAAAF6I/MYGRJSQXAyo/s1600-h/DSCN03864.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0386" border="0" alt="DSCN0386" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I_I9afcoEI0/URrdpJnC6LI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/D_1Qo4q7Iik/DSCN0386_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fZrPVgx_Cyc/URrdpjMtLGI/AAAAAAAAF6Y/mmAaFy5ORtg/s1600-h/DSCN03883.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0388" border="0" alt="DSCN0388" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nEGFPQBX-O8/URrdqAqiPEI/AAAAAAAAF6g/WV_P8REcIv0/DSCN0388_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-g_fXj6BJl14/URrdq-kOWGI/AAAAAAAAF6o/I6HKIA4TBpg/s1600-h/DSCN03873.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0387" border="0" alt="DSCN0387" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gZuVEcn4AYs/URrdrWhWgAI/AAAAAAAAF6w/LaDkiL6-S6s/DSCN0387_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>Robert P. McCulloch, Sr., manufacturer of the “McCulloch Chain Saw,” and Chairman of McCulloch Oil Corporation, established Lake Havasu City in 1963.  </p> <p>Recall from your childhood the nursery rhyme and singing game, “London Bridge is Falling Down.”  The song dates back to as early as the 17th Century, and relates to the City of London’s efforts to repair the depredated bridge. </p> <p>McCulloch purchased the bridge from the City of London for $2.5 million in 1968.  The bridge was disassembled, each piece marked for identification, shipped to Lake Havasu City, and reassembled at an additional cost of $7 million.  The bridge was opened to the public on October 5, 1971.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U4bkp7y1cXw/URrdr3LjPtI/AAAAAAAAF64/aeLYngTqG80/s1600-h/DSCN03974.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0397" border="0" alt="DSCN0397" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pnjDfg5sV-o/URrdshFpQXI/AAAAAAAAF7A/VvJllGuLh0g/DSCN0397_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JT-FOdU0Z8A/URrdtLDVxrI/AAAAAAAAF7I/DpjoVS-jZVA/s1600-h/DSCN04113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0411" border="0" alt="DSCN0411" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hM4kzEe3jb4/URrdtdzMLiI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/s1Ahae_fit4/DSCN0411_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wcSBYBHkXJM/URrduDDrRmI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/lhW2TJOEeWs/s1600-h/DSCN04325.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN0432" border="0" alt="DSCN0432" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DYJ4pLytrZo/URrduoul3pI/AAAAAAAAF7g/Blt4LXaaKPw/DSCN0432_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" height="155" /></a> </p> <p>It’s said that “the London Bridge is the 2nd most visited tourist attraction in Arizona, behind only the Grand Canyon.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mRS8c0HB1Ao/URu5MuHDipI/AAAAAAAAF9I/bpF9k9q0tME/s1600-h/DSCN0421%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0421" border="0" alt="DSCN0421" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WOMoAaFCiaI/URu5NSzPflI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/h9QF4MXRu2c/DSCN0421_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rvK4t9gQPUU/URu5N9M0E5I/AAAAAAAAF9Y/sD-pR18_UTg/s1600-h/DSCN0420%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0420" border="0" alt="DSCN0420" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-37QxuCbTg_o/URu5OsAe3AI/AAAAAAAAF9g/_7cF2A1xJRI/DSCN0420_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5CCFRVIx9gA/URu5POjVuOI/AAAAAAAAF9o/zEiNGWFTS8Y/s1600-h/DSCN0422%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0422" border="0" alt="DSCN0422" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LBqboLs452U/URu5PvtRMwI/AAAAAAAAF9w/zb6PCQsRsz0/DSCN0422_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8YdsVDW0m68/URu5QGAVxUI/AAAAAAAAF94/HhrPeceAGUk/s1600-h/DSCN0425%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0425" border="0" alt="DSCN0425" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DjXpx2lwT8Q/URu5QpUjbQI/AAAAAAAAF-A/IAOhDPMyr9w/DSCN0425_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>In the above pictures, the photograph situated to the lower-left is the roadway atop of the London Bridge.  Susan insisted that we drive across it!  </p> <p>Below, we dined at “Barley Brothers Brewery & Grill,” which is immediately adjacent to the Bridge.  Johnathan ordered the Brewery’s “beer sampler.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Uya9MjVDZIw/URu5RNfq46I/AAAAAAAAF-I/H__rjoDpMOc/s1600-h/DSCN0429%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0429" border="0" alt="DSCN0429" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Lyx_-SXH5Fw/URu5RfO0e6I/AAAAAAAAF-Q/fRxEmhevkto/DSCN0429_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="137" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AM3cY7qeuUw/URu5SJOrFFI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/-Lyupjo74ag/s1600-h/DSCN0431%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0431" border="0" alt="DSCN0431" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ROCblsFdlxo/URu5SqSlPXI/AAAAAAAAF-g/jlcKkYCJGf8/DSCN0431_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="160" /></a> </p> <p>Following a good night’s rest, the four of us began the trek home.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-e-ZiM0aS2k8/URu5TN3iv0I/AAAAAAAAF-o/C2P3NwD2_yg/s1600-h/DSCN0444%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0444" border="0" alt="DSCN0444" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GGDXP-uj5gc/URu5TikMmkI/AAAAAAAAF-w/ZIkolhvyeNA/DSCN0444_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qeD_A-NkeOY/URu5UD7EyOI/AAAAAAAAF-4/8qZJhUkYFiU/s1600-h/DSCN0446%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0446" border="0" alt="DSCN0446" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A82KssYgU5w/URu5UcmbZhI/AAAAAAAAF_A/GSXT0lRp5qM/DSCN0446_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> </p> <p>I think everyone had mixed feelings about the trip coming to an end.  We were tired and had obligations waiting for us at home, but at the same time, this had been a truly enjoyable experience.  </p> <p>But the fun was not yet over!  We spent our first night on the road home just west of Winslow, Arizona, at “Meteor Crater RV Park.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5u3qYMK3jRs/URu5UzGTkeI/AAAAAAAAF_I/73cvMXz1Z1g/s1600-h/DSCN0452%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0452" border="0" alt="DSCN0452" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-37-UD31a1L4/URu5VveaI7I/AAAAAAAAF_Q/fkDtsYnYW7Y/DSCN0452_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>If you’re headed west through Arizona and need a place to camp for the night, I recommend this park.  The employees are friendly and helpful, and although the park and sites are gravel (the upscale RV resorts spoiled me), it is well organized and maintained.  For additional information on both the RV park and Meteor Crater attraction, visit <a href="http://www.meteorcrater.com">www.meteorcrater.com</a> </p> <p>Our drive to the crater site offered some interesting photo ops . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Qy4lASvDSKE/URvEdzxoE2I/AAAAAAAAGBM/lby8RI5s9ug/s1600-h/DSCN0471%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0471" border="0" alt="DSCN0471" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Y3rw7Nk6QMg/URvEeYeZuXI/AAAAAAAAGBU/bhB0MWlgZtw/DSCN0471_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="127" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-x2W6johp3wg/URvEe_PkXAI/AAAAAAAAGBc/pmExFJk1hhk/s1600-h/DSCN0473%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0473" border="0" alt="DSCN0473" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-x5e7xltNhS0/URvEfdFJ0zI/AAAAAAAAGBk/M34xkPwu5Jc/DSCN0473_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="126" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Hh36DfuvK2c/URvEf2ptEQI/AAAAAAAAGBs/ewOcJSsZrzA/s1600-h/DSCN0469%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0469" border="0" alt="DSCN0469" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gPItKtgOtvo/URvEglzKQzI/AAAAAAAAGB0/HrEfw3LNHVg/DSCN0469_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="276" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I had seen the crater before, but this was a new experience for Johnathan and Angie!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9jp9386qpDc/URvEhOKVHcI/AAAAAAAAGB8/_zGoX21KIsM/s1600-h/photo32%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo32" border="0" alt="photo32" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0Od282A6Yos/URvEh_lqBRI/AAAAAAAAGCE/BXNX9YqJn-g/photo32_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" height="250" /></a> </p> <p>Scientists believe the impact upon the earth’s surface occurred over 50,000 years ago.  The crater measures “nearly a mile across and more than 550 feet deep.”  Because the crater’s terrain resembles the surface of the moon, it was once used as an official training site for NASA’s Apollo astronauts.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Sdc9mwIMzDA/URvEiXak3uI/AAAAAAAAGCM/UpFe-q83VDk/s1600-h/DSCN0461%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0461" border="0" alt="DSCN0461" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-i_JmEfHDnSQ/URvEjAC8UjI/AAAAAAAAGCU/l0EWxEZsVlI/DSCN0461_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="185" height="226" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OqMwsJ6x65I/URvEjrXtmWI/AAAAAAAAGCc/oxGZD1UQFbQ/s1600-h/DSCN0460%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0460" border="0" alt="DSCN0460" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OXfiAoCcHrY/URvEjzCcI9I/AAAAAAAAGCk/wVOzkzIJfCw/DSCN0460_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="243" /></a> </p> <p>The gift shop carries many interesting items.  Susan and I always try to find some keepsake to take home from our extended travels . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ydwK4aORDP4/URvkaHBlMiI/AAAAAAAAGHk/EBpvUDurt54/s1600-h/photo33%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo33" border="0" alt="photo33" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DmfnFb9smkA/URvkalBst4I/AAAAAAAAGHs/nK7VvxfbVNQ/photo33_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="332" /></a> </p> <p>After viewing the crater and visiting the gift shop, we headed east toward New Mexico.  We’d spend the night at “American RV Park” in Albuquerque, but Susan and I always make it a point to stop for lunch in Gallup at “El Rancho.”  In our opinion, this is the finest “New Mexican” food anywhere (except for that my mother makes)!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q9XhleLWiJQ/URvEkllT3RI/AAAAAAAAGCs/tiKQYX7iLdA/s1600-h/DSCN0475%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0475" border="0" alt="DSCN0475" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aq-I-YCJ8aA/URvEk9n3EMI/AAAAAAAAGC0/Begj5Wyw_zQ/DSCN0475_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="204" /></a>  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5rhuPvpG_kA/URvElSudA1I/AAAAAAAAGC8/zn6Jrb8svMc/s1600-h/DSCN0476%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0476" border="0" alt="DSCN0476" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NjUMNjnBLP4/URvEmOGvL0I/AAAAAAAAGDE/KisHXsdsymo/DSCN0476_thumb%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="218" height="192" /></a></p> <p>“El Rancho” originally opened in December 1937.  It was established by the brother of movie magnate, D.W. Griffith, who is credited with many of the motion pictures made in the Gallup area.  Movie stars like John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, and Kirk Douglas, frequented the establishment, which also has an elegant hotel.  The famous movie stars of yesteryear are long gone, but the ambiance remains . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tjh2l3658ao/URvEmhqAN1I/AAAAAAAAGDM/X2godUZH4jM/s1600-h/DSCN0478%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0478" border="0" alt="DSCN0478" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j3yhwbHSwZ8/URvEnTwVnVI/AAAAAAAAGDU/B_o03srEof4/DSCN0478_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="326" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t4_dCbMtaDc/URvEn8Fc4uI/AAAAAAAAGDc/puZxOT6C7D0/s1600-h/photo9%25255B25%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo9" border="0" alt="photo9" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_hXCaVmxLHs/URvEosGUFYI/AAAAAAAAGDk/X2akPD43pqc/photo9_thumb%25255B23%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="389" height="383" /></a> </p> <p>“El Rancho” has no website, but it’s located at Exit 22, 1000 East 66 Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico 87301, (505) 863-9311.  </p> <p>Below, is a view of the Sandia Mountains as we reach the valley rim overlooking Albuquerque . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lHwdruAWDOs/URvEpBRf2wI/AAAAAAAAGDs/PvgKq8ejz2c/s1600-h/DSCN0481%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN0481" border="0" alt="DSCN0481" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yB1_EZ5WQuE/URvEp5iDsXI/AAAAAAAAGD0/33An5AaxciY/DSCN0481_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="285" /></a> </p> <p>We’d only have one more night on the road after leaving Albuquerque.  Because several weeks of winter remains, Johnathan and I agreed it would be best to winterize the coaches the next morning in Amarillo before leaving for Oklahoma City.  </p> <p>The last time we came through Tucumcari, New Mexico, the Chamber of Commerce was initiating a campaign to restore many of the old Route 66 gas stations through the center of town.  It appears by the following picture that they may be making some progress . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-knD-cXDxEaY/URvhVn6igNI/AAAAAAAAGGE/y1iTkDWsRus/s1600-h/photo17%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo17" border="0" alt="photo17" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lJ8CY7A1eQs/URvhWQpKkkI/AAAAAAAAGGM/Yhfdg3wu4Q8/photo17_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="319" /></a> </p> <p>The “Oasis RV Resort,” at Exit 60 on the west end of Amarillo, is a regular overnight stay for Susan and me.  All sites are concrete with full hookups.  It’s a great place to winterize, provided the cold, north wind isn’t blowing.  </p> <p>Susan and Maynard rest in the coach (lower left) before we join the Bonannos for the limousine ride to the “Big Texan” steakhouse (lower right) . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SUS4S7XFA90/URvhXAHs3TI/AAAAAAAAGGU/rVqE3ONJFk4/s1600-h/photo16%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo16" border="0" alt="photo16" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BGOouhUucT4/URvhXp4Ov3I/AAAAAAAAGGc/2FkRXL5m4o8/photo16_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hhI4Ok4mMOs/URvhYDkREuI/AAAAAAAAGGk/N1BzdQH-xGQ/s1600-h/photo10%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5HmCvG-VXVg/URvhYlinXqI/AAAAAAAAGGs/222udeMyb_w/photo10_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="144" /></a> </p> <p>The final day of the trip has arrived, and the coaches are winterized and we’re headed home.  Shamrock, Texas is about halfway to Oklahoma City from Amarillo, and serves as a great place to stop for lunch.  Below, a restored Route 66 business on Main Street in Shamrock . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xfp6FL3rirk/URvhZOMSHlI/AAAAAAAAGG0/r6DHy74A2-I/s1600-h/photo11%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo11" border="0" alt="photo11" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0_f5hQDBzp8/URvhZ4k69pI/AAAAAAAAGG8/jOiuEqBKd8E/photo11_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="255" /></a> </p> <p>I remember most of these old Route 66 establishments from my childhood.  My mother and her family are from Albuquerque and, before the opening of I-40, my family would make frequent trips to visit our relatives via Route 66.  It’s so good to see the local communities along the “Mother Road” taking an interest in keeping this history alive.  </p> <p>I’ve written about “Big Vern’s Steakhouse” in previous segments of this blog, and the food and service remain excellent.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AbNDveAbQRw/URvhaTKw_3I/AAAAAAAAGHE/d8_6B5XEbgM/s1600-h/photo13%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo13" border="0" alt="photo13" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rtgfzoxsEYU/URvhbFCsebI/AAAAAAAAGHM/fl_VXEuDTCk/photo13_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="345" /></a> </p> <p>“Big Vern’s” is open Sunday-Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  It’s situated at 200 E. 12th on Historic Route 66.  (806) 256-2088.</p> <p>Susan and I wish to thank the Bonannos and Samples for helping make this trip possible, and for sharing their photos! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zvjxHBwQjbA/URvhboHGcUI/AAAAAAAAGHU/oHkXnPJdxvk/s1600-h/photo18%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo18" border="0" alt="photo18" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UCEg6lhhdHs/URvhcBM_EwI/AAAAAAAAGHc/RrDwrHO1O20/photo18_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" height="247" /></a> </p> <p> See you on the road!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-497393966083753652012-11-14T13:09:00.001-08:002012-11-21T18:20:18.746-08:00Fall Foliage and the RV Round Robin<p>Years ago when I was taking private pilot training, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) required all private pilot trainees to complete a “round robin” flight prior to licensing.  A round robin consisted of a solo flight from point “A” to point “B” to point “C,” then returning to the point of origin, point “A.”  Our RV round robin includes a couple of additional waypoints, i.e., points “D” and “E,” which made for a wonderful way to wrap up the fall travel season and view Oklahoma’s beautiful fall foliage.    </p> <p>It all began with a call from our friends, Jonathan and Angela Bonanno, who just purchased their new Landmark “Key Largo.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DGrv9QDymUc/UKQEmGNBk5I/AAAAAAAAEvY/fB71I3arDTI/s1600-h/DSCN36782.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3678" border="0" alt="DSCN3678" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OeSD588JUMA/UKQEpGwVlqI/AAAAAAAAEvg/lfMQr0oQWMk/DSCN3678_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>They bought their RV from Kelly at Lewis RV Center in Oklahoma City (Point “A”), where we bought ours.  The Key Largo is very similar to our San Antonio, but the Bonannos’ is clearly distinguished by its full body paint.  As I stated to Jonathan when I first saw it, “It drips with gorgeous!”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bks6HVlsheU/UKQEqMqX5DI/AAAAAAAAEvo/M10xqE7SIkA/s1600-h/DSCN36822.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3682" border="0" alt="DSCN3682" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-G3DvP04B8LQ/UKQEq31q5VI/AAAAAAAAEvw/VvOmCCiYBJM/DSCN3682_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>    </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-StLNzBpEDDw/UKQErv_kOzI/AAAAAAAAEv4/2kcrZIhXuFE/s1600-h/DSCN36862.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3686" border="0" alt="DSCN3686" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IBUVzzNS0FM/UKQEsTvJurI/AAAAAAAAEwA/V7Q8gSI9GLw/DSCN3686_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4mf2eq2Ds64/UKQEtkx5CEI/AAAAAAAAEwI/rayeqiGjQb0/s1600-h/DSCN36882.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3688" border="0" alt="DSCN3688" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CRKb6PiMFXo/UKQEuLV0IkI/AAAAAAAAEwM/2iC0L6yz2_4/DSCN3688_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>While the Bonannos weren’t watching, Susan and I tried out their new king-size bed!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FueS8Df4uRk/UKQEv-797uI/AAAAAAAAEwY/VGtMGT7vack/s1600-h/photo18%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo18" border="0" alt="photo18" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oXvy_hFfs_s/UKQEwY2mg5I/AAAAAAAAEwg/bQKHUNTYNjE/photo18_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Congratulations, Jonathan and Angela!  </p> <p>The Bonannos wanted to take their new coach on a short outing to become more familiar with its operation before hitting the highway.  So, we began the first leg of our “round robin” by accompanying them to Cedar Valley RV Park in Guthrie, Oklahoma (Point “B”). </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--LkSLiZ-gGQ/UKQEyH43p8I/AAAAAAAAEwo/_o-60i_afyI/s1600-h/DSCN36772.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3677" border="0" alt="DSCN3677" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ks3O8vNnjG8/UKQEylwfr9I/AAAAAAAAEww/aH-lfJEDzLw/DSCN3677_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JY8swafBZxg/UKQE0VNzyxI/AAAAAAAAEw4/jRSc4--ders/s1600-h/DSCN36802.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3680" border="0" alt="DSCN3680" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jibU_PyAqjY/UKQE0yD7feI/AAAAAAAAExA/JwspGQWsBI4/DSCN3680_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The weather was excellent and we enjoyed each others’ company while cooking out and becoming acquainted with the new coach.  Jonathan and Angela treated us to Kobe steaks with sautéed mushrooms, and they were wonderful! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kgU-SjgHYrU/UK2L27L1ONI/AAAAAAAAFIo/2SslK1xTIV0/s1600-h/photo12%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo12" border="0" alt="photo12" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yTG82JeM4YI/UKQE2-LGmuI/AAAAAAAAFIw/xGdbs9pGUCI/photo12_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>After two nights stay in Guthrie, we caravanned to Duncan, Oklahoma for the November campout of the Modern Wagoneers.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cGv2rCuT3jY/UKQE3g6wr_I/AAAAAAAAExU/0QnqqjWKX40/s1600-h/photo17%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo17" border="0" alt="photo17" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sbvZD_bTY-Y/UKQE4RZycmI/AAAAAAAAExc/tx8CmukFaEY/photo17_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>   </p> <p>The Tidballs and Adams hosted this month’s event and chose Chisholm Trail RV Park (Point “C”).  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dod6w2Xz4CM/UKQE5GKd4zI/AAAAAAAAExo/xW3yXDOTcOI/s1600-h/DSCN37012.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3701" border="0" alt="DSCN3701" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nVQRg9XWNdw/UKQE5kneUXI/AAAAAAAAExw/g5oPnY5GQQ4/DSCN3701_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Their choice of RV parks served our needs quite well.  We had use of the club room for our meeting, meals, and games.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AsrhHlMFXHA/UKQE7BXAORI/AAAAAAAAEx4/aoBRSjaDi7A/s1600-h/photo15%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo15" border="0" alt="photo15" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UVOTRGq2nq0/UKQE7qy7hmI/AAAAAAAAEyA/Q0YXChNuINU/photo15_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E503QnunSrc/UKQE9LQi89I/AAAAAAAAEyI/drKcOt8R1bg/s1600-h/DSCN36892.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3689" border="0" alt="DSCN3689" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8CJj1q3-ZUA/UKQE9rZmxWI/AAAAAAAAEyQ/kvcS_b2FbLs/DSCN3689_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Although the RV pads were grass and gravel, each site had full hookups and a concrete patio . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9ruCYgMTurQ/UKQE-q3p5OI/AAAAAAAAEyY/EdRkX9tSgPY/s1600-h/DSCN36952.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3695" border="0" alt="DSCN3695" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D5W4_en4iLE/UKQE_F5fkPI/AAAAAAAAEyg/DKDwAnR8nyg/DSCN3695_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>And, we were able to have a nightly campfire now that the “burn ban” is lifted.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wHt4bRwQIag/UKQE_4whGuI/AAAAAAAAEyo/kNbHKytUFFM/s1600-h/photo13%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo13" border="0" alt="photo13" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yPtPvEgvxuo/UKQFATcuE0I/AAAAAAAAEyw/9Zi1-f13hnk/photo13_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JDoSEi8ArPY/UKQFBzQ7nMI/AAAAAAAAEy4/YlAb82co-uE/s1600-h/DSCN36922.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3692" border="0" alt="DSCN3692" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TPWQu2gE2Lo/UKQFCfGqnkI/AAAAAAAAEzA/leflkYqxNRM/DSCN3692_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The only reservation I overheard was the existence of grass burrs or stickers that attached to the dogs’ hair.  If my standing motion to ban dogs from all future campouts won approval, grass burrs and stickers wouldn’t be an issue!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9doE5ovo9_w/UKQFELKY_UI/AAAAAAAAEzI/6TuyAM37W4U/s1600-h/DSCN36972.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3697" border="0" alt="DSCN3697" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fBW5aHM2_nU/UKQFEnghpTI/AAAAAAAAEzM/7MbRIGRFeRI/DSCN3697_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, Jonathan pulled in a little close.  He must have been trying to mate his new Key Largo with our San Antonio!  Would that result in a “San Largo?”  No one appreciates my humor or my motion to ban dogs at campouts!  </p> <p> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zbJkRh57v8U/UKQFFUkPq8I/AAAAAAAAEzY/cqApWJhhGa0/s1600-h/DSCN37002.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3700" border="0" alt="DSCN3700" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-W3DcPpjX3k0/UKQFF3NswrI/AAAAAAAAEzg/2zFzexzM5Bg/DSCN3700_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We saw the following RV pull into the park . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fMdeJTB611c/UKQFH5OZDfI/AAAAAAAAEzo/YhlZJ1woNPg/s1600-h/photo105.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo10" border="0" alt="photo10" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-USOlI-ifRgw/UKQFIrk5ZUI/AAAAAAAAEzw/aXzruCrIB40/photo10_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>The owner had just purchased it from an individual and the outside skin began to shred off as he towed it home.  We wish him well and better travels!  </p> <p>The scheduled activity for this campout was a trip to the “Chisholm Trail Heritage Center.”  The displays are very well presented and chronicle the 19th Century cattle drives through Oklahoma from Texas to Kansas.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f5E1x5UDZSU/UKQFKLU8g4I/AAAAAAAAEz4/z9bf_rDd3xo/s1600-h/DSCN37272.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3727" border="0" alt="DSCN3727" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YvxFWrER-rE/UKQFK85RJ-I/AAAAAAAAE0A/Mv6QbuZTK0s/DSCN3727_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h73vS-1ocfc/UKQFMkF1bjI/AAAAAAAAE0I/3r8yYjcDgXw/s1600-h/DSCN37062.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3706" border="0" alt="DSCN3706" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d2RPkYpnnSU/UKQFNUSHMKI/AAAAAAAAE0Q/D0THUr-rq8Y/DSCN3706_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8aGsMDQSVGw/UKQFO9cNu0I/AAAAAAAAE0Y/vEOuthtrHbk/s1600-h/DSCN37082.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3708" border="0" alt="DSCN3708" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aq1OEBqEL88/UKQFP2sFYII/AAAAAAAAE0g/GIy1K1TIC1o/DSCN3708_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ek9VXR9NZzs/UKQFREZiS8I/AAAAAAAAE0o/jciAT0nEuMs/s1600-h/DSCN37092.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3709" border="0" alt="DSCN3709" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SRgNvIwWYTI/UKQFRhJQOSI/AAAAAAAAE0w/OSHXBrykrVg/DSCN3709_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, a 19th Century RV . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y5WQxu3-F3E/UKQFSYRUWdI/AAAAAAAAE04/E5rm1AYGBp8/s1600-h/DSCN37102.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3710" border="0" alt="DSCN3710" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m6c3mBYWrgg/UKQFTDcebqI/AAAAAAAAE1A/_rLcnyb-uV0/DSCN3710_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Sue Gelm attempts to ride a bucking bronco . . . ,</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xRfg4oYsBD4/UKQFUkzzZTI/AAAAAAAAE1I/WwGrF6JUFqE/s1600-h/DSCN37132.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3713" border="0" alt="DSCN3713" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4rZyU_4Xe7I/UKQFVFxaxUI/AAAAAAAAE1Q/vocknElqAdg/DSCN3713_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>As does Vickie Tidball!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_A1CldT6IrE/UKQFWGVG_RI/AAAAAAAAE1Y/GA0JlQDQ9Mo/s1600-h/DSCN37202.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3720" border="0" alt="DSCN3720" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DyldNFN387Q/UKQFW8neKfI/AAAAAAAAE1g/a0JNHkUf12g/DSCN3720_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Obviously, the “Chisholm Trail Heritage Center” turned out to be lots of fun!  </p> <p>RVers are always in search of good food . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DFy32dR7J7U/UKQFXqyGlxI/AAAAAAAAE1o/WqpaXFIlJok/s1600-h/photo14%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo14" border="0" alt="photo14" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dXYz_A4ihiM/UKQFYMSx8iI/AAAAAAAAE1w/GiK8_7thxvw/photo14_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Like the rich chocolate-dipped marshmallows at Golden Corral. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lPIVOU4dJVM/UKQFZPImA_I/AAAAAAAAE14/zyUH0fsBxIw/s1600-h/DSCN37302.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3730" border="0" alt="DSCN3730" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kLBv06bVeKQ/UKQFZ4vexfI/AAAAAAAAE2A/Lwo6L9l_Sfk/DSCN3730_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uH7TUe5d0BM/UKQFa74Jx3I/AAAAAAAAE2I/GuhrHFz60S4/s1600-h/DSCN37292.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3729" border="0" alt="DSCN3729" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WUqYcDFp0dY/UKQFbbFMwtI/AAAAAAAAE2Q/wVrFpSiTq9g/DSCN3729_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Following a three night campout in Duncan, the Bonannos followed us to our new lot at Cedar Blue (Point “D”).  Before our arrival, the Cains poured another gravel pad adjacent to the patio for our guests.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hbSNHN-_BP0/UKQFdUdMChI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/8puRa9qRsoA/s1600-h/photo85.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo8" border="0" alt="photo8" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-05OpEMYrxXY/UKQFd1zBlYI/AAAAAAAAE2g/WDII4YLyfRU/photo8_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>The shade produced by the coaches parked side-by-side make for a fine leisurely afternoon!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RZ1n-0nhALI/UKQFfukxo_I/AAAAAAAAE2o/3rViZP9hRM4/s1600-h/DSCN37362.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3736" border="0" alt="DSCN3736" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Wu11wQA8F2I/UKQFgc1ZujI/AAAAAAAAE2w/SKPmCR8XTzs/DSCN3736_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nLvgv1WaEdM/UKQFh-nSthI/AAAAAAAAE24/0PBVxgh1438/s1600-h/DSCN37352.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3735" border="0" alt="DSCN3735" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8gfXUsDO644/UKQFiVN1TzI/AAAAAAAAE3A/qHc7ofiNgdc/DSCN3735_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Sulphur is situated in the Arbuckle Mountain Range of south-central Oklahoma.  The Arbuckle Mountains are an ancient mountain range dating back 1.4 billion years.  The range is named for General Matthew Arbuckle, who commanded troops in the area guarding the California road during the late 1800’s.   </p> <p>The Arbuckles are vibrant with color during the fall . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-98SMUGxnAgQ/UKQFkE_5WwI/AAAAAAAAE3I/8WJfw-lbEZw/s1600-h/photo95.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo9" border="0" alt="photo9" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6KQkXaiOtHc/UKQFkpNXquI/AAAAAAAAE3Q/INXZvqAQ8Gs/photo9_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I treated Jonathan and Angie to a foliage tour of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and surrounding area . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cqvx1z7toiw/UKQFnBnvNGI/AAAAAAAAE3Y/-80nxHpLgzc/s1600-h/DSCN37392.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3739" border="0" alt="DSCN3739" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ABnzpzzdYQs/UKQFn4oTQaI/AAAAAAAAE3g/tPPBS-13DMU/DSCN3739_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is the “Lake of the Arbuckles” . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YnlbsMaiSlc/UKQFpoQqJ0I/AAAAAAAAE3o/VzrykvLRrD0/s1600-h/DSCN37372.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3737" border="0" alt="DSCN3737" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Opwge5mvQf8/UKQFqJtfu-I/AAAAAAAAE3w/flIks6Jy_mw/DSCN3737_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kw_y9i4fRRE/UKQFsLZA2fI/AAAAAAAAE34/ZVGugVxGmEc/s1600-h/DSCN37382.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3738" border="0" alt="DSCN3738" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gXuVLKXEe_E/UKQFsxLtRUI/AAAAAAAAE4A/xu8735K94zQ/DSCN3738_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4bWfR9Yrk_k/UKQFuvd0viI/AAAAAAAAE4I/WURmlmmFTSA/s1600-h/DSCN37412.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3741" border="0" alt="DSCN3741" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5fDLE-wtVNA/UKQFvN0HQDI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/1R2fl2GUTsU/DSCN3741_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, Jonathan views the town of Sulphur from high above Bromide Hill.  Below, is a view of the new Artesian Hotel currently under construction in Sulphur.  Owned by the Chickasaw Nation, the new hotel will have a conference center, and of course, a casino! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NRCJpG6pil0/UKQFwFW3IsI/AAAAAAAAE4Y/PWEi2T_-_p4/s1600-h/DSCN37402.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3740" border="0" alt="DSCN3740" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FoA_E2hK6EI/UKQFwytNynI/AAAAAAAAE4g/dqSxm_H6Oro/DSCN3740_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below is the original Artesian, which burned in 1962.  It opened in 1906 using furnishings from the St. Louis World’s Fair.  The Artesian was known as the “Summer White House” of Oklahoma’s first governor, Charles Haskell.  Movie stars, John Wayne and Roy Rogers, both stayed at the Artesian while filming movies in Oklahoma.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dRCCtQonKJ4/UKQFxW9UTdI/AAAAAAAAE4o/VmQXxcOzYzI/s1600-h/old_artesian_212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="old_artesian_2[1]" border="0" alt="old_artesian_2[1]" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EBAQdf9LZWw/UKQFxyVvwGI/AAAAAAAAE4w/XNI-R3xNKDQ/old_artesian_21_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="202" /></a></p> <p>The following is a series of fall foliage pictures taken in the Flower Park area of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PI2HNW9FJWw/UKQFzLTYHGI/AAAAAAAAE44/ThjQ9e2bnp8/s1600-h/DSCN37472.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3747" border="0" alt="DSCN3747" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7FW5QPJ7cOg/UKQFzn5OHtI/AAAAAAAAE5A/9F4HA21OJhc/DSCN3747_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Mvc7_edWiLE/UKQF1XFpenI/AAAAAAAAE5I/WeHv3W97DaI/s1600-h/DSCN37452.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3745" border="0" alt="DSCN3745" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U4Zi5u-lm84/UKQF11uVEnI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/J7yCzuJQqFQ/DSCN3745_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Use your imagination and the cactus pictured below takes on the resemblance of “Pac Man.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gCEHSQyarr0/UKQF353cWwI/AAAAAAAAE5Y/cRJm7V4ZiHk/s1600-h/DSCN37442.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3744" border="0" alt="DSCN3744" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9cznCGWYEUM/UKQF4nJWwOI/AAAAAAAAE5g/D5g3-lVchD0/DSCN3744_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Click on the following image to enlarge and learn more about “Lincoln Bridge” and the following pictures.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7VwC3G6F8ZM/UKQF6JBFeXI/AAAAAAAAE5o/aG3ZwXLHG-Y/s1600-h/DSCN37462.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3746" border="0" alt="DSCN3746" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e1Ne5ZRNtoU/UKQF7KoafcI/AAAAAAAAE5w/jacaaP4k9og/DSCN3746_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6DwMz28XtuQ/UKQF8TgsL1I/AAAAAAAAE54/yPGssjNYKBM/s1600-h/DSCN37502.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3750" border="0" alt="DSCN3750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Kbhk4efmlIY/UKQF9OOvMcI/AAAAAAAAE6A/UP89OorwpVc/DSCN3750_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z62gljCvmXg/UKQF-Z-eoPI/AAAAAAAAE6I/hbZRfADel48/s1600-h/DSCN37512.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3751" border="0" alt="DSCN3751" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1SXivxJ1W1s/UKQF-9Jg70I/AAAAAAAAE6Q/7oaoNkwn5go/DSCN3751_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gl60VPPWn8c/UKQGADtwvpI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/EboAcgcEHDU/s1600-h/DSCN37522.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3752" border="0" alt="DSCN3752" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VKGnUCElPWw/UKQGAsgKkYI/AAAAAAAAE6g/1uwSqC8FPyE/DSCN3752_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The east end of the park contains “Little Niagara,” which is a waterfall fed by an underground stream.  Because of the long drought experienced in Oklahoma and other nearby states, the falls and stream have dried up.  I’ve been a visitor to the area for over 30 years and this is the first time I’ve ever seen Little Niagara dry.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Cn1i7_7qUU8/UKQGCxrlk6I/AAAAAAAAE6o/QqnPE3AcsJk/s1600-h/DSCN37532.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3753" border="0" alt="DSCN3753" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aHn5ZcwVU6A/UKQGDTSHdqI/AAAAAAAAE6w/_kkrUMbVQ8c/DSCN3753_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>During a typical fall season, water will cascade off the above rock ledge forming the falls known as “Little Niagara.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9KbD3wz3R50/UKQGFD-UXYI/AAAAAAAAE64/pDqRRxNuwis/s1600-h/DSCN37542.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3754" border="0" alt="DSCN3754" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2AWS7sikwig/UKQGFircUtI/AAAAAAAAE7A/LJVNVEOtG4E/DSCN3754_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, a pool of water will normally form allowing for swimming and wading.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uhjcY_7FG-I/UKQGHkjEg2I/AAAAAAAAE7I/fWoQm8knIl4/s1600-h/DSCN37552.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3755" border="0" alt="DSCN3755" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NWtQW3tBhUE/UKQGIISHuhI/AAAAAAAAE7Q/hTgXAQfXiPo/DSCN3755_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Ironically, the sign pictured in the image below states: “Caution Shallow Water.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NSibiNI6nWI/UKQGLDZKMLI/AAAAAAAAE7Y/_2fdpG_xN0I/s1600-h/DSCN37562.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3756" border="0" alt="DSCN3756" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eAxsBy9qpk8/UKQGL7k2uNI/AAAAAAAAE7g/O_YGAF8yVEU/DSCN3756_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ORDgKUoFn9E/UKQGN8wp3_I/AAAAAAAAE7o/0ic3MMtm8LM/s1600-h/DSCN37572.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3757" border="0" alt="DSCN3757" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JrgdS6pkHf0/UKQGOWah5PI/AAAAAAAAE7w/Gr97JymaWfQ/DSCN3757_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>After three nights at Cedar Blue and our foliage tour of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, we left the Sulphur area and headed south to Thackerville, Oklahoma, the home of WinStar World Casino (Point “E”).    </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-naPXHdCsn2A/UKQGPLv91FI/AAAAAAAAE74/kIo8B6X9ERI/s1600-h/DSCN37792.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3779" border="0" alt="DSCN3779" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eT8AEJ1SbeE/UKQGP4JJ5pI/AAAAAAAAE8A/KhWIX_5ietM/DSCN3779_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The “Oklahoma Heartland Owners Club” gathered here for the Fall Rally.  Susan and I, along with the Bonannos and several other couples, are founding members of the club.  The Inaugural Rally of the Oklahoma Chapter was also held here in May 2012.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7qya7TP7yCs/UKQHkZgDiaI/AAAAAAAAE8Q/7fotMY354l0/s1600-h/DSCN37742.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3774" border="0" alt="DSCN3774" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mAVrB8Pr6PU/UKQHkz3S7oI/AAAAAAAAE8Y/riZ2YmewZRM/DSCN3774_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>WinStar hosts a luxury RV Park with concrete pads, full hookups, swimming pool, and spacious club room . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-boAoXvzqscQ/UKQHlZ8F88I/AAAAAAAAE8g/6n2-4ATq0So/s1600-h/DSCN37722.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3772" border="0" alt="DSCN3772" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L42q8CM3QeE/UKQHl4rcMBI/AAAAAAAAE8o/ahVLGf4fI00/DSCN3772_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MJiz5cMKZfk/UKQHmiQRdiI/AAAAAAAAE8w/sb8bcVTUbJ0/s1600-h/DSCN37592.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3759" border="0" alt="DSCN3759" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9dYUtFwRS1c/UKQHnAbCH0I/AAAAAAAAE84/ay5Uz_0CJgc/DSCN3759_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1xLENXWtMqo/UKQHpDKQTwI/AAAAAAAAE9A/uG7plO7iiE8/s1600-h/DSCN37582.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3758" border="0" alt="DSCN3758" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xLikZ8vHcHk/UKQHpmxfFQI/AAAAAAAAE9I/FLGkPWeessY/DSCN3758_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VMhO8rD8D10/UKQHq2DMWcI/AAAAAAAAE9Q/mcYKFqPWACY/s1600-h/DSCN37802.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3780" border="0" alt="DSCN3780" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CufMVC5NZt8/UKQHrabI1LI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/B54ZMTWgm_o/DSCN3780_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>And, they provide convenient shuttle service to and from the casino . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SCRdR4RlEZs/UKQHsa23dXI/AAAAAAAAE9g/hW-cl3ssCmI/s1600-h/DSCN37752.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3775" border="0" alt="DSCN3775" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-z7VAoJZltQM/UKQHs5q1EpI/AAAAAAAAE9o/cTrIx9RJ_Ik/DSCN3775_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The casino is “world class,” and serves as a venue for many celebrity attractions, i.e., George Lopez, Willie Nelson, etc.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vbi-gZ9y2cI/UKQHtqA5HeI/AAAAAAAAE9w/l8ujlxpvmbs/s1600-h/DSCN37762.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3776" border="0" alt="DSCN3776" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VGHqKYHeUOc/UKQHt48A6mI/AAAAAAAAE94/x4sGwAmv1Z8/DSCN3776_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p>If you haven’t visited WinStar, it’s worth the trip to see the decor and architecture of the facility . . . ,</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LH_xLvrJ1hA/UKQHvcjMqTI/AAAAAAAAE-A/cLE1LMzkEXs/s1600-h/DSCN37772.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3777" border="0" alt="DSCN3777" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PfS24PAjtcs/UKQHvqRKAEI/AAAAAAAAE-I/SoCXcX2-yvA/DSCN3777_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>and take in the “free” Thursday morning senior breakfast with live entertainment! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9RqBDwA02cU/UKQHwiGbYoI/AAAAAAAAE-Q/0m-kBVrgJTc/s1600-h/DSCN37782.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3778" border="0" alt="DSCN3778" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MG0AqRx7V_A/UKQHxJe-ReI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/aOt1vDanPls/DSCN3778_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The Bonannos must have brought us good luck, because the slots were actually “friendly” to us this trip!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BznuDmLqpfc/UKQHymCdfmI/AAAAAAAAE-g/8mQzhJ6Ade8/s1600-h/photo7%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Pbl4PI9sXrM/UKQHzI_KgUI/AAAAAAAAE-o/KfHYvYO9Z-k/photo7_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VZ6XJqnajp0/UKQH0MuhMkI/AAAAAAAAE-w/r8VCL3vkAbY/s1600-h/photo6%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3NvO9RCCC9U/UKQH0mM3ZbI/AAAAAAAAE-4/kVRiq3thDKw/photo6_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Larry and Donna Keever are the Oklahoma Heartland Club “Chapter Leaders.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GO4YUz6UoWI/UKQH1RnlAMI/AAAAAAAAE_A/pFJ1LrRcjAg/s1600-h/DSCN3817%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3817" border="0" alt="DSCN3817" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-609ahRMCKCA/UKQH2Nv2s2I/AAAAAAAAE_I/0PBGnoN8BT8/DSCN3817_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Donna appropriately titled the theme for this rally as “Honor Our Veterans,” in recognition of Veterans Day.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-41RB3Ncrvps/UKQH2_um4EI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/dVvew-dFk-o/s1600-h/DSCN3781%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3781" border="0" alt="DSCN3781" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y4JlU2awgis/UKQH3SSNeWI/AAAAAAAAE_Y/BqCQaK4JXUc/DSCN3781_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SZAu36oUqYU/UKQH4XwiKRI/AAAAAAAAE_g/WAtMfky5jUc/s1600-h/DSCN3782%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3782" border="0" alt="DSCN3782" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CUD6V_8lb_M/UKQH4yS0f7I/AAAAAAAAE_o/xNm6-29ALYI/DSCN3782_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Founding chapter member, Paul Lineen, shared his military uniform and photographs . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tYKuPDmFh4o/UKQH5zXB9nI/AAAAAAAAE_w/ntDppQRDi1U/s1600-h/DSCN3808%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3808" border="0" alt="DSCN3808" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jx1NfUellCY/UKQH6XngBBI/AAAAAAAAE_4/sxv2f5WeQpo/DSCN3808_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Donna did an excellent job of decorating the facility for the event, and Jonathan Bonanno built the honorary flag displays to be given to each of our veteran members during the ceremony.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-R4bDhvtnZYU/UKQH8SBu5vI/AAAAAAAAFAA/6_aQPA4f7iA/s1600-h/DSCN3816%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3816" border="0" alt="DSCN3816" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HxlgDTedxBk/UKQH87qV45I/AAAAAAAAFAI/ghlMiHOCkkc/DSCN3816_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, the Oklahoma Heartland Club veterans pose with their honorary flags . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1QpfgrprOwo/UKQH9iZfJPI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/A47RLKzQq6M/s1600-h/DSCN3838%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3838" border="0" alt="DSCN3838" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BTA95gs2yqU/UKQH-SbQjLI/AAAAAAAAFAY/mE4UItXt8U4/DSCN3838_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Rally dinners are just as good as campout dinners.  Larry and Jonathan grill burgers and hot dogs the first night of the rally.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FOqpgESR7k8/UKQH_IUbVmI/AAAAAAAAFAg/ER4g6JTE9m4/s1600-h/DSCN3785%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3785" border="0" alt="DSCN3785" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Npdhc26cU6M/UKQH_s-yFlI/AAAAAAAAFAo/S08k7bbpr9M/DSCN3785_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Followed by an evening out to “Babe’s Chicken Dinner House” in Sanger, Texas (highly recommended!).  If you go, Babe’s is located at 202 North 4th Street in Sanger.  They serve “family style” chicken dinner with all the trimmings.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jDIMDxyzdvc/UKQIAvXHQ3I/AAAAAAAAFAw/58IvK2Wt7Zo/s1600-h/DSCN3792%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3792" border="0" alt="DSCN3792" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GSNgw5R5RwI/UKQIBHoUKyI/AAAAAAAAFA4/pKnC8zvK0FA/DSCN3792_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6B5R0lk5Xew/UKQIBj45EsI/AAAAAAAAFBA/RC4f8LPHEmM/s1600-h/DSCN3800%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3800" border="0" alt="DSCN3800" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5tWOEH5UKBI/UKQICUJ4HbI/AAAAAAAAFBI/FFUJkL2kBuk/DSCN3800_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, Susan and Corbin Tayloe meet a new friend at Babe’s Chicken House . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KFBD7p1YnnI/UKQIDTPzkhI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/G8PxtIo8_vE/s1600-h/DSCN3795%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3795" border="0" alt="DSCN3795" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0Z3PMf3axfI/UKQID2Y1MlI/AAAAAAAAFBY/LrLG7DjMYkc/DSCN3795_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>An interesting use of a vintage Chris Craft Boat . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qpe5U4_Il7M/UKQIFhRSRWI/AAAAAAAAFBg/lEv1JGZVkww/s1600-h/DSCN3799%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3799" border="0" alt="DSCN3799" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xBshX1XvSr4/UKQIGKNamDI/AAAAAAAAFBo/_I-4HF-h-NU/DSCN3799_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Larry with the “Chicken!”</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ltUfoXNJDXw/UKQIGw4FrxI/AAAAAAAAFBw/WucBnJHnBO4/s1600-h/DSCN3801%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3801" border="0" alt="DSCN3801" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qDJKHcmwgBg/UKQIHQ2fnRI/AAAAAAAAFB4/2EXQKIF6iCE/DSCN3801_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Other views of Sanger, Texas . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WRDizgpQiVA/UKQIJPwGxHI/AAAAAAAAFCA/1GZyvtdlJtU/s1600-h/DSCN3791%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3791" border="0" alt="DSCN3791" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GFt9Tk8ZlUM/UKQIJd_-JcI/AAAAAAAAFCI/GyJIe3hvCYg/DSCN3791_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j1mIMK42Mbs/UKQIKeRFUOI/AAAAAAAAFCQ/_p4Szemsd8A/s1600-h/DSCN3793%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3793" border="0" alt="DSCN3793" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ebbDft5IE5Y/UKQIK7MdBgI/AAAAAAAAFCY/a_jzu2ZiYU0/DSCN3793_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fSxqABWm9R4/UKQIMdkIh3I/AAAAAAAAFCg/-Z_0TaaesO4/s1600-h/DSCN3802%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3802" border="0" alt="DSCN3802" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qKfwqrLD-ns/UKQIM5LMW5I/AAAAAAAAFCo/stDie5WZb6Q/DSCN3802_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fQBfm1ksBj8/UKQIOhqUpaI/AAAAAAAAFCw/xF9_IRJoAJc/s1600-h/DSCN3803%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3803" border="0" alt="DSCN3803" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pMM0u2s04q8/UKQIPJmB-FI/AAAAAAAAFC4/IJMmlIktrRI/DSCN3803_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Jonathan found the perfect addition to his “man cave.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_eaLobTxBAg/UKQIQ8Ev8NI/AAAAAAAAFDA/3ecXQWmyp2c/s1600-h/DSCN3794%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3794" border="0" alt="DSCN3794" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tlATtNlxpNI/UKQIRi5nIhI/AAAAAAAAFDI/H_sB6bJMCyI/DSCN3794_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The final night of the rally included games and a potluck dinner, including Jonathan’s special smoked ribs and Larry’s pork loin with apricot sauce. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--Crv23mgF8M/UKQISgMn8sI/AAAAAAAAFDQ/Wak-lMJGFAw/s1600-h/DSCN3805%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3805" border="0" alt="DSCN3805" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gv76EkjfCfg/UKQITZGA2uI/AAAAAAAAFDY/VlsnCct2U14/DSCN3805_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LjnMsIYYcUE/UKQIUXpjOcI/AAAAAAAAFDg/v2WGLP-erTo/s1600-h/DSCN3790%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3790" border="0" alt="DSCN3790" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eGLsL8TfCF0/UKQIU0eErbI/AAAAAAAAFDo/qAHn98kVg2s/DSCN3790_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Game winners holding their “winners badges.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7Bt6sAVM6wc/UKQIWdP9d6I/AAAAAAAAFDw/QVyJdYnzy3E/s1600-h/DSCN3812%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3812" border="0" alt="DSCN3812" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BSBsvZA8Sk4/UKQIXHcPvuI/AAAAAAAAFD4/MyzbVI_k_qY/DSCN3812_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Believe it or not, I actually won the “First Place” badge for “Thirty-One!”  I never win anything; but of course, Susan says I have to play to win. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TuYEzvgP8hw/UKQIY8AJHpI/AAAAAAAAFEA/B5WOS8DF-tI/s1600-h/DSCN3809%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3809" border="0" alt="DSCN3809" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-s17eR-dbKOU/UKQIZrmbrsI/AAAAAAAAFEI/Mjsu6Fvazic/DSCN3809_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>What a feast!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WT4Pw3L69SQ/UKQIbDYRsLI/AAAAAAAAFEQ/jgP1R2w0A_g/s1600-h/DSCN3823%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3823" border="0" alt="DSCN3823" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n_WZF5xTqVI/UKQIb29Y03I/AAAAAAAAFEY/r5KAtw2dTSE/DSCN3823_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Larry and Donna always surprise members and guests to the rally with door prizes . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jPqCXJQg6P8/UKQIdQV4g4I/AAAAAAAAFEg/RGph9SNVGe4/s1600-h/DSCN3814%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3814" border="0" alt="DSCN3814" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1rEOV_DzoRQ/UKQId-9592I/AAAAAAAAFEo/GBQZeVBrLOA/DSCN3814_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The rally concluded Sunday morning.  Because of the early morning thunderstorms that rolled into the area, Susan and I decided to delay our departure until the skies cleared.  The remaining group decided to have lunch at “El Fenix” inside the casino.  The food was great, and apparently, so was the beer! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E_4l7FRewhw/UKQIfc3j8AI/AAAAAAAAFEw/ARJmxY9_awc/s1600-h/photo4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bx4PWzrPDtc/UKQIf024DHI/AAAAAAAAFE4/ShcIBsu924g/photo4_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AVqpXpyg4sQ/UKQIghUl1zI/AAAAAAAAFFA/DWuwBntgcK4/s1600-h/photo2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5Qx2JEghDa4/UKQIhAzFP4I/AAAAAAAAFFI/whtCtowMPjA/photo2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>  </p> <p>When the skies finally cleared, Susan and I readied the coach to head back to the origin of our trip, Oklahoma City (Point “A”).  But not before Jonathan could try to stop us . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2FGlVCl-ZPA/UKQIiBKvffI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/tyf1V0Umvqw/s1600-h/photo3%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oHYqP06bpkk/UKQIir3mncI/AAAAAAAAFFY/jFSrR7MZxPc/photo3_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>We really enjoyed traveling with our new friends, Jonathan and Angela, and look forward to many more adventures with them. Thanks to the Tidballs and Adams for hosting the Duncan campout, and thanks to Larry and Donna for sponsoring the Heartland Rally.  We appreciate everyone in our Modern Wagoneer Good Sam chapter, as well as all of our new friends in the Oklahoma Heartland Owners Club.  Safe travels and we look forward to seeing all of you soon! </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-67960709539102895342012-11-13T13:42:00.001-08:002012-11-19T12:46:59.386-08:00Fourth Time’s a Charm!<p>Susan and I recently purchased our fourth lot at Cedar Blue RV Resort south of Sulphur, Oklahoma.  If you care to read as far back as the first segment of this blog, you’ll see the first Cedar Blue lot we purchased in 2001.  It seems we just can’t stay away!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GSFQfuXYEGg/UKK-e_DRyMI/AAAAAAAAFHQ/cF5TeDsLdwU/s1600-h/DSCN3224%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3224" border="0" alt="DSCN3224" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bQGXSH2Bavw/UKK-fQKNG5I/AAAAAAAAFHU/WrYTWaQ-YPk/DSCN3224_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="333" height="205" /></a></p> <p>We searched for a small RV friendly lake lot at Eufaula or some other nearby location for a quick getaway.  But with no success, we once again found ourselves viewing available lots at Cedar Blue.  Interestingly, we perceived the ideal lot as having nothing more in improvements than a concrete patio and storage shed.  That’s exactly what we found!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NPZ1DjqLkok/UKqaSRuZLLI/AAAAAAAAFHY/gQd0UXXGXi4/s1600-h/DSCN3247%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3247" border="0" alt="DSCN3247" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tlkYh2AT8H8/UKqaS1-xSvI/AAAAAAAAFHg/9vt36qiwnZg/DSCN3247_thumb%25255B30%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="243" height="169" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0s3_NoNwvjE/UKK-g1YR-mI/AAAAAAAAEsY/urZLtntSUZw/s1600-h/DSCN3213%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3213" border="0" alt="DSCN3213" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YQ9doNwx75o/UKK-hzn3vYI/AAAAAAAAEsg/JEtyZZMsMLk/DSCN3213_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Our priority use of the RV is extended road trips.  With few permanent fixtures in the way, we can maintain the mobility of the coach with easy access to and from the lot.  </p> <p>A previous owner built the concrete patio with a stamped/stained surface.  We purchased the lot from a couple who owned it a very short time when an electrical fire destroyed their RV, patio cover, and other accessories.  The storage shed survived, but will have to be reroofed and sided.  </p> <p>As seen in the following pictures, we’re able to back the coach alongside the concrete patio . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iVtt97vDDCw/UKK-jqmgkpI/AAAAAAAAEso/cb2SSLfiCu8/s1600-h/DSCN3227%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3227" border="0" alt="DSCN3227" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-A9ueLsoZ0bk/UKK-kPAknXI/AAAAAAAAEsw/z4TaRaY38Do/DSCN3227_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uHjHn4_st2w/UKK-l30QYCI/AAAAAAAAEs4/uvqJ5FtpfTU/s1600-h/Copy%252520of%252520DSCN3208%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Copy of DSCN3208" border="0" alt="Copy of DSCN3208" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9XBI_uR4RFI/UKK-mrAeoZI/AAAAAAAAEtA/nTBD4X2zobw/Copy%252520of%252520DSCN3208_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2FcREEpjWmo/UKK-oqymZYI/AAAAAAAAEtI/IvgNCPi1ruo/s1600-h/DSCN3210%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3210" border="0" alt="DSCN3210" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LEJmj0EORBc/UKK-pVuhyEI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/6Ml2-krPoj0/DSCN3210_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>With the help of our good friends, Jerry Sr. and Jerry Jr. Cain, we were able to shape up the driveway, level the gravel pad for the RV, and install new plumbing facilities . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UV0XzM-cqMw/UKK-q5TIumI/AAAAAAAAEtY/8nD9usr6Eys/s1600-h/DSCN3233%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3233" border="0" alt="DSCN3233" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FrAp-5jmfOk/UKK-rjv4h6I/AAAAAAAAEtg/FuK3PSw3c_4/DSCN3233_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u90H9D6JUos/UKK-tekDSvI/AAAAAAAAEto/hOHZ74Q5QYc/s1600-h/DSCN3232%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3232" border="0" alt="DSCN3232" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8yaKAtojqsA/UKK-uDbVcWI/AAAAAAAAEtw/Z4P5EhHWAUc/DSCN3232_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PeVQbvfWISk/UKqYjYUgInI/AAAAAAAAFHo/Yi6blQAifSs/s1600-h/DSCN3246%25255B21%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3246" border="0" alt="DSCN3246" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EMLLVXKJNqM/UKqYkHf1ZAI/AAAAAAAAFHs/wpfB5LxPdYw/DSCN3246_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" height="233" /></a> </p> <p>We also had to recruit our favorite electrician, Josh Shiry, to help us replace the electrical service . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VNZyzbtIRyQ/UKK-vILTpvI/AAAAAAAAEt4/bzJUvoTxuW0/s1600-h/DSCN3229%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3229" border="0" alt="DSCN3229" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BYrQPvQF2bo/UKK-v7j5NuI/AAAAAAAAEuA/Jwh0vD8QxG4/DSCN3229_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p>We now have 200 volt, 50 amp, 30 amp, and 20 amp service.  </p> <p>Sulphur’s a great community to visit, and only a little over an hour away from home.  Cedar Blue is a gated community with 24/7 security.  Our new lot is on a cul-de-sac, and backs up to a wooded common area flanked by a fish-stocked pond . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-isVIqiPlHOc/UKK-xB1eTBI/AAAAAAAAEuI/eLLwAxpHzmc/s1600-h/DSCN3226%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3226" border="0" alt="DSCN3226" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lgjR6F6fzQw/UKK-x8BT3dI/AAAAAAAAEuQ/pulTtXPhpcg/DSCN3226_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z8kxvYWyDl8/UKK-zISnMhI/AAAAAAAAEuY/cKuCfpWdrcA/s1600-h/DSCN3230%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3230" border="0" alt="DSCN3230" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--JN1PHhXwxY/UKK-zwgb4vI/AAAAAAAAEug/8HVDe1FKuuk/DSCN3230_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Even Maynard looks forward to visiting “lake home!” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UBfFcMn89Sc/UKK-0829BZI/AAAAAAAAEuo/KutU5JJc7P8/s1600-h/DSCN3231%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3231" border="0" alt="DSCN3231" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1xCKeUZHh7s/UKK-1vlSBKI/AAAAAAAAEuw/Efobdyli_Bg/DSCN3231_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-25326766003326035602012-10-28T09:14:00.001-07:002012-11-22T07:41:30.348-08:002012 Fall Samboree and a Little R&R!<p>Susan and I just returned home from the 2012 Fall Samboree held in Claremore, Oklahoma.  I was recently appointed “Webmaster” for the Oklahoma Good Sam Club, and will be updating the Club’s website and blogging future Samborees. Oklahoma Samborees are lots of fun!  Click on this direct link to experience the fun of the 2012 Oklahoma Fall Samboree:   <a title="http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/" href="http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/">http://oklahomagoodsamclub.blogspot.com/</a></p> <p>Our friends, Johnathan and Angie Bonanno, joined us after the Samboree for a “little R&R” in Branson, Missouri.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C4tAD_6pe8s/UI1Zsfi2VwI/AAAAAAAAEp4/brpHeR47gf4/s1600-h/photo6%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo6" border="0" alt="photo6" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WS7dMvkwYk0/UI1ZtnA4mdI/AAAAAAAAEqA/jnHO-SjYUaQ/photo6_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>They have visited Branson before, but never took in a music show.  We saw “Six,” which is an a cappella group formed by 6 brothers.  Susan and I think it is currently the best show in Branson.  We also saw “Pierce Arrow,” a quartet accompanied by a hilarious comedian.  I don’t think I’ve ever seen any person (Angie) laugh so much!  </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>We stayed at the Branson KOA, which is located on Animal Safari Road.  It’s adjacent to Highway 76 and most major music shows and other attractions in Branson.  If you go and don’t mind the extra cost, ask for (or reserve) a “luxury site.” If you’re traveling with another couple, I recommend sites 130-131.  These sites face each other (the Bonanno’s door opened towards our door) and both have patios, furniture, grill, and chimineas.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mTv17bU6k_o/UI1ZvkXw2TI/AAAAAAAAEqI/k9w3Q8fzGPM/s1600-h/photo5%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo5" border="0" alt="photo5" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qcEkoVLcJBw/UI1ZwoczcaI/AAAAAAAAEqQ/I_a0dXVFjjs/photo5_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I put in a full week working the Samboree and were quite ready to relax and be entertained.  Branson is the ideal retreat, and the Bonannos proved to be good company.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oSaEARS-4Io/UI1ZzKyoDlI/AAAAAAAAEqY/U-9gMEd6yJo/s1600-h/photo3%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo3" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dk-BTyd3G2k/UI1Z0F_m0jI/AAAAAAAAEqg/pnMEa7DF1I0/photo3_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>   </p> <p>We try to make a Branson trip twice per year, spring and fall.  Fall is a beautiful time to visit Branson because of the vibrant colors . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DRHS3do7HiI/UI1Z15L4XJI/AAAAAAAAEqo/VGXP50mDQGU/s1600-h/photo%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo" border="0" alt="photo" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8sYKvFHHTJc/UI1Z2yindXI/AAAAAAAAEqw/RLImAFfTbB8/photo_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0FMsQ9fXeSo/UI1Z4HO5EbI/AAAAAAAAEq4/ARAc5SrIcy4/s1600-h/photo4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2_C3eF0AwWw/UI1Z40T0gKI/AAAAAAAAEq8/5DoS31GGqZc/photo4_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Before I forget, if you visit Branson and want to pull a harmless trick on someone, take them to lunch at McFarland’s Restaurant.  They have a “rising table” that slowly ascends as you dine.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VnzYRk-kO2M/UI1Z6dyN6PI/AAAAAAAAErI/At-fojN-SHo/s1600-h/photo7%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo7" border="0" alt="photo7" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vsLmGja0hlk/UI1Z68VKZuI/AAAAAAAAErQ/0MkU22vb1v4/photo7_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bJ6siEQ8Vak/UI1Z8sASxrI/AAAAAAAAErY/nHGjQ_fKlYc/s1600-h/photo8%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo8" border="0" alt="photo8" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sAuEBl0xZvg/UI1Z9WE20zI/AAAAAAAAErg/WTAAUezWvpE/photo8_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Compare the height of the table in the above pictures.  About the time the table reached the height of the right picture, Angie said: “I think I need a booster-seat!”   </p> <p>We’ll soon be heading to Duncan, Oklahoma for a Modern Wagoneer campout, and then to the WinStar Casino and RV Park for the Oklahoma Heartland Chapter Fall Rally.  Safe travels!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-79738618432179467822012-10-06T10:04:00.001-07:002012-10-06T10:06:44.175-07:00Boys and Their Toys!<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-36COf5FBz9U/UHBkfSDtXUI/AAAAAAAAEoM/adxMmk3aESo/s1600-h/DSCN3243%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3243" border="0" alt="DSCN3243" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N5CSUuNCzxc/UHBkgaWWQdI/AAAAAAAAEoU/dfDs_c5XgQ8/DSCN3243_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <p>Is what my wife says when she looks at my truck these days.  I never reach the point of “road rage,” but when other drivers enter major highways and refuse to yield to me while towing the rig, I’ve often wished I had a set of semi air horns that would blow the cell phone out of their hands.  The momentary burst of adrenaline caused by the piercing sound of the horns is far less damaging then the alternative 26,000 lbs of diesel truck and trailer crashing into their rear end.  </p> <p>I began the search for a good set of air horns several months ago, but I was hesitant to purchase anything I found online for fear it would be inadequate (not loud enough!).  I discovered a set of Hadley horns for sale at Camping World, which is the same kit used on most high-end motorhomes.  But for me, the cost was prohibitive ($495.00 + installation).  The kit included the necessary compressor, air tank, and accessories, but with Camping World installation, I would have close to $1,500.00 invested.  </p> <p>Patience often pays off!  On a recent trip to my local Camping World for unrelated items, I noticed the lone set of Hadley’s in the same spot on the shelf where they’ve been for months.  Out of curiosity, I checked the price and it was marked down for “closeout” to $199.00.  I quickly loaded the box into the cart and rushed to checkout before anyone else attempted to steal my horns.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HGgLsOFvSrE/UHBkh3kU9SI/AAAAAAAAEoc/-FprVsJtQTY/s1600-h/DSCN3240%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3240" border="0" alt="DSCN3240" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RPZN3pqVrBQ/UHBkiRxa96I/AAAAAAAAEog/73aL2KakCDw/DSCN3240_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Thanks to Sean at Lewis RV, my horns are installed and working  as expected!  Sean does a meticulous installation and for much less than his competitors.  The compressor and air tank are installed in one of the bed’s storage compartments just below the compressor and tank used for the air bags.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OcE3rjWXUk0/UHBkjMbK9LI/AAAAAAAAEos/w-NpbVX5zqk/s1600-h/DSCN3241%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3241" border="0" alt="DSCN3241" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m6kiMKwgMq8/UHBkj6dFNmI/AAAAAAAAEo0/WroJytz4gQY/DSCN3241_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Sean also installed two switches on the center console that allow me to cycle the pump on/off, and switch between the factory horn and the air horns.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UAVW2W2xPdc/UHBkkTPW_6I/AAAAAAAAEo8/BCWaCJUAoJs/s1600-h/DSCN3242%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3242" border="0" alt="DSCN3242" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9r5tjblderU/UHBklEcx1gI/AAAAAAAAEpE/hEaq2UpjI6Q/DSCN3242_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan calls my new horns “toys,” I like to think of them as “truck bling.”  Just wait till the new 5-inch chrome exhaust stacks arrive.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vQqyVuGJwG8/UHBkmgVBf7I/AAAAAAAAEpM/5rFDDjtcaNA/s1600-h/DSCN3244%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3244" border="0" alt="DSCN3244" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dl1wA7u6vuc/UHBknMYoEaI/AAAAAAAAEpU/7dQnTD9oZMY/DSCN3244_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-35965711582267607072012-09-20T09:32:00.001-07:002012-09-20T09:35:41.689-07:00Celebrating America’s Heroes!<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fjoZUEi4Rck/UFtE0yP-BMI/AAAAAAAAEnY/9sV8Xyp9ZlU/s1600-h/flag1-1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="flag1-1" border="0" alt="flag1-1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f26rINYPXTA/UFtE1c2JlHI/AAAAAAAAEnc/4-8DSL5jMvI/flag1-1_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Our recent RV outing took us to Wichita Falls, Texas, to celebrate the NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) Induction Ceremony of Susan’s daughter, Senior Airman, Katherine Campbell.  It wasn’t that long ago that Katherine, or “K,” as I prefer to call her, was zooming around the campus of OCU on her rollerblades.  The Air Force has not yet let “K” zoom around the country in a T-38, but at the rate she’s advancing, it may not be long. </p> <p>Katherine serves in the “82nd Medical Group,” but the base also is the home of “80th Flying Training Wing,” which flies both the T-6A Texan II (lower left) and the T-38C Talon (lower right). . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0rH381X-yWE/UFtE2S2fBMI/AAAAAAAAEng/D85XlcFTq6c/s1600-h/T-6A%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="040519-F-2171A-500" border="0" alt="040519-F-2171A-500" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7ABZ0tBEqAQ/UFtE2uErI-I/AAAAAAAAEnk/cMaXxKb6heQ/T-6A_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="104" height="69" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IHNwKylf6G8/UFtE3X8XQrI/AAAAAAAAEno/sAxpsxv23z0/s1600-h/T-38%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="061020-F-2316I-07" border="0" alt="061020-F-2316I-07" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v45iuoEgcGM/UFtE3zFDJ6I/AAAAAAAAEns/ePR2cmMQmdk/T-38_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="104" height="71" /></a> </p> <p>Sheppard currently trains 350 student pilots and 150 instructor pilots.  </p> <p>Katherine’s service to our country makes her family very proud, and we congratulate her has she sews on her 4th stripe identifying her as a “Staff Sergeant” in the U.S.A.F.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-suDpEeP3mQU/UFtE4pgVaXI/AAAAAAAAEko/XpqUOam68w8/s1600-h/070816-F-0000X-001%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="070816-F-0000X-001" border="0" alt="070816-F-0000X-001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cjc-aOZ7reA/UFtE5JCLGRI/AAAAAAAAEkw/8DXW2upmwV4/070816-F-0000X-001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="202" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5xE805qYZqk/UFtE5wnkIOI/AAAAAAAAEk4/2l3XWorXq-o/s1600-h/DSCN3215%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3215" border="0" alt="DSCN3215" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-81-zuoo6NjA/UFtE6hwUUpI/AAAAAAAAElA/z1D0A0a-7W0/DSCN3215_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, Katherine walks through the traditional crossed swords during induction ceremonies.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3fp-yqpHCWU/UFtE7qy7AqI/AAAAAAAAElI/J49jbPbPVmY/s1600-h/DSCN3217%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3217" border="0" alt="DSCN3217" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BknGdrQJsUI/UFtE8LxZ_yI/AAAAAAAAElQ/Hfmkr82SvVk/DSCN3217_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Katherine receives her “Certificate of Achievement” from Brig. General Michael Fantini, 82nd Training Wing Commander. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NUWhyA789Eo/UFtE85wEs8I/AAAAAAAAElY/UwF8E1-MzYc/s1600-h/DSCN3222%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3222" border="0" alt="DSCN3222" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pOpMWi_lFfE/UFtE9m8ZJII/AAAAAAAAElg/jvhyoWXTgns/DSCN3222_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8ejPYgmuZ2s/UFtE-lrCFdI/AAAAAAAAElo/TdZP2vWzTl4/s1600-h/DSCN3218%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3218" border="0" alt="DSCN3218" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FlpnE3Z6t4M/UFtE_TggiKI/AAAAAAAAElw/OZ9zsUYcVAY/DSCN3218_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NQZzv9k_1Gg/UFtFBLcMH6I/AAAAAAAAEl4/0xIg6EcPVW0/s1600-h/DSCN3220%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3220" border="0" alt="DSCN3220" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K_jYN5Rzwvg/UFtFBtm9r_I/AAAAAAAAEmA/qyDP-ZUHKwg/DSCN3220_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, One Proud Mom! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uOgVTW2zkXs/UFtFCZc7u7I/AAAAAAAAEmI/YsYIZ1G0BMw/s1600-h/DSCN3214%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3214" border="0" alt="DSCN3214" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1kct63OVhL8/UFtFDOQYtqI/AAAAAAAAEmQ/Y4GIFewRVSY/DSCN3214_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-f2m2uqYMc8A/UFtFErb90ZI/AAAAAAAAEmY/tplUT2VDzLc/s1600-h/Motor%252520Home%252520Photos%252520020%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Motor Home Photos 020" border="0" alt="Motor Home Photos 020" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UinN1zZ3D2k/UFtFFbERczI/AAAAAAAAEmg/HWjdsJOJzLM/Motor%252520Home%252520Photos%252520020_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="241" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>The night before we departed for Wichita Falls, Oklahoma City’s “Honor Flight” was scheduled to return to Will Rogers World Airport.  At 9:15 p.m., 104 WWII veterans returned from the 9th trip out of Oklahoma City to visit the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C.  They also visited other war memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, and The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  </p> <p>Susan’s D.A.R. sisters assisted in the mass turnout of soldiers, friends, family, and supporters as our veterans departed the aircraft and entered the terminal . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qoqGznOwG6I/UFtFGjx7lKI/AAAAAAAAEmo/iKg4IQTpxCM/s1600-h/photo1%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo1" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NGl_dEngaRc/UFtFHghVYZI/AAAAAAAAEmw/fn6tsLD7gZw/photo1_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="271" height="247" /></a> </p> <p>I had been to Sulphur for most of the day and exhausted after the 200-mile round trip, and I was first reluctant when Susan asked me to accompany her to the return of the Flight.  But once we arrived at the airport and entered the terminal, not only was I ashamed for my earlier reluctance, I was honored to be in the presence of men and women who helped make it possible for me to be a free American!    </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Nwo_oVHlIA/UFtFId_iEoI/AAAAAAAAEm4/T6DPnk1IFcY/s1600-h/photo2%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Yzfk7OTKQrs/UFtFJNS8v3I/AAAAAAAAEnA/4UbLx2Ml-jk/photo2_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="303" /></a> </p> <p>While standing at the end of the line and greeting the veterans as they turned to enter the elevator, I noticed a well-postured man wearing aviator sunglasses.  I regret I didn’t get his name, or have more time to visit with him, but during our brief conversation I discovered he was a navel pilot during WWII and fought in the Pacific Theater.  Below, his daughter stands proudly beside her father while she holds a picture of him during his time of service.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7YQ2QPMU-TI/UFtFKYUzuFI/AAAAAAAAEnI/5WIXl6F-iqI/s1600-h/photo4%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="photo4" border="0" alt="photo4" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t9cBVDOA65c/UFtFLVb0zoI/AAAAAAAAEnQ/JR-Ilp9xyks/photo4_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="292" /></a> </p> <p>Of the 16-million Americans who served in WWII, about 3-million survive, and 60,000 reside in Oklahoma.  Thirty-seven states are affiliated with National Honor Flights, including Oklahoma, who raises about $100,000 for each flight.  When I consider the sacrifice these men and women gave for our country, it’s very little to ask of me, and you, to greet and celebrate our returning American Heroes, whenever the opportunity arises!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-25511344609073543342012-09-09T21:11:00.001-07:002012-09-09T21:11:35.294-07:00Texoma Adventure with Southern Oklahoma Sams<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OY-N4cF1Ux8/UE1oHtmq5_I/AAAAAAAAEgA/-0q142_8yn4/s1600-h/DSCN3196%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3196" border="0" alt="DSCN3196" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hELj4hLNMxM/UE1oIMDqEAI/AAAAAAAAEgI/GgTnuBkkpK8/DSCN3196_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I spent the end of last week with our dear friends, the Southern Oklahoma Sams (SOS), at Ben’s Campground on Lake Texoma.  This was the first time I’ve visited the lake since the tornado of 1979, when I witnessed the boat dock at Catfish Bay Marina capsize and lose several boats.  The new marina is simply beautiful and the campground is a new destination find for Susan and me.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-08-yVePlRoU/UE1oJ0mYtvI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/m4Lrk-6JiGA/s1600-h/DSCN3204%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3204" border="0" alt="DSCN3204" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6gvTb7uHL1A/UE1oKMG7IBI/AAAAAAAAEgY/KiKy8_e9H6o/DSCN3204_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>    </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Jjs6tjR207g/UE1oLxZ7JgI/AAAAAAAAEgg/ApNSuTdX4y0/s1600-h/DSCN3198%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3198" border="0" alt="DSCN3198" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xxpszU-G008/UE1oMXDuh0I/AAAAAAAAEgo/FJRzw7Bn-zI/DSCN3198_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A great place for a girl to walk her dog . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OiyUAv0KyHI/UE1oN-n--AI/AAAAAAAAEgw/cOZPbbIGqao/s1600-h/DSCN3197%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3197" border="0" alt="DSCN3197" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-s1V_4CPVYtk/UE1oOHR8anI/AAAAAAAAEg4/TosexiMh2uA/DSCN3197_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EhBDl_rGxgU/UE1oPxbrpEI/AAAAAAAAEhA/MvQl9SFgxvA/s1600-h/DSCN3202%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3202" border="0" alt="DSCN3202" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zJP1ydYWBDs/UE1oQb8MMOI/AAAAAAAAEhI/WhUBKvHvp50/DSCN3202_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q2hOTq0rXPE/UE1oRr_xMiI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/sfjqnsjLRLI/s1600-h/DSCN3203%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3203" border="0" alt="DSCN3203" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1ZctkDAPdOw/UE1oSU830WI/AAAAAAAAEhY/CDx5-QVhpf0/DSCN3203_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We came into the park on Tuesday afternoon following Labor Day, and we were surprised to find so many vacant sites.  Several of the SOS group had already arrived and set up camp.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NQJ5YYPe9rI/UE1oSz-sUaI/AAAAAAAAEhg/EVnnDPpZulk/s1600-h/DSCN3187%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3187" border="0" alt="DSCN3187" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0uAEG3NvJnQ/UE1oTRQatKI/AAAAAAAAEho/5-xfJzIKVfM/DSCN3187_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>According to the park host, the original lodge was torn down several years ago and the new owner, Pointe Vista, has plans to build a new lodge in the area.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dX57_lYyO9M/UE1oUplEvaI/AAAAAAAAEhw/s3n0KRcHX8w/s1600-h/DSCN3207%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3207" border="0" alt="DSCN3207" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M_JYMVlo0-I/UE1oVAbF2OI/AAAAAAAAEh4/DR_gJVqvXbw/DSCN3207_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The following picture is of Roosevelt Memorial Bridge.  During the stripper fishing frenzy of the late 1970’s, a much younger Jerry caught his fair share of 17-21 pound strippers under that bridge.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TlD9YENHnw4/UE1oV9-TNVI/AAAAAAAAEiA/l-t9Czn3hEc/s1600-h/DSCN3205%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3205" border="0" alt="DSCN3205" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VHqgJFjbsWY/UE1oWCEi5vI/AAAAAAAAEiI/RPHDvbVeyYo/DSCN3205_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>SOS Treasurer, Arlena Cagle, lives nearby and offered us the use of her home to host a Mexican dinner for the group.  Arlena’s hospitality was most appreciated as I was concerned about serving food in the 105 degree temperatures. </p> <p>Susan and co-host, Marlys Johnson, cutting up on the way to Arlena’s . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_tnE0uYwCKQ/UE1oWuMHEiI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/uNiblQncztM/s1600-h/DSCN3188%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3188" border="0" alt="DSCN3188" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BzSYqufjCjk/UE1oXQt-umI/AAAAAAAAEiY/TfJZNxxOdmY/DSCN3188_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>After a fine dinner, the SOS group did what most RV chapters do . . . they played games! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eN9P3_OT_J8/UE1oYlNG6XI/AAAAAAAAEig/-J1Mb_Fphtw/s1600-h/DSCN3191%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3191" border="0" alt="DSCN3191" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oSy3Ux2UpYs/UE1oZJuRkjI/AAAAAAAAEio/Ap8i_C44JxY/DSCN3191_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ty91B1wttQs/UE1oaUtk9_I/AAAAAAAAEiw/9I_GTD6A5HI/s1600-h/DSCN3190%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3190" border="0" alt="DSCN3190" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E0MWuFUBERo/UE1oa5XtfSI/AAAAAAAAEi4/DH-yDyLf9wU/DSCN3190_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XEqD8FW20kk/UE1obzEHSfI/AAAAAAAAEjA/yRszGEAYjo0/s1600-h/DSCN3192%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3192" border="0" alt="DSCN3192" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lC2_UzdI8-I/UE1ocbeFzBI/AAAAAAAAEjI/MWutomqI5So/DSCN3192_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is a “clay pot man” situated in Arlena’s front yard . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h5ONZ1jTosg/UE1odDcYcRI/AAAAAAAAEjQ/A18QovoQcLQ/s1600-h/DSCN3193%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3193" border="0" alt="DSCN3193" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xV5Wc-iOlOg/UE1odb-7j7I/AAAAAAAAEjY/nQgeDwx8070/DSCN3193_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I wish to thank the SOS group for allowing us to be a part of their monthly campout, and we also want to thank Arlena for her warm hospitality in extending to us the use of her beautiful home.  We always enjoy visiting with this group and hope to do it again real soon!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-5790380134106404712012-09-09T16:58:00.001-07:002012-09-09T16:58:29.797-07:00Metro Friendship Campout – 2012<p>The 2012 Metro Friendship Campout was held August 2-5 at The Citizen Potawatomi Campground in Shawnee, Oklahoma. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZF4Ulu_xga0/UE0spxkFDsI/AAAAAAAAEZc/vDfNmwt3A70/s1600-h/DSCN3177%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3177" border="0" alt="DSCN3177" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4zJoDU8vNVc/UE0sqJ113XI/AAAAAAAAEZk/iBUmUijdYuY/DSCN3177_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Hosted by the Oklahoma Assistant State Director of Good Sams for the Metro Area, Roy and Susan Scholl, “a good time was had by all!”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DJ8jHIxdoXM/UE0sqxALiJI/AAAAAAAAEZs/lVGi3AD4ziI/s1600-h/DSCN3179%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3179" border="0" alt="DSCN3179" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cK6zCVqhZyY/UE0srR0ujgI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/jy7zITQXsXo/DSCN3179_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A “Friendship Campout” is a rally wherein all Good Sam chapters from a specific region of the state come together for food, fun, games, and fellowship.  This year’s theme was “Mardigras,” and Roy and Susan went all out to decorate the facility for the event.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZNdNTwB3yMQ/UE0ssGvzWGI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/LV63N6XgWBE/s1600-h/DSCN3154%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3154" border="0" alt="DSCN3154" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Rzb34dOq9Wc/UE0ssjJYZjI/AAAAAAAAEaE/ZChFa6ZZfIE/DSCN3154_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0Z2YhNekrm8/UE0std5Fi-I/AAAAAAAAEaM/rUrMjijwKIA/s1600-h/DSCN3150%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3150" border="0" alt="DSCN3150" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XJBvyh2beWs/UE0stw-JyuI/AAAAAAAAEaU/fl5hwYgDDMY/DSCN3150_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--P3Ie5Yw5Gs/UE0suqHaNnI/AAAAAAAAEac/F7obS0FoPBg/s1600-h/DSCN3163%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3163" border="0" alt="DSCN3163" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AVqQLH1ODTw/UE0svFoUmdI/AAAAAAAAEak/FZ3pc5fciy8/DSCN3163_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Roy even went so far as to decorate “himself.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d81j-vl131Q/UE0sv8GAd6I/AAAAAAAAEas/ci3jV3Ptk44/s1600-h/DSCN3157%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3157" border="0" alt="DSCN3157" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EFsNFKUQhZc/UE0swbuJluI/AAAAAAAAEa0/q3gI7vC3DeA/DSCN3157_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Not just once, but three times!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NVS-Fw0GOSQ/UE0swzL_QSI/AAAAAAAAEa8/E3QYmFOKa6o/s1600-h/DSCN3178%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3178" border="0" alt="DSCN3178" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z9nBG-KDhUo/UE0sxZxDoQI/AAAAAAAAEbE/_7GwrG51QVs/DSCN3178_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0XhSeW0WO2M/UE0syE1awLI/AAAAAAAAEbM/tOcp8_WC7FI/s1600-h/DSCN3183%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3183" border="0" alt="DSCN3183" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K-r0QkVnqoY/UE0syfK5w5I/AAAAAAAAEbU/6jyRY8eXuQo/DSCN3183_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Sue Gelm was not about to let Roy show her up . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VkWWsiT1xwQ/UE0szG5WU_I/AAAAAAAAEbc/nXcNgC2z8aY/s1600-h/DSCN3181%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3181" border="0" alt="DSCN3181" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--JOe8rwgklM/UE0szqtrscI/AAAAAAAAEbk/7UPBvICnqi4/DSCN3181_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Metro Area Sams began coming in early on Thursday . . . ,</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YL2QMV0E6vo/UE0s0EoZO2I/AAAAAAAAEbs/twVQEtXxpSE/s1600-h/DSCN3148%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3148" border="0" alt="DSCN3148" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w2rQ_f_vLCw/UE0s0hmjetI/AAAAAAAAEb0/z-2Sglc0DdE/DSCN3148_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>and with the help of “The Modern Wagoneers,” Roy got registration under way . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h3_405MXWRU/UE0s1bjo8EI/AAAAAAAAEb8/6Yxs1UH-q5Y/s1600-h/DSCN3153%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3153" border="0" alt="DSCN3153" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xY26XQDYcpM/UE0s1rcbpYI/AAAAAAAAEcE/aduekjQIqNU/DSCN3153_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan Scholl produced and projected a fantastic review of last year’s event on the wall.  </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OvDxmXfjIF8/UE0s2ECYhYI/AAAAAAAAEcM/ximM9vISfp8/s1600-h/DSCN3152%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3152" border="0" alt="DSCN3152" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ktHsZii5R_8/UE0s2jlw3aI/AAAAAAAAEcU/zcq189GK_nc/DSCN3152_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Games are always a highlight of the event! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P2-WpvaJS90/UE0s4KcWt9I/AAAAAAAAEcc/iazimbQUZu4/s1600-h/DSCN3158%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3158" border="0" alt="DSCN3158" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cVWbW0x5mF0/UE0s4SRScwI/AAAAAAAAEck/J5YRoxzosyU/DSCN3158_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pb6j701OZ2U/UE0s5N2AQbI/AAAAAAAAEcs/c-j8PfouafE/s1600-h/DSCN3166%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3166" border="0" alt="DSCN3166" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wolgN1aScWQ/UE0s5rMwLXI/AAAAAAAAEc0/843QpLgSeq0/DSCN3166_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Lucky winners of Bean Bag Baseball and Bean Bag Toss were awarded prizes! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A8x_TZbSdvc/UE0s6A06CUI/AAAAAAAAEc8/aFDNcw8rvZo/s1600-h/DSCN3172%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3172" border="0" alt="DSCN3172" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DbCJIs1_5Ts/UE0s6r2liQI/AAAAAAAAEdE/N2DC5Hh3acA/DSCN3172_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JAr0KihI8EQ/UE0s7Xw7_5I/AAAAAAAAEdM/l1hx43UIYdE/s1600-h/DSCN3174%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3174" border="0" alt="DSCN3174" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JbtGg6x45Bs/UE0s7pt5j-I/AAAAAAAAEdU/c-sB5_9xs0k/DSCN3174_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>My Susan won the 50/50 drawing . . . YEA!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n7COYipF79Y/UE0s8fUYezI/AAAAAAAAEdc/AzNh5m7lJkw/s1600-h/DSCN3185%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3185" border="0" alt="DSCN3185" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-z6nOjj_9X8Q/UE0s89hUoVI/AAAAAAAAEdk/Z5O0tVoT4AM/DSCN3185_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The women look forward to Susan Scholl’s annual line-dance class . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-auO1jIPPE1E/UE0s9pf9OqI/AAAAAAAAEds/cOOQ27G2GqM/s1600-h/DSCN3155%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3155" border="0" alt="DSCN3155" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0N7dsI3IC-Q/UE0s9_yQqqI/AAAAAAAAEd0/y1eVBMax368/DSCN3155_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GQ8I06b1Y28/UE0s-pYdisI/AAAAAAAAEd8/aU7NGo4klU8/s1600-h/DSCN3156%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3156" border="0" alt="DSCN3156" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Mff0rMHbEMQ/UE0s_PgtnJI/AAAAAAAAEeE/KbI1Usq2t7U/DSCN3156_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Craft-making was also on this year’s agenda . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MnhaQxxyPMY/UE0tAct8dXI/AAAAAAAAEeM/mtLfnFAIHCQ/s1600-h/DSCN3184%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3184" border="0" alt="DSCN3184" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dVQqXQbr_iU/UE0tAyO0saI/AAAAAAAAEeU/DntfCeXvljk/DSCN3184_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6gNqv_6cv5Y/UE0tCHuSxHI/AAAAAAAAEec/u80VWbQtSeA/s1600-h/DSCN3167%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3167" border="0" alt="DSCN3167" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-K4rdbNnkjo8/UE0tCs9BWMI/AAAAAAAAEek/JYueN8zEWyw/DSCN3167_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mlcgYUt1BZs/UE0tDXVP0VI/AAAAAAAAEes/6zSyRAWN2Es/s1600-h/DSCN3168%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3168" border="0" alt="DSCN3168" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D9vWkRwIPjI/UE0tD9L-q_I/AAAAAAAAEe0/zMgVuyiGPFk/DSCN3168_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The RV park is in close proximity to Fire Lake Grand Casino!  But,  we had better luck at the Friendship Campout games.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a8yFV52US88/UE0tFc3gO3I/AAAAAAAAEe8/3aNdnM5zN10/s1600-h/DSCN3165%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3165" border="0" alt="DSCN3165" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-b-0hscEgzcg/UE0tFoBfMJI/AAAAAAAAEfE/BZFJRaoxdiE/DSCN3165_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OwKPd1YLwGQ/UE0tHS2XK4I/AAAAAAAAEfM/Uxb5wTLT3AM/s1600-h/DSCN3164%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3164" border="0" alt="DSCN3164" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gTOSajRu7b4/UE0tH7D0jqI/AAAAAAAAEfU/-tZUXfY5E_M/DSCN3164_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We were proud to recognize Jim McGavock of Boomer Sams for being awarded the Good Sam “Spirit Award,” for his role as a “Good Samaritan” by helping others in need.     </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DkaLzB-Y-FE/UE0tIhAVZ4I/AAAAAAAAEfc/MQl2KkK8XOs/s1600-h/DSCN3176%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3176" border="0" alt="DSCN3176" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t1qYQQTbwPY/UE0tJOJkafI/AAAAAAAAEfk/uiQDISCRo50/DSCN3176_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I wish to thank Roy and Susan Scholl for the great time and all their efforts.  They sure know how to throw a party!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-86779779216028631592012-07-27T11:50:00.001-07:002012-07-27T12:12:33.463-07:00Modern Wagoneers Visit Choctaw KOA / Casino<p>The August campout for Modern Wagoneers was held in Durant, Oklahoma, at the Choctaw KOA RV Park and Casino.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PmkQJUVVve4/UBLiSwXmQ3I/AAAAAAAAER8/0cuC_o7Ei7c/s1600-h/DSCN3120%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3120" border="0" alt="DSCN3120" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OjrGeeUXAIw/UBLiTAh9r1I/AAAAAAAAESE/Hhm7SuzaTTg/DSCN3120_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The Choctaw KOA RV Park is an upscale park with concrete sites and full hookups.  Susan and I stayed here in the past with my mother, but I was not aware of the amenities they have available for large RV clubs . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WhE8dFvToA0/UBLiUqTbNVI/AAAAAAAAESM/hnSN6QFx9ao/s1600-h/DSCN3104%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3104" border="0" alt="DSCN3104" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l7LuAQwBwxw/UBLiU0STgUI/AAAAAAAAESU/Ie2NUu9hdtI/DSCN3104_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, is the club/meeting room with leather furniture, fireplace, and flat-screen televisions at both ends of the room.  The kitchen is off to the side of the meeting room with pass-through access.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WeuzMazMAY0/UBLicBt8XmI/AAAAAAAAESc/a4kf7CpzxNw/s1600-h/DSCN3106%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3106" border="0" alt="DSCN3106" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I7KvhvXRpaU/UBLicvknDdI/AAAAAAAAESk/LkRXeNWxRvo/DSCN3106_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The kitchen hosts commercial appliances and all accessories, including cooking utensils and full service dishes, silverware, etc.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XTGI-pWK27Q/UBLidRyhVwI/AAAAAAAAESs/_nv51m19aXI/s1600-h/DSCN3107%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3107" border="0" alt="DSCN3107" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n2DW79R35eI/UBLid0Cy3CI/AAAAAAAAES0/1oNl1lbs6kc/DSCN3107_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, are commercial coffee and tea makers.  The park even furnishes coffee and tea at no extra cost.  </p> <p>Below, is the saltwater pool.  Adjacent to the pool is a full service laundry and men’s/women’s showers. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VHHjCmPwn-c/UBLiffT7x_I/AAAAAAAAES8/ZhMcWFk5mRY/s1600-h/DSCN3105%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3105" border="0" alt="DSCN3105" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y4tAidlTEcY/UBLif4SZ2LI/AAAAAAAAETA/oynNvo3LrzI/DSCN3105_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-n85BP5V16pc/UBLikcSea6I/AAAAAAAAETM/YePMoMZiqTY/s1600-h/DSCN3134%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3134" border="0" alt="DSCN3134" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xkmxq9633kM/UBLik1WOU4I/AAAAAAAAETU/gzrY8_ETYRo/DSCN3134_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, Tim and Karen Sechrist take a break from 100 degree weather in the pool.  </p> <p>Air hockey, billiards, and other coin-operated games are also available.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-msdndjasviQ/UBLiln3k7nI/AAAAAAAAETc/NWy4M_-IdWQ/s1600-h/DSCN3122%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3122" border="0" alt="DSCN3122" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v2he3OV9dqc/UBLimIXKV_I/AAAAAAAAETk/IkPKahhbePU/DSCN3122_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7YWdUCq3Hj0/UBLinJGx0NI/AAAAAAAAETs/GgxvybuIX5E/s1600-h/DSCN3123%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3123" border="0" alt="DSCN3123" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GVWlEE2I1UM/UBLinhj5-YI/AAAAAAAAET0/oCEswYQtzjI/DSCN3123_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>And, of course there’s the casino! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sDtxQx9bqWk/UBLioAuVMgI/AAAAAAAAET8/gdBTo-CLuug/s1600-h/DSCN3113%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3113" border="0" alt="DSCN3113" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tOZUIWwpA04/UBLioi12vYI/AAAAAAAAEUE/SnJTZfAwHzU/DSCN3113_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Free shuttle service escorted us to and from the casino.  When we were ready to go over for lunch at the $5.95 buffet, or play a few games, we simply telephoned the dispatcher and a shuttle bus picked us up at the coach. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bzEL2-LBy90/UBLiqBWjHzI/AAAAAAAAEUM/7ymVTrdLXWw/s1600-h/DSCN3128%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3128" border="0" alt="DSCN3128" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7xiRXJMuCSI/UBLiqpORoNI/AAAAAAAAEUU/C6WLWDuzZ_k/DSCN3128_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan thinks it’s the most beautiful casino in the state. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FINlmV5p_Tg/UBLir3uH7yI/AAAAAAAAEUc/d0n4s5R6aNY/s1600-h/DSCN3130%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3130" border="0" alt="DSCN3130" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QwNfvC3Rr8o/UBLisXzlRBI/AAAAAAAAEUk/jOT80fvlfa8/DSCN3130_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, I hit a “7” with two “Triple Diamonds!”  Below, Susan hit “1000 coins!” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4cAOZdTr2K0/UBLitDm4b3I/AAAAAAAAEUs/hxh3Ex2Idc8/s1600-h/DSCN3144%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3144" border="0" alt="DSCN3144" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AMfxSnTOXhE/UBLito-bI2I/AAAAAAAAEU0/6Ct4jK6U4Ao/DSCN3144_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>I was more impressed with the performance of the slot machines than the atmosphere of the casino.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5TdL74T1nlw/UBLiuCmpgaI/AAAAAAAAEU8/1QdHSIZ3BeU/s1600-h/DSCN3121%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3121" border="0" alt="DSCN3121" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nD8xOQVbXbg/UBLium9-f1I/AAAAAAAAEVA/egj5CZ9s_1k/DSCN3121_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bnhoYlDzL4Q/UBLivTw9d3I/AAAAAAAAEVM/tiOKdZYYfrI/s1600-h/DSCN3112%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3112" border="0" alt="DSCN3112" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4JKD_Q9dNyw/UBLiv9nQf-I/AAAAAAAAEVU/0Risnw7PJbc/DSCN3112_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5Z2B_43R-mg/UBLiwc9BWZI/AAAAAAAAEVc/uNThzBSItKM/s1600-h/DSCN3114%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3114" border="0" alt="DSCN3114" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vEh9aEoN5MA/UBLiw73PAMI/AAAAAAAAEVk/iDhYAPrb4Ls/DSCN3114_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>After everyone pulled in and set up, we gathered in the club room for a few games and dinner . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mXeGPSuhykw/UBLiyE5HX3I/AAAAAAAAEVs/EfcjS4Xgafk/s1600-h/DSCN3124%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3124" border="0" alt="DSCN3124" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQ2kohhTakg/UBLiy7GPkLI/AAAAAAAAEV0/N2wMisKPXF4/DSCN3124_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HEH7iB08_YU/UBLizsM4o8I/AAAAAAAAEV8/RXYbTaVTDuU/s1600-h/DSCN3127%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3127" border="0" alt="DSCN3127" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GNzJriWefUE/UBLiz_kIkpI/AAAAAAAAEWE/16lRu6rHK30/DSCN3127_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RHMnSrSAhHA/UBLi0qsJwvI/AAAAAAAAEWM/w2cYuelb9x0/s1600-h/DSCN3125%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3125" border="0" alt="DSCN3125" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xCpsnyd9fF0/UBLi1F2BOBI/AAAAAAAAEWU/AXj-1k9Z5Zw/DSCN3125_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Larry and Donna Keever, along with Susan and me, hosted this month’s event.  The theme was patriotic for the month of July, and Donna provided very appropriate decorations . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-luGeP4oYUys/UBLi1g91F4I/AAAAAAAAEWc/n9puZ_1H4Y4/s1600-h/DSCN3108%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3108" border="0" alt="DSCN3108" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CczKmUAQ0Ng/UBLi2I_GGhI/AAAAAAAAEWk/9GU0rJstDjU/DSCN3108_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fpJjwqWK1wc/UBLi2hiPKSI/AAAAAAAAEWs/06HiVAkUudk/s1600-h/DSCN3109%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3109" border="0" alt="DSCN3109" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k8dv9RWpA8g/UBLi3JZqAzI/AAAAAAAAEW0/HGwTv8CD4nk/DSCN3109_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Because of the intense heat, we had no excursion outside the RV park and casino, but we did get together for supper at Hucks Catfish Restaurant in Denison, Texas.  Most of us were in agreement that this is the best catfish we’d ever eaten.  It’s just south of the casino on I-75, and considered a “must do” if you’re in the area.  For additional information, visit   <a title="http://www.huckscatfish.com/" href="http://www.huckscatfish.com/">http://www.huckscatfish.com/</a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U0w9kvtToJ4/UBLi3-NblmI/AAAAAAAAEW8/ezkKdXq9tIc/s1600-h/DSCN3145%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3145" border="0" alt="DSCN3145" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F5iZZAcCJhs/UBLi4Po4jII/AAAAAAAAEXE/-RMF-R-LMg4/DSCN3145_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Larry and I provided donuts for breakfast on the first morning of the campout . . . , </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WIttY6uho8Y/UBLi4yOzk-I/AAAAAAAAEXM/G9yofh1EmKY/s1600-h/DSCN3115%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3115" border="0" alt="DSCN3115" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vDjno31B50E/UBLi5UME3cI/AAAAAAAAEXU/tGiEQiCew4s/DSCN3115_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>but the official Saturday morning breakfast cooks consisted of Larry, Susan, and Donna . . . .</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nnhI99CjVzY/UBLi6BNR5cI/AAAAAAAAEXc/kEcskPqAC08/s1600-h/DSCN3139%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3139" border="0" alt="DSCN3139" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u_Dn34xIQuA/UBLi6e5uFxI/AAAAAAAAEXk/dljf0gGA57E/DSCN3139_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nzp6Mt0C2Wk/UBLi7JckyzI/AAAAAAAAEXs/swVCVa02Gcw/s1600-h/DSCN3140%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3140" border="0" alt="DSCN3140" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AU80GQP-sXA/UBLi7lSXzDI/AAAAAAAAEX0/JpIrxBFPUu8/DSCN3140_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, friends visiting at the end of a very hot day . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xRx2TXhJqPg/UBLoHiqm-sI/AAAAAAAAEY8/858iZr6Samw/s1600-h/DSCN3137%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3137" border="0" alt="DSCN3137" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KXPF_E680FQ/UBLoIFDfE6I/AAAAAAAAEZE/uJKZTaEyJe0/DSCN3137_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The RV sites and facilities at this park get a AAA+ rating!  The casino and buffet are “top-notch,” too.  I suspect our group will revisit this establishment again real soon.  </p> <p>For those of you interested in RV tech information, I had a MaxxAir “Fan/Mate” hood installed over my Fantastic Fan before leaving for this trip.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kS6dXgpH2F0/UBLi8sUP0BI/AAAAAAAAEX8/5w270AApU50/s1600-h/DSCN3111%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3111" border="0" alt="DSCN3111" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nygUOW-lSmE/UBLi9p2sUsI/AAAAAAAAEYE/0T-MCz_DiSc/DSCN3111_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fOeneeUgQ5o/UBLi-G9rDbI/AAAAAAAAEYM/nt8C-YfqaGs/s1600-h/DSCN3146%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3146" border="0" alt="DSCN3146" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-akIP7Wu4W0U/UBLi-ZtA0zI/AAAAAAAAEYU/eoSffCtLekk/DSCN3146_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The 100+ degree temperatures make it very difficult to cool down the coach upon arrival at the campsite.  Installation of the hood allows me to activate the fan during transit and exhaust the buildup of hot air from the coach.  I also had installed a smaller hood over the bathroom vent.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-h9v6VdmSVtE/UBLi-6xH9aI/AAAAAAAAEYc/o8dTLTb4rZg/s1600-h/DSCN3110%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3110" border="0" alt="DSCN3110" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9FOZUM-pN9I/UBLi_fAYRBI/AAAAAAAAEYk/qkdu7qRdNOU/DSCN3110_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>By opening the bathroom vent while the Fantastic Fan is in operation, a draft of outside air can be pulled from the upper level of the coach and exhausted through the kitchen ceiling via the Fantastic Fan.  This solution didn’t completely eliminate the hot air from the coach, but it sure made it more bearable upon arrival at the campsite.  </p> <p>The Modern Wagoneers will be joining the other Metro Oklahoma City Good Sam chapters in Shawnee for the Metro Friendship Rally.  Roy and Susan Scholl do a great job planning and hosting the event, so be sure to check back next week and join in the fun!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-23139515008589081692012-06-24T08:34:00.001-07:002012-07-08T10:00:01.079-07:00Destination: Washington, D.C.<p>Susan and I first visited our Nation’s Capitol in 2007, when I was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.  It was a life-long goal for me to be granted such an honor, especially being sworn in by Chief Justice, John Roberts.  Susan and I returned to Washington in 2008, when we accompanied the OCU mock-trial team to the national mock-trial competition sponsored by Phi Alpha Delta.  My son, Keith, and a former law associate, assisted me in coaching the team, who placed “6th” out of 19 universities competing.  Not bad for their first year of competition!  </p> <p>This trip to Washington is also a life-long goal for me.  I’ve always wanted to visit the Smithsonian with my son.  Keith and I have a mutual interest in aviation, and the “National Air & Space Museum” is high priority on our list of places to see.  </p> <p>Susan will fly out in advance to attend “Continental Congress,” which is the annual national meeting of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.  Susan currently serves as “Regent” of the Oklahoma City Chapter.  Keith and I will bring the coach and rendezvous with Susan early the following week.  The three of us will celebrate Independence Day together in the Nation’s Capitol.  </p> <p>Although our destination is Washington, D.C., Keith and I hope to visit several other interesting places along the way; and after getting Keith to the airport for a return trip home by air, Susan and I hope to visit even more sites on the way home.  </p> <p>Today is Thursday, June 28, 2012.  Although Susan caught her plane out of OKC early Tuesday morning, and Keith and I left late Tuesday afternoon, this is the first chance I’ve had to update the blog.  We were delayed Tuesday because of a leaking valve stem on the inside, right-rear tire, and more seriously, a blown inner-bearing seal on the right, front wheel of the coach.  I noticed brake fade on the trailer brakes, and promptly took it to my dealer, Lewis RV, for inspection and repair.  Grease completely covered the brake assembly and impeded any braking ability by the coach.  When towing an RV that weighs in at over 16,000 lbs., it must also have an adequate braking system to stop both vehicles.    </p> <p>Once the repairs were complete (around 4:00 p.m.), Keith and I headed east on I-40 and made it as far as Alma, Arkansas.  The following morning, we traveled through Little Rock and decided to visit “The Bill Clinton Presidential Center” (President Bill Clinton’s Library & Museum).  We then traveled further east and spent the second night in Jackson, Tennessee.  Today, we pulled into Nashville.  This is where I will pause and comment on a subject I rarely discuss when writing “The Adventure” . . . . politics and government.  </p> <p>Today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, upholding “the individual mandate” that all Americans are required to have health insurance, literally made me sick to my stomach.  The court that I have for so long held in high esteem, whether I agreed with its opinion or not, drove me a step further in losing all faith in my government, particularly the judiciary.  </p> <p>The Supreme Court is the “sentry” that protects the American people from erroneous laws that conflict with the Constitution.  Since when has our government had the power to mandate that we buy anything?  The court finds its reasoning in labeling the mandate a “constitutional tax.”  A tax is a levy on one’s income or property.  A “mandate” is not a levy.  It’s a demand that you and I comply with the government’s order to purchase health insurance, and if we don’t, the Internal Revenue Service will penalize us on our annual tax return for our failure to comply.  What’s next?  Will we be required to purchase an automobile (to protect GM from another bankruptcy or bailout)?  </p> <p>What’s worse is that Chief Justice, John Roberts, appears to be the “swing vote.”  The very justice who swore me in to practice before the high court.  I practiced law for several years, and taught American National Government and numerous law courses at two local universities.  Today’s ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court flies in the face of every lecture I gave on the government’s limitation of powers on the people.  </p> <p>I remain very proud to be an American.  I remain very proud of my country.  But today, I’m very, very disappointed in my government, especially the Supreme Court of whom I have so long revered.  As I told so many students over the years, Benjamin Franklin was asked by a woman standing outside Constitution Hall shortly after the Founding Fathers signed our Constitution, “What has happened?”  Mr. Franklin was heard to reply, “You have a Republic, madam, if you can keep it!”  Thanks to many great leaders and our military, this country has survived many perils.  I now hope it can survive destruction from within at its own hand, or our Republic may be lost. </p> <p>I know this has been “wordy,” and I apologize to those who would prefer to view pictures with brief descriptions instead of a rant.  But, as long as the First Amendment remains intact, I have the right to criticize my government and have exercised that right here, today.  Thank you for your patience.  </p> <p>Now, on with “The Adventure!”</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4BgYcQIKQm4/T-zlLMFx3hI/AAAAAAAADUQ/FoLeR26I1-0/s1600-h/DSCN2636%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2636" border="0" alt="DSCN2636" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Nhr50EvhYdc/T-zlL5h28mI/AAAAAAAADUY/4ZIFbOrIMOw/DSCN2636_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The visit to President Clinton’s Library & Museum was wholly unplanned.  Keith mentioned it to me as we approached Little Rock and we decided to take a break and check it out.  Here’s a few of the images we captured . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MC2-VNieU94/T-zlNMxKCJI/AAAAAAAADUg/dOtshaY8hRU/s1600-h/DSCN2637%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2637" border="0" alt="DSCN2637" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pQ1oBud2qLg/T-zlNrvUO6I/AAAAAAAADUo/uweQckZkCpQ/DSCN2637_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--m1loG3bx9E/T-zqY8hRwXI/AAAAAAAADV0/br7GprJVg1k/s1600-h/DSCN2650%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2650" border="0" alt="DSCN2650" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3tAkLg0LGDQ/T-zqZkdZVLI/AAAAAAAADV8/-K5PYFKud9k/DSCN2650_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mvaGKmLKD3A/T-zlO_PeUTI/AAAAAAAADUw/emRdGQIIzHs/s1600-h/DSCN2638%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2638" border="0" alt="DSCN2638" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nppbo2nh0bs/T-zlQEhlRtI/AAAAAAAADU4/QrmVvZlYPDM/DSCN2638_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>This is one neat Cadillac!  FDR was the first president to have an armored vehicle.  No domestic manufacturer built an armored vehicle at the time, but the government had confiscated one from gangster, Al Capone, which became the president’s personal car.  </p> <p>Below are images of reconstructed rooms in the White House.  At top, is the president’s conference room, and below is the Oval Office.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LlVmWlVp-3o/T-zqa-R7UcI/AAAAAAAADWE/kJlRXqsiPrM/s1600-h/DSCN2639%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2639" border="0" alt="DSCN2639" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OG2XVtHHotM/T-zqbhCSbBI/AAAAAAAADWM/MovUPSB6QpI/DSCN2639_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QWM28MXoXH8/T-zqc_ORiWI/AAAAAAAADWU/qQc11fL4SCI/s1600-h/DSCN2642%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2642" border="0" alt="DSCN2642" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rWoQPIthYvI/T-zqdthPWVI/AAAAAAAADWc/YeQZx94RZ2k/DSCN2642_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Some of Bill Clinton’s saxophones.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JUrMiwhe0bk/T-zqe4tbiQI/AAAAAAAADWk/4ixRVJ7pA-E/s1600-h/DSCN2645%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2645" border="0" alt="DSCN2645" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NsFuIuXAqxo/T-zqfzIYRcI/AAAAAAAADWs/ML0qIKyQFrM/DSCN2645_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5knSP2I4KkY/T-zqhUFYeMI/AAAAAAAADW0/_0Y1AugEo14/s1600-h/DSCN2646%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2646" border="0" alt="DSCN2646" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Udg5SOl0Wd4/T-zqiHKvvPI/AAAAAAAADW8/GInjVqHS-Ro/DSCN2646_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lKizJRzIj70/T-zqjjjnvpI/AAAAAAAADXE/RC8IM7EkmAc/s1600-h/DSCN2648%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2648" border="0" alt="DSCN2648" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tkCLzvxpfcw/T-zqkfOUuvI/AAAAAAAADXM/2rPp0XefqI4/DSCN2648_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p>Below, is an actual World Series trophy temporarily on loan to the museum . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2maIVzbp-Ao/T-zqlrXjlWI/AAAAAAAADXU/cGTWkoDiTxA/s1600-h/DSCN2643%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2643" border="0" alt="DSCN2643" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-albZzgDEjN8/T-zqmbuJEwI/AAAAAAAADXc/J1Tv_CZsssY/DSCN2643_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>I’m not sure, but I think this is a “Chihuli.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4CxEHSd2QIo/T-zqntTpdnI/AAAAAAAADXk/kxKs7YTBKFU/s1600-h/DSCN2644%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2644" border="0" alt="DSCN2644" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1T-Ezqaxfj8/T-zqoTWIqYI/AAAAAAAADXs/gBb_ssLJ6F8/DSCN2644_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lbYGq1AXk3o/T-zqp6WV5LI/AAAAAAAADX0/KlSZVhJVXjo/s1600-h/DSCN2652%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2652" border="0" alt="DSCN2652" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BgetNBB_Ckg/T-zqq-56lJI/AAAAAAAADX8/GopTiZROr30/DSCN2652_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below is a view of a bridge over the Arkansas River as seen from the 3rd floor of the Clinton Museum.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uqBJnttWlKI/T-zqspoLDSI/AAAAAAAADYE/aYXf15mtEv0/s1600-h/DSCN2651%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2651" border="0" alt="DSCN2651" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DNTTbUHZGx8/T-zqtStn3hI/AAAAAAAADYM/uPKBPC43aRc/DSCN2651_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The Clinton Presidential Center is worth the tour, but as I suspected, it’s very self-serving.  Time to move east to Nashville! </p> <p>I’ve encountered traffic backups from road construction on every trip I’ve made through Tennessee (just west of Nashville) . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lkOZmVLtoZY/T-zquVPYHuI/AAAAAAAADYU/nPK3PsG8LhY/s1600-h/DSCN2653%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2653" border="0" alt="DSCN2653" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-B-9FBjjU5tk/T-zqu__HnUI/AAAAAAAADYc/pLQLjyd1spo/DSCN2653_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Keith and I called ahead and made reservations at the Nashville KOA.  It’s a very nice park situated within a mile of Opryland.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lpOn-SqC-Zo/T-0WGIlD-DI/AAAAAAAADZc/bqf-YqgVvrY/s1600-h/DSCN2677%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2677" border="0" alt="DSCN2677" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a1cqAqoluyI/T-0WGxknVMI/AAAAAAAADZk/tK2QXO3k7FY/DSCN2677_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--H5QobC-3G4/T-0WJEWOIII/AAAAAAAADZs/_4N7dfT3674/s1600-h/DSCN2676%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2676" border="0" alt="DSCN2676" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZpwPr8SvAik/T-0WKNkoHoI/AAAAAAAADZ0/U3pJiETSPho/DSCN2676_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Once the coach was set up and both A/Cs were blowing strong, we headed to “The Hermitage,” which is the home and plantation of President Andrew Jackson.  Susan and I visited it several years ago, but Keith had not seen it.  It’s truly worth your time and minimal admission fee to view it.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nRitJRn9dlQ/T-0WLnw8kAI/AAAAAAAADZ8/WlbLNpQK9Gw/s1600-h/DSCN2663%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2663" border="0" alt="DSCN2663" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-btsijUxdwhQ/T-0WNbZ4AfI/AAAAAAAADaE/aqwBbHKAhtc/DSCN2663_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take pictures inside.  But we were permitted to view each and every room through plexiglas barriers.  We were also required to walk on carpet runners to protect the original wood floors. </p> <p>President Jackson’s furniture was sold after his death to pay creditors, but later repurchased so that the home could be restored to its original splendor.  </p> <p>Below, is the actual coach used by President Jackson during his presidency.  Quite a bit different from President Clinton’s “coach.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mNdFpPLnhak/T-0WO83apaI/AAAAAAAADaM/h28cD-2ggDw/s1600-h/DSCN2658%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2658" border="0" alt="DSCN2658" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OTshE10JqD0/T-0WPh601cI/AAAAAAAADaU/BYbbibJiiIc/DSCN2658_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The grounds around the mansion are also interesting.  The grave sites of President Jackson and his wife Rachel are situated on the property, as are family members and his personal servants (slaves). </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7KCgBxPK6ts/T-0WSCexjuI/AAAAAAAADac/oRkv818tRCE/s1600-h/DSCN2665%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2665" border="0" alt="DSCN2665" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--I0TaihJhrs/T-0WTEuuP0I/AAAAAAAADak/V8R4MxX2rvo/DSCN2665_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ydr14cAzdrg/T-0WU0GMZZI/AAAAAAAADas/g6qJcAQEW8g/s1600-h/DSCN2666%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2666" border="0" alt="DSCN2666" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6nQufudqw98/T-0WV_Wd7dI/AAAAAAAADa0/LG7tpr4k19s/DSCN2666_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Rachel died several years before the president (1831), and while he was still in office.  The curators told us that his second term was very difficult as he suffered with severe depression over the loss of his wife.  They are buried side-by-side under the garden tomb pictured above.  President Jackson died in 1845.  </p> <p>We walked through the estate without restriction.  The original slave quarters are still intact, and the gardens are meticulously cared for . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ae60PgnRQKM/T-0WYL7u3hI/AAAAAAAADa8/nIROxTVX_Do/s1600-h/DSCN2660%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2660" border="0" alt="DSCN2660" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JN-Eeh6cFTw/T-0WZYI6dEI/AAAAAAAADbE/GzjXrvV6j6Y/DSCN2660_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jHXzw36KKIs/T-0Wb1Fv5-I/AAAAAAAADbM/NdIzw496V9s/s1600-h/DSCN2664%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2664" border="0" alt="DSCN2664" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JzTGa22cws8/T-0Wc6XqVbI/AAAAAAAADbU/M6G_IP26G40/DSCN2664_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Although the temperature was over 100 degrees during our tour, there was very little humidity and one could smell a variety of fragrances as we passed through the gardens.  I wished Susan was with us so she could enjoy the experience, as she loves the outdoors, summer’s warmth, and trees, shrubs, and flowers. </p> <p>Another building was recently discovered on the estate when workers were maintaining the grounds . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_1ck-IJgkA0/T-0WfMU5ZUI/AAAAAAAADbc/fur791wMIho/s1600-h/DSCN2669%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2669" border="0" alt="DSCN2669" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VnIdZIUVuvk/T-0WgAp5KjI/AAAAAAAADbk/oT8gGYgyCZU/DSCN2669_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p>I’m not sure what the item is in the lower picture, but it appears it may have been a primitive bathtub.  Nevertheless, it’s situated to the side of the back porch and is about the length and width of a modern day tub.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EzVJGiYCdj0/T-0Wid4OLwI/AAAAAAAADbs/oSiu0Ee6rzM/s1600-h/DSCN2668%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2668" border="0" alt="DSCN2668" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DecxrwMuzns/T-0WkPJVCBI/AAAAAAAADb0/3-7TUrmSUsU/DSCN2668_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Our tour of Nashville also included Music Row, the “Batman” building (AT&T), Opryland, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bauv7r0MeIs/T-0WmLh_S2I/AAAAAAAADb8/-xKOuYKRZZM/s1600-h/DSCN2674%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2674" border="0" alt="DSCN2674" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ajyd083lYkY/T-0WoC4o4XI/AAAAAAAADcE/BhzY_wPcWRo/DSCN2674_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wEbOIHGzTGE/T-0WpanJgRI/AAAAAAAADcM/Vej6D0rret4/s1600-h/DSCN2670%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2670" border="0" alt="DSCN2670" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ur-04UqTpN8/T-0Wrd4up9I/AAAAAAAADcU/-K4RuHLZfkg/DSCN2670_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JeZW9DOJlu0/T-0WucZH4kI/AAAAAAAADcc/K3j13WB60PQ/s1600-h/DSCN2673%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2673" border="0" alt="DSCN2673" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Cr3KoZSsrSA/T-0WvEXdzNI/AAAAAAAADck/KThIO4sH2Ls/DSCN2673_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vHJOyD5oeQk/T-0WxEvcWyI/AAAAAAAADcs/Ud8UBDNY074/s1600-h/DSCN2671%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2671" border="0" alt="DSCN2671" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fMowfuxcUyw/T-0Wzc9CYII/AAAAAAAADc0/_1u6gc3_pfU/DSCN2671_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>After struggling with 108 degree temperatures all day, Keith and I decided to go back to the coach for a little rest, then freshen up and have a nice dinner.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W8tMeubhcXk/T-0W1OQ4mGI/AAAAAAAADc8/O_Gbqv3rD9c/s1600-h/DSCN2675%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2675" border="0" alt="DSCN2675" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XeYjpt-N03s/T-0W3Jd9c9I/AAAAAAAADdE/rNaMUmJ9wp0/DSCN2675_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The “Cock of the Walk Restaurant” is situated next door to the KOA.  They serve steak, shrimp, catfish and chicken.  We both had the chicken and fish combination plate and it was excellent!  They also serve all you can eat homemade cornbread and pickled onions.  The onions go great with the fish.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-p_s-QQ8gYfE/T-0W46IrdwI/AAAAAAAADdM/i6TQRky6sG8/s1600-h/DSCN2678%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2678" border="0" alt="DSCN2678" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jYYhw3DMU4Q/T-0W6r2e2XI/AAAAAAAADdU/ggubPtYEvjo/DSCN2678_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Keith and I both consider the “Cock of the Walk” a “must do” restaurant if you’re in the area.  </p> <p>We left Nashville the next morning and drove east 484 miles to Lexington, Virginia.  This is the furthest I’ve ever pulled the RV in one day.  By the time we reached the RV park in Lexington, I was exhausted.  Keith offered to help me with the driving, but he has had no experience towing a 40-foot rig, and because of the earlier problems with the brakes, I felt it was better that I did the driving.  I know how the truck/trailer sounds, feels, and performs on the highway better than anyone, and in the event of a problem, I might detect it early enough to avoid an accident.  </p> <p>While in Lexington, we stayed at the “Lee Hi Campground” off I-81 at Exit 195.  It’s situated behind a large truck stop and Berky’s Restaurant.  Berky’s has a great breakfast, but I don’t recommend it for lunch or supper.  The RV park is simple, but located high on a hill over the truck stop.  It has great views of the surrounding mountains.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VZ2ITIsPS1w/T_heqlBbLMI/AAAAAAAADeU/BMGtEZLwD3o/s1600-h/DSCN26812.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2681" border="0" alt="DSCN2681" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0vMKmjK11tQ/T_herOeLOAI/AAAAAAAADec/Ft941GABBnQ/DSCN2681_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>After setting up the coach for the night, we had dinner at the local “Ruby Tuesdays.”  We noticed an old drive-in theater along  the way with people lying on blankets on the grass watching the movie.  It took me back many years, and it was good to see people doing that again.  But, storm clouds had gathered on the horizon, and just as we pulled back into the RV park the storm’s fury was unleashed.  As Keith opened the passenger side door of the truck, 80 mph winds swept down upon us as we rushed to get inside the coach.  I’ve ridden out several Oklahoma storms in an RV, but I’ve never experienced winds like these.  Fortunately, these were straight winds, and the back of the coach was pointed into the wind and not crosswind.  I couldn’t help but think of the people at the drive-in theater, wondering if they were safe.  </p> <p>When the wind subsided, I went outside to inspect the coach for damage and it appeared unscathed.  The national news indicated considerable damage throughout the northeast as this storm was unexpected.  We later discovered that power outages were widespread and trees were uprooted and broken throughout Virginia, Maryland, and the D.C. area.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YI3wG2KhDvc/T_her_ABXbI/AAAAAAAADek/dYiJXGrUYGk/s1600-h/DSCN26792.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2679" border="0" alt="DSCN2679" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1Ub_5yQcbHg/T_hesCokOBI/AAAAAAAADes/p__M_qpMlNc/DSCN2679_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The above picture is facing north from the coach on the morning we left Lexington.  </p> <p>Because we were so close, Keith wanted to detour toward Charlottesville and visit the home of Thomas Jefferson, “Monticello.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MtFI_aY9f0A/T_hessrEcgI/AAAAAAAADe0/dFqhmQCKrO8/s1600-h/DSCN26902.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2690" border="0" alt="DSCN2690" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kFUIO-1y230/T_hetdbnCsI/AAAAAAAADe8/I0fpXpgjOQY/DSCN2690_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>I was sad that Susan wasn’t with us, because this was one of the “jewels” of the trip.  Jefferson was a fascinating man and his home proved it.  As you approach the house you can see the weather vane mounted high on the roof.  But a directional dial is directly below it on the ceiling of the porch so the wind direction can be read without stepping into the yard.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E6Li0BqDJqQ/T_het8OZJEI/AAAAAAAADfE/BjVMUIoSLEs/s1600-h/DSCN26872.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2687" border="0" alt="DSCN2687" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eMZC5mE0ZMw/T_heuMsuDmI/AAAAAAAADfM/seJabFwUt6A/DSCN2687_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Jefferson also installed a clock on the front of the house that is powered by weighted chains leading down into the basement.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-o_B6OF1wwhY/T_heugc4ZuI/AAAAAAAADfU/zjlqXgIwGok/s1600-h/DSCN26882.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2688" border="0" alt="DSCN2688" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HKlivZqRNKw/T_hevCiIbbI/AAAAAAAADfc/IzXorldaGAQ/DSCN2688_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Here are several other views of Monticello . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-A74Qluu1nfc/T_hevqS8egI/AAAAAAAADfk/pD6P8Ysb4oc/s1600-h/DSCN27042.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2704" border="0" alt="DSCN2704" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VPkonaxBmYw/T_hewGBliBI/AAAAAAAADfs/QAYAis8YWS4/DSCN2704_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KB5QWFNBMis/T_hewhKs0kI/AAAAAAAADf0/9TnBM-v4uXo/s1600-h/DSCN26852.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2685" border="0" alt="DSCN2685" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xPzzAZjJsoc/T_hexDz4nnI/AAAAAAAADf8/Aub7MyY8YxE/DSCN2685_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SKwOnHEAU6I/T_hex5IyMdI/AAAAAAAADgE/O7BqDETiGhY/s1600-h/DSCN26892.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2689" border="0" alt="DSCN2689" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s5yhOHjvfNQ/T_heynZ0IMI/AAAAAAAADgM/hU-H1eBfG48/DSCN2689_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zMxnKgdohHk/T_hezFDwaUI/AAAAAAAADgU/suH9Pi2EbwY/s1600-h/DSCN27022.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2702" border="0" alt="DSCN2702" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-507LjGRq9fQ/T_hezTAe5bI/AAAAAAAADgc/0yev49AcSsM/DSCN2702_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Pictured above and below are views of the kitchen. From what I read, Jefferson’s preferred meal was stew, and he invented cooking surfaces that directed the heat upward toward the bottom of the cooking vessels for a more intense heat and faster cooked meal. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6L4-8I8GVHg/T_hezw-yhRI/AAAAAAAADgk/9YDAlE-DiVc/s1600-h/DSCN27032.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2703" border="0" alt="DSCN2703" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YZw-leXSO9s/T_he0UJu8cI/AAAAAAAADgs/ulrz1TB6T3E/DSCN2703_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is one of the gardens where household food was raised.  Jefferson spent considerable time helping slaves tend to the gardens.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J-EE1FnyZ0g/T_he1TbEqTI/AAAAAAAADg0/DeJYrZbwtjU/s1600-h/DSCN27052.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2705" border="0" alt="DSCN2705" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fw0tZge4OEs/T_he3r8gq9I/AAAAAAAADg8/yc6FcZxMG0U/DSCN2705_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>If you look closely through the trees, you can see The University of Virginia in the following picture.  Jefferson founded the University and helped finance its construction.  This view is from Jefferson’s study.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qpIQuvTUPk8/T_he4VW3k7I/AAAAAAAADhE/ZkvusM98_KY/s1600-h/DSCN26912.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2691" border="0" alt="DSCN2691" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WbAfIDwlTZI/T_he48ReoTI/AAAAAAAADhM/cfWTYPQmgx4/DSCN2691_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Underground tunnels are incorporated beneath the mansion where abundant storage for wine, food, and other items were stored.  I noticed an immediate drop in temperature as I entered the tunnels.  I’m certain this was a desired place to work or rest during the hot summer in early day Virginia.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kB46esgpp-A/T_he5cUy6GI/AAAAAAAADhU/UHzKEmBNXSo/s1600-h/DSCN26972.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2697" border="0" alt="DSCN2697" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HLoXcfEzaQE/T_he50MCpVI/AAAAAAAADhc/a06cm4WEojE/DSCN2697_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ACBFCkKdo7Y/T_he6QDWmMI/AAAAAAAADhk/rv021xcVfNc/s1600-h/DSCN26932.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2693" border="0" alt="DSCN2693" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cpmawIThnBw/T_he6hEbAQI/AAAAAAAADhs/s_ALavTCkvg/DSCN2693_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p>Below, is the laundry.  Notice the washtub to the right of the fireplace.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JzAjChTeAiU/T_he7DFSzQI/AAAAAAAADh0/T7cctRHXRHU/s1600-h/DSCN26922.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2692" border="0" alt="DSCN2692" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-chwWsaA65wQ/T_he7oOMCKI/AAAAAAAADh8/8pKSoXMmnyk/DSCN2692_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JcwfAiN1Ogk/T_he8MSmZRI/AAAAAAAADiE/gjYE_aOxD9I/s1600-h/DSCN27002.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2700" border="0" alt="DSCN2700" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EbVOXW3Km8A/T_he8n02ElI/AAAAAAAADiM/J9ajcQDfqYQ/DSCN2700_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Jefferson loved wine.  The picture below reflects a dumbwaiter that was used to deliver bottles of wine from the basement to the upper floors when Jefferson rang a bell.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Kcyn6_nDM0Q/T_he9SeD3zI/AAAAAAAADiU/rX8Oziyjw0c/s1600-h/DSCN26982.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2698" border="0" alt="DSCN2698" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pHrDNh7EqjE/T_he9rq1leI/AAAAAAAADic/7N2Qv6NeNt8/DSCN2698_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GsIPJNdAt2Y/T_he-MUcKsI/AAAAAAAADik/vZ11Vwn5OSQ/s1600-h/DSCN26992.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2699" border="0" alt="DSCN2699" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--zs9pVDb4U8/T_he-V_DK-I/AAAAAAAADis/H7Fn-C-Zzu4/DSCN2699_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Jefferson’s view from high atop the hill where Monticello is located . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7SYadYzFpS0/T_he_BPnqMI/AAAAAAAADi0/pgWCCqsrmJM/s1600-h/DSCN27082.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2708" border="0" alt="DSCN2708" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-57lVcqo2J9M/T_he_c5jxZI/AAAAAAAADi8/BXO2QuwUopo/DSCN2708_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7_WXmLDafDU/T_he_4YtJMI/AAAAAAAADjE/yVsq9lNVFF4/s1600-h/DSCN27102.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2710" border="0" alt="DSCN2710" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OA_EKi2wm90/T_hfAcFnTsI/AAAAAAAADjM/fb_Ms5HCiUI/DSCN2710_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Jefferson’s mother is buried on a hill overlooking the garden area . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7MyvXtCCRE4/T_hfBFlK6DI/AAAAAAAADjU/npz14PyEnro/s1600-h/DSCN27092.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2709" border="0" alt="DSCN2709" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FQ028eiMRTI/T_hfBc0xOYI/AAAAAAAADjc/V5rKwmxfIHg/DSCN2709_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Jefferson is buried on the property, but surprisingly, his tomb is situated a distance from his beloved Monticello . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SEtbXKR0FWY/T_hfCO48_kI/AAAAAAAADjk/jnB2OMZMUng/s1600-h/DSCN27122.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2712" border="0" alt="DSCN2712" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wH-f8e0xdVg/T_hfCj6xqLI/AAAAAAAADjs/E9y78cpPAhA/DSCN2712_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RI4x_ig23FY/T_hfDZN9p2I/AAAAAAAADj0/lEh4_AnWdls/s1600-h/DSCN27112.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2711" border="0" alt="DSCN2711" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N4ukcvKjHDc/T_hfDzJCbrI/AAAAAAAADj8/oUDYqU9SjXY/DSCN2711_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A statue of Jefferson at the visitor’s center . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1YBTrgHW-w8/T_hfEcju8YI/AAAAAAAADkE/r-L8IBTkBKQ/s1600-h/DSCN26842.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2684" border="0" alt="DSCN2684" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6DfUxtG5mDQ/T_hfEx5jxrI/AAAAAAAADkM/C1qTXmTJGqs/DSCN2684_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Monticello was well worth the visit!  But, back on the road to our destination, Washington, D.C.  Keith has never been to D.C., and now that he’s a bona-fide professor at OCU teaching Constitutional Law and other legal courses, it’s time he see the subject of his lectures.  </p> <p>We’ll be spending our time in the Nation’s Capitol at “Cherry Hill Park,” located in College Park, Maryland.  It’s just off the beltway that surrounds D.C., and is billed as a “high-end resort.”   </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VEQHp83gy9o/T_hfFnsD_-I/AAAAAAAADkU/18HcuUt45Ys/s1600-h/DSCN3023%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3023" border="0" alt="DSCN3023" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9LZ5cv84OVU/T_hfFwd8MSI/AAAAAAAADkc/ZAbVTZ7uXVk/DSCN3023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>At first glance, it appears to be wonderful.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rp21hw3NW5k/T_hfGqEtp3I/AAAAAAAADkk/qCCsrEkRVRE/s1600-h/DSCN3025%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3025" border="0" alt="DSCN3025" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Q7jhuzvdc-E/T_hfHD5JXlI/AAAAAAAADks/iKtSiQDj0gg/DSCN3025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ke6E3HSFG6w/T_hfH0ujrhI/AAAAAAAADk0/o1Bc1-vsFYY/s1600-h/DSCN3026%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3026" border="0" alt="DSCN3026" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mXSFM-V8iao/T_hfIdgUSZI/AAAAAAAADk8/VGYXV1fsA2E/DSCN3026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hyBhk50W2n8/T_hfJDFQV0I/AAAAAAAADlE/4YxfHcOhc8Y/s1600-h/DSCN3027%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN3027" border="0" alt="DSCN3027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DhKcsE0Z-gw/T_hfJmwnWjI/AAAAAAAADlM/HkjE_kqgUNM/DSCN3027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>But, after registering at the park office and finding our site, we realized it’s just another RV park . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZdiCNFtDOu8/T_hfKFDw9AI/AAAAAAAADlU/EpdRugbwh3w/s1600-h/DSCN2714%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2714" border="0" alt="DSCN2714" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-us0XRYHhAWE/T_hfKzSIkMI/AAAAAAAADlc/oBe0HcK5MEc/DSCN2714_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The site next to us looked as though someone lived there on a full-time basis.  Perhaps the chairs were tossed during the recent storm, but they were not picked up during our entire stay.  </p> <p>We arrived on Saturday, but Susan would not join us until Monday.  Keith and I didn’t waste any time and headed to D.C. early the next morning via the Metro.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cqo7RzRdrPQ/T_hfLVdG-II/AAAAAAAADlk/E7cFZ7CCmuo/s1600-h/DSCN2955%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2955" border="0" alt="DSCN2955" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dU-VNscw8vs/T_hfL_7GEVI/AAAAAAAADls/79EICjFZWtc/DSCN2955_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Our first stop was our father/son priority . . . “The National Air and Space Museum” at “The Smithsonian.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LIOgBRNQLv0/T_hfMeOzLYI/AAAAAAAADl0/TgyLNKbp5WQ/s1600-h/DSCN2755%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2755" border="0" alt="DSCN2755" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-82JKo8UuBzk/T_hfMuO-rOI/AAAAAAAADl8/kbnT6YhGX1Q/DSCN2755_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, the actual single engine monoplane flown solo by Charles Lindbergh May 20-21, 1927, on the first non-stop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris.  I couldn’t believe we were in the midst of such fantastic pieces of history!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UCEgMaNWYi8/T_hfNSzaZaI/AAAAAAAADmE/AMUgMVnXd6U/s1600-h/DSCN2720%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2720" border="0" alt="DSCN2720" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jkAuxG_USHw/T_hfNqwvIWI/AAAAAAAADmM/3OFB_KHvrYU/DSCN2720_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, the Apollo 11 Command Module that carried Neil Armstrong, Buz Aldrin, and Michael Collins on their voyage to the Moon on July 16-21, 1969.  Amazing!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NQnGCFAKM0A/T_hfODC5mfI/AAAAAAAADmU/FeXS1FBBF04/s1600-h/DSCN2722%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2722" border="0" alt="DSCN2722" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PmNQ8kJ-SJY/T_hfO3XGo4I/AAAAAAAADmc/mfji6Fz14QQ/DSCN2722_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>I remember it like yesterday – sitting on the living room floor in front of a Magnavox television watching every second in anticipation as Armstrong stepped off the Lunar Lander onto the surface of the Moon.  Below, is a duplicate Lander that would have been used if the original had failed.  The original, of course, remains on the Moon.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FYOn43lrMY8/T_hfPdzjLFI/AAAAAAAADmk/aSDNwHb8pK8/s1600-h/DSCN2729%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2729" border="0" alt="DSCN2729" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e5kxf1if1-g/T_hfP7aPgrI/AAAAAAAADms/kLx2NQluhBU/DSCN2729_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wus9vj1S-uM/T_hfQtodjiI/AAAAAAAADm0/rG8Cukazn_U/s1600-h/DSCN2762%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2762" border="0" alt="DSCN2762" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-371ShBY3SEI/T_hfRLNpTYI/AAAAAAAADm8/r_QSaojr6Yw/DSCN2762_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, a Messerschmitt Me 262 jet propelled fighter from WWII.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-V7YsjpRZEMU/T_hfRoprQzI/AAAAAAAADnE/JCi4yd_DXGA/s1600-h/DSCN2731%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2731" border="0" alt="DSCN2731" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aL7_k9gaRXM/T_hfR_NbjMI/AAAAAAAADnM/PTcw-ckE0-k/DSCN2731_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The Hughes H-1 (the plane Howard Hughes flew to a record speed in 1931) . . . .  </p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1-vrm5QbLoU/T_hfSk9Jf3I/AAAAAAAADnU/_4rEBLvtcnw/s1600-h/DSCN2734%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2734" border="0" alt="DSCN2734" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YRZSD-N1nCQ/T_hfS3sdBSI/AAAAAAAADnc/m6OW5rh7iuM/DSCN2734_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A Ford Tri-motor . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gTmm0WIFqZo/T_hfTrxEUmI/AAAAAAAADnk/lWq5YOq2jNI/s1600-h/DSCN2743%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2743" border="0" alt="DSCN2743" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yw1sk6HA2Ek/T_hfULpu4vI/AAAAAAAADns/vMEDO1sQvJw/DSCN2743_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Being a former private pilot, I found myself totally engulfed in my element!  Susan and I have visited many aircraft museums, but this is the ultimate.  Keith and I were witnessing the actual aircraft that made historical flights.  </p> <p>Below, is Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed 5-A “Vega,” which she flew solo across the Atlantic in 1932 and twice across the U.S.  Earhart was the first female to accomplish the task.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SK9YTDJaA6o/T_hfUUVuIGI/AAAAAAAADn0/Ri2fa_yEq-Y/s1600-h/DSCN2752%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2752" border="0" alt="DSCN2752" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yy95UmxrOmg/T_hfVaHi4BI/AAAAAAAADn8/yndzdQ_G9zg/DSCN2752_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lcX8HAvfXj4/T_hfV-w0fpI/AAAAAAAADoE/KBqURhipfKs/s1600-h/DSCN2753%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2753" border="0" alt="DSCN2753" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S9HXlsNy5mI/T_hfWQ_f3sI/AAAAAAAADoM/QKKhlXSJuGw/DSCN2753_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, actual flight gear worn by Amelia Earhart. </p> <p>Arguably, the most famous item on display is the 1903 “Wright Flyer,” flown at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17, 1903.  It is the first heavier-than-air powered aircraft to maintain sustained flight with a pilot onboard . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I4Y-B21dn5c/T_hfXK4TMvI/AAAAAAAADoU/LlkgjMGgj5U/s1600-h/DSCN2761%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2761" border="0" alt="DSCN2761" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wNCVPWYnxb0/T_hfX7QJxwI/AAAAAAAADoc/QGGpubC0j98/DSCN2761_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is one of my personal favorites . . . a North American “P-51 Mustang,” used by the U.S. in WWII and credited with shooting down 4,950 enemy aircraft . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hksD7MjoIRA/T_hfYYdIJYI/AAAAAAAADok/KZf5CAz-YHs/s1600-h/DSCN2746%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2746" border="0" alt="DSCN2746" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZLVE78H8MNs/T_hfY0O2zJI/AAAAAAAADos/Expko4TFetU/DSCN2746_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>This museum just goes on, and on, and on, with remarkable specimens of American aviation history . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-csrHJ6djFr4/T_hfZkOj8dI/AAAAAAAADo0/smZ4uTbrtUQ/s1600-h/DSCN2724%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2724" border="0" alt="DSCN2724" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4lIPOarEJ6k/T_hfZ9nEaII/AAAAAAAADo8/ZzrlBF0eLyg/DSCN2724_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kZt8EcNOY7A/T_hfaip_5UI/AAAAAAAADpE/7xh_0cdykc4/s1600-h/DSCN2726%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2726" border="0" alt="DSCN2726" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1N3p8spulXY/T_hfbP90SVI/AAAAAAAADpM/yJSPBUDFD1M/DSCN2726_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K1D-JkCd6iI/T_hfbhP9JgI/AAAAAAAADpU/HrZLgdPVVAA/s1600-h/DSCN2728%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2728" border="0" alt="DSCN2728" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-41lC2aJ9G2c/T_hfcN1p5CI/AAAAAAAADpc/HXanN-1kftE/DSCN2728_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Our timing was perfect, because as Keith and I finished our tour of the Air and Space Museum, Susan called and said she and her friend and DAR sister, Debbie Aldridge, would meet us for lunch and join us for a tour of “The National Museum of American History.”  </p> <p>Susan and Debbie arrived earlier in the week to attend “Continental Congress,” the annual conference of The Society of The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).  The meeting is held at Constitution Hall, which is situated near the White House in Washington, D.C., at 1776 D Street. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nF1pHvQGn5M/T_jUx-2-3xI/AAAAAAAADrI/BN_7CtboEg8/s1600-h/dar%252520bldg%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="dar bldg" border="0" alt="dar bldg" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vGthm7QCOz8/T_jUyZjS_3I/AAAAAAAADrQ/RvndB-Xvxbg/dar%252520bldg_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="162" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tTrnmVbNTlo/T_jUy1QunkI/AAAAAAAADrY/FdYE5KsVnsE/s1600-h/Constitution%252520Hall%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Constitution Hall" border="0" alt="Constitution Hall" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j47yCiqtQC4/T_jUzdNiGwI/AAAAAAAADrg/cgVZTCh7biE/Constitution%252520Hall_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>Pictured below is the Oklahoma Delegation of DAR to attend the 2012 Conference . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5tDrAkEc6nw/T_jU0NZv5OI/AAAAAAAADro/D61jt9tNjo8/s1600-h/DAR%252520girls%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DAR girls" border="0" alt="DAR girls" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VhmfDYSzduI/T_jU0hNYWtI/AAAAAAAADrw/o8I-XdcDm3w/DAR%252520girls_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>After a quick lunch, Susan, Debbie, Keith and I began our tour of the Museum of American History.  This building is also part of the Smithsonian, and the collection is absolutely fascinating.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4o8yadJpeTg/T_jU1MBsk_I/AAAAAAAADr4/zOHlb-CYev0/s1600-h/DSCN2767%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2767" border="0" alt="DSCN2767" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-i4l6UE31yc4/T_jU1jDFoBI/AAAAAAAADsA/th0a2e33WbU/DSCN2767_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>One of the museum’s most treasured relics is the actual top hat worn by President Abraham Lincoln to the Ford Theater the night of his assassination . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fW91_sJWWdk/T_jU2DdKmLI/AAAAAAAADsI/TbAsVn_hNUY/s1600-h/DSCN2771%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2771" border="0" alt="DSCN2771" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gqG0gx6V_DQ/T_jU2pp9Y6I/AAAAAAAADsQ/EQT5SNMO1w8/DSCN2771_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>A bronze cast of Abraham Lincoln’s “life mask,” dated 1886 . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L4_gq7wZRmc/T_jU3M0TsoI/AAAAAAAADsY/zymv2QklBpE/s1600-h/DSCN2810%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2810" border="0" alt="DSCN2810" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/---of7s5nDRc/T_jU3TI9IDI/AAAAAAAADsg/UbnR63qP98U/DSCN2810_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Abraham Lincoln’s pocket watch and fob (I include this picture for my buddy, Cliff Vassallo) . . . .</p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uiXwp2wARg8/T_jU33nVOwI/AAAAAAAADso/Shbo5mQlxbI/s1600-h/DSCN2811%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2811" border="0" alt="DSCN2811" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-m1SLOBicc9g/T_jU4Ar_53I/AAAAAAAADsw/mnphjtfmb2g/DSCN2811_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Other items on display include “Archie Bunker’s” chair from “All in the Family . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hlU0Snur_-I/T_jU4sbPSyI/AAAAAAAADs4/1U6RvWEXzgU/s1600-h/DSCN2772%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2772" border="0" alt="DSCN2772" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j7E09wWJTLc/T_jU5G6akJI/AAAAAAAADtA/MnhnDn8kNaI/DSCN2772_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The actual uniform worn by General Andrew Jackson during The Battle of New Orleans (War of 1812) . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EMR2fWFz6VY/T_jU5qZgpjI/AAAAAAAADtI/ADhUfMd1hPI/s1600-h/DSCN2779%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2779" border="0" alt="DSCN2779" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-denwbo5Ea6E/T_jU6I6rX_I/AAAAAAAADtQ/bXHwHLY1wMQ/DSCN2779_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The chairs and table used by Generals Grant and Lee during the signing of the surrender document of the Civil War at Appomattox.  Grant sat in the upholstered chair, while Lee sat in the other and used the table to sign the surrender . . . .   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1igFNonsqso/T_jU6r3SRuI/AAAAAAAADtY/68u49esynVY/s1600-h/DSCN2785%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2785" border="0" alt="DSCN2785" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OK4TytsXqH0/T_jU7-X4XhI/AAAAAAAADtg/jtr-_Sy6oiA/DSCN2785_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Scarecrow’s hat and boots from the 1938 film, “The Wizard of Oz” . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zvUBZ57lxN0/T_jU8XdG8XI/AAAAAAAADto/AUR_mfxXbPE/s1600-h/DSCN2789%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2789" border="0" alt="DSCN2789" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p1buNv-Dcak/T_jU80VzprI/AAAAAAAADtw/Gb_hGxvrTQ4/DSCN2789_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Dorothy’s “Ruby Slippers” . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bbdbPvX0uSw/T_jU9OSi1RI/AAAAAAAADt4/1mPoZRaaX3c/s1600-h/DSCN2816%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2816" border="0" alt="DSCN2816" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jbCP-kTRktU/T_jU9jvjx1I/AAAAAAAADuA/sqTlxaKRO0k/DSCN2816_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A fragment of “Plymouth Rock,” said to be where the Pilgrims landed in 1620 . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UIREhgzbWtg/T_jU-FYBK2I/AAAAAAAADuI/ZYRt-eb2luo/s1600-h/DSCN2808%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2808" border="0" alt="DSCN2808" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IhNfaXE70Xg/T_jU-V8x24I/AAAAAAAADuQ/RpMZ_GEWXiM/DSCN2808_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>And, “Kermit the Frog” . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t69NAkq09yI/T_jU-2giHSI/AAAAAAAADuY/5xonwHnEWAQ/s1600-h/DSCN2825%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2825" border="0" alt="DSCN2825" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JwFYvt_UHi0/T_jU_FxYJFI/AAAAAAAADug/IaZ1eLoW-D0/DSCN2825_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The foregoing is just a sampling of what is on display at the Smithsonian’s “National Museum of American History.”  Because of time constraints, we were unable to see it all.  I was most disappointed that we were unable to view the Thomas Jefferson collection.  Because Jefferson was bankrupt at the time of his death, his family sold most of his personal items to pay creditors, which were thought to be lost forever.  However, the museum has recovered many of those items which are now on display and available for viewing.  </p> <p>Next stop, Arlington National Cemetery to pay our respect to our fallen soldiers . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dW1TXb5nBRo/T_jvYpuRWjI/AAAAAAAADvw/-bL0xca9O5s/s1600-h/DSCN2830%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2830" border="0" alt="DSCN2830" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X3FqUGRRKuE/T_jvYyrRgoI/AAAAAAAADv4/bMpx_IJRiL4/DSCN2830_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We were able to witness the changing of the guard, . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ISMeyL09vyg/T_jvZpetGaI/AAAAAAAADwA/8iTlDKHfAE0/s1600-h/DSCN2838%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2838" border="0" alt="DSCN2838" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MKDQS4RAtms/T_jvaIUcBZI/AAAAAAAADwI/DGmoRdn9Mvs/DSCN2838_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>and visit President and Mrs. Kennedy’s graves . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sw9Cdv2x5K8/T_jva_W0qwI/AAAAAAAADwQ/q0ELEOh8x7M/s1600-h/DSCN2831%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2831" border="0" alt="DSCN2831" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UXmyHJNjGgE/T_jvbasugaI/AAAAAAAADwY/GSLkagv8LOU/DSCN2831_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G_YXlnilY6g/T_jvb-BxjbI/AAAAAAAADwg/VxImryTBiTU/s1600-h/DSCN2832%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2832" border="0" alt="DSCN2832" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-puJjwK5qaTU/T_jvcgOBgcI/AAAAAAAADwo/olQT3Pv8yLM/DSCN2832_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>“Arlington House,” the former home of Confederate General, Robert E. Lee, is situated high on a hill over the cemetery . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X6sIdaWLJ8w/T_jvdEDYW-I/AAAAAAAADww/pKBTlEwfVWg/s1600-h/DSCN2834%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2834" border="0" alt="DSCN2834" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-emeLMBNyt6U/T_jvdktnRZI/AAAAAAAADw4/f89z0Qtar_o/DSCN2834_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I have visited Arlington on previous trips, and it always moves me to see the number of soldiers, and families, that have sacrificed so dearly for our country.  </p> <p>Keith would later tour the National Archives, alone, as Susan and I have already done so. The U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and other significantly important documents are housed here under tight security . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A1bjF5ijW3o/T_jveZ-6uLI/AAAAAAAADxA/k3bZ91Ccar0/s1600-h/DSCN2717%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2717" border="0" alt="DSCN2717" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n7tC7jhRv5Q/T_jve4k00HI/AAAAAAAADxI/ieaBDL54PtQ/DSCN2717_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Before leaving Oklahoma City, Keith contacted the office of Oklahoma U.S. Senator, Tom Coburn, to obtain his assistance in helping us make reservations to tour the White House and U.S. Capitol.  The senator’s staff was very gracious, and although it was too short notice for a White House tour, they did schedule a personal tour of the Capitol.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Fikum3OFAUU/T_jvff7-uII/AAAAAAAADxQ/qXpRBUNYxak/s1600-h/DSCN2718%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2718" border="0" alt="DSCN2718" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TiGdMJ-DAVk/T_jvfu5lqzI/AAAAAAAADxY/DDRNVHFMZCw/DSCN2718_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We began our tour by meeting one of Senator Coburn’s staff members at his office in the Russell Senate Office Building, which is just across the street from the Capitol. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4DKwPP-W4SA/T_jvgP81m-I/AAAAAAAADxg/CGHGtWjSfi4/s1600-h/DSCN2847%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2847" border="0" alt="DSCN2847" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5MLNiaucde4/T_jvhuj-s1I/AAAAAAAADxo/8aHs7mf3F6U/DSCN2847_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The first thing I noticed as we entered the Senate Office Building were the gold trash cans . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LdXwHuBZfKY/T_jviHoYcXI/AAAAAAAADxw/HJ35HPA3ZYQ/s1600-h/DSCN2848%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2848" border="0" alt="DSCN2848" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SgAt1nKqAPc/T_jvihSqjYI/AAAAAAAADx4/IAMSB_c6buM/DSCN2848_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Finally, Senator Coburn’s office . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ski36-WAqPc/T_jvi2jYu4I/AAAAAAAADyA/J7vUtWb2kxA/s1600-h/DSCN2849%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2849" border="0" alt="DSCN2849" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wLErD35CX80/T_jvjRzIObI/AAAAAAAADyI/nFG90RTqNsc/DSCN2849_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The following picture is difficult to make out, but the plaque commemorates the office formerly occupied by President Warren G. Harding, when he served as a senator from Ohio.  The office is directly across the hall from Senator Coburn’s.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m4chvqJlRFM/T_jvjygl4KI/AAAAAAAADyQ/1Qmp1wSlOik/s1600-h/DSCN2850%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2850" border="0" alt="DSCN2850" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vhvvbB-4hpI/T_jvkbFxb1I/AAAAAAAADyY/57SJzD0i0_Q/DSCN2850_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, Susan registers as a visitor at Senator Coburn’s office . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_YkWm0R7u0M/T_jvk7wn-wI/AAAAAAAADyg/2fyK5DLWKVs/s1600-h/DSCN2851%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2851" border="0" alt="DSCN2851" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ih6LK6-uGa0/T_jvlfYkWYI/AAAAAAAADyo/4oj1BBbIpVc/DSCN2851_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Here are a few of the reasons I’m fond of Senator Coburn . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NszqbMquPr4/T_jvl_5zpAI/AAAAAAAADyw/84MfLjtYS4I/s1600-h/DSCN2852%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2852" border="0" alt="DSCN2852" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2KXcYwzu6F8/T_jvnYhN3wI/AAAAAAAADy4/7YG_lO6PveA/DSCN2852_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, a U.S. Debt Clock.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IoG2cGKqRCI/T_jvn8aSNwI/AAAAAAAADzA/g-ADvQ4TZD8/s1600-h/DSCN2853%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2853" border="0" alt="DSCN2853" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lOa042YDs9Q/T_jvoVVe-3I/AAAAAAAADzI/iktVnpbNWmw/DSCN2853_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8O2DUhI27zI/T_jvpKy6YvI/AAAAAAAADzQ/w8lM94r1N74/s1600-h/DSCN2854%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2854" border="0" alt="DSCN2854" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J1Nc8d3zUKM/T_jvpWj4bTI/AAAAAAAADzY/iUlL1NbZEKc/DSCN2854_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Perhaps he’ll do something about those gold trash cans?</p> <p>Our tour group consisted of four families from Oklahoma, including Larry Alexander and his son, David, from Tulsa . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pUVNX1CgjcI/T_jvqJMN-LI/AAAAAAAADzg/4AsdW4nF2t0/s1600-h/DSCN2914%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2914" border="0" alt="DSCN2914" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rHylI7z_zpM/T_jvqX5xhMI/AAAAAAAADzo/J7CD17o_MyA/DSCN2914_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, are a selection of pictures taken during our tour . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZJDLeLIqsBw/T_jvrVv_MYI/AAAAAAAADzw/fjLa9qGepXY/s1600-h/DSCN2858%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2858" border="0" alt="DSCN2858" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9xURufrAShE/T_jvrxO74LI/AAAAAAAADz4/pefqEepWVKU/DSCN2858_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v_IAx5iScsQ/T_jvsSj244I/AAAAAAAAD0A/MhKcl_RCrXw/s1600-h/DSCN2860%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2860" border="0" alt="DSCN2860" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ALXNWBBn6QI/T_jvsitA3hI/AAAAAAAAD0I/QYB9KW5UBPE/DSCN2860_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dewaqettbe8/T_jvtVix-cI/AAAAAAAAD0Q/mMWVYtWjydU/s1600-h/DSCN2859%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2859" border="0" alt="DSCN2859" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6HmuWv8sq34/T_jvv10RYVI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/GPT5i2quRa0/DSCN2859_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4bDQWFbCMVQ/T_jvw2CaBWI/AAAAAAAAD0g/uD0h34PVcZk/s1600-h/DSCN2863%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2863" border="0" alt="DSCN2863" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6XOw0lTUjgs/T_jvxj-yxLI/AAAAAAAAD0o/10xlPUKz4iA/DSCN2863_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WJv8uY-es2o/T_jvyrW8oHI/AAAAAAAAD0w/_AQ6fKvJItI/s1600-h/DSCN2864%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2864" border="0" alt="DSCN2864" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sltbBLk-lGU/T_jvzS5K7CI/AAAAAAAAD04/czhNDS_0k98/DSCN2864_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WR7yvJ2HVOQ/T_jvz28Ks4I/AAAAAAAAD1A/hiK1OwxRSjU/s1600-h/DSCN2865%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2865" border="0" alt="DSCN2865" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t0Bx-dhDq4M/T_jv0fGDZ9I/AAAAAAAAD1I/ecIUbdfls7s/DSCN2865_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sooyR0I87bQ/T_jv1bu5FKI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/b00v9O-XFE0/s1600-h/DSCN2869%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2869" border="0" alt="DSCN2869" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9qS6_fEBrj8/T_jv3WQdflI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/wz0iNgGHrhQ/DSCN2869_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0RR2vKN7CJ8/T_jv4tr0f1I/AAAAAAAAD1g/9tu4h2pNOZM/s1600-h/DSCN2871%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2871" border="0" alt="DSCN2871" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZIBFAVkjhj8/T_jv44uZkyI/AAAAAAAAD1o/xgpT1Tx9KEs/DSCN2871_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-64i-Pp1dO6Q/T_jv5oFAzJI/AAAAAAAAD1w/Z5oADQ4xMGg/s1600-h/DSCN2876%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2876" border="0" alt="DSCN2876" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2F-ZQV-rF20/T_jv6F-kL_I/AAAAAAAAD14/QankAw8Kevs/DSCN2876_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, the old Supreme Court Chamber from 1810 – 1860.  Some of you may be familiar with the case <em>McCulloch v. Maryland</em>, and Chief Justices, John Marshall and Roger B. Taney.  Marshall spent 20 of his 34 years on the bench in this courtroom, where he delivered the ruling in <em>McCulloch.</em>  Taney succeeded Marshall as Chief Justice and delivered the <em>Dred Scott</em> decision in this courtroom in 1857. </p> <p>More pictures of the Capitol . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--NaXY9UZlNY/T_jv6p_gWGI/AAAAAAAAD2A/w_o5vf2Wedo/s1600-h/DSCN2880%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2880" border="0" alt="DSCN2880" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xOg-tJYhrBs/T_jv60WVXmI/AAAAAAAAD2I/WTxUzRwms7Q/DSCN2880_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, the star on the floor of the Capitol Rotunda is the center of D.C.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JzTf6vyPpYQ/T_jv7qXsrdI/AAAAAAAAD2Q/cwQ0zjTWi0Y/s1600-h/DSCN2881%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2881" border="0" alt="DSCN2881" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-56hj6q8mAX4/T_jv71G0z0I/AAAAAAAAD2Y/EEh2w3xWacw/DSCN2881_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UphNxNMZYto/T_jv8iyK2PI/AAAAAAAAD2g/gsf1_XeJmqI/s1600-h/DSCN2882%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2882" border="0" alt="DSCN2882" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xg8LmaBr-Wk/T_jv9MWzhUI/AAAAAAAAD2o/9k0tsXob8dU/DSCN2882_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ujBWZFyCUAU/T_jv9y0EmOI/AAAAAAAAD2w/r5gH3a3pUHg/s1600-h/DSCN2883%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2883" border="0" alt="DSCN2883" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zNHPkRxou1o/T_jv-a1InzI/AAAAAAAAD24/Dc8gVTK-6wA/DSCN2883_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ggs5jmTWyKg/T_jv_JEPi9I/AAAAAAAAD3A/ae7yIP1U34w/s1600-h/DSCN2884%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2884" border="0" alt="DSCN2884" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ftWr5Ae3k2Y/T_jv_958b4I/AAAAAAAAD3I/WXbKrFUpvpA/DSCN2884_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ci_q1wDcCfk/T_jwAUVBDkI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/ZSbnDDmgPyE/s1600-h/DSCN2886%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2886" border="0" alt="DSCN2886" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sYHabLSH8yc/T_jwA7-RuEI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/Zsj-6avrXSM/DSCN2886_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above left is a statue of President Ronald Reagan.  Below, is the base upon which President Regan’s statue rest.  The base is fashioned from material previously contained in the Berlin Wall.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ufWz8E8KJa4/T_jwBeeF49I/AAAAAAAAD3g/cIlNW4qpZqc/s1600-h/DSCN2911%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2911" border="0" alt="DSCN2911" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ij5DDFjbFwk/T_jwCFnTOnI/AAAAAAAAD3o/t5tE3Yeuh5g/DSCN2911_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-glgKcvMprJA/T_jwCjnBB9I/AAAAAAAAD3w/lXKqVQMhZe0/s1600-h/DSCN2887%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2887" border="0" alt="DSCN2887" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c5nV6d3sGHw/T_jwDE_0NaI/AAAAAAAAD34/tbmYJ7TbbFQ/DSCN2887_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EfzvbnxfyqQ/T_jwDz_xI_I/AAAAAAAAD4A/gyzGdDFArUs/s1600-h/DSCN2888%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2888" border="0" alt="DSCN2888" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NrZVAjHoVQg/T_jwEfoyM9I/AAAAAAAAD4I/MLqqfQajDF0/DSCN2888_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The U.S. Capitol has a collection of statues honoring significant people from each state.  Oklahoma is honored with two statues, one of Oklahoma’s “Favorite Son,” Will Rogers . . . . , </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wInF7KsOS34/T_jwExPqhuI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/jCpnFO1wnUQ/s1600-h/DSCN2894%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2894" border="0" alt="DSCN2894" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UZUMEfO7nO0/T_jwFb2y8HI/AAAAAAAAD4Y/Uln2fSCQMns/DSCN2894_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>and Sequoyah, creator of the Cherokee syllabary. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AUoRht79vco/T_jwGHcE3wI/AAAAAAAAD4g/GprRhFxD7_w/s1600-h/DSCN2891%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2891" border="0" alt="DSCN2891" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0FM3UbPXwLE/T_jwGvFzHQI/AAAAAAAAD4o/6-zpJvt2-LM/DSCN2891_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The following picture is a view from the Capitol facing west, where presidents currently take their oath of office.  The ceremony was previously conducted on the east side, until  President Ronald Reagan decided he wanted to face his home state of California during his inauguration.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0z62qbq4bMU/T_jwHLnReiI/AAAAAAAAD4w/ljMr-ioRrl8/s1600-h/DSCN2896%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2896" border="0" alt="DSCN2896" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tUEJZZeoR-s/T_jwHk9uEAI/AAAAAAAAD44/pypvWy1smhc/DSCN2896_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t5o0HuEpws0/T_jwINyzmyI/AAAAAAAAD5A/YJmt-B-rdI0/s1600-h/DSCN2897%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2897" border="0" alt="DSCN2897" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gPPNsFavUVo/T_jwIkojNyI/AAAAAAAAD5I/0BSzV3nlMaY/DSCN2897_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xW3RwwYtGkg/T_jwJL44gAI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/cyqv6B7BGks/s1600-h/DSCN2900%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2900" border="0" alt="DSCN2900" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xhw7SHa7Z64/T_jwJ0j40_I/AAAAAAAAD5Y/wbHiIXWAjnk/DSCN2900_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The model of the “Statue of Freedom,” which is mounted high on the dome above the U.S. Capitol . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RggCBGICQdI/T_jwKUK7GrI/AAAAAAAAD5g/pH3RuJkQmfQ/s1600-h/DSCN2916%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2916" border="0" alt="DSCN2916" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-I3YDjwaY1JM/T_jwLAiFwyI/AAAAAAAAD5o/59BZEvhMTAs/DSCN2916_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>This was the first visit to the U.S. Capital for Keith, Susan, or me, and it was truly a memorable experience for us.  Thanks to Senator Coburn and his staff for making this tour possible on such short notice!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X7cqxruhNK8/T_jwLmUnyoI/AAAAAAAAD5w/C6Ngm3tmZuk/s1600-h/DSCN2915%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2915" border="0" alt="DSCN2915" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mI3hp7En8S0/T_jwMS_8SEI/AAAAAAAAD54/MHlpE6Vy1qc/DSCN2915_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Upon completion of our Capitol tour, we walked through the underground tunnel connecting the Capitol to the Library of Congress . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gDiR8dPZfD8/T_jwM9kDf9I/AAAAAAAAD6A/nSaYrhx9VGQ/s1600-h/DSCN2843%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2843" border="0" alt="DSCN2843" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aND9L6XaGzM/T_jwNWORmnI/AAAAAAAAD6I/qolrHOFU9Q0/DSCN2843_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tiymP3rjmow/T_jwOL-UQlI/AAAAAAAAD6Q/HsTFZE5KxmY/s1600-h/DSCN2920%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2920" border="0" alt="DSCN2920" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L_Dua2pb6wQ/T_jwOwstLNI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/7ayo9fKnfQI/DSCN2920_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The architecture of every building we entered in Washington is amazing!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xgiCcpqYKkA/T_jwPel3ddI/AAAAAAAAD6g/hiOMH4Hlm0I/s1600-h/DSCN2921%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2921" border="0" alt="DSCN2921" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F5wombAPa_s/T_jwP-mFRKI/AAAAAAAAD6o/V3bt2TsHhpo/DSCN2921_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FdowJqSC-6U/T_jwQqDKhUI/AAAAAAAAD6w/DchQ2P3xNJk/s1600-h/DSCN2922%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2922" border="0" alt="DSCN2922" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2DgILRa3qvY/T_jwRCerhtI/AAAAAAAAD64/MimvcIKQPpE/DSCN2922_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--OOupAFpcJ8/T_jwRt1-__I/AAAAAAAAD7A/NiBSATmFBZs/s1600-h/DSCN2923%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2923" border="0" alt="DSCN2923" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N9ZsUHsKU3I/T_jwSDEkpsI/AAAAAAAAD7I/e8h_w7abf8I/DSCN2923_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Who would have ever thought the Library of Congress would house books?  Especially books written by the likes of Benjamin Franklin! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qr9J_xIqQLQ/T_jwSjgWRRI/AAAAAAAAD7Q/PZuuPr-eW0c/s1600-h/DSCN2924%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2924" border="0" alt="DSCN2924" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bV7GUb_R5Lk/T_jwS252O3I/AAAAAAAAD7Y/b4XsugTszc4/DSCN2924_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Or, Mark Twain . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bzOgu194Vdk/T_jwTjrJDtI/AAAAAAAAD7g/L9_dAwTQw4Q/s1600-h/DSCN2925%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2925" border="0" alt="DSCN2925" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0YjIQiQk9W4/T_jwUWzLAiI/AAAAAAAAD7o/qx41GJgYQIc/DSCN2925_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>L. Frank Baum’s, “The Wizard of Oz.” </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IQyma0h1fgo/T_jwU0a9ZTI/AAAAAAAAD7w/s_wCccHiL6U/s1600-h/DSCN2927%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2927" border="0" alt="DSCN2927" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jx9XwdFXZu0/T_jwVX4-g3I/AAAAAAAAD74/MrS-BUItb9E/DSCN2927_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Photographs weren’t allowed in the following library, but just being able to stand among the volumes of books owned by Thomas Jefferson was astounding.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pJy-7PbQxG0/T_jwV7Db3zI/AAAAAAAAD8A/kRT_s4JWbQA/s1600-h/DSCN2932%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2932" border="0" alt="DSCN2932" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aU_GiTmXSEg/T_jwWbLUkYI/AAAAAAAAD8I/T1QSIMb9CQw/DSCN2932_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>A view of the Capitol from the Library of Congress . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hlwl5alXxQ4/T_jwW4lLHYI/AAAAAAAAD8Q/ym_0S7wYpgk/s1600-h/DSCN2933%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2933" border="0" alt="DSCN2933" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6uGFZe5uNaI/T_jwXcjbJfI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/bh_i9kFSx_o/DSCN2933_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pMZ0LaqyuEg/T_jwX9za6jI/AAAAAAAAD8g/pFaZBSjkShU/s1600-h/DSCN2934%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2934" border="0" alt="DSCN2934" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JAeoZD0wIJI/T_jwYciI43I/AAAAAAAAD8o/mIrXDnXfdWc/DSCN2934_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>We then walked a short distance to the U.S. Supreme Court building, which is directly next door to the Library of Congress.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pkUU5OrU4iw/T_jwYwp6ZHI/AAAAAAAAD8w/An9TxmiO3nw/s1600-h/DSCN2845%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2845" border="0" alt="DSCN2845" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a7cAAxaJPKY/T_jwZncKOmI/AAAAAAAAD84/LoIVR_8m6ds/DSCN2845_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>It seems construction is always taking place in D.C., and the Supreme Court building is no exception (notice the scaffolds along the wings of the building).  </p> <p>I made certain to show Keith the following sign, which signifies my heightened level of credibility with the Court since my admission in 2007 . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a-bwr6L2-jo/T_jwaL6A-wI/AAAAAAAAD9A/O-Vd52vJaWI/s1600-h/DSCN2951%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2951" border="0" alt="DSCN2951" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r-Etbcs4S9M/T_jwannrKKI/AAAAAAAAD9I/47Cw4s93j1Y/DSCN2951_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-idYSsPFahgE/T_jwbPjsVgI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/JKOAtxweA8g/s1600-h/DSCN2950%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2950" border="0" alt="DSCN2950" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_7QQcpoDC14/T_jwbStt41I/AAAAAAAAD9Y/IHlyTXUSmNQ/DSCN2950_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The Court also houses several interesting items . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hJsx1hWwSks/T_jwb7YWhmI/AAAAAAAAD9g/GKQgcSlzzZw/s1600-h/DSCN2938%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2938" border="0" alt="DSCN2938" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C53kgA_Tveo/T_jwcQ3ffxI/AAAAAAAAD9o/9acefQOEvg4/DSCN2938_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, is the mahogany bench chair used by Chief Justice, John Marshall, from 1819 – 1835.  Below, is a statue of John Marshall. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P0tdZm7Q5_8/T_jwcjJQBYI/AAAAAAAAD9w/hfPzxOBTFGE/s1600-h/DSCN2952%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2952" border="0" alt="DSCN2952" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-I9w4lDa7cdY/T_jwdJtc0XI/AAAAAAAAD94/IXHYcXiVB8k/DSCN2952_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4G3y134ayX0/T_jwdxA4TgI/AAAAAAAAD-A/NrHnAxXgFGo/s1600-h/DSCN2946%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2946" border="0" alt="DSCN2946" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-26UiGXTGOcA/T_jwefEZKLI/AAAAAAAAD-I/wNUSAMoxw3U/DSCN2946_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Above, is a portrait of retired justice, Sandra Day O’Connor.  Below, looking up through the spiral staircase of the Court. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jTLF7AhH6ic/T_jwe8vrxuI/AAAAAAAAD-Q/qCjNfZBValA/s1600-h/DSCN2953%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2953" border="0" alt="DSCN2953" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZGrjBWeQxkM/T_jwfvNf2gI/AAAAAAAAD-Y/tNrORLlhTgE/DSCN2953_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sksTgJF0jTI/T_jwgBXSk2I/AAAAAAAAD-g/xS6DC2TNVkg/s1600-h/DSCN2941%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2941" border="0" alt="DSCN2941" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--ODtIhDnfI8/T_jwg5ULR3I/AAAAAAAAD-o/nYy6aRX_Y0I/DSCN2941_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Photographs were not permitted inside the courtroom.  Although, our visit was timely to catch a brief lecture by one of the justice’s aids describing the building the operation of the Court.  </p> <p>Of course, my visit to the U.S. Supreme Court with my son will always remain memorable for me . . . .</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0EfK6SSrwJs/T_jwhcyhO7I/AAAAAAAAD-w/ztBfCzvehlU/s1600-h/DSCN2942%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2942" border="0" alt="DSCN2942" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kXJeZlr12Ns/T_jwh4iHj1I/AAAAAAAAD-4/mIfdcr-yyJ0/DSCN2942_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Upon leaving the Court, Keith headed for the National Archives, and Susan and I headed toward the Metro to catch the next train back to the RV Park.  Little did we know that our train would stall a quarter mile from the nearest station in 100 degree temperatures.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dJLzksqeKxk/T_jwicAwITI/AAAAAAAAD_A/JMmCYfKEDNc/s1600-h/DSCN2956%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2956" border="0" alt="DSCN2956" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Oudlnd_z0BU/T_jwjLNA-zI/AAAAAAAAD_I/BlJ9rYCA_Y8/DSCN2956_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>   </p> <p>After assisting others depart the cars through the emergency doors, Suz and I walked the distance to the College Park Station, but still had to catch a taxi to the Greenbelt Station where our vehicle was parked.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TwifkB8f1Xg/T_jwjjNVCLI/AAAAAAAAD_Q/8e-uY1dAk2A/s1600-h/DSCN2962%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2962" border="0" alt="DSCN2962" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uGSTajlZitA/T_jwkE0gNRI/AAAAAAAAD_Y/oofYDMRqMKw/DSCN2962_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The authorities sent K-9 units and helicopters to assist us, but the police and fire personnel did nothing but stand around, observe, and shout orders to the passengers.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WdJFU6XYS1s/T_jwkiOEaaI/AAAAAAAAD_g/n9UtntuJNkA/s1600-h/DSCN2965%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2965" border="0" alt="DSCN2965" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-94iOPXosKy4/T_jwlTo2jUI/AAAAAAAAD_o/gxkXpL7Fx3M/DSCN2965_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GWti6hq4hOg/T_jwl4xlJeI/AAAAAAAAD_w/41tBh41vDBw/s1600-h/DSCN2969%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2969" border="0" alt="DSCN2969" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XzKwBmmjO3s/T_jwmYnrUGI/AAAAAAAAD_4/pvtnJccLqVQ/DSCN2969_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Another reason I’m grateful for my home state of Oklahoma!  Our emergency service workers were truly put to the test during the Oklahoma City Bombing and they performed spectacularly.  From my observation during this minor incident, it appears D.C. and Metro officials were either untrained, unprepared, or simply too lazy to care.  And, while I’m ranting, I hate the traffic in D.C. and other large cities!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZS6gEDMeaKs/T_jwm9LfYsI/AAAAAAAAEAA/2wieF3Ylsq0/s1600-h/DSCN2839%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2839" border="0" alt="DSCN2839" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n2r200BMepg/T_jwnY1WGTI/AAAAAAAAEAI/M3ilQjZNXL0/DSCN2839_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Today is the final day of our visit to Washington, D.C., and we’ll tour “Mount Vernon,” the home of the “Father of our Country,” George Washington.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vgmksMrqxq0/T_mvXva3TpI/AAAAAAAAEBw/ox13Y7CEJZc/s1600-h/DSCN2971%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2971" border="0" alt="DSCN2971" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5QBPbKMIUCI/T_mvYFN_PVI/AAAAAAAAEB4/AMTVkZ5lb7E/DSCN2971_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gh8cO4AvUFw/T_mvYqlPsuI/AAAAAAAAECA/igA5tpWsB_w/s1600-h/DSCN2996%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2996" border="0" alt="DSCN2996" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5OZxCIGw1Dc/T_mvZAMJNtI/AAAAAAAAECI/t95QpgPOgLc/DSCN2996_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>It was hard to believe that I was actually sitting in a chair on the back porch of President and General Washington’s private home overlooking the Potomac . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LSjxFP5NDOw/T_mvZiWTATI/AAAAAAAAECQ/n8VoR1kdeFE/s1600-h/DSCN2997%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2997" border="0" alt="DSCN2997" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X8YAaijGssg/T_mvZ-6UP1I/AAAAAAAAECY/ZZbxd16CUaA/DSCN2997_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>In the upper photo, the tree to the left is a 247-year-old Swamp Chestnut Oak Tree, that existed on the property during Washington’s lifetime.  </p> <p>Other large and old trees remain on the premises . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yVaqsmdNC0I/T_mvarZLdEI/AAAAAAAAECg/ikKfmiLvzcw/s1600-h/DSCN2990%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2990" border="0" alt="DSCN2990" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-V4t_-wmBwFc/T_mvbML6tTI/AAAAAAAAECo/NaIstyzu_zk/DSCN2990_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r_I89tbisEY/T_mvbzLpgEI/AAAAAAAAECw/8Qv9GtG5IkE/s1600-h/DSCN2989%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2989" border="0" alt="DSCN2989" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AS4E87Lbv6U/T_mvcVLeyoI/AAAAAAAAEC4/NeHo1p7mLdc/DSCN2989_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qtAwrK94BQY/T_mvdCYA-5I/AAAAAAAAEDA/C6cIocE7HKM/s1600-h/DSCN2993%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2993" border="0" alt="DSCN2993" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G5X25G8PUF0/T_mvdXrSW6I/AAAAAAAAEDI/x4biihf3YMc/DSCN2993_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WA-YQyBsC6Y/T_mveJnATNI/AAAAAAAAEDQ/IBqe1M4fVhA/s1600-h/DSCN3000%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3000" border="0" alt="DSCN3000" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4DUw0mjSVwE/T_mveiIwR1I/AAAAAAAAEDY/aDcYRljYz5U/DSCN3000_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O0TN4b4Ba84/T_mvfJdsLaI/AAAAAAAAEDg/zrBCfwOVHE8/s1600-h/DSCN3002%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3002" border="0" alt="DSCN3002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f_QTY7GRYqI/T_mvfj-i3zI/AAAAAAAAEDo/RcQiL1hWVpE/DSCN3002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Unfortunately, last week’s storm packing 80 mph winds destroyed many of the these magnificent trees.  We also noticed many toppled and broken trees while at Arlington Cemetery.  </p> <p>Upon our arrival to Mt. Vernon the morning of July 4, we were treated to a recreation of a revolutionary battle on the front lawn . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nQB510ab9UQ/T_mvgYx0r_I/AAAAAAAAEDw/nqu69BRlKDM/s1600-h/DSCN2973%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2973" border="0" alt="DSCN2973" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VraEoBtZgbQ/T_mvgmBoqeI/AAAAAAAAED4/kjeTLttioUU/DSCN2973_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6sFRMJ-AJx0/T_mvhaNj1gI/AAAAAAAAEEA/D9AoUopdYpk/s1600-h/DSCN2984%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2984" border="0" alt="DSCN2984" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IqvBdinlcKE/T_mvh7yRGyI/AAAAAAAAEEI/W8xxe_8GGk8/DSCN2984_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xFcsosA_4kk/T_mviZ17NKI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/fYa2fr7RbFw/s1600-h/DSCN2974%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2974" border="0" alt="DSCN2974" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zMuXS_OzWkc/T_mvi8NOPiI/AAAAAAAAEEY/KqLU1b0Dfe8/DSCN2974_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N62-Z3Qv2Ew/T_mvjtqWruI/AAAAAAAAEEg/yLxgs4PxWzA/s1600-h/DSCN2986%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2986" border="0" alt="DSCN2986" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_f5SVCM9i6U/T_mvkGB_i9I/AAAAAAAAEEo/C6Oq-g_CuFI/DSCN2986_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jAEKmNacjDI/T_mvkiSYghI/AAAAAAAAEEw/KsPZ35ryJ2I/s1600-h/DSCN2980%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2980" border="0" alt="DSCN2980" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sOGVWX7lBds/T_mvlCkW5rI/AAAAAAAAEE4/_R-xwtAL3fo/DSCN2980_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Photography was not allowed inside the mansion, but we did see the home as it was when Washington was alive.  The actual bed where the President slept and died of a throat infection remains intact in his bedroom.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0SBIRvP6PLo/T_mvltAIk5I/AAAAAAAAEFA/29M5ZIoRuYI/s1600-h/DSCN2991%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2991" border="0" alt="DSCN2991" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-waklvj5jipQ/T_mvlztqU9I/AAAAAAAAEFI/71kySPZRhtY/DSCN2991_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>To say the least, this trip to Washington, D.C. has been rich in American history.  It’s not likely that I’ll ever return for another visit, although, Susan may because of her connection through DAR.  I hope Keith will once again have the opportunity to revisit the area.  One simply cannot appreciate everything on display here in one short visit.  </p> <p>Later in the evening, Keith took the Metro into D.C. to watch the fireworks from the Mall.  Susan and I opted to stay in and rest up for the next day’s travels.  We watched the D.C. fireworks display and nationally televised program from the comfort of the coach.  The following photos were taken from the rear of our coach looking toward the Mall . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TLLyQFs1Hy8/T_mvmTt2VBI/AAAAAAAAEFQ/Jh8DYRxcxiU/s1600-h/DSCN3004%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3004" border="0" alt="DSCN3004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PcubJgY2nMk/T_mvmre1KxI/AAAAAAAAEFY/UrGRa40Vnqs/DSCN3004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IWUoYH43xUg/T_mvnIUHiQI/AAAAAAAAEFg/TzOy7DMBAsM/s1600-h/DSCN3012%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3012" border="0" alt="DSCN3012" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r8Q0FpYTRPE/T_mvnjsMISI/AAAAAAAAEFo/cCUPkSztXdk/DSCN3012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BIX0gluZLqk/T_mvn_zHETI/AAAAAAAAEFw/fc-C4Hg3pR4/s1600-h/DSCN3017%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3017" border="0" alt="DSCN3017" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--QcK0Cf7EME/T_mvoJCDlkI/AAAAAAAAEF4/775IfybbhnA/DSCN3017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pnIQfl8h1j8/T_mvomaDhPI/AAAAAAAAEGA/iQXq4eeKURs/s1600-h/DSCN3022%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3022" border="0" alt="DSCN3022" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3NK7dZddtPM/T_mvpMI6flI/AAAAAAAAEGI/5rMDxbvn-m8/DSCN3022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Keith arranged for shuttle service to Dulles the following morning, and Susan and I prepared the coach for departure.  </p> <p>Along the way out of the D.C. area on the Beltway, we observed the Washington, D.C. Temple, which is the 18th constructed temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS).  It was dedicated in 1974 and the first LDS temple built east of the Mississippi River.  Cost to build the temple was in excess of $15 million.  It’s the tallest U.S. temple, contains more than 160,000 square feet, stands 288 feet at its highest point, is encased in white Alabama marble, and designed to emulate the Salt Lake Temple with six spires.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3rKdbeQuRM8/T_mvpWGJszI/AAAAAAAAEGQ/pqgutGNzbA8/s1600-h/DSCN3031%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3031" border="0" alt="DSCN3031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aQFUiUxNUcM/T_mvp35d3FI/AAAAAAAAEGY/jGIGgqpxE-4/DSCN3031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>The next step of our Adventure is very special to me.  My father owned the oldest private detective agency in Oklahoma, and retired after 34 years in business.  Shortly after high school graduation, I began an apprenticeship with my father to learn the family business, and as a young investigator, I had the opportunity to help a client locate his missing children.  He had been awarded custody of his children in divorce proceedings, but his former wife kidnapped the children and transported them somewhere in Oklahoma. </p> <p>After several days and nights of undercover surveillance, I found the children living with their mother and her companion in a rural area in southwest Oklahoma.  Our client was so grateful for our service, that he became a dear friend to me and my family.  </p> <p>We lost contact with each other for more than 37 years.  But, in 2011, my friend took it upon himself to reconnect with me and we’ve been back in touch ever since.  His children are now grown with kids of their own, and my friend, Cliff Vassallo, is remarried to a beautiful girl named Nina.  This trip to the D.C. area gave me and Susan the opportunity to greet Cliff and Nina with a surprise visit.  Upon leaving Washington, Susan and I drove directly to Winchester, VA (approximately 84 miles) to see Cliff and Nina.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BoFrz711t8E/T_mvqVLz46I/AAAAAAAAEGg/nQ6aoD6m1zU/s1600-h/DSCN3040%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3040" border="0" alt="DSCN3040" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cGc2aj8iBIY/T_mvqhTLBjI/AAAAAAAAEGo/onirXhvSrD0/DSCN3040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cjXVKPn-D6c/T_mvrUH15pI/AAAAAAAAEGw/DWdEM_U2tKQ/s1600-h/DSCN3039%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3039" border="0" alt="DSCN3039" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MyauVZ9S5Ok/T_mvrr3qOSI/AAAAAAAAEG4/tOJeZVZtn4s/DSCN3039_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gqX13CxwXyQ/T_mvsCP3B8I/AAAAAAAAEHA/tybQ3Du1IaM/s1600-h/JERRY%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="JERRY" border="0" alt="JERRY" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SZ6CsKzGbg4/T_mvsmCiBnI/AAAAAAAAEHI/jsaO4zeeOXk/JERRY_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yb1CHT40VCs/T_mvtH8U35I/AAAAAAAAEHQ/MsQv-vNDOH8/s1600-h/JERRY5%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="JERRY5" border="0" alt="JERRY5" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FLyXgxG7fJ4/T_mvtuzztYI/AAAAAAAAEHY/qxUsjEcIHiQ/JERRY5_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VWvyIQLXFK8/T_mvuHt3-cI/AAAAAAAAEHg/iu4dcKbIeoI/s1600-h/JERRY6%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="JERRY6" border="0" alt="JERRY6" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f79rgLOuRAc/T_mvusnSc7I/AAAAAAAAEHo/DzlBqFAZmVs/JERRY6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Cliff refurbishes “tether cars,” which were originally built in the 1940s.  These cars are “tethered” to a pole in the center of a round track and powered by a combustion engine, which is fueled by nitro or methanol.  The driver has no radio control of the speed or direction, and the cars can reach up to 200 mph.    </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KpqijS1sOEI/T_mvvKLFD6I/AAAAAAAAEHw/p7rEZ77Wtp0/s1600-h/DSCN3032%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3032" border="0" alt="DSCN3032" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IYSfpHy29xc/T_mvvtaS_sI/AAAAAAAAEH4/2-R_2xGPsPI/DSCN3032_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Susan and I spent just a short time with Cliff and Nina, but we thoroughly enjoyed our visit.  Other than the color of his hair, Cliff hasn’t changed a bit.  I’m so glad that he and Nina found each other.  </p> <p>Nina is originally from Russia and is a retired physician.  Nina’s hobby is cross-stitch . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gsND3V0cKIo/T_mvwEMPpwI/AAAAAAAAEIA/WEYGSHzlc3Y/s1600-h/DSCN3035%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3035" border="0" alt="DSCN3035" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-atrG74kNn3g/T_mvwks0KsI/AAAAAAAAEII/qKrYM6ANlkQ/DSCN3035_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xMdCUAjFnJI/T_mvxL1tuUI/AAAAAAAAEIQ/jG4P_mjuZoI/s1600-h/DSCN3036%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3036" border="0" alt="DSCN3036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z0-3Td590Dc/T_mvxk4cY0I/AAAAAAAAEIY/Rw94K6FGRrw/DSCN3036_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ccdsqJo86f4/T_mvyNtDkCI/AAAAAAAAEIg/Ln2TQot4hvE/s1600-h/DSCN3038%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3038" border="0" alt="DSCN3038" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9JxqUddadeo/T_mvyU9vACI/AAAAAAAAEIo/-HOXKi52SF4/DSCN3038_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>It’s obvious that Nina’s skilled hands as a physician are useful in other ways.  Her work is beautiful!  </p> <p>I noticed a picture of a young woman on Cliff’s shelf that looked familiar.  The photo is actually Cliff’s aunt when she was younger, but she bore a striking resemblance to my mother at that age . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zChhckD5QqY/T_mvy5dZeNI/AAAAAAAAEIw/GgyA95x2inY/s1600-h/DSCN3034%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3034" border="0" alt="DSCN3034" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EbIjB0Y5zmA/T_mvzOwrSeI/AAAAAAAAEI4/0NomnY8bLqQ/DSCN3034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>It was a tearful goodbye as Susan and I left Cliff and Nina.  But, maybe we’ll get to see them again.  We certainly won’t lose touch with each other again!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uYfmNRQy7tk/T_mvzm82jTI/AAAAAAAAEJA/4jcCm_OZb2I/s1600-h/DSCN3041%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3041" border="0" alt="DSCN3041" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Cx3vd1jTz70/T_mv0OvPXkI/AAAAAAAAEJI/ZzvE6vDz7qc/DSCN3041_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wA85GwKxsnw/T_mv0Se5P5I/AAAAAAAAEJQ/JTiX894qqrA/s1600-h/JERRY7%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="JERRY7" border="0" alt="JERRY7" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KENcs30F0lo/T_mv0ztdMuI/AAAAAAAAEJY/Tqoq_qruoDg/JERRY7_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Thanks for sharing the great pictures, Cliff and Nina!  </p> <p>After leaving Cliff and Nina in Winchester, Susan and I drove 408 miles to Sevierville, Tennessee, where we checked into “Two Rivers Landing RV Resort.”  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bQgEY8SiEgM/T_m8RZOKxGI/AAAAAAAAELI/OuXUwKCzQcQ/s1600-h/DSCN3100%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3100" border="0" alt="DSCN3100" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1fDnBT54RSA/T_m8R_T-hgI/AAAAAAAAELQ/itbAHiJr1P8/DSCN3100_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>This is what I consider a “resort class” RV park.  It has all concrete pads with convenient utility hookups.  The sites are level.  The Internet connection is excellent.  And look at the surrounding views . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZPscMNWiGcQ/T_m8SZ37GVI/AAAAAAAAELY/aVC8Cym0su8/s1600-h/DSCN3099%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3099" border="0" alt="DSCN3099" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x1Y-uSHG2qY/T_m8S-0HjxI/AAAAAAAAELg/h8W8v47SgBg/DSCN3099_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BMpWpZbpXW8/T_m8TjCe-_I/AAAAAAAAELo/w29OyGsgEyI/s1600-h/DSCN3096%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3096" border="0" alt="DSCN3096" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AaRtqlyDkoQ/T_m8TwFviII/AAAAAAAAELw/3ryml7SWXmY/DSCN3096_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nqZQnwFGUSY/T_m8URo5sRI/AAAAAAAAEL4/HG4tkUw7rJc/s1600-h/DSCN3102%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3102" border="0" alt="DSCN3102" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nz5o8sWz2qM/T_m8UqZYjZI/AAAAAAAAEMA/vuN3IrJQHNY/DSCN3102_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-41s6maLWBUk/T_m8VEABI0I/AAAAAAAAEMI/_FZlWPhxWh0/s1600-h/DSCN3101%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3101" border="0" alt="DSCN3101" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NzmtrVGXMZ0/T_m8VikAqSI/AAAAAAAAEMQ/2UXffYHmMPo/DSCN3101_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ml1ObfRmhSQ/T_m8WCjR2FI/AAAAAAAAEMY/DQmj09OBuUw/s1600-h/DSCN3098%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3098" border="0" alt="DSCN3098" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cvcujtvOxS8/T_m8WStp8jI/AAAAAAAAEMg/cgCzDDZuXFI/DSCN3098_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>If interested, this park is located at 2328 Business Center Circle, Sevierville, TN  37876, (866)727-5781, or by the Internet at <a href="http://www.tworiversrvresort.com">www.tworiversrvresort.com</a></p> <p>We’ve planned to stay here a couple of days to rest up before we head back to OKC.  Sevierville is one of a three small towns linked together by State Highway 441, which includes Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  This is the area where Dolly Parton was born and raised, and she has quite an investment here with her famed amusement park, “Dollywood.”  There are also several other attractions in the area, including comedy and music shows.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-du0kYuKfVMA/T_m8WwsvmYI/AAAAAAAAEMo/kYR_TK9WY24/s1600-h/DSCN3043%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3043" border="0" alt="DSCN3043" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Zf1WCPg9lI4/T_m8XaB7_nI/AAAAAAAAEMw/xRojbvq7wC0/DSCN3043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Susan and I arrived just in time to see Mel Tillis perform . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-etX4VysyAyg/T_m8XuQ5mlI/AAAAAAAAEM4/yNsZMc0NFXY/s1600-h/DSCN3044%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3044" border="0" alt="DSCN3044" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7YWWGVTIf3Y/T_m8YH7doQI/AAAAAAAAENA/D3N4yw1vAKY/DSCN3044_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>On our second day, we took in a comedy show at the “Hatfield's and McCoy's Dinner Theater.”  </p> <p>Our hostess . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qCt5zae5epc/T_m8YqF0AmI/AAAAAAAAENI/ah8_tWaApiA/s1600-h/DSCN3058%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3058" border="0" alt="DSCN3058" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-etosII2EZms/T_m8ZB9DLYI/AAAAAAAAENQ/OWurNM4UjOk/DSCN3058_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The show was funny!  The cast not only could sing, </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6ou4_aXelDo/T_m8aPY_GpI/AAAAAAAAENY/dIngZvH2bko/s1600-h/DSCN3081%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3081" border="0" alt="DSCN3081" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yvTr43emhJo/T_m8aUG0N3I/AAAAAAAAENg/Wshm3ruO2q8/DSCN3081_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>but they could dance well, too! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_juETfDiL7c/T_m8bPi9bzI/AAAAAAAAENo/4UOEGvABk-U/s1600-h/DSCN3093%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3093" border="0" alt="DSCN3093" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KMGsuzB_wR4/T_m8bkoMMbI/AAAAAAAAENw/sCU65TTncaA/DSCN3093_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Dinner was served before the show began, and included fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, soup, cornbread, dessert, and tea or coffee.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4323PQIUhLc/T_m8cDbdg3I/AAAAAAAAEN4/pxPT5Gm4Sqc/s1600-h/DSCN3066%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3066" border="0" alt="DSCN3066" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r95geHcjC2s/T_m8cqPxZ3I/AAAAAAAAEOA/RfBsfzc93QI/DSCN3066_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Rc98TLr8Zlg/T_m8d7Q0q1I/AAAAAAAAEOM/ExzXFtm2hRA/s1600-h/DSCN3059%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3059" border="0" alt="DSCN3059" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ocdzPgqD-tw/T_m8eB0vbQI/AAAAAAAAEOU/uQLsvVgH6Oo/DSCN3059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-blHKBXhGpGg/T_m8erEYbbI/AAAAAAAAEOc/RjZXBSzl9sc/s1600-h/DSCN3060%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3060" border="0" alt="DSCN3060" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eEqfcxUtJt8/T_m8fJG_PFI/AAAAAAAAEOk/ag9PoU9iz5M/DSCN3060_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Pv03puUdJMw/T_m8fWkJ_fI/AAAAAAAAEOs/cpYxPtAQrEg/s1600-h/DSCN3061%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3061" border="0" alt="DSCN3061" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YHuEKtv3V8k/T_m8f0mh3xI/AAAAAAAAEO0/Vlot5CdRdvw/DSCN3061_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z3tvVeRGw78/T_m8gfL0t0I/AAAAAAAAEO8/t9QsVMrWJ3o/s1600-h/DSCN3062%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3062" border="0" alt="DSCN3062" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vsScsP18FQ8/T_m8guVJ3EI/AAAAAAAAEPE/eRmOhd0jumQ/DSCN3062_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wp07eTQV6xc/T_m8hLfu78I/AAAAAAAAEPM/iomm1Q4yyWw/s1600-h/DSCN3063%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3063" border="0" alt="DSCN3063" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-49uYel-vTnQ/T_m8hRQx4SI/AAAAAAAAEPU/4Uyf_Irw1R8/DSCN3063_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Below, is a “Hillbilly RV” . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-f_jnF-pNzWQ/T_m8h8rj_EI/AAAAAAAAEPc/SaxenzLU8rw/s1600-h/DSCN3094%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3094" border="0" alt="DSCN3094" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HpqIbuXuK0Q/T_m8iBgintI/AAAAAAAAEPk/QNK-v5CdrJ4/DSCN3094_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>While we were in Sevierville, we came upon “Five Guys” hamburgers.  Keith told me it had great reviews, so we gave it a try.  Keith was right!  The hamburgers and fries are excellent.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FIheK4tPqls/T_m8ipPIHZI/AAAAAAAAEPs/o6Ti7kcBXX8/s1600-h/DSCN3042%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3042" border="0" alt="DSCN3042" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d1hLIBq2IKQ/T_m8i1xObTI/AAAAAAAAEP0/-IKe9lWNs3s/DSCN3042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Well, vacation is coming to an end, and as I checked the air pressure in the truck and coach tires for this morning’s departure, I noticed that the right, inside rear, tire was seriously low.  The new steel valve stem that was recently installed bad broken.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c3N5MwZ0OSQ/T_m8jdGKycI/AAAAAAAAEP8/HASnJohWD-o/s1600-h/DSCN3095%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN3095" border="0" alt="DSCN3095" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IhI1YFtbRbA/T_m8jxqe5yI/AAAAAAAAEQE/HwUKuNW045E/DSCN3095_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Good Sam Roadside Assistance removed the tire and installed the spare, but we don’t want to travel with the coach absent a good spare.  So, we’ll just have to spend another night at this first class resort and take in another music show.  Oh, well!  </p> <p>By the time we get back to OKC, we’ll have traveled over 3,000 miles on this phase of “The Adventure,” “Destination: Washington, D.C.”   As stated earlier, it’s been a trip rich in American history and we’ve truly enjoyed it.  I especially enjoyed the road trip with my son, Keith, and I always enjoy traveling with my best friend and soul mate, Susan.  </p> <p>Safe travels and watch for the next segment of our blog.  The year is only half over and we have many more miles to travel before it’s time to winterize the coach.  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-59995730421586989052012-06-06T11:21:00.000-07:002012-06-23T08:54:29.437-07:00Traveling "North by Northwest."<p>We're departing for sites "North by Northwest," as was the title of one of my favorite Hitchcock movies from 1959 with Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint. We'll be caravaning with seven other couples north through Kansas and Nebraska, with a brief stop at the Pioneer Village Museum in Minden, Nebraska.  From there we'll head northwest across Nebraska and into South Dakota, with a scenic tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and the wild west town of Deadwood.  The next leg of the journey will take us into Gillette, Wyoming, for the 2012 North American Heartland Owners Rally and a gathering of more than 135 RVs.  We'll be blogging as we go.  So come back to this site frequently and enjoy the trip with us.  Here we go! <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dmDx0o5XSe8/T9VvS7ryHJI/AAAAAAAACTs/oulgjWMeFsM/s1600-h/DSCN2238%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2238" border="0" alt="DSCN2238" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--wZLboIEzAo/T9VvTYtuCqI/AAAAAAAACT0/ft6-NFFEYRY/DSCN2238_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />To insure we’d have access to the coach on the morning of departure, we left it in Guthrie for the week following the last camp out due to the road construction in front of our storage facility.  We returned to Guthrie the night before leaving and intercepted the convoy of fellow RVs as they passed the north Guthrie exit on I-35.  </p> <p>We drove 260 miles to Salina, Kansas, where we spent the first night at Sundowner West RV Park.  This park is alright for an overnight stay, but not recommended for anything more.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xzuCOIi4rMA/T9VvT7PKA8I/AAAAAAAACT8/eTCc-NBGb5A/s1600-h/DSCN2246%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2246" border="0" alt="DSCN2246" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7xIIw42VCs8/T9VvUunog3I/AAAAAAAACUE/VI48GdOrzWY/DSCN2246_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Friendly conversation and relaxation at the RV park (above photo). <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DfxUt_JKFHo/T9VvVBPdHaI/AAAAAAAACUM/-Hr2SVyXH9I/s1600-h/DSCN2248%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2248" border="0" alt="DSCN2248" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PK4eZK5IneQ/T9VvVkm7VCI/AAAAAAAACUU/YP8TYRJpGew/DSCN2248_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />First evening dinner hosted in Larry & Donna Keever’s coach (above photo).</p> <p>Susan suggested that each couple host a planned meal along the route to Gillette.  The host couple would provide the main course, while the others would furnish a side dish or dessert.  The plan worked well and saved everyone a considerable expense. </p> <p>We left Salina early the next morning and drove approximately 184 miles to Minden, Nebraska.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YAH0P7dAGxE/T9VvWODZL2I/AAAAAAAACUc/xMfBa5x2SK4/s1600-h/DSCN2295%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2295" border="0" alt="DSCN2295" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bwuO--CHUHc/T9VvWkuduYI/AAAAAAAACUk/qm0jnv04ANA/DSCN2295_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sAW3KD7Z0qM/T9VvXAbGAdI/AAAAAAAACUs/Dljo1mWbwmM/s1600-h/DSCN2294%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2294" border="0" alt="DSCN2294" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kJmSx0RT1cM/T9VvXgy34JI/AAAAAAAACU0/suF9NKwYt8U/DSCN2294_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Minden is mostly an agricultural community, but we came to see something more interesting -- the “Pioneer Village,” which is a collection of American artifacts dating back to 1830.  Harold Warp, a successful business man, founded the non-profit foundation in 1953 so that future generations could see the progress of American man.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cPosO9G5GOs/T9VvYel7nLI/AAAAAAAACU8/a6SCxFUWl8E/s1600-h/DSCN2252%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2252" border="0" alt="DSCN2252" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3tjAhfCz8Xs/T9VvYvDMmGI/AAAAAAAACVE/YlGnVUxtCeo/DSCN2252_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The collection contains more than 50,000 items housed in 28 buildings on 20 acres, and all mechanical items, including autos, are said to be in “operating condition.”  Here’s an assortment of pictures depicting the collection . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HlOj3vCG6CY/T9VvZagL_yI/AAAAAAAACVM/vQUuqUwcJEs/s1600-h/DSCN2254%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2254" border="0" alt="DSCN2254" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LYgj_nEtC-I/T9VvZ4RKFoI/AAAAAAAACVU/s9jSo7Nw8sI/DSCN2254_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The above picture is an actual “Model K” Ford, which is very rare.  Henry Ford sold less than 150 of these between 1906 – 1907 for $2,800. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tsBFneRvwZk/T9VvaXytk1I/AAAAAAAACVc/5tMXMw2MjBk/s1600-h/DSCN2256%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2256" border="0" alt="DSCN2256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0kXCHJleo4M/T9Vva7KmfxI/AAAAAAAACVk/7NE3FVbIeJ8/DSCN2256_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>   <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dJtN9ckn5eQ/T9VvbWQ-MuI/AAAAAAAACVs/k0NFkLyfmCw/s1600-h/DSCN2257%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2257" border="0" alt="DSCN2257" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YA-IBHL2TTQ/T9Vvb8F9EmI/AAAAAAAACV0/V27aSMm6Q-Q/DSCN2257_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mN0aXWFe2NI/T9Vvcryu9LI/AAAAAAAACV8/dQ-1foUo2GM/s1600-h/DSCN2258%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2258" border="0" alt="DSCN2258" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Cs4RKFKPbnQ/T9VvdFa5mbI/AAAAAAAACWE/ddvxsHMVS54/DSCN2258_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />An authentic “gypsy wagon.” <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6V_LnTkhj8o/T9VvdkhshdI/AAAAAAAACWM/LQv-DRyJ6fk/s1600-h/DSCN2259%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2259" border="0" alt="DSCN2259" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IlEs1ziI8sU/T9VvePbHP-I/AAAAAAAACWU/GgFRv80FZNg/DSCN2259_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below is a horse-drawn street car that was actually used in New York City in 1832.   <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-q7bB_kcru3U/T9VvewrJpgI/AAAAAAAACWc/zCbvgdrHT-w/s1600-h/DSCN2260%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2260" border="0" alt="DSCN2260" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-epp9lYsX0AE/T9VvfUJmERI/AAAAAAAACWk/0HERToH-64w/DSCN2260_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NN1ZF3dTTmg/T9VvgO3r72I/AAAAAAAACWs/A4u_hDmOC1s/s1600-h/DSCN2262%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2262" border="0" alt="DSCN2262" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fREe4cVhtMU/T9VvguM5zeI/AAAAAAAACW0/_QhHImoi5do/DSCN2262_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K14pO65iPpo/T9VvhamlLNI/AAAAAAAACW8/OM_75RJVoE8/s1600-h/DSCN2263%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2263" border="0" alt="DSCN2263" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1yh1IzAx1UU/T9Vvh8T6ajI/AAAAAAAACXE/_IRW8g-D_sA/DSCN2263_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fwnwQj3ZXBA/T9VvinDiTII/AAAAAAAACXM/krcRTKa-lHo/s1600-h/DSCN2264%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2264" border="0" alt="DSCN2264" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nqDwBp5g5LE/T9VvjDWQqoI/AAAAAAAACXU/DofFHFzG-0A/DSCN2264_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The grounds are breathtaking.  Large trees provide an abundance of shade.  Susan and I enjoyed hand-dipped ice cream as we took a break from exploring the grounds and buildings.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hVPPUaFelNk/T9Vvj3Ft5ZI/AAAAAAAACXc/d896Kt4NEts/s1600-h/DSCN2265%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2265" border="0" alt="DSCN2265" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MeCqAogMk_s/T9VvkcUxbhI/AAAAAAAACXk/5gK4Z3FN9LY/DSCN2265_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sVQ6zgvo5xI/T9VvlfDLpGI/AAAAAAAACXs/qrEciBVuomo/s1600-h/DSCN2267%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2267" border="0" alt="DSCN2267" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-p6UiLnF4IhQ/T9Vvl-1DTyI/AAAAAAAACX0/X3VlVlMaujg/DSCN2267_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cq_mkRuLWWY/T9Vvmb6QkZI/AAAAAAAACX8/Y7JBA0jU2eM/s1600-h/DSCN2268%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2268" border="0" alt="DSCN2268" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-h1ng8-I2q3I/T9Vvm0sgtiI/AAAAAAAACYE/JwC3uvgKc4o/DSCN2268_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above is a “pen” collection.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ExntQrys5-4/T9VvnRXURVI/AAAAAAAACYM/OeeMkb-yrzg/s1600-h/DSCN2269%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2269" border="0" alt="DSCN2269" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3mrHtKcpf14/T9Vvnmts0uI/AAAAAAAACYU/HSL3wQ_cqu8/DSCN2269_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Walking cane (above picture).  An assortment of pipes (below). <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Xs-tkyR7lPM/T9VvoZKnjQI/AAAAAAAACYc/THb_-Jye8JU/s1600-h/DSCN2270%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2270" border="0" alt="DSCN2270" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JCnNeGQ3S_4/T9VvovdRqmI/AAAAAAAACYk/zecPz_0ex9g/DSCN2270_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-adpQHJsplBk/T9VvpdHiHJI/AAAAAAAACYs/RAPhyN8v0yM/s1600-h/DSCN2271%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2271" border="0" alt="DSCN2271" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G2e5ADZ_f6M/T9Vvp2J4n7I/AAAAAAAACY0/4d28-VSBZok/DSCN2271_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above is a collections of cook stoves.  An assortment of washing machines were situated upstairs. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XovkLbTYr08/T9VvqSuqg8I/AAAAAAAACY8/ZD8rVGyNX-o/s1600-h/DSCN2272%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2272" border="0" alt="DSCN2272" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MgWOq-1jh3w/T9Vvq63ncxI/AAAAAAAACZE/qKOdsUSj4pE/DSCN2272_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>   <br />Below are two gas heaters.  The heater on the left is similar to the one used by my grandmother in New Mexico; the heater on the right is similar to the one used by Susan’s grandmother in Jones, Oklahoma (Yes, they just happened to be sitting next to each other).    <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DWOtWoEsibc/T9VvrSG5YLI/AAAAAAAACZM/y-ViOtTjqjY/s1600-h/DSCN2273%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2273" border="0" alt="DSCN2273" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IYcPgsxDVYM/T9VvrwQ6ltI/AAAAAAAACZU/GXngb62kl3s/DSCN2273_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TX4I_MksIsA/T9VvsU9CZ0I/AAAAAAAACZg/tDj5ln6H4Dg/s1600-h/DSCN2274%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2274" border="0" alt="DSCN2274" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MP6jjlPhYEM/T9Vvs9YbIvI/AAAAAAAACZo/S1_VcJXI90M/DSCN2274_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--DjLoZWCPuo/T9VvtqCeDVI/AAAAAAAACZw/C6Lt8AQZ_mg/s1600-h/DSCN2275%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2275" border="0" alt="DSCN2275" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zmWGbwHvJuo/T9Vvv3luvlI/AAAAAAAACZ4/DgKmm2HI5F4/DSCN2275_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The above carousel is steam-powered and said to be the oldest in existence, but it is reminiscent of the one once used at Springlake Amusement Park in Oklahoma City. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hQ42VT_6KoQ/T9VvwlpKiDI/AAAAAAAACaA/Ft-UrY14DjY/s1600-h/DSCN2276%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2276" border="0" alt="DSCN2276" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XR5YyGHs4eU/T9VvxD5VR4I/AAAAAAAACaI/Vx6VRPTTjDs/DSCN2276_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />My mother, brother, and I used to watch OU football games on a Sony television identical to this one.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vTIj5JXsIAE/T9Vvxhx1_RI/AAAAAAAACaQ/wFfYQlh8J78/s1600-h/DSCN2277%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2277" border="0" alt="DSCN2277" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZkrdueaeT1M/T9VvyMger0I/AAAAAAAACaY/7xxJpmi-VeA/DSCN2277_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-96mLYKt_Ji0/T9VvyhkzdMI/AAAAAAAACag/J7AnfXURXSA/s1600-h/DSCN2278%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2278" border="0" alt="DSCN2278" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h0NAFxFljw8/T9VvywvqnZI/AAAAAAAACao/U_mOOU42BVs/DSCN2278_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The sign above the cars reads: “All cars is this row are Fords in their order of development.” <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IxilKb7d97M/T9VvzReTRyI/AAAAAAAACaw/Wbak5ZnNBUw/s1600-h/DSCN2279%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2279" border="0" alt="DSCN2279" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cpFHsrSjARo/T9Vv0P1e-XI/AAAAAAAACa4/pG8N-Up1iYs/DSCN2279_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KvKXj1rdDQo/T9Vv0n_BjZI/AAAAAAAACbA/j8kowV8QOaQ/s1600-h/DSCN2280%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2280" border="0" alt="DSCN2280" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kHjhI7XntsM/T9Vv1I6hwNI/AAAAAAAACbI/7at79u-4B_A/DSCN2280_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I’ve never before seen so many collectible cars assembled in one location.  It was truly amazing! <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XeiiTxIndWY/T9Vv1t29WfI/AAAAAAAACbQ/K3iD3_SUnkU/s1600-h/DSCN2281%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2281" border="0" alt="DSCN2281" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iYHk_im6LRQ/T9Vv2GDjSOI/AAAAAAAACbY/T9byEcSXKPw/DSCN2281_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Even snowmobiles and motorcycles. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YCCR3pnFN_Y/T9Vv2pCQwAI/AAAAAAAACbg/Xc1odc_Utpk/s1600-h/DSCN2282%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2282" border="0" alt="DSCN2282" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qCptHGYuQZs/T9Vv3F9p0PI/AAAAAAAACbo/hld5l7I5KaE/DSCN2282_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fSLPFP463vI/T9Vv3yh2hmI/AAAAAAAACbw/2HexTUQBWZ8/s1600-h/DSCN2283%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2283" border="0" alt="DSCN2283" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XK5Y2wnSzQI/T9Vv4MdNbqI/AAAAAAAACb4/kO3mgCRqYXU/DSCN2283_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YehJKItopdY/T9Vv4wdUlqI/AAAAAAAACcA/cHIZhrjEYaA/s1600-h/DSCN2284%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2284" border="0" alt="DSCN2284" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rLfsXK2C3t8/T9Vv5Yd8hZI/AAAAAAAACcI/qFFW4qS0b4s/DSCN2284_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9GBMSjr6fEo/T9Vv53u_TLI/AAAAAAAACcQ/ipl63kegZVo/s1600-h/DSCN2285%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2285" border="0" alt="DSCN2285" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-__XBOUPnBm0/T9Vv6d5Z6NI/AAAAAAAACcY/SGfIEtPu9LU/DSCN2285_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />1957 Chevy! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7nzN8eYIz5Q/T9Vv61Qn77I/AAAAAAAACcg/WZFWtO8GOzU/s1600-h/DSCN2287%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2287" border="0" alt="DSCN2287" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HiJsTtzb40A/T9Vv7f93ZhI/AAAAAAAACco/SLZBd8YucJM/DSCN2287_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Note the primitive air-conditioner attached to the outside of the passenger window.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zg9ybOOx5zs/T9Vv7yuOnXI/AAAAAAAACcw/yJWekgPV-To/s1600-h/DSCN2288%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2288" border="0" alt="DSCN2288" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kB9FTMCLe10/T9Vv8AH7rUI/AAAAAAAACc4/_2AYrT61t24/DSCN2288_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Lincoln Mark IV.  I had one similar to this in 1976, and still believe it was the most beautiful example of an American automobile I’ve owned.  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-evbLwLLfL0I/T9Vv8yHfxCI/AAAAAAAACdA/GGACgrOXomI/s1600-h/DSCN2289%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2289" border="0" alt="DSCN2289" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TCELQglDMsc/T9Vv9Yz4GMI/AAAAAAAACdI/_pX9ZCtuaI4/DSCN2289_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Cars, cars, and more cars! <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sftxWlL8bOM/T9Vv95gJ6EI/AAAAAAAACdQ/ZBuhnGFZ8NI/s1600-h/DSCN2290%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2290" border="0" alt="DSCN2290" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9OpVVD40J5Y/T9Vv-R7IKDI/AAAAAAAACdY/FZcAwe441y8/DSCN2290_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Susan’s dad restored Farmall tractors.  His prize possession was his “H” model, like the one pictured above.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qALE2skv9OQ/T9Vv_JhMp_I/AAAAAAAACdg/Mlmxdg10ePc/s1600-h/DSCN2291%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2291" border="0" alt="DSCN2291" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2S7jDoln1fs/T9Vv_sJXLRI/AAAAAAAACdo/C11y_nubcz8/DSCN2291_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Susan waves from the back of a home-made motorhome, circa 1942.  It has dual rear wheels, lapboard siding, a 55-gallon drum for a sewage tank, and gasoline motor.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OLTvZgFFW6A/T9VwADpZnVI/AAAAAAAACdw/D3EGGVGAuTY/s1600-h/DSCN2293%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2293" border="0" alt="DSCN2293" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SppuDYc-Df8/T9VwAlD6ZDI/AAAAAAAACd4/hf8HpDs5RtE/DSCN2293_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Our good friends, Bill & Phyllis Haivala, strongly recommended we visit Harold Warp’s “Pioneer Village” on our trip “North by Northwest,” and we recommend you do, too, if you ever make it up that way.  It’s one of those “rare finds” you don’t want to miss. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tMJN9h-625U/T9VwBCIr_rI/AAAAAAAACeA/yAyNa9CDghU/s1600-h/DSCN2297%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2297" border="0" alt="DSCN2297" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7Zi6xOfqxe0/T9VwBrlG1RI/AAAAAAAACeI/OX_AjT9323s/DSCN2297_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The “Pioneer Village” has an adjoining motel, restaurant, and RV park, where the group spent the night.  After an evening meal and good night’s rest, we were up early the next morning to continue our journey.  Below, the “Great Platte River Archway Monument” on I-80 near North Platte, Nebraska. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-59QleOqge4U/T9VwCOGnSPI/AAAAAAAACeQ/IlUNy_zzRbw/s1600-h/DSCN2298%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2298" border="0" alt="DSCN2298" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QdmSQbA-zMo/T9VwCrYOqpI/AAAAAAAACeY/OLQUqcI_2MA/DSCN2298_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We settled into an RV park in Bridgeport, Nebraska for the 3rd night of the trip.  Jim & Bette McGee, fellow Heartland owners from George West, Texas, joined us and we had hot dogs on the grill for dinner.  Jim & Bette are also headed to Gillette for the rally.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EwLVWfLCIhE/T9VwDX-ONeI/AAAAAAAACeg/CivqA2mr2FI/s1600-h/DSCN2302%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2302" border="0" alt="DSCN2302" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BAZK2kSrLZM/T9VwEJFvIrI/AAAAAAAACeo/nuPaZx-iSsM/DSCN2302_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The park is clean and has concrete pads, which provide for quick and level set-up.  But, the trains on the ridge ran all through the night. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-G_HNQsZWx7g/T9VwFUMz-2I/AAAAAAAACew/EskxyTnkNpM/s1600-h/DSCN2304%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2304" border="0" alt="DSCN2304" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QLcBi1pEQjE/T9VwGXy_PFI/AAAAAAAACe4/I7ukrGJRMmo/DSCN2304_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We caught up with Bob & Jan Samples the next morning, and along with Johnathan and Angela Bonanno, we caravaned into Custer City, South Dakota.   <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DA4Ydrl-X7U/T9VwHWRM9jI/AAAAAAAACfA/6aECNyPJbsw/s1600-h/DSCN2307%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2307" border="0" alt="DSCN2307" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r3mkCBrguHI/T9VwI15MvmI/AAAAAAAACfI/OyRtbddc1xM/DSCN2307_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S6Pzt31ISPs/T9VwKg3FDMI/AAAAAAAACfQ/kU7vxh539SI/s1600-h/DSCN2313%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2313" border="0" alt="DSCN2313" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p3MSe_t883I/T9VwMZtglrI/AAAAAAAACfY/wYgXCavT734/DSCN2313_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xxarX4AgBHU/T9Vx1Xsew5I/AAAAAAAACjQ/uOqby7Ty4Qg/s1600-h/DSCN2316%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2316" border="0" alt="DSCN2316" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G5FQ4js2SsE/T9Vx12N6NYI/AAAAAAAACjY/ZYSLCgVzTwg/DSCN2316_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Bob and Jan Samples (above). <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DCjaofAdp2w/T9Vx2X1rjII/AAAAAAAACjg/hgH-oJ7v4Y4/s1600-h/DSCN2314%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2314" border="0" alt="DSCN2314" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--MUG6jIjly4/T9Vx2xUHNHI/AAAAAAAACjo/R01DBOy7QKA/DSCN2314_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Johnathan & Angela Bonanno (above). <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mYlMhTFgCcU/T9Vx3iJpBFI/AAAAAAAACjw/pATcq5bxeW0/s1600-h/DSCN2317%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2317" border="0" alt="DSCN2317" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HuJipewR_7k/T9Vx30nzQnI/AAAAAAAACj4/TO-RGZBDGpk/DSCN2317_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Me & Susan (above).</p> <p>Scenic Highway 26 (Gold Rush Scenic Highway) through Chadron and Hot Springs is a beautiful route to Mount Rushmore out of Nebraska. Below are several pictures of what we saw along the way . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x6Hzo8QjsOA/T9VwN8Nk2nI/AAAAAAAACfg/kHDdBBz1bgw/s1600-h/DSCN2310%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2310" border="0" alt="DSCN2310" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x3vdkkCenwQ/T9VwPb-5TnI/AAAAAAAACfo/YlDgHfmWhIY/DSCN2310_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8HbY-ckeRRI/T9VwT46RfKI/AAAAAAAACfw/kmwqkgSYVlQ/s1600-h/DSCN2311%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2311" border="0" alt="DSCN2311" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NuoVm5cA_vA/T9VwY8mq29I/AAAAAAAACf4/L0a46q5QTMk/DSCN2311_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KGOxZdXDpWM/T9VwarOjESI/AAAAAAAACgA/0TUZjHa9imo/s1600-h/DSCN2320%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2320" border="0" alt="DSCN2320" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m0AlzjJb27o/T9Vwbc5eSDI/AAAAAAAACgI/5EML5Jxnm-w/DSCN2320_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v0Q3if46qH4/T9VwdsZkTgI/AAAAAAAACgQ/TCECq8D28Ss/s1600-h/DSCN2321%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2321" border="0" alt="DSCN2321" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J6dmEHAPweM/T9VwgQj8SbI/AAAAAAAACgY/Aai1CO16hNg/DSCN2321_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YE6VQ6kYUcI/T9Vwie1snRI/AAAAAAAACgg/1IP_W4p6XoY/s1600-h/DSCN2322%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2322" border="0" alt="DSCN2322" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W_xUyo8C5uE/T9VwlHx4pSI/AAAAAAAACgo/kn6a5SqwSd8/DSCN2322_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hHT8h1KXNs8/T9VwoHrvUPI/AAAAAAAACgw/8gDPKJl5jDc/s1600-h/DSCN2324%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2324" border="0" alt="DSCN2324" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vgyHwMz3KN4/T9VwpuI5nRI/AAAAAAAACg4/2zpmZh1Wico/DSCN2324_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Can you see the prairie dog in the center of the above picture? <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-e32RgTVxccQ/T9Vwqb5E1vI/AAAAAAAAChA/6kWY3aQyXAU/s1600-h/DSCN2315%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2315" border="0" alt="DSCN2315" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7qHhsNGY7_g/T9Vwqv9qa9I/AAAAAAAAChI/h9wGHERa-O0/DSCN2315_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />This guy was riding a bicycle in the “middle of nowhere!” <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8nNRJqFG-6M/T9VwrEekM-I/AAAAAAAAChQ/76Oas012-6A/s1600-h/DSCN2325%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2325" border="0" alt="DSCN2325" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0Ao4dvVPlxg/T9VwrlmL1mI/AAAAAAAAChY/BloOdlFKzas/DSCN2325_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Coming into South Dakota. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0Qxf7hwSlEA/T9VwsHcOWDI/AAAAAAAAChg/riAO4WfxeUE/s1600-h/DSCN2326%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2326" border="0" alt="DSCN2326" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hZnlWNBSXP4/T9VwsgIuiuI/AAAAAAAACho/Gux-e37CgCM/DSCN2326_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MnXzZMKynbA/T9VwtE5txgI/AAAAAAAAChw/8aNVJnI_8NE/s1600-h/DSCN2327%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2327" border="0" alt="DSCN2327" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0I36KMWGIXc/T9Vwtau0SeI/AAAAAAAACh4/mAA1OXa9yBI/DSCN2327_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ao5QJkT6Wrs/T9VwuEAuaxI/AAAAAAAACiA/8oEvwuU7BSc/s1600-h/DSCN2328%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2328" border="0" alt="DSCN2328" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gigcLuFiwOk/T9VwuoMi3yI/AAAAAAAACiI/6KW112tkZNI/DSCN2328_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Tdiyt-lR8p8/T98ksDoDTNI/AAAAAAAADFQ/vaqOJ79DbZk/s1600-h/northwest2012%252520093%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="northwest2012 093" border="0" alt="northwest2012 093" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FiA66QdC3Gc/T98ks1aFzlI/AAAAAAAADFY/ub_YOhkiv5w/northwest2012%252520093_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We arrived at “Custer’s Gulch RV Park” about 1:15 p.m.  The Bonannos parked next to us and we set up camp.  The scenery is beautiful, but the wind is cold for June.  The temperature is about 64 degrees with a strong wind out of the north.  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ua6o89OIIGE/T9oNiayUt-I/AAAAAAAACkM/PypKX5L6ax8/s1600-h/DSCN2402%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2402" border="0" alt="DSCN2402" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1TnTcOzBZ94/T9oNi0QDb9I/AAAAAAAACkU/jH8kxDsCrhc/DSCN2402_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-diH46dVqWY0/T9VwvBF8JmI/AAAAAAAACiQ/JSb9Y6Q3FxY/s1600-h/DSCN2329%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2329" border="0" alt="DSCN2329" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fyLfyk2ehmY/T9VwvrqoWPI/AAAAAAAACiY/sQi1qkAoA2c/DSCN2329_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The Samples are parked down the way from us.  They picked this park and made a good selection.  It’s centrally located in the Black Hills and near all the major attractions, including the monuments.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dhtW3cwRoo8/T9VwwQhL79I/AAAAAAAACig/HAGmZJuF-4w/s1600-h/DSCN2331%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2331" border="0" alt="DSCN2331" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zXEplYjvRIg/T9Vww_Rxw1I/AAAAAAAACio/b4jpNPvVt-k/DSCN2331_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0c9NbaYZrgo/T9Vwxiw_MrI/AAAAAAAACiw/z7pHm5Nc85U/s1600-h/DSCN2332%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2332" border="0" alt="DSCN2332" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ek9hOto8W50/T9VwxzK6z0I/AAAAAAAACi4/6tUf_sxcCUI/DSCN2332_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The remaining four couples arrived around 6:00 p.m., and we prepared our evening meal to be shared in the park’s club house.  <br />Below is a picture of our neighbor across the road.  They have a small tent-type RV they tow with their 3-wheel motorcycle.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9vXFSN70WaU/T9VwygO-wgI/AAAAAAAACjA/eh-OZBqO1JY/s1600-h/DSCN2337%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2337" border="0" alt="DSCN2337" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s-869lKut7Q/T9VwzFDRntI/AAAAAAAACjI/P6bJdL2KgRI/DSCN2337_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Susan and I have been trying to travel to South Dakota and view Mount Rushmore the entire 15 years we’ve been married.  Today, we’re going to do it!  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kSVJO2hRE60/T9oNjUdBDzI/AAAAAAAACkc/6R99O63wfik/s1600-h/DSCN2408%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2408" border="0" alt="DSCN2408" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eUxxOgAOKfM/T9oNkH58FbI/AAAAAAAACkk/vbmnSZrL08U/DSCN2408_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />What an amazing sculpture!  But, in all honesty, it appeared smaller than I expected.  Mount Rushmore was built between 1927-1941 by more than 400 workers at a cost of $989,992.32.  The rock is “Harney Peak Granite,” and was sculpted with dynamite and jack hammers.  Mount Rushmore is named after Charles E. Rushmore, a New York attorney who had been hired to check South Dakota land titles.  </p> <p>We were told by several others to be sure and see it after dark.  So, our group all went together for the daily ceremony at dusk . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cLypd-WBo5c/T9oNkq3XVpI/AAAAAAAACks/dGvOd9wDPtQ/s1600-h/DSCN2411%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2411" border="0" alt="DSCN2411" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aqg4URHSvo4/T9oNk6bGDGI/AAAAAAAACk0/GucT4__jkOc/DSCN2411_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IiULQWXZZc4/T98ktyOyH4I/AAAAAAAADFg/oIcFMsBqxbo/s1600-h/northwest2012%252520067%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="northwest2012 067" border="0" alt="northwest2012 067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aV5MxQfE0YE/T98kwGSM6eI/AAAAAAAADFo/-gfOYoNC4ks/northwest2012%252520067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Kv_7IJmdabs/T98kzbejiTI/AAAAAAAADFw/UHUL9IhQEp8/s1600-h/northwest2012%252520095%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="northwest2012 095" border="0" alt="northwest2012 095" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x_5mzClDYoo/T98k0kjzybI/AAAAAAAADF4/l63GnPQBlVY/northwest2012%252520095_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pK86EcdD1NY/T98k1zKSPGI/AAAAAAAADGA/WbzcbrP1q_8/s1600-h/northwest2012%252520100%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="northwest2012 100" border="0" alt="northwest2012 100" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WbEMucShyeo/T98k29X4iUI/AAAAAAAADGI/pFtYMu91aeA/northwest2012%252520100_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Thanks to Bob & Jan Samples for sharing pictures! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GmIHfJEJZOk/T9oNlUwQHnI/AAAAAAAACk8/FJBHbsf1Xqc/s1600-h/DSCN2413%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2413" border="0" alt="DSCN2413" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CD3MlQEHx9A/T9oNlx1QjGI/AAAAAAAAClE/cjdY9Y1rO3Q/DSCN2413_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rRsOSJ9jaEk/T9oNmIoY2qI/AAAAAAAAClM/A0Cll8l1XNc/s1600-h/DSCN2422%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2422" border="0" alt="DSCN2422" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-67eDhIYHe8s/T9oNmt1sa5I/AAAAAAAAClU/7Yec7y5HgDw/DSCN2422_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above, the park ranger asked all current and former veterans to come down on the stage and be recognized as “America’s Heroes” and assist in retiring the flag.  </p> <p>Below, the lights on Mount Rushmore after dark. . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UXRa0BgCNmI/T9oNnAIvDkI/AAAAAAAAClc/1eFtpc2pj5Q/s1600-h/DSCN2423%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2423" border="0" alt="DSCN2423" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rid4tXTrR_k/T9oNniPs_aI/AAAAAAAAClk/FhGNjW8KegY/DSCN2423_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vsQlSOoplGM/T9oNoCnXgxI/AAAAAAAACls/MGkCsO06nqU/s1600-h/DSCN2410%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2410" border="0" alt="DSCN2410" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GOHD6FazhfU/T9oNopVGdlI/AAAAAAAACl0/J0YFSiuNNMM/DSCN2410_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above, a bust of the sculptor of Mount Rushmore, Gutzon Borglum. <br />We also saw the sculpture of Crazy Horse, which likely won’t be completed during our lifetime. . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-POQr7ew3FVY/T9oNpONLR4I/AAAAAAAACl8/bNrTT8EgTTI/s1600-h/DSCN2342%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2342" border="0" alt="DSCN2342" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oCxrlHx9cQg/T9oNpeU_eXI/AAAAAAAACmE/DgqwGpUYYEY/DSCN2342_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below, Susan and me with Johnathan & Angie Bonanno. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GP-qqSu5SD8/T9oNp-qP97I/AAAAAAAACmM/7OQADr8Dbkc/s1600-h/DSCN2401%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2401" border="0" alt="DSCN2401" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JO-Mhg7fMJc/T9oNqqWI_PI/AAAAAAAACmU/KHwRvifLzUE/DSCN2401_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The area in and around Custer City is beautiful.  Several other small towns in the area, i.e., Hot Springs, Keystone, and Hill City, are also worth visiting.  Our group took a ride aboard the “1880 Train,” which is a genuine steam locomotive that traveled from Keystone to Hill City and back.  Here are some of the views . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-19HIFmsKu10/T9oNr3vgraI/AAAAAAAACmc/QTz949YEizY/s1600-h/DSCN2345%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2345" border="0" alt="DSCN2345" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3SSjzeM2e0M/T9oNtQMK-MI/AAAAAAAACmk/TtUUHUjpS0k/DSCN2345_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X6MPNPg4xMw/T9oNt1eRNFI/AAAAAAAACms/Y1HFPtDON60/s1600-h/DSCN2347%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2347" border="0" alt="DSCN2347" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OYfpNWNN2Uw/T9oNucEFFlI/AAAAAAAACm0/au8zR_ld-Ro/DSCN2347_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X2xjv5fr5Bo/T9oNuyA61xI/AAAAAAAACm8/TB3lgWTnJOU/s1600-h/DSCN2344%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2344" border="0" alt="DSCN2344" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yxaqNgclIWI/T9oNvXQIrZI/AAAAAAAACnE/Da00oGMkwmM/DSCN2344_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8RfhmH0BC78/T9oNvxjm-WI/AAAAAAAACnM/q1172qhQ_-0/s1600-h/DSCN2357%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2357" border="0" alt="DSCN2357" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OY5vYY6d1eE/T9oNwUChZiI/AAAAAAAACnU/dKOyiDInbW8/DSCN2357_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cru-_ZEWW4Y/T9oNwpFItSI/AAAAAAAACnc/kvZFDKMM4QQ/s1600-h/DSCN2359%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2359" border="0" alt="DSCN2359" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pWyPWtVEwdo/T9oNxRfZWaI/AAAAAAAACng/DFGwYUgTgyI/DSCN2359_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bfdpiE6VLwY/T9oNx-kXY6I/AAAAAAAACno/FHxn0optYXs/s1600-h/DSCN2362%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2362" border="0" alt="DSCN2362" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-36z21Tk0OlI/T9oNyQ2-7FI/AAAAAAAACnw/GIPDcdDRa2M/DSCN2362_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZQjny0KlkXc/T9oNzEaYdCI/AAAAAAAACn8/mEXfSvV9y54/s1600-h/DSCN2364%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2364" border="0" alt="DSCN2364" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3Z2GZAigPA4/T9oNzg2aRSI/AAAAAAAACoE/DHL_vMIeAU0/DSCN2364_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j5cnMInmKzE/T9oN0KzlZjI/AAAAAAAACoM/-LBH2a6TUFQ/s1600-h/DSCN2365%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2365" border="0" alt="DSCN2365" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E-oG1o0s2BE/T9oN1WulsWI/AAAAAAAACoU/W3raCja5s34/DSCN2365_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QVFeiZ8oThM/T9oN1ri4NOI/AAAAAAAACoc/zlpkAe4N2i0/s1600-h/DSCN2366%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2366" border="0" alt="DSCN2366" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kLGMJVtjYjs/T9oN2C9b-aI/AAAAAAAACok/bEuLcbC1AmI/DSCN2366_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oFlMJDV_RKw/T9oN2mRBQXI/AAAAAAAACos/WQPewgoUtcw/s1600-h/DSCN2376%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2376" border="0" alt="DSCN2376" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zbNRbATIIu4/T9oN3J7PLyI/AAAAAAAACo0/vzX-REGMT4c/DSCN2376_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Zl5G7rFW5os/T9oN3vh36kI/AAAAAAAACo8/WdEGAG7c7Pg/s1600-h/DSCN2377%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2377" border="0" alt="DSCN2377" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pltTuvXL9Cw/T9oN4ElTtKI/AAAAAAAACpE/iso6U_MksxA/DSCN2377_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gqHozM4Zbc4/T9oN43QrQVI/AAAAAAAACpM/luNxRYugQlU/s1600-h/DSCN2378%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2378" border="0" alt="DSCN2378" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7jK1It2oIZg/T9oN5YonpGI/AAAAAAAACpU/23B-1X_tdWg/DSCN2378_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WfaP8A8UvDA/T9oN526_kJI/AAAAAAAACpc/tLjQ7hawtlM/s1600-h/DSCN2380%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2380" border="0" alt="DSCN2380" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BHebq8TX8YI/T9oN6j0hxMI/AAAAAAAACpk/xJhRdfFB7rg/DSCN2380_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--sDKGR8iN8I/T9oN7IJZEVI/AAAAAAAACps/4S2aXjiRtn0/s1600-h/DSCN2391%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2391" border="0" alt="DSCN2391" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OUHtfECrgO0/T9oN7lJMHRI/AAAAAAAACp0/xnDd6AVYozY/DSCN2391_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jB1EAs2ybiA/T9oN8LP00fI/AAAAAAAACp8/YcUweOmQJ5U/s1600-h/DSCN2382%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2382" border="0" alt="DSCN2382" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8S7r7ItebzY/T9oN9VS4LkI/AAAAAAAACqE/o6xrJKR1vO8/DSCN2382_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below is an old mine shaft. <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WOLiz2jkS4s/T9oN-KgAp5I/AAAAAAAACqM/ZUxnRYgvir8/s1600-h/DSCN2381%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2381" border="0" alt="DSCN2381" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Q_PudWLgLK4/T9oN_UwKYaI/AAAAAAAACqU/3Gkqep_JEQc/DSCN2381_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Dn1Rt3J6Y7c/T9oOBMWJriI/AAAAAAAACqc/mMEbDbCdBdU/s1600-h/DSCN2384%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2384" border="0" alt="DSCN2384" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RKmlGMb2GoE/T9oOCnefXtI/AAAAAAAACqk/xwS0MqN1tfw/DSCN2384_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />RVs have come a long way . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lCjc8wpBjAM/T9oOE3RKGXI/AAAAAAAACqs/_OuILmQp_-4/s1600-h/DSCN2385%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2385" border="0" alt="DSCN2385" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LZag25cSZbI/T9oOFfcHzbI/AAAAAAAACq0/IRnMwELkrcU/DSCN2385_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pb0532d3ZDQ/T9oOFknpsFI/AAAAAAAACq8/3cZqWgQv9aQ/s1600-h/DSCN2397%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2397" border="0" alt="DSCN2397" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yy2OIzRHZ-s/T9oOIcNevWI/AAAAAAAACrE/WBMQQ8JwUuM/DSCN2397_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gjgv0g8U9Ms/T9oOI7ucs8I/AAAAAAAACrM/D70XfoW6NDY/s1600-h/DSCN2393%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2393" border="0" alt="DSCN2393" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZREayCx-6B4/T9oOJa0umLI/AAAAAAAACrU/xTK4bscAZHg/DSCN2393_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below, back in the station to take on water. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_mxfFFTql8Q/T9oOJ9bX2CI/AAAAAAAACrc/coJ8-jleg0Q/s1600-h/DSCN2394%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2394" border="0" alt="DSCN2394" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BQCB10B7-7A/T9oOKaMIGZI/AAAAAAAACrk/K96VHmTz2_s/DSCN2394_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />She’s just beautiful.  Not the train, Susan! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xbpmHdnMEmw/T9oOKpaP7CI/AAAAAAAACrs/RJF0V3p010Q/s1600-h/DSCN2367%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2367" border="0" alt="DSCN2367" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-36D4DNOBC08/T9oOLM-QkHI/AAAAAAAACr0/wsEyESWiNQY/DSCN2367_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We had lunch at Cattleman’s in Custer City, . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-62cqv7GNLj8/T9oOL-LT6aI/AAAAAAAACr8/K2Sfzk9JH1I/s1600-h/DSCN2341%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2341" border="0" alt="DSCN2341" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GjR_w9YRjdM/T9oOMA_lFZI/AAAAAAAACsE/21Kkday8CHU/DSCN2341_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />but the food didn’t compare to the evening meal prepared by our fellow travelers . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GSc4QgTX5cU/T9oOMsPJNYI/AAAAAAAACsM/U0m-x6eVlUo/s1600-h/DSCN2406%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2406" border="0" alt="DSCN2406" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xJU6zt5CqCo/T9oONFL42gI/AAAAAAAACsU/Yzll1vtLwCc/DSCN2406_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />And, homemade chocolate ice cream! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HCYlseyWU6c/T9oONrVjD_I/AAAAAAAACsc/PbekXsY-rAI/s1600-h/DSCN2407%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2407" border="0" alt="DSCN2407" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PYicpSfn28M/T9oOOdJzgDI/AAAAAAAACsk/T24aANNJhGc/DSCN2407_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Before we left on this journey, I noticed the rear end of the 3500 HD sagging with the coach attached.  Although I’m within Chevrolet’s recommended weight limitations, I consulted my service advisor at Hudiburg Chevrolet, and he recommended the installation of air bags.  J&I Hitch in Oklahoma City had the best price on installation, including Firestone RideRite air bags, onboard compressor, air tank, and control panel with gauge . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0MJ9gPrlBcc/T9oOO-kn7BI/AAAAAAAACss/Q7Vgs-ax3OY/s1600-h/DSCN2404%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2404" border="0" alt="DSCN2404" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PQESKR2qYTs/T9oOPS9Za0I/AAAAAAAACs0/OeXGZLU0784/DSCN2404_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Not only did the air bags eliminate the sag, but they gave the truck a much softer ride. <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DxAeHc5sY2s/T9oOP69ZI6I/AAAAAAAACs8/s4oSdIM52hY/s1600-h/DSCN2405%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2405" border="0" alt="DSCN2405" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R1RpKokpLX0/T9oOQZk9_9I/AAAAAAAACtE/Oi1pwpyHuFQ/DSCN2405_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above, the air-compressor and tank are installed in one of the lockable storage boxes on the truck bed. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mrTsCVX4h3k/T9oOQojZ7SI/AAAAAAAACtM/ISn-dPaKtsw/s1600-h/DSCN2403%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2403" border="0" alt="DSCN2403" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5QjqWOFu3Xg/T9oORb34QPI/AAAAAAAACtU/cZLbLje3Eb8/DSCN2403_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The control panel is mounted below the dash on the driver’s side.  40 psi seems to be about the right pressure when the Landmark is attached to the truck; otherwise, I carry between 20 – 30 psi when running empty.  </p> <p>Today we’re going to move north about 60 miles to Deadwood, South Dakota.  The city of Deadwood, itself, is a National Historic Landmark.  In 1876, gold was found beneath a gulch of dead trees leading to the city’s name of “Deadwood.”  Deadwood was the home of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and famed sheriff, Seth Bullock. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UAmfwkytW_M/T9pT1xBwK-I/AAAAAAAACt0/udRhm4K0Wt4/s1600-h/DSCN2450%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2450" border="0" alt="DSCN2450" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DxAW7q2J_QU/T9pT2fQNKPI/AAAAAAAACt8/q36dD5jn_-A/DSCN2450_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We’ll be setting up camp at “Creekside Campground,” just six miles south of Deadwood.  It’s a small park run by a fellow named “Andy.”  We strongly recommend this park for Andy’s hospitality, cleanliness, well-kept grounds, and concrete pads.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7HkOdyLxRvY/T9pT3EbLbnI/AAAAAAAACuE/dqOvev6z2rM/s1600-h/DSCN2427%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2427" border="0" alt="DSCN2427" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-w1F8eqKSoCc/T9pT3llo-hI/AAAAAAAACuM/lM_iIemXssw/DSCN2427_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9gZ7EOlIDOI/T9pT4C_C-1I/AAAAAAAACuU/qXf6H2lELWI/s1600-h/DSCN2425%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2425" border="0" alt="DSCN2425" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I7l_wCXRRjU/T9pT4zleRyI/AAAAAAAACuc/xVj5wWQyY3o/DSCN2425_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yaEp_73glmc/T9pT51AmEsI/AAAAAAAACuk/teN7Fv9TUuU/s1600-h/DSCN2495%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2495" border="0" alt="DSCN2495" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Hi9JWl2r6_s/T9pT6C_PuUI/AAAAAAAACus/6XkFJS_1bZY/DSCN2495_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Deadwood was once a town of saloons, brothels, and gaming halls.  Not much has changed, well, except the brothels may no longer be in operation.  But Deadwood has lots of interesting history.  </p> <p>To make the most of it, our group took a bus tour of the area.  Our tour guide, Mike, was the owner and driver.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vhIWlpZgSzU/T9pT6nQJZ4I/AAAAAAAACu0/fQioeueyVHo/s1600-h/DSCN2461%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2461" border="0" alt="DSCN2461" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TTmiN_hYs9k/T9pT7Mr0jmI/AAAAAAAACu8/i0-ZJBvzuIg/DSCN2461_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Tiqod6kavfs/T9pT74bDT9I/AAAAAAAACvE/ifHlMJ8bDpo/s1600-h/DSCN2469%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2469" border="0" alt="DSCN2469" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oP9kpa2r9oc/T9pT8M0VRLI/AAAAAAAACvM/geDgIcIR67U/DSCN2469_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Mike knew a lot of facts about Deadwood.  Here’s a few: <br />Wild Bill Hickok had only been in Deadwood a few weeks when he was murdered in cold blood.  It seems that he had been a daily gambler in the “No. 10 Saloon,” and was keeping a constant winning streak.  Hickok always sat with his back against the wall when he played cards so nobody would sneak up behind him.  Tired of Hickok winning their money, several other gamblers arranged the tables and chairs so that Hickok had no other choice but to sit with his back to the door.  Jack McCall, aka: “The Coward, Jack McCall,” shot Hickok in the back of the head while he was holding the winning hand, 8s & Aces, later named “The Deadman’s Hand.”  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1K_yXM4G7nY/T9pT8usWFRI/AAAAAAAACvU/pNnuH1HTgqQ/s1600-h/DSCN2446%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2446" border="0" alt="DSCN2446" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aJzWpeIGeDM/T9pT9L6CX3I/AAAAAAAACvc/zBCB4Vk3pSU/DSCN2446_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The historic location of “Saloon No. 10,” where Wild Bill Hickok was murdered on August 2nd, 1876 (Above photo). <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BprsI3S6MJE/T9pT9ahY2HI/AAAAAAAACvk/Fb4A2J3J3t8/s1600-h/DSCN2445%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2445" border="0" alt="DSCN2445" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c4t_3s8NGTw/T9pT93OY2FI/AAAAAAAACvs/_sBGwz0P-4Q/DSCN2445_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below is the actual chair where Wild Bill Hickok sat with his “Deadman’s Hand” when he was shot. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TuPdjlNgjec/T9pT-WUmSxI/AAAAAAAACv0/yHIzOgwyjO0/s1600-h/DSCN2478%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2478" border="0" alt="DSCN2478" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OYSE2NtWBvQ/T9pT-4q2QuI/AAAAAAAACv8/XOMV64fkk-k/DSCN2478_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SNvcdZSa2GI/T9pUACFUANI/AAAAAAAACwE/fzYhFvPsyIM/s1600-h/DSCN2452%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2452" border="0" alt="DSCN2452" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-e_pLQG8ADN8/T9pUAmFkRWI/AAAAAAAACwM/8BbPajJ-KQw/DSCN2452_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above, Wild Bill’s grave in Mt. Moriah Cemetery high above the city of Deadwood.  Below, the grave of Calamity Jane (Martha Jane Canary Burke), American frontierswoman and close friend of Wild Bill Hickok.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xY07n8QI5XI/T9pUBMJeXGI/AAAAAAAACwU/w2RRgMDvI3Q/s1600-h/DSCN2454%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2454" border="0" alt="DSCN2454" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rLpYiF7y5oM/T9pUBubhsiI/AAAAAAAACwc/lPoAeY6nawo/DSCN2454_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The grave below is that of a young girl who died of small pox in the late 1800s.  Although Calamity Jane was known to shoot, ride, and cuss better than any cowboy, she also exhibited a compassionate side and helped save the lives of more than 300 people suffering from small pox.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VQK17JimgVE/T9pUCUUS7lI/AAAAAAAACwk/4N027xjwzy0/s1600-h/DSCN2465%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2465" border="0" alt="DSCN2465" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Praf9IBUAQ4/T9pUC7cU1-I/AAAAAAAACws/nhJFsRLH-UI/DSCN2465_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Seth Bullock was appointed sheriff of Deadwood the day after Hickok’s murder.  Bullock stood approximately 6’6” tall, when most men of the day stood around 5’5”.  It is said that throughout his law enforcement career, Bullock never once had to draw his gun to arrest anyone.  His height and demeanor was enough to intimidate them into submission.  Bullock met President Theodore Roosevelt when he served as deputy sheriff of Medora, South Dakota, and they became life-long friends.  Roosevelt once said of Bullock, “Bullock is a true westerner, the finest type of frontiersman.”  Bullock did not want to be buried in Mt. Moriah Cemetery.  Instead, he wanted to be buried high on a hill overlooking Deadwood across from Mt. Roosevelt.  The reason, he said, was so that he could rise from his grave each morning and greet President Roosevelt.  Bullock died from cancer in 1919 at age 70. <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XyOqXfDhbCE/T9pUGNF40uI/AAAAAAAACw0/Hip3dEKMUS0/s1600-h/DSCN2466%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2466" border="0" alt="DSCN2466" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WpU1A01EqPY/T9pUGvijlAI/AAAAAAAACw8/2z7e4mUg7wk/DSCN2466_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above, the hill upon which Seth Bullock is buried high above Deadwood.  Below are additional pictures of Mt. Moriah Cemetery . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fLBFo-dDvjo/T9pUL-Wg29I/AAAAAAAACxE/BT4MIYPSF9o/s1600-h/DSCN2451%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2451" border="0" alt="DSCN2451" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QfoYkQUvKNY/T9pUNZxrxCI/AAAAAAAACxM/CSY8BSINLh8/DSCN2451_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below, the base of Wild Bill’s grave decorated with flowers, poker cards, and other items. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lhN3EhOD5NM/T9pUP-3OrYI/AAAAAAAACxU/4DBl1l8cMFw/s1600-h/DSCN2456%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2456" border="0" alt="DSCN2456" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HU0I0hbYwEc/T9pUQ3Q8WbI/AAAAAAAACxc/HSYLT1A4amA/DSCN2456_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-au8bEZhYU94/T9pUofMptOI/AAAAAAAACxk/79OEv6PdF6o/s1600-h/DSCN2453%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2453" border="0" alt="DSCN2453" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QcnHKufY5KI/T9pUovyNDKI/AAAAAAAACxs/zEDS3cBeg7g/DSCN2453_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Above is the grave of “Potato Creek Johnny,” John Perrett, credited with finding the largest gold nugget ever discovered in the Black Hills.   <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MEoNMnwLo3c/T9pUpCc_REI/AAAAAAAACx0/0UYmCUQnlEQ/s1600-h/DSCN2457%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2457" border="0" alt="DSCN2457" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7ONBFAVUt2E/T9pUpn4oIYI/AAAAAAAACx8/V9MxGyuc3zQ/DSCN2457_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VCrTdNL2APs/T9pUp1ZyEVI/AAAAAAAACyE/R3zn3AIZFdo/s1600-h/DSCN2462%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2462" border="0" alt="DSCN2462" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lz-AsUKrOJs/T9pUqYTv-LI/AAAAAAAACyM/vGdAp_dNTgw/DSCN2462_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below is one of two Chinese graves that remain in Mt. Moriah “Potter’s field,” which is a place of burial for unknown or indigent people.    <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n0UUry5dnnU/T9pUqrvKQkI/AAAAAAAACyU/VvWJRLqGrJY/s1600-h/DSCN2463%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2463" border="0" alt="DSCN2463" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--ujrQTX72aI/T9pUrLkMgPI/AAAAAAAACyc/NB_v343LbtU/DSCN2463_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The City of Deadwood is still alive with gunfights and casinos . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ST-Z16orag4/T9pUrXk0qhI/AAAAAAAACyk/c5-dcd1_hPA/s1600-h/DSCN2492%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2492" border="0" alt="DSCN2492" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h1FA1K3bE3M/T9pUr5wgKWI/AAAAAAAACys/Yuf5FF46b4w/DSCN2492_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3UKFLfFwqSQ/T9pUsU2AIII/AAAAAAAACy0/Yc9Kx4GOpMI/s1600-h/DSCN2489%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2489" border="0" alt="DSCN2489" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a5swbzkEn50/T9pUsnH-CbI/AAAAAAAACy8/7ULqprDV3cs/DSCN2489_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gbAiIFAGAKw/T9pUtOizP7I/AAAAAAAACzE/iYZNuxHonzA/s1600-h/DSCN2491%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2491" border="0" alt="DSCN2491" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cYCbmcGPD-0/T9pUtbVkYII/AAAAAAAACzM/lHk_ty-TwB0/DSCN2491_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The picture below is gun-shaped handles on the doors of the No. 10 Saloon.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yU7gz1zMSXQ/T9pUuBc6mHI/AAAAAAAACzU/oSarWwVwdcI/s1600-h/DSCN2430%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2430" border="0" alt="DSCN2430" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kWw7QTxqMIo/T9pUunlgbUI/AAAAAAAACzc/828_CBmIUkI/DSCN2430_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wMIvTxG6-38/T9pUvEVj0zI/AAAAAAAACzk/lY64uULPYxM/s1600-h/DSCN2493%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2493" border="0" alt="DSCN2493" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HbpgU0BWXuw/T9pUvnLU-EI/AAAAAAAACzs/W_aLWbs2otM/DSCN2493_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CWgOXDi2SOk/T9pUv1_b99I/AAAAAAAACz0/nuRVIkBtTC4/s1600-h/DSCN2429%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2429" border="0" alt="DSCN2429" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zuxVY3ZucWs/T9pUwFV5ZmI/AAAAAAAACz8/woKwZw7zYjE/DSCN2429_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tNVSQWO9N5Q/T9pUw6O1xNI/AAAAAAAAC0E/d0o888rycK4/s1600-h/DSCN2431%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2431" border="0" alt="DSCN2431" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dhF0S1ZfC5c/T9pUxd5rpNI/AAAAAAAAC0M/TsJHRTmU-EA/DSCN2431_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-c2dCYJlTeGs/T9pUyLe9aLI/AAAAAAAAC0U/EqM-wPxhynw/s1600-h/DSCN2474%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2474" border="0" alt="DSCN2474" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-imedBbgGX-k/T9pUyQnCCmI/AAAAAAAAC0c/yHDnSwmfPck/DSCN2474_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-78a1tPTNdyg/T9pUy5Di_NI/AAAAAAAAC0k/gaJcbppt4qo/s1600-h/DSCN2437%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2437" border="0" alt="DSCN2437" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jdC6eO7u4mM/T9pUzpjeILI/AAAAAAAAC0s/oLd4Pl_0GZE/DSCN2437_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rwFpr8skLi0/T9pUz6kkVYI/AAAAAAAAC00/hXy77U_xsJU/s1600-h/DSCN2438%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2438" border="0" alt="DSCN2438" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WL0q-2mlaNA/T9pU0aFxUTI/AAAAAAAAC08/eC5BvnAErWM/DSCN2438_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below, our friend Johnathan hit gold in the Midnight Star Casino, owned by actor, Kevin Costner. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VgfyQ_ZWE9U/T9pU1-s_mVI/AAAAAAAAC1E/aAPj1C9jZN4/s1600-h/DSCN2436%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2436" border="0" alt="DSCN2436" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QgsGtpOKpbg/T9pU2lPPEOI/AAAAAAAAC1M/Jcfh1neVabc/DSCN2436_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LEfeb-OIUAI/T9pU28SxVLI/AAAAAAAAC1U/b6-0zkw0X0Y/s1600-h/DSCN2441%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2441" border="0" alt="DSCN2441" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VHKTodDtIdk/T9pU3Ef85NI/AAAAAAAAC1c/mCkGptNgCIk/DSCN2441_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MiZu3uV3Nng/T9pU3ryJzKI/AAAAAAAAC1k/YRcsGd2h-8E/s1600-h/DSCN2432%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2432" border="0" alt="DSCN2432" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-snn-11YOI5E/T9pU4HEwDYI/AAAAAAAAC1s/qjcWWHsPhEo/DSCN2432_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Well, there may even be a few brothels left in town! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kiQQmSB8jBQ/T9pU4W6QPaI/AAAAAAAAC10/Ve8EE7HUB7Q/s1600-h/DSCN2448%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2448" border="0" alt="DSCN2448" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wvZXBKu8ti0/T9pU5tyXqOI/AAAAAAAAC18/KrK5Ug7g3NQ/DSCN2448_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The following picture is interesting because it depicts a “carriage stone,” which was used by women to step down from a horse-drawn carriage. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h0bljywqNUs/T9pU6JpfCLI/AAAAAAAAC2E/AfEhRUUEa00/s1600-h/DSCN2468%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2468" border="0" alt="DSCN2468" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IBMDSyAYj-E/T9pU6uzw4gI/AAAAAAAAC2M/US5LUs0QNBA/DSCN2468_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Below is the “Deadwood Mountain Grand,” which is a hotel, event center, and casino owned by country music duo, Big & Rich . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Lk3iDpNBKTs/T9q9A0OIGMI/AAAAAAAAC20/83lpT0OCHuY/s1600-h/DSCN2496%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2496" border="0" alt="DSCN2496" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lI2tinjCqn4/T9q9BUuxCRI/AAAAAAAAC28/ZuCaTqrx_nc/DSCN2496_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Next stop . . . the 2012 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Gillette, Wyoming.  The rally is being held at the Cam-Plex, which is similar to a convention center/fairground in Gillette.  All attendees are Heartland RV owners.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E5P9KgNBiNw/T93jq7pVtqI/AAAAAAAAC9E/cwTKJBUU5TI/s1600-h/IMG_2059%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2059" border="0" alt="IMG_2059" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rxkfSIGnKFg/T93jrgG_PNI/AAAAAAAAC9M/-XfsAKVOXIw/IMG_2059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kyeZLznzKUo/T9q9BtPre2I/AAAAAAAAC3E/wEtat1yLuGQ/s1600-h/DSCN2501%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2501" border="0" alt="DSCN2501" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vb1oP7zgg6A/T9q9CGV5n8I/AAAAAAAAC3M/EFugB3xHbZA/DSCN2501_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Heartland has techs here to perform minor repairs, as does Dexter Axle.  The only repairs needed on our coach at this time, which require professional attention, is the rubber E-Z Flex equalizer bushings and the Frigidaire convection oven.  The internal cooling fan of the oven started vibrating during use on this trip, and the rubber bushings are cracked and need replacement.  Because the coach is less than a year old and still under warranty, I’m surprised they need replacement so soon.  Nevertheless, I spoke with a Dexter tech today and he said they do need replacement when signs of cracking appear and he will try to take care of it before we leave.  </p> <p>In addition to helpful techs on hand to assist with minor repairs, the rally offers many other helpful things, i.e., seminars on RV maintenance and safety, full-time RV life, RV accessories, and just good fellowship.  We ran into several new friends we met recently at the Inaugural Oklahoma Heartland Rally held in Thackerville, Oklahoma, including several from Texas.  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UBvnrbaApWE/T9q9CgmXNNI/AAAAAAAAC3U/UmgMhZ-O0Tg/s1600-h/DSCN2497%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2497" border="0" alt="DSCN2497" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hgyInNaerT0/T9q9C3x_sQI/AAAAAAAAC3c/1ZTSh6ZwAPE/DSCN2497_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ba5C1DmuhdA/T9q9DYXR3zI/AAAAAAAAC3k/F9ORgo1cQYk/s1600-h/DSCN2499%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2499" border="0" alt="DSCN2499" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uANgHnec-kM/T9q9D-3-9WI/AAAAAAAAC3s/fANiamtelz0/DSCN2499_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Imy1BdHBfjM/T9q9EISeGOI/AAAAAAAAC30/vo2mtm_F-jw/s1600-h/DSCN2498%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2498" border="0" alt="DSCN2498" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GXEMqeY2oj4/T9q9Elv3lxI/AAAAAAAAC38/S4c6PS4IXqQ/DSCN2498_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />As evident in the above pictures, we’re parked on grass sites with gravel roads.  When the wind blows, like it has the past few days, it makes for a pretty dusty place.  </p> <p>Folks have traveled long distances to attend this rally.  We met Richard and Barbara Wright from New Jersey, and noticed several other members who traveled in from Canada . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C9iRVlkVg3w/T9q9E7m81cI/AAAAAAAAC4E/HbyDtqYB2Rc/s1600-h/DSCN2500%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2500" border="0" alt="DSCN2500" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-p7dcvR3qlxY/T9q9FZeKI5I/AAAAAAAAC4M/7IVzNtYQikA/DSCN2500_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I’m always interested in what the new coaches have to offer.  Here are a few of the models on display . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iVaK5zsWvHU/T9q9Fnvz0sI/AAAAAAAAC4U/60AN5YMC9Is/s1600-h/DSCN2507%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2507" border="0" alt="DSCN2507" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WJrqOCigwc8/T9q9H2diKHI/AAAAAAAAC4c/Owpq0-BkBPs/DSCN2507_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Our friends, the Bonannos, were interested in the BigHorn pictured above and below.  This model has a forward living room, which is very rare in a 5th wheel coach . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2tH0rTShouk/T9q9IDaTZAI/AAAAAAAAC4k/mG-Ba7P-LdI/s1600-h/DSCN2510%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2510" border="0" alt="DSCN2510" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vgXmIlr-cMM/T9q9IxdYYzI/AAAAAAAAC4s/upOyk-aG6q0/DSCN2510_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Another couple in our group from Oklahoma, Rex and Stacy Hasty, traded in their Sundance coach for this unit and hope to take delivery on Saturday.  Congratulations to Rex & Stacy! <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QkpxQKQ-Wxg/T9q9JTTdnEI/AAAAAAAAC40/_PEw5QrY0lc/s1600-h/DSCN2508%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2508" border="0" alt="DSCN2508" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HRn1HPMw7E0/T9q9J7IQYBI/AAAAAAAAC48/WpJHhiZn5JM/DSCN2508_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />My favorite is the new Landmark San Antonio (pictured below); probably because I already own last year’s model.  This coach is simply beautiful, and of course, Heartland made a few improvements to tempt me. <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4a9SGOay5vw/T9q9KZ8zx0I/AAAAAAAAC5E/aQjrrqDANys/s1600-h/DSCN2509%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2509" border="0" alt="DSCN2509" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4KRXKyQvTw4/T9q9KijsDxI/AAAAAAAAC5M/g-9On75_3zA/DSCN2509_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eUnJruKb7g0/T9q9LFoqnpI/AAAAAAAAC5U/UqNFxlLQPB4/s1600-h/DSCN2511%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2511" border="0" alt="DSCN2511" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h33V3PvD_yU/T9q9LX9jTpI/AAAAAAAAC5c/gQkfP11xAqY/DSCN2511_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rzDQASBj5zs/T9q9LxC_-MI/AAAAAAAAC5k/9jAQAB3MVTE/s1600-h/DSCN2512%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2512" border="0" alt="DSCN2512" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-V7Qf6NvSrDI/T9q9MOVVHQI/AAAAAAAAC5s/739kuJEoJ8s/DSCN2512_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />A few 5th wheel haulers are also on display, but these vehicles are owned by attendees and not for sale.  Nevertheless, they’re pretty to look at! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gI9VHa9C0kE/T9q9Myx2JnI/AAAAAAAAC50/YS_yxS7_Xm4/s1600-h/DSCN2502%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2502" border="0" alt="DSCN2502" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pPLDYAfFjjE/T9q9NjEKDkI/AAAAAAAAC58/GgQQLKE0gnY/DSCN2502_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_W_CMR4n2bI/T9q9PgzZVcI/AAAAAAAAC6E/iLenOvQOfLE/s1600-h/DSCN2503%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2503" border="0" alt="DSCN2503" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EOEa3l9j_bQ/T9q9RbF3xJI/AAAAAAAAC6M/xNS5xU1nqcc/DSCN2503_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WLCDi3pwaDM/T9q9RmpSajI/AAAAAAAAC6U/QSa2q_4qM8Y/s1600-h/DSCN2505%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2505" border="0" alt="DSCN2505" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9f0k1bCFVzc/T9q9SJk_nCI/AAAAAAAAC6c/jctAKt98oD4/DSCN2505_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QY6TzLpockA/T9q9SjUt_dI/AAAAAAAAC6k/zR_ujLsFcB4/s1600-h/DSCN2504%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2504" border="0" alt="DSCN2504" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FuGDkntEjQo/T9q9TPYVGPI/AAAAAAAAC6s/rli5zTzROJk/DSCN2504_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I’ve got to get a set of air horns like these! <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3JLmXV3KgyQ/T9q9TpNklyI/AAAAAAAAC60/hbaKi4WOPLA/s1600-h/DSCN2506%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2506" border="0" alt="DSCN2506" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FuNDW9Of3UU/T9q9UG01l6I/AAAAAAAAC68/p0Hddwn8uz8/DSCN2506_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Like a Samboree, the Heartland Rally offers vendors with items for sale (pictured below). <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P56XIGrKNpA/T9q9Ud5QGmI/AAAAAAAAC7E/YXZkOJVw9RM/s1600-h/DSCN2513%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2513" border="0" alt="DSCN2513" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VVYDbKivQCU/T9q9UxjmamI/AAAAAAAAC7M/mooibUKJGJE/DSCN2513_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />And plenty of food . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jA-YDrkfnDA/T9q9VXx4tUI/AAAAAAAAC7U/v923nDjbEiQ/s1600-h/DSCN2514%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2514" border="0" alt="DSCN2514" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3cplikiHbkc/T9q9V4Mz34I/AAAAAAAAC7c/OantAgYmypM/DSCN2514_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yNQxoUUCNS4/T9q9WEZOWyI/AAAAAAAAC7k/0xrP2wTLfbw/s1600-h/DSCN2516%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2516" border="0" alt="DSCN2516" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4cQHom1prsI/T9q9WrAKfiI/AAAAAAAAC7s/gg8lr6_1-t4/DSCN2516_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dlNyGB_EfEg/T9q9XElMgoI/AAAAAAAAC70/22navBL2iUI/s1600-h/DSCN2520%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2520" border="0" alt="DSCN2520" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zn2jLhGpEWg/T9q9XdNvoxI/AAAAAAAAC78/FUKR3tbxugE/DSCN2520_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I’m afraid I’ll gain several pounds before we get home. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JJM3WYtnq2g/T9q9XnWMgXI/AAAAAAAAC8E/yHisuiGERF0/s1600-h/DSCN2519%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2519" border="0" alt="DSCN2519" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pTsNxMMaMu8/T9q9YLbChQI/AAAAAAAAC8M/LKwDLUmaiSs/DSCN2519_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-D7fcZMpkrcA/T9q9Yp-L8PI/AAAAAAAAC8U/7_I_YoFOt9Y/s1600-h/DSCN2518%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2518" border="0" alt="DSCN2518" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1GjfINs1u2s/T9q9ZIgYqfI/AAAAAAAAC8c/qrgmcEKAphg/DSCN2518_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The rally organizers asked all members to wear their rally shirts to dinner . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Yz_d15JnCO8/T93jsT_8MZI/AAAAAAAAC9U/_nrt3aetLFg/s1600-h/DSCN2523%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2523" border="0" alt="DSCN2523" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ORYt9YYNzmo/T93jteI0RGI/AAAAAAAAC9c/fGmu11ZpdCE/DSCN2523_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Tony and Erika Dorsey <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5hT26sgbMW4/T93juLHRo0I/AAAAAAAAC9k/4qxTScmT3ME/s1600-h/DSCN2524%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2524" border="0" alt="DSCN2524" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kCQJNsGdzbY/T93juvFXuRI/AAAAAAAAC9s/3fdILDMKpDg/DSCN2524_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Larry and Donna Keever <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QhDs4y9Dnl0/T93jvUXdfwI/AAAAAAAAC90/1hRMBcodtEk/s1600-h/DSCN2525%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2525" border="0" alt="DSCN2525" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zPnRlrJNxn0/T93jwO3n87I/AAAAAAAAC98/mtgd9AhiRmY/DSCN2525_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Gary and Vickie Tidball <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eFK4CHtZKlw/T93jw9FofwI/AAAAAAAAC-E/CnpluPWOwbY/s1600-h/DSCN2526%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2526" border="0" alt="DSCN2526" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jieRKR5DAJk/T93jxgkbpBI/AAAAAAAAC-M/cS5RH4iG9p4/DSCN2526_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Orville and Barbara Wright <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q_n-hnXdy08/T93jyYCq3CI/AAAAAAAAC-U/JSSKQ_O7adQ/s1600-h/DSCN2527%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2527" border="0" alt="DSCN2527" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rWNYlplskR8/T93jy0H8ivI/AAAAAAAAC-c/0efedbkxAn0/DSCN2527_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Rex and Stacy Hasty <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0UlzYghxPoU/T93jzkzttsI/AAAAAAAAC-k/JWVMP2It0Dw/s1600-h/DSCN2528%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2528" border="0" alt="DSCN2528" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fJYZ_Apzg9c/T93j0KeMLYI/AAAAAAAAC-s/1DwT8blO170/DSCN2528_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Johnathan and Angela Bonanno <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jl_K-LceH5A/T93j05qW7yI/AAAAAAAAC-0/dsAw4U6vI6M/s1600-h/DSCN2532%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2532" border="0" alt="DSCN2532" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jiRe2NwQG8Y/T93j1dH58dI/AAAAAAAAC-8/390B0_DSnhw/DSCN2532_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />And yours truly, Jerry & Susan Magill.</p> <p>This evening’s entertainment is “Kenny Miller.”  Kenny does several several musical impersonations of famous singers like Roy Orbison, Marty Robbins, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Kenny Rogers, and Elvis Presley.  He’s really good! <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rNRIGyWt5TE/T93j2mPU2gI/AAAAAAAAC_E/RAfFNPqf_Zs/s1600-h/DSCN2534%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2534" border="0" alt="DSCN2534" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tIxKzPUEnzY/T93j2wyqnvI/AAAAAAAAC_M/Qc2jIwbkROc/DSCN2534_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Today is the final day of the rally for us.  Others will be leaving on Sunday, but Susan and I will travel to Devils Tower with the Bonannos and spend a couple of nights at the base, where we’ll regroup with the Samples.  Before leaving, however, the rally organizers arranged a bus tour of one of the local coal mine operations. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pncix77SNN0/T93j3tlKJeI/AAAAAAAAC_U/bWOnLX_VO3c/s1600-h/IMG_2071%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2071" border="0" alt="IMG_2071" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eSc0kF2mHpA/T93j4JOg_bI/AAAAAAAAC_c/Ewehbg7ZQdc/IMG_2071_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />We’ll be viewing the Eagle Butte Mine, which is owned by Alpha Cost West, Inc., just north of Gillette.  This mine has been in operation since 1978.  Wyoming has more than 1.4 trillion tons of coal.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V_74VRMhjSk/T93j4odNPAI/AAAAAAAAC_k/ShVptASKoO8/s1600-h/IMG_2098%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2098" border="0" alt="IMG_2098" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J9sY9TOU2BA/T93j5BmEXmI/AAAAAAAAC_s/sbsUjmAWp8k/IMG_2098_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />Our tour guide is employed by Alpha Coal West and is very knowledgeable about the coal industry and the mine’s operations. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aTkdDpJaW3c/T93j5wijK0I/AAAAAAAAC_0/QQnuOTLSCqE/s1600-h/IMG_2063%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2063" border="0" alt="IMG_2063" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4weiNOPn7fM/T93j6cJF6II/AAAAAAAAC_8/u-s6F3W-tqM/IMG_2063_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />The first stop is outside the mine area at the viewing center . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a_rJkPit8B8/T93j7HK5w9I/AAAAAAAADAE/WPKLJQjwWpc/s1600-h/IMG_2068%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2068" border="0" alt="IMG_2068" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jzG-WjRhtds/T93j7udEBJI/AAAAAAAADAM/51qBV9FNv9k/IMG_2068_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1fZaWUwMFkg/T93j8RTVW4I/AAAAAAAADAU/cRqKskQsQMM/s1600-h/IMG_2069%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2069" border="0" alt="IMG_2069" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w_0IZ3Xy7RY/T93j84uuyYI/AAAAAAAADAc/62y2gcQ6FuI/IMG_2069_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />Unlike eastern U.S. coal, which contains 3-10% sulfur, the seam of coal being mined in Wyoming is only 0.2-0.55% sulfur, thus making it more environmentally friendly.  However, low sulfur coal doesn’t burn as hot as eastern coal, so many power plants mix the two to stay in compliance with EPA regulations.  Much of the coal mined here is transported by train to several other states, including Oklahoma.  </p> <p>The coal seam of this mine is more than 120 feet thick in some areas, but coal is being taken only from the shallowest points near the surface to maintain low production costs.  Trucks with a capacity of 450 tons carry the coal from the mine to crushers, which transport the crushed coal by conveyor belt to silos for loading onto train cars . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EnSwt5DoZ7k/T93j9dEfM5I/AAAAAAAADAk/rl569baVjs4/s1600-h/IMG_2094%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2094" border="0" alt="IMG_2094" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iWqC8GXrgkg/T93j940eTII/AAAAAAAADAs/xaYth7SkmUo/IMG_2094_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5IIp69Di8FY/T93j--BkH7I/AAAAAAAADA0/Qd1cn15WV1E/s1600-h/IMG_2077%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2077" border="0" alt="IMG_2077" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ebDAmh27XFo/T93j_VZiM6I/AAAAAAAADA8/PxOfgkUYsws/IMG_2077_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sy7C5hORERE/T93kAZ9OQVI/AAAAAAAADBE/EUv2PYt9Tis/s1600-h/IMG_2086%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2086" border="0" alt="IMG_2086" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U0wythq3RA0/T93kAy_OLZI/AAAAAAAADBM/qABI0l8Rx74/IMG_2086_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dmU5jauwrfc/T93kBg2c1dI/AAAAAAAADBU/PdkEWIibAiU/s1600-h/IMG_2084%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2084" border="0" alt="IMG_2084" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6E1SX_SXSEE/T93kCSGV5DI/AAAAAAAADBc/IAqvAzkXims/IMG_2084_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />The next two pictures weren’t part of the mine tour.  Susan and I stopped and captured these later on the trip as we passed a different area of the mining operation.  The conveyor belt can be seen in the bottom picture transporting coal to the crusher.  The coal travels by conveyer for almost 6 miles before reaching the crusher, then lifted into silos for loading aboard the trains.  Our view from I-90 gave the perspective that the seam of coal within the trench ran forever.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8UvJGuVxtg4/T-ByWKdu8ZI/AAAAAAAADMw/YAyeyuN0ufo/s1600-h/DSCN2601%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2601" border="0" alt="DSCN2601" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ActGk5w4Ml8/T-ByWn1YVKI/AAAAAAAADM4/4TS77YX6Ipk/DSCN2601_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aNYkJhw8wUk/T-ByXpGgS5I/AAAAAAAADNA/e7YvD7J_QaI/s1600-h/DSCN2599%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2599" border="0" alt="DSCN2599" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vSVzDtdPWB8/T-ByYaCuwrI/AAAAAAAADNI/7GZIafVF42Y/DSCN2599_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The front-end-loaders and trucks used in this operation are some of the largest in the world . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JI2snA-n1h4/T93kDTVpM6I/AAAAAAAADBk/CKK0EBduTnU/s1600-h/IMG_2066%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2066" border="0" alt="IMG_2066" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FeScugzOBn4/T93kD8H1G7I/AAAAAAAADBs/cnyeyOjOXGc/IMG_2066_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yMzoFiUS9Uw/T93kEzlYddI/AAAAAAAADB0/h1SLarDgGAc/s1600-h/IMG_2072%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2072" border="0" alt="IMG_2072" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xpRHGjSuE_k/T93kFByDJXI/AAAAAAAADB8/dAUh-VybnJE/IMG_2072_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zr3cCOMB3BE/T93kFhXSWeI/AAAAAAAADCE/r-DTskg7mSA/s1600-h/IMG_2075%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2075" border="0" alt="IMG_2075" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oopQH3NA0EE/T93kGHFPMXI/AAAAAAAADCM/orW3HK9L0vs/IMG_2075_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GlyPpT2ugKc/T93kHNkQzYI/AAAAAAAADCU/Wv16vHLIaRk/s1600-h/IMG_2074%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2074" border="0" alt="IMG_2074" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lhMGQRBTfAA/T93kHp625jI/AAAAAAAADCc/DLKuPPts6jM/IMG_2074_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />No sooner than the mine tour was over, we returned to the rally and prepped the coach for our next stop . . . Devils Tower. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IbTQCQozJV4/T93kIMnnMZI/AAAAAAAADCk/NL0CRNRY0_w/s1600-h/DSCN2537%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2537" border="0" alt="DSCN2537" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F1Z1vK6EDpc/T93kImJ7bxI/AAAAAAAADCs/d8x4M3coyZ0/DSCN2537_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Situated in far northeast Wyoming, “Devils Tower” is the nation’s first national monument.  Dedicated as such in 1906 by President Teddy Roosevelt, Devils Tower is actually the core of a volcano exposed after millions of years of erosion.  You may remember its image in the 1978 movie, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.”  <br />On the road to Devils Tower . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gLn6shm6Aw4/T93kKRaCVrI/AAAAAAAADC0/VbGnf36pgKc/s1600-h/DSCN2543%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2543" border="0" alt="DSCN2543" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WegzEoamGRc/T93kLCU8f-I/AAAAAAAADC8/yzvOxUsr39s/DSCN2543_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7j7DsYrBXMs/T93kL-p78SI/AAAAAAAADDE/a9Lp1y4ObAI/s1600-h/DSCN2539%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2539" border="0" alt="DSCN2539" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Kibhgfl5Q9U/T93kMbu1E9I/AAAAAAAADDM/EA5hjR5GBfQ/DSCN2539_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eVbkJbzfDrw/T93kNAqJPYI/AAAAAAAADDU/BX22QEZ4Js4/s1600-h/IMG_2114%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2114" border="0" alt="IMG_2114" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HmItX0mMsmM/T93kNpfdTYI/AAAAAAAADDc/8LHLjbRMWy8/IMG_2114_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--hEX-K_F_fg/T93kOsoKCrI/AAAAAAAADDk/0-P57CmZC4U/s1600-h/IMG_2110%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2110" border="0" alt="IMG_2110" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7njRFMZQ7QY/T93kPSkRUiI/AAAAAAAADDs/NsRgykmQ9YA/IMG_2110_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DUxdKpxETOg/T93kQWJmdDI/AAAAAAAADD0/EshRLXntyE4/s1600-h/DSCN2538%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2538" border="0" alt="DSCN2538" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cdRXUcIAkTs/T93kRKO9ZvI/AAAAAAAADD8/B387UxtgnA4/DSCN2538_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MS6Rtr4-9vY/T93kW38ONGI/AAAAAAAADEE/Lf3emnQaCRk/s1600-h/DSCN2540%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2540" border="0" alt="DSCN2540" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mrno75Se7B4/T93kXrBkJOI/AAAAAAAADEM/N-SRWsj5Z-w/DSCN2540_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lBnJHp3uxpM/T93kYkLoFhI/AAAAAAAADEU/gMikl6alCVo/s1600-h/IMG_2116%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_2116" border="0" alt="IMG_2116" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wlizmvJOfDY/T93kZdycCEI/AAAAAAAADEc/You5E7f03d8/IMG_2116_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> <br />Devils Towers rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding terrain and the summit is 5,112 feet above sea level.  Approximately 4,000 climbers visit the Tower each year.  </p> <p>Climbing Devils Tower is currently unrestricted, but The National Park Service recognizes the fact that many Native American Tribes regard the Tower as a “sacred site,” and advocate closure of the park to climbing during the month of June.  June is a culturally significant time when many Native American ceremonies occur, and so far, the voluntary closure has been successful resulting in an 80% reduction in climbers during June.    </p> <p>Susan and I joined the Samples and Bonannos to explore the Information Center at the base of the monument . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sDaUapm2QoE/T98k4LAfmCI/AAAAAAAADGQ/zqdtkBhaEps/s1600-h/DSCN2567%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2567" border="0" alt="DSCN2567" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-R2OkDJ3By9k/T98k5mZmatI/AAAAAAAADGY/71miLJvhv-4/DSCN2567_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xHIMM-h2m90/T98k6or5RjI/AAAAAAAADGg/4oS6G-6STNc/s1600-h/DSCN2571%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2571" border="0" alt="DSCN2571" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Thj6kefmZqM/T98k7iGuBEI/AAAAAAAADGo/_uBSsLCCRO4/DSCN2571_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Some Native Americans believe that six little girls were playing in the area when a bear began chasing them.  Praying for protection from the bear, the Tower began to rise from the ground out of the bear’s reach.  The bear’s claw marks remain visible as vertical streaks on the face of the Tower.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yqDryYDa3hg/T98k8h-502I/AAAAAAAADGw/Kj-2HSCJhTw/s1600-h/DSCN2572%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2572" border="0" alt="DSCN2572" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EmC4N5z-8Hg/T98k9vqHOzI/AAAAAAAADG4/RpQ4VDXKm78/DSCN2572_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Here are a few additional pictures of the Tower and its unique surface . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G65aFtUF4Jg/T98k-nCJ17I/AAAAAAAADHA/ZtRRSjJcnQg/s1600-h/DSCN2559%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2559" border="0" alt="DSCN2559" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XXiQwGA2SoI/T98k_oyu68I/AAAAAAAADHI/AyGdm2lU9l4/DSCN2559_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AZ3jiyAl21Y/T98lAtMBSjI/AAAAAAAADHQ/nxQPsmb-M4I/s1600-h/DSCN2573%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2573" border="0" alt="DSCN2573" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-28WGn64OMSQ/T98lBuBQ6VI/AAAAAAAADHY/GdBspuZNVVg/DSCN2573_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C20gGYiTN8U/T98lDP1VFbI/AAAAAAAADHg/UjDXVkG8aBs/s1600-h/DSCN2574%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2574" border="0" alt="DSCN2574" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-phMW9wM1itI/T98lEWQVtdI/AAAAAAAADHo/1rwkxpUXcsM/DSCN2574_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JYX-yAIn1uI/T98lFUbqC9I/AAAAAAAADHw/HknRQ95aIvU/s1600-h/DSCN2575%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2575" border="0" alt="DSCN2575" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r-0xr_GZOP8/T98lGkCCc_I/AAAAAAAADH4/-XnNZkkgvHw/DSCN2575_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Look closely at the following picture and you can see a bird flying near the top of the Tower.  The National Park Services issues warnings to climbers to be cautious of falcons and other birds that may attack climbers if they come too close to their nests.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8aqbcYJvHkk/T98lHnrZUJI/AAAAAAAADIA/PbaGco6Ri6M/s1600-h/DSCN2578%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2578" border="0" alt="DSCN2578" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-i8wtfCo0OQ8/T98lIWBiLyI/AAAAAAAADII/mvD9k_g171c/DSCN2578_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mSX1LylMYyw/T98lJRBT7mI/AAAAAAAADIQ/5cfm3oeZc0U/s1600-h/DSCN2581%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2581" border="0" alt="DSCN2581" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r4wUvhZWX7o/T98lJ5T6-mI/AAAAAAAADIY/LcCdN5WAjTU/DSCN2581_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ne2HLgVrhxg/T98lLIUrZ7I/AAAAAAAADIg/QT6wDR8A-io/s1600-h/DSCN2595%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2595" border="0" alt="DSCN2595" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lFO276e-gRM/T98lMWLd2-I/AAAAAAAADIo/wxMKgfvio5U/DSCN2595_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6oPy9Uedm3Y/T98lNQpO8_I/AAAAAAAADIw/Gib5cES2oEA/s1600-h/DSCN2586%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2586" border="0" alt="DSCN2586" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PGZg9ANIK7Y/T98lOXq21-I/AAAAAAAADI4/4VuFzIeaRN0/DSCN2586_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We camped near the base of the Tower at the KOA. <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--nOVNCGvTjo/T98lPecH5OI/AAAAAAAADJA/GadDI0i4Dk8/s1600-h/DSCN2560%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2560" border="0" alt="DSCN2560" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bE9GKQkeNqs/T98lS_iySkI/AAAAAAAADJI/eSWxwpg25Ws/DSCN2560_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />This is a great little park with spectacular views of the Tower from the campsites.  <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SMOOQk4XHJw/T98lUEHHH1I/AAAAAAAADJQ/AMHBkZB0xGs/s1600-h/DSCN2553%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2553" border="0" alt="DSCN2553" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yIyxIioVfIU/T98lU1c4nZI/AAAAAAAADJY/a5rAJmiZjjg/DSCN2553_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The park offered a cafe, store, plenty of souvenirs, and a couple of interesting bears . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GsuhYZ_WYRI/T98lV64I7uI/AAAAAAAADJg/1Zw2t6nmnIs/s1600-h/DSCN2557%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2557" border="0" alt="DSCN2557" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lqYFHnWqGbw/T98lXb2AGAI/AAAAAAAADJo/JmBqglZKqL8/DSCN2557_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NnzOLXQPGTc/T98lY5Mr89I/AAAAAAAADJw/yor4UPniTqo/s1600-h/DSCN2562%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2562" border="0" alt="DSCN2562" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mnA1psEnOAc/T98laPeZdxI/AAAAAAAADJ4/F-CqvVlygyc/DSCN2562_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We even saw a drunken cowboy in the park . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Bas3qQxyvHQ/T98lbaMayyI/AAAAAAAADKA/ST9049PSOnM/s1600-h/DSCN2564%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2564" border="0" alt="DSCN2564" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NgBR5u9zxCI/T98lcVhxxxI/AAAAAAAADKI/YJfvLgPCqoU/DSCN2564_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Our neighbor just took delivery of his new 2012 Winnebago coach . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-e8v8nZgWltk/T98ldeTkFzI/AAAAAAAADKQ/gUiwafq7Xd8/s1600-h/DSCN2552%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2552" border="0" alt="DSCN2552" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8MddCZLxkN8/T98leOsMiGI/AAAAAAAADKY/D9OAoHHJXZg/DSCN2552_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Dok-X4GgrfA/T98leynpl5I/AAAAAAAADKg/E6ganPgxwYA/s1600-h/DSCN2555%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2555" border="0" alt="DSCN2555" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3IWazXlK6iY/T98lfycqb5I/AAAAAAAADKo/2ABTgPZC-_A/DSCN2555_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />The entire landscape around the park offers beautiful views. <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8Deb8d5MdaU/T98lgtN_BZI/AAAAAAAADKw/3_uKiy79Ywg/s1600-h/DSCN2551%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2551" border="0" alt="DSCN2551" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TplhPdOiFTE/T98lhiVCEoI/AAAAAAAADK4/44bYvOAEMYQ/DSCN2551_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I had to include the above picture because it reminded me so much of my daughter helping me with the RV so many years ago (same dress type, skinny little legs, and all)!</p> <p>Final night at Devils Tower and charcoal broiled steaks on the grill.  This is what my plate looked like after dinner . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yPyoAugC5Iw/T98ppWQLsbI/AAAAAAAADLw/S5YVFlwidBA/s1600-h/DSCN2565%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2565" border="0" alt="DSCN2565" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GKo-jRZPWY8/T98ppzgFFrI/AAAAAAAADL4/rJE01dK8JDs/DSCN2565_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Up early the next morning, and after a hearty breakfast at the KOA Cafe, we said our goodbyes (tearfully) to the Samples and our new friends, the Bonannos.  This has been a truly enjoyable and fun-filled vacation.  The Samples are headed toward Cody, Wyoming with a short visit to Little Bighorn in lower Montana, and the Bonannos are headed to Wisconsin for another rally.  Us, we’re headed home for a few days of rest, then we’re off to the Nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.</p> <p>After leaving Devils Tower, we drove approximately 300 miles and stayed the night in Cheyenne, Wyoming.  We encountered 50 mph wind gusts (crosswinds) while traveling south through Wyoming.  I generally cruise around 65 mph, provided all conditions are appropriate.  Today, we slowed down to 50 mph.  It’s not clear in the following picture, but we could see coal dust clouds blowing from the top of the train cars . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Tl39TFqZL4s/T-ByZbOAC0I/AAAAAAAADNQ/_YcreUdbyo0/s1600-h/DSCN2605%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2605" border="0" alt="DSCN2605" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m67pYRYezaI/T-ByZ5LWncI/AAAAAAAADNY/xFkmffj0O1A/DSCN2605_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Colorado and Wyoming are currently experiencing wild fires.  This is a view of the fire we saw in the distance to the west as we traveled through Wheatland, Wyoming. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Id3ZdW-Rq0I/T-BybEX5B2I/AAAAAAAADNg/kGwGKSRx_S4/s1600-h/DSCN2608%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2608" border="0" alt="DSCN2608" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-60O_Pjep-hA/T-Bybpi2b3I/AAAAAAAADNo/zWx6EmNtrGQ/DSCN2608_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Wyoming must have a difficult time with snow drifts during the winter season.  We noticed wooden barriers built at 45-degree angles to the northwest all along the west and north sides of the highways. <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ihGYZF2og-Q/T-BycnVw3_I/AAAAAAAADNw/uCjtIpgOGNo/s1600-h/DSCN2615%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2615" border="0" alt="DSCN2615" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O5dfp70Q2Wc/T-BydOfOzcI/AAAAAAAADN4/JWWpDcZ-pgc/DSCN2615_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xGExKk7hs5I/T-ByeOORBOI/AAAAAAAADOA/t9sRmrdh6mg/s1600-h/DSCN2617%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2617" border="0" alt="DSCN2617" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Km_kjnrrow0/T-Bye5Cx-zI/AAAAAAAADOI/zfAw4v5ZYBA/DSCN2617_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />In other areas, we noticed sporadic rows of cedar and pine trees.  They look like small tree plantations, but because they are planted at 45-degree angles to the highway, the logical explanation is that they are also a type of snow drift break.  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K1e1WkVwgfA/T-Byfvg50dI/AAAAAAAADOQ/dUPdDKthcXw/s1600-h/DSCN2610%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2610" border="0" alt="DSCN2610" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-25EV5fSv6jk/T-BygSTerII/AAAAAAAADOY/f0jHjQVweVM/DSCN2610_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Susan used her I-Pad to find an RV park in Cheyenne for the night.  We settled on “Terry Bison Ranch,” which is situated approximately 6 miles south of Cheyenne.  This would put us past Cheyenne and away from the morning rush-hour traffic.  </p> <p>It also put us in the center of another dusty prairie field.  As if my allergies aren’t bad enough!  This place is truly rustic.  It bills itself as a “guest ranch,” and offers horseback riding, buffalo hunting, breakfast and dinner train rides on a real locomotive, a small, but antiquated, amusement park (rides appear very rusty and inoperable), restaurant and store.  Interestingly, you’ll find every type and value of coach parked next to one another . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fPJ7feQ8dXM/T-ByhS2l_eI/AAAAAAAADOg/gPSU9pT6GUQ/s1600-h/DSCN2618%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2618" border="0" alt="DSCN2618" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQd5qGvDQyI/T-Byh-VlLmI/AAAAAAAADOo/vMWq-WM5hBc/DSCN2618_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />That’s our rear window next to an older Airstream with three new high-end motor homes on the other side.  </p> <p>A $Million Dollar coach (Prevost) parked 3 spaces down from us . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xPMB__980XM/T-Byj50Z6fI/AAAAAAAADOw/-d8cIuQAElE/s1600-h/DSCN2620%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2620" border="0" alt="DSCN2620" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hcgwM80d35U/T-BylvVi6yI/AAAAAAAADO4/45BY5wxnpyU/DSCN2620_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Up early on Tuesday morning and headed 302 miles south across Colorado to Raton, New Mexico.  We made a brief stop in Denver to visit my Aunt Annie & Uncle Lou.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-i3v7SfGZGGw/T-G9T1QpVcI/AAAAAAAADPw/KtymVb361-4/s1600-h/DSCN2622%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2622" border="0" alt="DSCN2622" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O64zNxJYxnw/T-G9Uk-qQRI/AAAAAAAADP4/16-llcb515k/DSCN2622_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />They have a beautiful home with a splendid view of the mountains (when not obscured by smoke from the wild fires). <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JK-ooh6FNeg/T-G9VR_RAAI/AAAAAAAADQA/x1WXXOF72Eo/s1600-h/DSCN2623%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2623" border="0" alt="DSCN2623" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YgIQuzC5_og/T-G9WECJI4I/AAAAAAAADQI/74jRfnXHegY/DSCN2623_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />After having dinner at our favorite on-the-road diner, Cracker Barrel, we pulled into Cedar Rail RV Park high atop Raton Pass.  What a view! <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-61ywt2AorL8/T-G9XBcNVKI/AAAAAAAADQQ/bG8pUbnUSzg/s1600-h/DSCN2626%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2626" border="0" alt="DSCN2626" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Yj9_MaJfqn4/T-G9YHkcXNI/AAAAAAAADQY/Qt1rBDwRBqI/DSCN2626_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We stayed here last year on our way to Fun Valley, Colorado with our granddaughter.  Not what we consider a “destination” type park, but certainly a good overnighter.  </p> <p>We’re making our way closer to home and headed for Amarillo in the morning.  I’m hoping to find a good truck/RV wash on the way.  We’ve traveled over 2,000 miles thus far, and both the truck and coach could use a bath.  </p> <p>I think we’ve seen more trains on this trip than ever before.  While traveling through New Mexico, I coaxed the engineer to blow his horns as my brother and I did many years ago traveling Route 66 with our family. <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Eh4KMBF-KbY/T-XZifufAnI/AAAAAAAADRQ/SQEFIsaLOFE/s1600-h/DSCN2629%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2629" border="0" alt="DSCN2629" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WBOFrokVlpQ/T-XZijM3DxI/AAAAAAAADRY/IuXLyjMC0ro/DSCN2629_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Following a good night’s rest, we headed southeast toward Amarillo.  We stopped in Clayton, New Mexico for lunch at the “Rabbit Ear Cafe.”  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-b41-6QHseMw/T-XZjvF6JPI/AAAAAAAADRg/9WzrzeZk_Ak/s1600-h/DSCN2628%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2628" border="0" alt="DSCN2628" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Z199QbKRuw4/T-XZkFZ4w2I/AAAAAAAADRo/Or4HJaFjSC0/DSCN2628_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />As indicated by the sign, they serve authentic “New Mexican” food.  There is a significant difference between the Mexican food we find in Oklahoma and that of New Mexico.  My largest disappointment is that Oklahoma Mexican restaurants serve sopapillas as a dessert; whereas, New Mexico restaurants serve them as bread with the meal.  New Mexican restaurants also have a practice of serving either red or green chili with meals.  <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wbDc6x3tvjo/T-XZk0UMi4I/AAAAAAAADRw/ceo152ARmV0/s1600-h/photo2%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo2" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZMlcaQWbNA8/T-XZlfJANbI/AAAAAAAADR4/8Kic2-8nxoo/photo2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="244" /></a> <br />The “Rabbit Ear Cafe” is located at 402 North First Street, Clayton, N.M., and is one we recommend if you’re in the area.  <br />We pulled into the Oasis RV Resort, a very familiar campground to us, around 4 p.m.  <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7rCXxAnI5To/T-XZnOesLFI/AAAAAAAADSA/XTD1WsM9ai0/s1600-h/DSCN2633%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2633" border="0" alt="DSCN2633" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1d9XZNMv-bQ/T-XZnfQQbMI/AAAAAAAADSI/GGvBmTGzjE8/DSCN2633_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We’ve stayed here many times before, as it makes a great overnighter when traveling I-40 west.  Unfortunately, the Oasis is under new ownership and is not being maintained as well as it was before.  Additionally, the onsite breakfast is no longer served, and the frequent visitor discount is no longer honored.   <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vLpE7_qc5MQ/T-XZoM9qLFI/AAAAAAAADSQ/LwDOlfH9Smg/s1600-h/DSCN2632%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2632" border="0" alt="DSCN2632" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C4FjtMRo7IU/T-XZogzSeKI/AAAAAAAADSY/a0PrsfUXcZI/DSCN2632_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />Another perk of staying at the Oasis still remains, however; its proximity to “The Big Texan” steakhouse . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VvwX851aDsc/T-XZpGQ75SI/AAAAAAAADSg/g33aAKEGF5U/s1600-h/DSCN2634%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2634" border="0" alt="DSCN2634" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sAEz6Ogpw_c/T-XZpuesqyI/AAAAAAAADSo/lYeyxxvCkD8/DSCN2634_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />I’ve mentioned it before in earlier blogs.  Susan and I keeping returning because we haven’t had a bad steak yet.  Although, the service could have been much better this time.  <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3F3TSg6khqk/T-XZq0SjXYI/AAAAAAAADSw/eMsrWSuC_vs/s1600-h/photo%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="photo" border="0" alt="photo" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iOCuwDmLWS8/T-XZrnINpkI/AAAAAAAADS4/ausz436O2Fg/photo_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="244" /></a> <br />It’s our final day of travel for our trip “North by Northwest.”  Our last stop before reaching home is “Big Vern’s Steakhouse” on Historic Route 66 in Shamrock, Texas . . . . <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Tc7Rb9Nj87k/T-XZsBpU2sI/AAAAAAAADTA/f17YboBLyBs/s1600-h/DSCN2635%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2635" border="0" alt="DSCN2635" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9iaiEQXEiKc/T-XZsgIcMuI/AAAAAAAADTI/bgchUrNfmT4/DSCN2635_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <br />We try to stop for lunch when we’re traveling through the area.  Big Vern serves a great chicken fried steak with real mashed potatoes and homemade rolls, and his steaks aren’t bad either!  <br /> <br />We’ll be home for just a few days to service the rig, pay the monthly bills, and get some much needed rest.  Then, we’ll be off to Washington, D.C.  My son, Keith, will accompany me in the RV, while Susan will fly out with a friend to attend “Continental Congress,” the annual meeting of The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).  Susan serves as Regent of the Oklahoma City Chapter.  <br /> <br />Watch for the next segment of “The Adventure,” as we will keep you up to date as we make our way east to the Nation’s capital to join in the celebration of America’s independence. <br /> <br />Safe traveling!</p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-6559500111242557952012-06-03T20:22:00.003-07:002012-06-03T20:32:17.865-07:00Modern Wagoneers Tour Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie, OKThe Oklahoma Good Sam Chapter, “The Modern Wagoneers,” toured the Temple of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Five couples attended the camp out at Cedar Valley Park. <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E5FlkfKHR8I/T8wpdWUgIbI/AAAAAAAACO4/9vamj2icHK8/s1600-h/DSCN2236%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2236" border="0" height="316" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1E19-oRox9o/T8wpeAop2qI/AAAAAAAACPA/0LISr2njQbQ/DSCN2236_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2236" width="461" /></a> <br />
Said to be “one of the largest Masonic Centers in the world,” the temple was built in 1919 in the Classical Revival style and designed by architects, Parr & Hawk. <br />
<br />
The temple is constructed of limestone and is situated on a 10-acre parcel of land in the heart of Guthrie, Oklahoma. Our members spent a little over an hour on a guided tour of the temple, which contains 14 individually styled rooms, including Assyrian, Egyptian, English, French Gothic, Italian, Pompeian, and Ancient Roman cultures . . . . <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hHI7uNvXlqU/T8wpffDoxDI/AAAAAAAACPI/naXH32kOZ1g/s1600-h/DSCN2209%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2209" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B8XaV7TLdhU/T8wpgOtwrYI/AAAAAAAACPQ/eRFGX1-ci5E/DSCN2209_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2209" width="367" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0MFcOp1zppM/T8wpg_aJlgI/AAAAAAAACPY/3Q0stBiIUoc/s1600-h/DSCN2213%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2213" border="0" height="232" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jjb8rPDES-w/T8wphYq1cHI/AAAAAAAACPg/bx7J2O-JEXk/DSCN2213_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2213" width="374" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K70G4IT5Re4/T8wpiGM9YiI/AAAAAAAACPo/FCsxR1lTZEY/s1600-h/DSCN2221%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2221" border="0" height="232" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gIoBpdugsDg/T8wpiosOiOI/AAAAAAAACPw/ZNYHNLwUqwM/DSCN2221_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2221" width="377" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qu9oqecmsqM/T8wpjRlxVzI/AAAAAAAACP4/BX65ZMbLdiY/s1600-h/DSCN2222%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2222" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Bpp5-p7DMCo/T8wpkHCHSII/AAAAAAAACQA/C6IlcgxkwII/DSCN2222_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2222" width="382" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G3aOA-EtFYA/T8wpld-mNfI/AAAAAAAACQI/zHa_3fYXCLM/s1600-h/DSCN2224%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2224" border="0" height="232" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HCGx7jNTe-M/T8wplx4-I1I/AAAAAAAACQQ/eI08htbT5vs/DSCN2224_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2224" width="387" /></a> <br />
The above picture was taken in the Masonic Library of the temple, which contains an authentic copy of “The Complete Works of Mark Twain,” signed by Samuel Clemens. <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-94du3c0rWCk/T8wpmztW4HI/AAAAAAAACQY/MVmIlqtmrMw/s1600-h/DSCN2226%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2226" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-31JGejh9ioA/T8wpnSsmBsI/AAAAAAAACQg/YLjBchQGvyQ/DSCN2226_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2226" width="390" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dtb5_CdgoEc/T8wpozUzEbI/AAAAAAAACQo/Zixr8DCI50Y/s1600-h/DSCN2228%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2228" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X6WtFKADk5s/T8wppuC4iwI/AAAAAAAACQw/rnADwEi9r7o/DSCN2228_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2228" width="394" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7Sf3EX_wv68/T8wpqQtmc4I/AAAAAAAACQ4/MJBzyM5Sx3I/s1600-h/DSCN2207%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2207" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dl34J5fUyeM/T8wpq9YOHPI/AAAAAAAACRA/WMOP81Xx1c4/DSCN2207_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2207" width="400" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-u4hpKS-6KFQ/T8wprXvDk6I/AAAAAAAACRI/rI8h2wOcuRc/s1600-h/DSCN2210%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2210" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FS7PMcZtfUk/T8wpr1-L_wI/AAAAAAAACRQ/sw5rZw3RoCg/DSCN2210_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2210" width="403" /></a> <br />
The above plaque was mined from the identical quarry of stone used to build King Solomon's Temple. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fsrJ6n9ODfI/T8wpsn4GxAI/AAAAAAAACRY/wVeEF56rO90/s1600-h/DSCN2212%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2212" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--cuqicCqyos/T8wptecZjRI/AAAAAAAACRg/jhLgIIn1Ik8/DSCN2212_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2212" width="405" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iwoGfAXZgBU/T8wpvHuGZrI/AAAAAAAACRo/SKpiA09ku-I/s1600-h/DSCN2214%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2214" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ul32qFCOh64/T8wpvot7FYI/AAAAAAAACRw/k-hniRxdvQQ/DSCN2214_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2214" width="411" /></a> <br />
The above carpet is situated in the “mirror room,” and is said to be priceless. Although the room contains no mirrors, the design on the carpet is the identical design that is on the walls and ceiling, i.e., the leaves, etc., are also found on the wall coverings and light fixtures. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uPMxbzWLrNU/T8wpxCv8lzI/AAAAAAAACR4/Q8ekGLy3oAQ/s1600-h/DSCN2215%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2215" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kdp1Whlvwf8/T8wpxnq5SBI/AAAAAAAACSA/fOUePVot6Xo/DSCN2215_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2215" width="415" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cyc09BM8tCw/T8wpyOwkkBI/AAAAAAAACSI/7VxmZ_RdWsI/s1600-h/DSCN2217%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2217" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O1fBA1zjXhM/T8wpylD53KI/AAAAAAAACSQ/fBSCA2DPdSE/DSCN2217_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2217" width="416" /></a> <br />
Susan was very impressed with the tonal quality of the pipe organ. It is is situated in the theater and has over 500 pipes. The tour guide demonstrated its rich and powerful sound for the members of our chapter. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HDJwSWzlvBw/T8wpzeyCoVI/AAAAAAAACSY/_d9uOsdvL1E/s1600-h/DSCN2219%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2219" border="0" height="232" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-07Fx-0F59ao/T8wpz7bs4YI/AAAAAAAACSg/fnHW-rKgPRc/DSCN2219_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2219" width="418" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O40C2UkRo6s/T8wp0W2kSqI/AAAAAAAACSo/nZEI7FiPp8Y/s1600-h/DSCN2225%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2225" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Xnq_YHlhEPI/T8wp03dTTDI/AAAAAAAACSw/GCvhba-BLyU/DSCN2225_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2225" width="412" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FNk6nCYky6Y/T8wp2Ravd2I/AAAAAAAACS4/2CZPJnHRsy4/s1600-h/DSCN2227%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2227" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9K8SkaqYjlk/T8wp2x2veZI/AAAAAAAACTA/0ZmHQFEWvpY/DSCN2227_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2227" width="422" /></a> <br />
Beautiful stained glass is found throughout the building. Several windows contain portraits of deceased members. Visitors get an eerie feeling while walking through the room of the above window while the gentleman’s eyes follow your every step. <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UsYIyMc4HkY/T8wp3ZBRclI/AAAAAAAACTI/5vG76zp_ZAE/s1600-h/DSCN2229%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2229" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FedWlC98Y7Y/T8wp35o6jII/AAAAAAAACTQ/vzD5VPwMpvY/DSCN2229_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2229" width="426" /></a><br />
The eagle quill pen in the above photo is the actual pen used by President Theodore Roosevelt to sign the proclamation on November 16, 1907, that made Oklahoma the 46th state in the Union. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JE_msWO0fzg/T8wp5bbPv_I/AAAAAAAACTY/TeHrcWwQlho/s1600-h/DSCN2231%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN2231" border="0" height="208" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_xq31EsR7cM/T8wp6JTzcPI/AAAAAAAACTg/TgGbhSYT5Cc/DSCN2231_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline;" title="DSCN2231" width="426" /></a><br />
The above photo depicts a chandelier hanging from a stained glass ceiling. However, the fixture is affixed to a steel I-beam running the length of the ceiling above the glass. <br />
We found this structure to be one of those “precious gems” Oklahoma has to offer simply for the viewing. Tours are conducted 2 times daily, Monday through Friday, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The price of the tour is $5.00 per person. If interested, you can find more helpful information at <a href="http://www.guthriescottishrite.org/" title="http://www.guthriescottishrite.org/">http://www.guthriescottishrite.org/</a>Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-40112327638037170242012-06-03T16:59:00.001-07:002012-06-03T18:11:52.319-07:00Inaugural Oklahoma Heartland Rally, May 2012<p>The Oklahoma Chapter of the Heartland Owners Club (HOC) conducted its inaugural rally May 24-28 at the WinStar RV Park in Thackerville, Oklahoma.  Chapter Leaders, Larry & Donna Keever, did a remarkable job of organizing and hosting the event, which resulted in 13 rigs (27 people) attending.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AF8nlhhTUR8/T8v6I3C8aHI/AAAAAAAACBU/hQiEMy4lsbY/s1600-h/DSCN21834.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2183" border="0" alt="DSCN2183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EWxulvbFBcU/T8v6JvehRfI/AAAAAAAACBc/HqLU3-npYI0/DSCN2183_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="379" height="285" /></a></p> <p>Meet the attendees . . . .</p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" width="250"><tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W7HXA6h0NG4/T8wKjHApFDI/AAAAAAAACE4/tQSZojykRko/s1600-h/keever.2%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="keever.2" border="0" alt="keever.2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6RnV2dagJ8s/T8wKjqFlbeI/AAAAAAAACE8/AjBFw7fxggw/keever.2_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sw27PAw6QII/T8wKkpbbokI/AAAAAAAACFI/jAUGn7oUB_I/s1600-h/coffman%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="coffman" border="0" alt="coffman" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kJ4Vo2ItDg0/T8wKlL60tyI/AAAAAAAACFQ/w6mCXOMg_ew/coffman_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--V7vRr_zTS8/T8wKlyuuW7I/AAAAAAAACFY/xyEhYXDMR9c/s1600-h/hershberger%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hershberger" border="0" alt="hershberger" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PPQZJUGTYrM/T8wKmU9i1LI/AAAAAAAACFg/HleKu3BixDU/hershberger_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pnQSZDHKfK0/T8wKnpp3KQI/AAAAAAAACFo/CBdlkBZM_fU/s1600-h/bonanno%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="bonanno" border="0" alt="bonanno" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cQ-Wm3kGB78/T8wKoC5P8pI/AAAAAAAACFw/p6CBLw3hjrc/bonanno_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="186" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SNjYqHRlA3Q/T8wKpde4uYI/AAAAAAAACF4/0cIevTiOKUg/s1600-h/finnegan%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="finnegan" border="0" alt="finnegan" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-34uEIvERYe4/T8wKp-30lYI/AAAAAAAACGA/qYF_tDFFpI4/finnegan_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zTba9gmwmRU/T8wKqpjcgdI/AAAAAAAACGI/anvUf1aDSBQ/s1600-h/hastey%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="hastey" border="0" alt="hastey" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IutyC-RXD9o/T8wKq81xBxI/AAAAAAAACGQ/RIbOKZLGL_g/hastey_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lNL730Y5lCc/T8wKrlHJlLI/AAAAAAAACGY/oiZDuw1adGg/s1600-h/lineen%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="lineen" border="0" alt="lineen" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1WtrYRrqUac/T8wKr3Zmh4I/AAAAAAAACGg/5bfjG-kL5k4/lineen_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="144" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-69SiX2wv4tY/T8wKtB4GGmI/AAAAAAAACGo/cjBeC5NPbzc/s1600-h/magill%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="magill" border="0" alt="magill" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PXPy3nnPeRA/T8wKth570-I/AAAAAAAACGs/I8i2UrWIJ3Y/magill_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bTPRKe3zkBw/T8wKufi3b4I/AAAAAAAACG4/VmDY1Cx50hA/s1600-h/munoz%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="munoz" border="0" alt="munoz" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7c-5ZL_ToGA/T8wKu79QXgI/AAAAAAAACHA/8QBCKakOtis/munoz_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zzj784jSejk/T8wKvtY6XZI/AAAAAAAACHI/o9WQJgiWJE4/s1600-h/neville%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="neville" border="0" alt="neville" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-f1ZYwg-VUBI/T8wKv_V8_SI/AAAAAAAACHQ/lx1kPTkVEqQ/neville_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yOJy8A7KCfg/T8wKwrRf5TI/AAAAAAAACHY/t_peccMnKI0/s1600-h/tayloe%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tayloe" border="0" alt="tayloe" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D_rjxlctSok/T8wKxHx2CzI/AAAAAAAACHg/6AEGDJuLAss/tayloe_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="185" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7tZfI-M38-I/T8wKxwpmRaI/AAAAAAAACHo/GDZdb-T6BEU/s1600-h/tidball%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="tidball" border="0" alt="tidball" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rh2pgSnqr0I/T8wKydh5CMI/AAAAAAAACHw/tQq_oCftVWA/tidball_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="250"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DVW2Ea-HJik/T8wKy6qyhbI/AAAAAAAACH4/vjdxpabVd7E/s1600-h/wright%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="wright" border="0" alt="wright" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hoPKNUiBGZM/T8wKzpvDcoI/AAAAAAAACIA/KTk0l7QzTj0/wright_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="185" /></a> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p>The rally began with the arrival of the attendees, which included Terry & Carol Hershberger who own “Demo #1.”  Their Heartland coach is a 2009 Pinehurst, previously assigned to Jim Beletti, Director of Owner Interests, Heartland RVs.  This baby has it all!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HtiWDS7idUI/T8wK0JPZLMI/AAAAAAAACII/Jmx0HTBmMng/s1600-h/DSCN2133%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2133" border="0" alt="DSCN2133" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Bh4Kk7aKyYo/T8wK0_pRhlI/AAAAAAAACIQ/899A8NiRpqU/DSCN2133_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="394" height="283" /></a> </p> <p>Terry & Carol have an equally nice truck to tow their rig . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x_Go5BZeEsE/T8wK1ZFD9pI/AAAAAAAACIY/_o9POZS0hE0/s1600-h/DSCN2101%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2101" border="0" alt="DSCN2101" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AgdBrWS0OZ4/T8wK2LswtvI/AAAAAAAACIg/W9VHPxVrX_U/DSCN2101_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p>Once all the rigs were set up, the food, fun, and fellowship commenced!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4Bj4KVmD_Ds/T8wK2tMiNaI/AAAAAAAACIo/WeYsgZTc5Lc/s1600-h/DSCN2107%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2107" border="0" alt="DSCN2107" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ce49a31IFWw/T8wK3MZe_CI/AAAAAAAACIw/vRLyEtHwmio/DSCN2107_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="424" height="298" /></a></p> <p>Larry & Donna display one of the T-Shirts made to commemorate the Inaugural Rally . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fcuho90fBzA/T8wK3nc8mhI/AAAAAAAACI4/PRjtE8zBeIg/s1600-h/DSCN2105%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2105" border="0" alt="DSCN2105" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Mg7BsRbozvw/T8wK4MBC3hI/AAAAAAAACJA/Y2ufZgxywMo/DSCN2105_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="435" height="302" /></a> </p> <p>Lots of food was prepared and served during the 5-day event . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5momxsCwDdg/T8wK43tzwJI/AAAAAAAACJI/ZiiWn1_x5kk/s1600-h/DSCN2109%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2109" border="0" alt="DSCN2109" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Nq8yD742L8I/T8wK5uwaEuI/AAAAAAAACJQ/2OTdB4Z115k/DSCN2109_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="411" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d4h6waYzt2U/T8wK6wlDz0I/AAAAAAAACJY/5EB-RSXRwL0/s1600-h/DSCN2142%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSCN2142" border="0" alt="DSCN2142" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gp2VPidSiOI/T8wK7aCx0bI/AAAAAAAACJg/uLIhsyTB8S4/DSCN2142_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-B7mYijIARys/T8wK8wKLKcI/AAAAAAAACJo/7jvlEZDAJ2k/s1600-h/DSCN2144%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSCN2144" border="0" alt="DSCN2144" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Nfg7g8qsvSc/T8wK9uAeBOI/AAAAAAAACJw/juwYFGZVyIg/DSCN2144_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Games were played and prizes were won . . . .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_C6P_Z-IPck/T8wK-EJFxjI/AAAAAAAACJ4/Ko6NgYEbuJ0/s1600-h/DSCN2114%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2114" border="0" alt="DSCN2114" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZpU0NrjqKmA/T8wK-sm208I/AAAAAAAACKA/5gNNhC1cMsU/DSCN2114_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-axQdsdCwPqM/T8wK_UzIzcI/AAAAAAAACKI/RnKbqrofobE/s1600-h/DSCN2128%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2128" border="0" alt="DSCN2128" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-98ZZJ6H5afQ/T8wLAHSBEAI/AAAAAAAACKU/5mLsCfwTjEQ/DSCN2128_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3sT9Cv5bM9s/T8wLBY9shmI/AAAAAAAACKc/zu9TFBxN1NI/s1600-h/DSCN2136%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2136" border="0" alt="DSCN2136" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FNGbOflH0wA/T8wLB4kcC4I/AAAAAAAACKk/YyY6BqhEBBM/DSCN2136_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MhugusRY_pI/T8wLDQ_s38I/AAAAAAAACKs/7snc1KUHysA/s1600-h/DSCN2148%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2148" border="0" alt="DSCN2148" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lEGMaa0A7Rk/T8wLD7_s7aI/AAAAAAAACK0/d_emfXLotAA/DSCN2148_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-85RwXqxt29o/T8wLEWDZjiI/AAAAAAAACK8/n_UDkSRtAMY/s1600-h/DSCN2161%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2161" border="0" alt="DSCN2161" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GGuCSoG0R-w/T8wLFODq_-I/AAAAAAAACLE/SGQQTgH2l0A/DSCN2161_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="471" height="291" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D-gnnE_lbe4/T8wLF5eunmI/AAAAAAAACLM/eDS8s9ii61g/s1600-h/DSCN2202%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2202" border="0" alt="DSCN2202" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GC5wkUpKxBA/T8wLGgkvIeI/AAAAAAAACLU/Wjh6rAkh3qQ/DSCN2202_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="471" height="286" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GY-f0xzDhFo/T8wLIWYgcFI/AAAAAAAACLc/lUT5lBMxttw/s1600-h/DSCN2151%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2151" border="0" alt="DSCN2151" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H_SmGRGoD3M/T8wLI4W3V7I/AAAAAAAACLk/w9bbL9Dn4sg/DSCN2151_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4J-zIrBPXzM/T8wLJiv3mYI/AAAAAAAACLs/sQ1iTc9zndU/s1600-h/DSCN2189%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2189" border="0" alt="DSCN2189" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jt-RELIVwm8/T8wLKRZl42I/AAAAAAAACL0/u0M7BEy3Lg0/DSCN2189_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="268" height="205" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a9CJl4QKB1g/T8wLK-4UoAI/AAAAAAAACL8/2p1kSs3pwG0/s1600-h/DSCN2192%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2192" border="0" alt="DSCN2192" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PVa9Kx3qbEU/T8wLLe_JpUI/AAAAAAAACME/sN7rSNKWE70/DSCN2192_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>But most importantly, everyone had a great time!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RbQ-yyQgbsI/T8wLMGhIcyI/AAAAAAAACMM/JCfMLY5rDzo/s1600-h/DSCN2113%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2113" border="0" alt="DSCN2113" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nx4V55e76ZU/T8wLMgf4qzI/AAAAAAAACMU/GdSsYQSr4eQ/DSCN2113_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="443" height="299" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TeiuClkDU4A/T8wLOH1ZPPI/AAAAAAAACMc/Tviz-nzQNcA/s1600-h/DSCN2187%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2187" border="0" alt="DSCN2187" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-73nZpw2nXXQ/T8wLOlReIkI/AAAAAAAACMk/lnlJTvDY4Ss/DSCN2187_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="350" /></a>The group even helped Larry & Donna celebrate their anniversary!</p> <p>Several attendees got together on the final night for dinner and some amateur magic . . . . </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mqzdEULv1MA/T8wLPZ3yVRI/AAAAAAAACMs/RiAgG6C7W3U/s1600-h/DSCN2203%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2203" border="0" alt="DSCN2203" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XelEXh4gObU/T8wLP8UEAvI/AAAAAAAACM0/-sjtsw_DIDI/DSCN2203_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p>Serna’s Mexican Restaurant (Gainsville, Texas) has been open just a few months and has great food!  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sJ8jQIKECZQ/T8wLQWJMNoI/AAAAAAAACM8/JqdsgjQ0xCo/s1600-h/DSCN2204%25255B4%25255D.jpg"></a> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2204" border="0" alt="DSCN2204" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aCG7vhCUEpU/T8wLQx2KGcI/AAAAAAAACNE/wP_bceRUedE/DSCN2204_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></p> <p></p> A couple of brave souls ordered a “Beer-rita,” which is a frozen margarita with a small bottle of Corona beer turned upside down into the mug.  Apparently, the beer seeps into the mug over a period of time.  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nTi3wh4hPkw/T8wLRjOfEKI/AAAAAAAACNM/g5yIgXTMvr8/s1600-h/DSCN2205%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2205" border="0" alt="DSCN2205" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PrTOcXC3x7Y/T8wLSBciPwI/AAAAAAAACNU/BdaOeGrDNbg/DSCN2205_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>  </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Corbin Tayloe demonstrates his magic skills with “magnetized silverware.” </p> <p>Most came as strangers, but all left as an “Oklahoma/Texas Heartland Family!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WY92DECL_9Y/T8wLTXho4mI/AAAAAAAACNc/DrFaYaTdNjs/s1600-h/DSCN2178%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2178" border="0" alt="DSCN2178" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nmpSbj1Ruo4/T8wLUdxFxYI/AAAAAAAACNk/37EgOT_6tZw/DSCN2178_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="312" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OljuCA_7b4I/T8wLVKTZxTI/AAAAAAAACNs/bNMpvGtJuZE/s1600-h/DSCN2129%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="DSCN2129" border="0" alt="DSCN2129" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rShCk-0Hijk/T8wLVgdhGwI/AAAAAAAACN0/FLKFTFGeVRo/DSCN2129_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="327" /></a> </p> <p>Several attendees will be traveling together to the 2012 North American Heartland Owners Rally in Gillette, Wyoming.  Continue following “The Adventure” and we’ll take you along!  </p> Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8701566863288276429.post-24964435934606467682012-05-07T11:15:00.002-07:002012-05-19T15:11:11.596-07:00Modern Wagoneers Visit Claremore, Oklahoma - May 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K5koTreNNwtGw1DMWMrqvO3btnqRd6zlDTvCPaEAMjIrT-8tc33qJ2L7chdEAnwLVaODFepX9tpnCV3pJ7WapMHjrImdcbAKOjEnu5iT-cleVjopjSsCBTAjpwrd0ciDTGL4jVpysmA/s1600/DSCN2031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K5koTreNNwtGw1DMWMrqvO3btnqRd6zlDTvCPaEAMjIrT-8tc33qJ2L7chdEAnwLVaODFepX9tpnCV3pJ7WapMHjrImdcbAKOjEnu5iT-cleVjopjSsCBTAjpwrd0ciDTGL4jVpysmA/s400/DSCN2031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our Good Sam chapter last visited Claremore during the Fall 2011 Samboree. While taking a day trip with our friends, Larry and Donna Keever, to see the Will Rogers Birthplace, we ran across a quaint little RV park 7.3 miles north of Claremore on State Highway 88, called "Christ Out Post R.V. Park." </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguB3Uh-0xvksz4fNHHZjySptMnx-hgHyJpw_ghe9H4roMrb-3Gtin_STOWwjA_1QbupYzJHlB4G-LPFYfe6aTjdr94PckZ0x5pCJb2-WY33qbevUpzXdXwjKHQ13AeWHqWEt3ClnGuM-o/s1600/DSCN2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguB3Uh-0xvksz4fNHHZjySptMnx-hgHyJpw_ghe9H4roMrb-3Gtin_STOWwjA_1QbupYzJHlB4G-LPFYfe6aTjdr94PckZ0x5pCJb2-WY33qbevUpzXdXwjKHQ13AeWHqWEt3ClnGuM-o/s200/DSCN2030.JPG" width="200" /></a>Lloyd and Julia Coonce own and operate the park. I had opportunity to visit with Julia, who I found to be the most gracious of hosts. Lloyd and Julia have owned the park for more than thirty years. According to Julia, the park office and rally room is both a former church and restaurant; thus, the name "Christ Out Post" represents both the former Christian church, and the restaurant, which was named "Out Post." The park sits atop a hill that provides a magnificent view to the south, and offers full hook-ups. For more information, contact Julia at (918) 341-1014. </div> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia Coonce (center) joins the<br />
Modern Wagoneers for a pot luck supper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Susan and I caravaned to Claremore with Bob and Jan Samples. We arrived two days ahead of the scheduled camp out and met up with David and Wilma Adams. Knowing Susan's interest in antiques and Victorian era homes, Wilma told us about the "Belvidere Mansion and Tea Room" in Claremore. The Mansion was built by the Bayless family in 1907. It features 3 stories and contains over 9,000 square feet of living space. The curator stated that the building had fallen into disrepair, but was saved by the Rogers County Historical Society in the early 1990s.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Susan purchased a few nice items from the gift shop, and the food was so good that we enjoyed lunch there two days in a row. For more information on the The Belvidere, visit <span style="color: #009933;"><a href="http://www.belvideremansion.com/">www.<b>belvideremansion</b>.com/</a>.</span></div><br />
Below are a few additional photos taken at the Belvidere Mansion . . . .<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jONCUDPRtyCrQQm25yzG8z7zlpxL5Fz4mj2AIxMoQLf6RcDvLSLHp1TY8Fp88DP9hG8X4S-Kh5JFBEvfaAn3nzmiUQEOshE9Wd1YQKpEtBdieVR4d0NGe3LokS3T_CSdz_TIxyIwM68/s1600/DSCN2053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jONCUDPRtyCrQQm25yzG8z7zlpxL5Fz4mj2AIxMoQLf6RcDvLSLHp1TY8Fp88DP9hG8X4S-Kh5JFBEvfaAn3nzmiUQEOshE9Wd1YQKpEtBdieVR4d0NGe3LokS3T_CSdz_TIxyIwM68/s200/DSCN2053.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What we believe may have been an<br />
elevator in the center of the mansion.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4JnEX_BcKYQpGLu4pr9AA1lmHmnCsDMzzRKsjC-81FTxULUWOQbx8BYv6Rmb0tsD1IHKlIVIBvIbaWXJAELHYoZHGf5hsZiDLYEzd3xXmzWz8rm8wy4XIfAQOMwteGNwDVEavFtbZ77s/s1600/DSCN2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4JnEX_BcKYQpGLu4pr9AA1lmHmnCsDMzzRKsjC-81FTxULUWOQbx8BYv6Rmb0tsD1IHKlIVIBvIbaWXJAELHYoZHGf5hsZiDLYEzd3xXmzWz8rm8wy4XIfAQOMwteGNwDVEavFtbZ77s/s200/DSCN2047.JPG" width="200" /></a></div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdslq0UWPd005U1lQkiOGgGqzKTET1a8Fr5VPUXa3LciEuCek1LCubdcyCOqL1bVJ-crvAn_a-dfXe1fUM_tu_mKD8hVxvmKa2c60pGELtboRfYp0p6sIeJL1UmwDpPMRIXBm20WZFnOQ/s1600/DSCN2036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdslq0UWPd005U1lQkiOGgGqzKTET1a8Fr5VPUXa3LciEuCek1LCubdcyCOqL1bVJ-crvAn_a-dfXe1fUM_tu_mKD8hVxvmKa2c60pGELtboRfYp0p6sIeJL1UmwDpPMRIXBm20WZFnOQ/s200/DSCN2036.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Susan, Wilma, and David.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64y6Uws0zAzwmDGPC6W0OrgURrpQl4EsIOnpFvJHhQNkSWDAaYkAAViXHCbS_TZykAfrgVLXXaeVMB7-ZPVr6rEEgEybdFAAsDTubjJFLI8r07o7pHwn12xP108t2JcsSiCr_CnlJCxc/s1600/DSCN2043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64y6Uws0zAzwmDGPC6W0OrgURrpQl4EsIOnpFvJHhQNkSWDAaYkAAViXHCbS_TZykAfrgVLXXaeVMB7-ZPVr6rEEgEybdFAAsDTubjJFLI8r07o7pHwn12xP108t2JcsSiCr_CnlJCxc/s200/DSCN2043.JPG" width="200" /></a> </div></div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The highlight of the event was visiting the "Will Rogers Memorial Museum." </div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvjgql2a4qvYv0X_IHoEDGsJqibk07GlUcJhcGDl2ZZOQb07i0gX_GN7tYMc6x80II6ipsqYpCdjg-3UKWhj6xDkyqw8FrRyIhhqDDwj97O7AThhkzYetrcv_86VftF8u4eOyKqBLW9Y/s1600/DSCN2083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvjgql2a4qvYv0X_IHoEDGsJqibk07GlUcJhcGDl2ZZOQb07i0gX_GN7tYMc6x80II6ipsqYpCdjg-3UKWhj6xDkyqw8FrRyIhhqDDwj97O7AThhkzYetrcv_86VftF8u4eOyKqBLW9Y/s400/DSCN2083.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The facility is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and sits high on a hill overlooking the city of Claremore. The museum honors "Oklahoma's Favorite Son," Will Rogers (1879-1935), who was a humorist, movie star, cowboy, and just about everything else. If you go, first visit <a href="http://www.willrogers.com/">http://www.willrogers.com/</a>. </div><div align="left" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t1_D_2fqIctWRXnw3rqh8V6-pWuI1rTd2uHJPwv0UlAkwwYPuEAvvLggBeN6QKOzWDYzUvK3EOBeJotEkm2_4J5V6HoXAdCnSFqsuHioWshbPxGwM1Pz0mgfsxW_fF8bGgJhMZVFkvw/s1600/DSCN2089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t1_D_2fqIctWRXnw3rqh8V6-pWuI1rTd2uHJPwv0UlAkwwYPuEAvvLggBeN6QKOzWDYzUvK3EOBeJotEkm2_4J5V6HoXAdCnSFqsuHioWshbPxGwM1Pz0mgfsxW_fF8bGgJhMZVFkvw/s400/DSCN2089.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">In the following pictures, notice that the first and more recent picture reflects several of our chapter members standing in the museum hall around the statue of Will Rogers. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuy3QxWAb2NG-vFbWVlRZavhRaA9rxEamooTHSsX09Z76XkqehCRl47mOFsd349tT1lnkr1nYYPH1yD-MdPzEuaZXkL9hsJp31EY5u1Q7MOWG4ye0ASWImI48lpKuVeHt3VbennuF8Fg/s1600/DSCN2090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuy3QxWAb2NG-vFbWVlRZavhRaA9rxEamooTHSsX09Z76XkqehCRl47mOFsd349tT1lnkr1nYYPH1yD-MdPzEuaZXkL9hsJp31EY5u1Q7MOWG4ye0ASWImI48lpKuVeHt3VbennuF8Fg/s400/DSCN2090.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">The next picture was taken in the same room in the vicinity of the statue, but during the dedication of the museum in 1938, shortly after Roger's death. Notice the young woman looking up at the statue. She is Roger's daughter, Mary. Standing directly across from Mary, with her back to the camera, is Roger's widow, Betty. And, the man standing to Mary's right and behind the microphone is former Oklahoma governor, E.W. Marland. If you're a follower of our blog, you'll recall that I wrote about our chapter's visit to Ponca City, the Marland Mansion, and Marland's colorful past and his marriage to his adopted daughter, Lydie. Isn't it interesting how Oklahoma history all falls together?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilflGAsrhIIIrK_JDsxDpYf8eAT-Kb65XU-2NeuNxyHQ8KDJ8tfGZJYsL5sBEg0Q0IVkMZH3shPBeyJFX9zb9xQksxHgaOZpd91_kp0tHKU54cppAmJ3stQI8hK5DU2-M1duN_dTRgW3g/s1600/DSCN2091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilflGAsrhIIIrK_JDsxDpYf8eAT-Kb65XU-2NeuNxyHQ8KDJ8tfGZJYsL5sBEg0Q0IVkMZH3shPBeyJFX9zb9xQksxHgaOZpd91_kp0tHKU54cppAmJ3stQI8hK5DU2-M1duN_dTRgW3g/s400/DSCN2091.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">One last note . . . If you see Wilma, ask her about the key lime pie!<br />
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</div>Jerry and Susan Magillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352826869538240681noreply@blogger.com1