Travlin' with John

Shopping event

2012-01-27T10:28:00.000-06:00

Yesterdays event was the weekly arrival of the fruit and vegetable peddler in the park. This is an event where there could be serious injuries if one is not alert to the danger. You just don't want to get between some women and fresh produce. He arrived in the late afternoon, but before he arrived a small gang had assembled . Upon his arrival he began setting up his wares.

His wagon is designed so he can pull up and open his produce store right on the spot.

Once opened he has just about everything you can imagine from the garden.

And it's all fresh and priced right.

My purchase...a fresh pineapple, cored and ready to eat for $3.00 and I believe he picked it on the way to the park. Good eating...good price.

Tonight we have more entertainment in the form of the Cajun Travelers who are my neighbors here in the park. I'm looking forward to their show. In the meantime we will be enjoying the good life.

Chores done

2012-01-26T13:25:00.002-06:00

Yesterday afternoon I finally broke down and did a couple of loads to laundry so that chore was put behind me for a few days. That left one chore left on my list the dreaded Wal-mart trip. So this morning everything was disconnected and the slide were pulled in and off to the big box we went. Unlike previous places I've stayed in south Texas, this Wal-mart is not a 50 mile trip. As a matter of fact here it is located two miles down the road. So Mel didn't even get warmed up real good before we arrived at the front door. As usual Wal-mart was ready to accept what ever offering I was willing to make and it is so easy to leave there with a $150.00 hole in the billfold without even trying. The two miles back to J-Five was uneventful and Mel hopped right back in his place. Now if I could just teach him to make the connections we would be a real team.

Now that all of the chores have been taken care up I believe it's time to slow the pace and seriously consider a siesta. I do guarantee that a full refrigerator is a step in the right direction for enjoying the good life.

Company coming

2012-01-25T11:40:00.003-06:00

There are a couple of friends from the park in Zapata that will be coming today for a visit so it wait and see what they would like to see and do. In the meantime I've got a couple of pictures of last nights sunset to share.

Now it's off to enjoy the good life with friends from up the road.

Showtime

2012-01-24T10:51:00.000-06:00

A reminder that the highlighted fields on this blog can be clicked on for more information.

If you want to hear some top notch bluegrass, gospel music I would recommend a stop in southern Missouri or you can do like we did and have southern Missouri come to us in the form of The Punches Family from Fredericktown, Missouri.

This family is a a very talented group that travels the US throughout the year preforming their gospel/bluegrass music. Last night we were in for an additional treat.

The show was fast paced with a wide selection of tunes being played and it wasn't long before they had the audience tapping their toes along with the music.

You can see from the smiles that these folks enjoy their work and make no mistake this is work. Imagine a life of a new location every night. Dragging out the equipment and setting up, preforming for a couple of hours and then packing up only to repeat the steps the next night, that's what these folks do and they still radiate joy.

So what do you do if you get a night off? Well if your Hannah (the young lady in the middle) and a member of the Harper Family you join your cousins for an evenings entertainment.

A little craziness thrown in including a visit from

Guitarzan and you do have to go back a ways to remember that song.

After all this entertainment and with the show winding up the extra bonus of the evening was sprung. The question of what do hard working musical groups do when they finally get a night off was answered. For the the adult members of the Harper Family and the Lindley Creek Bluegrass it was go see a country music show. There are some family ties here, but it was still nice of them to take a bus mans holiday.

To wrap the show up father Bruce of the Punches managed to get them all on stage for a final number.

Three of the top gospel/bluegrass groups in the Rio Grande Valley joined up to make some really spectacular music to close out the show. It was a triple treat and really big ending to a great show.

Note: to my friends in the Hannibal area, The Punches Family will be at the Free Methodist Church on April 1st at 10:00 am. Highly recommended.

Today we have already had a 12" rain ( the drops were 12" apart) so this might end up being the dreaded laundry day. It still another way to enjoy the good life.

Guests

2012-01-23T12:14:00.000-06:00

Yesterday afternoon we had some visitors in the park. Diane and Leonard who were neighbors of Roger at 4 Seasons and who are now at another park here in the valley dropped over and we spent the afternoon jaw wagging. We also got the word that another couple from Zapata will be here visiting on Wednesday. The too have been chased from 4 Seasons and have relocated here in the valley. It is always nice to see old friends and Roger and I are determined to pressure them to relocate here at J5 to bring the old gang back together again.

Again we are warm, humid and muggy today and the pace has slowed down. We have more entertainment coming to the park tonight. The Punches Family will be bringing their show to the park at 7 pm.

Other than that I think I'm looking at another 'do nothing day' but I will be enjoying the good life.

Humidity

2012-01-22T11:31:00.000-06:00

Humidity is the story here today. We start off the day at 81% and a temperature of 72 degrees.This makes for a hot and muggy type day as the temperature rises. Much of the air conditioning in units surrounding me has been activated, but I'm still toughing it out.

We are now in the weekend mode and the sports are appearing on my TV one right after another. Yesterday #5 Missouri beat #3 Baylor on the road, now that was a good win. Today it will be Indiana basketball first and then maybe a football game later in the day.

The one thing for sure today is we will be enjoying the good life.

More activity.

2012-01-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

About 1:30 yesterday afternoon Roger pulled in and began his set up. Plenty of folks here in the park showed up to give him a hand. There are two schools of thought on help in setting up. One group welcomes all the help they can get and the other group, which I fall into, do not care for the distraction of other folks in the set up process.

The crew swarms around like a herd of bees.

There was also a lot of supervising going on.

This morning was the twice weekly coffee and donuts meeting. This meeting is where park information and upcoming activities are discussed over coffee and donuts. A nice crowd was in attendance.

The donuts are gone so the meeting breaks up.

The rest of the day will be spent visiting, watching a ballgame and enjoying the good life.

Some assembly

2012-01-20T11:18:00.003-06:00

Yesterday about 1pm the new chair arrived. and after some 'easy' assembly the chair was ready to be test driven two hours later, I am a firm believer that the word easy should never proceed assembly and this just confirmed my thinking. First the assembly instructions were uncovered. Lest you think two pages of instructions makes for a simple assembly let me point out that these particular instructions were on 5"X7" paper and weren't particularly helpful for the job at hand. To begin with the parts listed on page 1 didn't include all the parts included in the package that were needed to complete the job.

The parts were laid out on the floor and the assembly begun while I made up instructions on the fly.

The chair, the base and two arms should be easy enough right?

To this point, no problem and all that is left is to attach the two arms. We reached this point in about 15 minutes.

The next hour an 15 minutes was spent jumping up and down on, pushing and shoving on the arms to get them aligned with the holes on the arm rail so that the Allen bolts could be inserted and tightened down so the assembly of the chair was complete and testing was begun. The sleep test was first on the agenda and it went very well.

This chair sits firmer than the one it replaced which is the difference between an office recliner and a regular recliner. The old recliner didn't support the back very well when working on the computer and this chair is more upright. I do like the fact that there are five positive locks in the various reclining position. And I think after a few days of adjusting on my part this chair will work well for me.

Today's event will be the arrival of Roger and Donna into the park. I just talked to Roger and they are on the road and should arrive about 1:00 pm. Then it will be time to enjoy the good life.

Standing by

2012-01-19T11:43:00.001-06:00

Today we are in standby mode waiting for a new chair to arrive that is reported on the Fed-Ex truck out for delivery. In the meantime I have been busy doing projects. First stop was at Tom's house to let him know he could take the old chair for the park auction. On the way back to my space I stopped briefly at the office and by the time I got home I had been burglarized. Evidence is below.

The next project was the installation of a can crusher to take the air out of the empty cans before taking them to the recycle area. 24 empty cans can fit in a much smaller space when the air is removed.

Ready to swing into action (groan).

Now that this has been accomplished this afternoon can be spent watching for the Fed-Ex man so the 'some assembly required' part of my day can begin. How I enjoy the good life the rest of the day will be determined by 'the some assembly required" phase.

Another event

2012-01-18T11:10:00.001-06:00

Tuesday afternoon marks a very popular event here at J5. It's the weekly jam session for folks here in the park and surrounding parks are welcomed. I went over there at 12:30 before the crowd arrived and took a few pictures and then stepped outside to listen.

Lots of seat for musicians

Empty seats a 1:30 and by 2:00 it was standing room only.

This seems to be the most well attended weekly event in the park. Outside parking spots were hard to come by. As with any jam session the music ranged from the very good to what might be described as painful.

The weather see-saw has flipped again. Yesterday 87 degrees....today 57. We are overcast and the day doesn't look to promising. I think I'll be inside enjoying the good life..

Show time

2012-01-17T11:33:00.001-06:00

This park appears to have regular entertainment at least once and sometimes twice a week. Last night we were treated to Freddie and Sheila Pelletier from Birch Hills, Saskatchewan, Canada. They were only 2200 miles from home entertaining here in the valley. And when I say treated, I mean these folks were the best. Click on the highlighted link above to go to their web site and learn more about them.

The video above is their demo video and a sample of what we got to enjoy for almost two hours last night. The first song on the video is the Bells of Saint Mary's and I remember my folks had a 78 version of this record with the vocalist Bing Crosby. The thing that impressed me most about these two is the fact that even though they play a show almost every night it was very apparent that they loved what they were doing and their smiles just lit up the room.

Some serious pickin.

But it was all pure enjoyment.

Another event here in the park yesterday was the arrival of the 'Cajuns'. This was a group of 4 units from Louisiana and are all related who are from I've been to prone to burst into impromptu jam session with their Cajun music. This should be fun.

For now it's just sit back and see how we proceed in enjoying the good life.

Business day

2012-01-16T11:51:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Indiana did not do very well on the road, as expected We will hope for a bounce back in their next game.

This morning I have been busy taking care of business. The first order of business was to talk to Priscilla to get Roger set up for a place when he arrives on Friday. Then it was making a request for a name tag which is required for all rec hall events. Then it was on the phone to order a new recliner or daytime bed as I call it.

The recliner that I got a couple of years ago is starting to show signs of wear and I came across the one above that sort of appeals to me, nice and plush and a full 45 degree recline. So this morning it was ordered and is on the way. Tho old recliner will be going to a good cause at a charity auction held here in the park.

Now that I have conducted all that business I will move back into retirement and spend the rest of the day enjoying the good life.

Just waiting

2012-01-15T12:14:00.000-06:00

Today is a just waiting sort of day. We're waiting to see if we get any of the 40% chance of rain that has been forecast. Right now the sky sure looks like it could begin at any moment.

Item # 2 we are also waiting for today's ballgames to begin and this is even after sports were not kind yesterday and I had to endure a season ending smack down of my Broncos last night, At least the Missouri Tigers won their game. Today the Indiana basketball team plays Ohio State on the road at Columbus and that should be a difficult game. More disappointment on the way? Maybe.

Item #3 on the wait list is the waiting for my ship to come in. This wait has been ongoing for a number of years and I've always had the idea that when my ship does finally come in with my luck I will probably be at the airport.

One thing I'm not waiting for is the enjoying of the good life which will be going foreword full force today.

Morning meeting

2012-01-14T09:38:00.000-06:00

Twice a week on Wednesday and Saturday there is coffee and donuts which is different than coffee muddle and is code for a park meeting. This is a time when folks gather to discuss park business, plan activities and discuss problems. I checked it out this morning and it seems the attendance is good and the dialog is lively.

Here's a picture of the donuts sales area getting ready to do a land office business, which they did.

I spoke with my friend Roger up at 4 Seasons yesterday and he has decided to join me here at J-Five next week. This is after the latest monkey wrench was thrown into the works by the park management. They have now decided that all RVers need to pay, in addition to their rent and electricity, a $15.00 a month fee for trash has been added. I believe management stays awake night thinking of new ways to irritate their guests in the park. I know it's having an effect because a lot of their regulars don't intend to return.

After a couple of cool days e are starting another warm-up and expect to be back in the mid 80's by Monday.
Today we are in the weekend mode and will watch a couple of bball games and of course the Broncos game this evening. Another way of enjoying the good life.

Visitors

2012-01-13T12:13:00.000-06:00

This morning A former fellow camper at 4 Seasons who is at another park here in the valley stopped by to say hello. Max and some friends stopped by and we visited a bit. I also talked to Roger on the phone this morning and he is getting ready to pull out of 4 Seasons when his rent is due. It seems management has figured out a new way to irritate the RVer's and each of them is going to be billed $15.00 a month for trash. That brings the rate up to $300 per month rent + 15.00 for trash + $30.00 for cable + electric at 19.5 cents a kilowatt. Pretty expensive for an average park.

Around here things are good. There are more activities than one has time to participate in and in addition to the calendar the pass out every month there is a bulletin board where the rest of the activities are posted. Here is the calendar for this month.

In addition it appears that there is regular live entertainment and there is a show tonight. Tommy Helms who appeared at 4 Seasons a couple of years ago and who lives here in the park is putting on his Burl Ives Tribute show tonight.

We are still chilly around here so the rest of the day will be spent in an attempt to keep warm while enjoying the good life.

Wind alert

2012-01-12T10:25:00.000-06:00

Last night or actually early this morning a gusty wind blew in form the north forcing us to dig in our heels to prevent ending up in Mexico. With the north wind came north temperatures and right now it's 52 degrees after close to 90 degree temps yesterday. It looks like this weather will be with us for a few days until we warm back up. Today is propane delivery day so I will have to stick close to home until Mel's tank has been filled. I've been nursing less than a quarter of a tank since I arrived in Texas. It will be comforting to have a full propane tank again.

I do have a few more pictures of the park to share from my tour of the park yesterday.

Another view of the front of the park.

Another one of the streets in the park.

The north side of the rec hall complex with the shuffle board courts in front of the trees and by the concrete benches.

Looking down the street with mostly park models.

Not exactly in the crowed city with cows roaming the backyards.

More views in the mobile area.

The pool area. I've already been told Speedos are not allowed. Probably just as well in a 55+ park.

Not much activity expected today in the wind, but enjoying the good life will be on tap for the entire day.

A walk around the park

2012-01-11T11:52:00.001-06:00

This morning I went on a scouting expedition with camera in hand to get the lay of the land. Here is some of what I found.

Looking down the street from my spot.

The office, rec hall, pool room and laundry are all in this building.

A nice place to endure my torture.

The rec hall.

And the rec hall kitchen.

The Library for when I learn to read.

Decorations in front of the park. An early model RV.

Another street in the park.

The sidewalk and tall palms at the front of the park.

The journey around the park took awhile because everyone that was out wanted to talk. I have a few more pictures I'll share tomorrow. In the meantime I'm going to get out and enjoy the good life.

Move complete

2012-01-10T15:47:00.000-06:00

I have made the move and am settled into my new spot. WIFI is 4g and TV satellite is locked in. Rent is paid and a tour of the park with management has been made.On the tour people went out of their way to be friendly. I will give a further report tomorrow, but for today I've used all my being active hours and it might be time for a siesta.

By the way I'm in Mission Texas in a new environment and we have turned the page on a new way to enjoy the good life.

New air

2012-01-09T12:05:00.002-06:00

I finally got the airing of the tires accomplished and just in time. Right after the job was done and everything put away the first drops of rain showed up. The weatherman says there is a 60% chance of precipitation and I'm not sure if those drops completed the prediction or not. Anyway, the tires are aired and this afternoon I will make some other preparations for getting under way to our new location in the morning.

Yesterdays results were 100% positive on the sports front. First IU beat Penn State in basketball and then the Bronco's managed to defeat the Steelers in overtime in football. The Broncos winning was a surprise after their last three games. I guess the 'barrel man' is still watching out for his Broncos from above.

It looks like today I have two choices. I can either sit in side and see if it rains or I can step outside and make sure it does. With the way the wind is blowing I'll probably be indoors while enjoying the good life.

Excuse

2012-01-08T11:55:00.001-06:00

It wasn't hard this morning to find an excuse to postpone the airing of the tires. All that it required was a look up to see the moisture falling from above. A quick evaluation of my potential to melt and not wanting to tempt fate I decided to postpone the project. The sky is now trying to clear, but I have moved on for the day.

IU basketball started at 11 and later today the Bronco's will demand my attention. A full day of sports in my mind is a way to enjoy the good life.

More chores

2012-01-07T13:18:00.000-06:00

No burst of energy appeared yesterday so this morning it was necessary to at least begin the chores. This morning was the dreaded laundry day and I wasn't sure the drying would get done because we were in heavy pea-soup fog this morning and the humidity was sky high. I went on and started and by the time the driers were needed the sun had come out and the humidity had dropped. While waiting for the drying I was standing outside enjoying the day and I must have been standing way to still because the hawks started sizing me up for lunch.

The only project that is left is the airing of the tires and this needs to be done in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, so I have just given myself the rest of the day off.

We did have a group of about 6 trailers arrive last night in preparation of the hunting season here in Brooks county They tell me this is a big hinting area, but I have no idea for what.

Now that I'm off for the rest of the afternoon all that is left is to find a way to enjoy the good life.

Thinking

2012-01-06T11:05:00.002-06:00

We are in another nice day around here and I have been busy all morning thinking of all the things than need to be done before leaving. Thinking is the operative word because although much energy has been expended in thinking what needs to be done no actual energy has been used to accomplish anything. I'm going to have the quit thinking about these sort of things because the more I think the longer the list grows.

Last night I did watch the Indiana Hoosiers beat another nationally ranked team when they played Michigan. Indiana is currently 14 and 1 and they have already have won more games than they did all of last season.

Today I plan on doing no more thinking, lest I do serious damage and if a burst of energy passes by I might latch onto it and begin the chores, but then again...why do today what can be put off until tomorrow. At least I will be enjoying the good life.

Visitor

2012-01-05T15:43:00.002-06:00

About a month ago when Barney of the old fat man adventures stopped by for a visit we found a place just north of here in Premont the had really good food at reasonable prices called the Oasis.

Well Barney liked the place so well he was willing to drive the 100 miles from Rockport for another visit and a chance to have another meal there. So today was the day we set and Barney showed up about 11:00 am and we set out to feed our faces. This was accomplished with plenty of jaw flapping to accompany the vittles. After a nice meal and a nice visit Barney is on his way back to Rockport with a bit more baggage than he arrived with.

Other projects planned for today were put on hold, but they will keep and now it's time to just sit back and digest the meal and if need be sleep it off. Just part of enjoying the good life.

Chores

2012-01-04T12:37:00.000-06:00

We are enjoying another fine day here in the south part of Texas. Current temp is 72 and a 15 mph breeze out of the south so we are heading for a mid 70 to 80 degree day. This morning I was engaged in doing some chores. Yes even with wheel estate there are chores to be done. I don't have to mow grass or shovel snow, but this mornings chores involved dumping the waste water tanks and filling the household batteries. If we have this sort of day tomorrow then I will be airing up the tires. All this activity is in anticipation of making a move to a new location next week. I'll talk more about that later in the week.

Now for the rest of today I expect to wander aimlessly about the park in search of other living souls that don't play golf for the sole purpose of engaging in tongue waging that could result in the solving of the world problems. This effort should make it easier for us all to enjoy the good life

Winter is back

2012-01-03T11:04:00.000-06:00

Overnight low was 34 degrees, but we are working on a recovery and we are already showing 63 degrees on the thermometer.I'm looking at lots of blue sky and just a gentle breeze is passing by so I guess, for January, we are looking at a pretty good day.

Today I will be working on recovering from the overdose of football I suffered yesterday although there is a Missouri Basketball game that will need my attention tonight. I also will be doing some research on a possible future relocation. I'll let you know how that comes out later.

The biggest job today will be enjoying the good life while staying comfortable.

The recovery continues

2012-01-02T11:32:00.000-06:00

Things around here were at a slow pace after a wild and crazy New Year's Eve. The evening started out tame enough as I watched the Indiana Hoosiers defeated the #2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. So they have defeated #1 and #2 within a three week period of time. Then a decision had to be made. I could either take my two left feet to the rec hall where they had a live band and lots of booze or I could watch the Big Band Theory TV marathon. Being a live on the edge sort of party animal I opted for the TV Marathon. This went on until about 10 pm when things really picked up and four pieces of bread were pulled out, toasted, buttered and sugar and cinnamon was added and one more Dr. Pepper was opened so that the ensuing sugar rush would carry me through to the new year. The plan worked and I made it to 12:15.

Yesterday was the beginning of the recovery process and while many of my neighbors were holding their heads my day started pain free. The day was overcast, the wind was blowing and football was playing and it was a good idea to sit inside and watch the game. The pain started when watching the poor performance of the Bronco's, but even though the Broncos lost so did Oakland and that made the Broncos division champs and the pain went away.

Today is another football day and it will begin right after the Rose Parade. Looking at all the pretty floats is another way to enjoy the good life.

Day 1, 2012

2012-01-01T09:45:00.000-06:00

New year, new start

2011-12-31T11:34:00.000-06:00

We began the day with fog, but it has burned off and it looks like New Years eve will be an enjoyable day. I think a lot of folks use this day to evaluate the previous year and to prepare for a fresh start for the new year. For me a new start is not needed, the old one is working fine. I started the year with nothing and with careful management I still have most of it left. My life is good and I enjoy it on a daily basis. So there will be no new year resolutions, I never did have much luck keeping them anyway.

The results of yesterdays survey of license plates found an interesting mix of folks from quite diverse areas. Folks are here from Massachusetts and New York, Michigan and Wisconsin. Missouri and Illinois, Arkansas and Colorado, Iowa and Colorado, a few Texas plates and at least three provinces in Canada. Pretty good results and who knows what I might have missed.

Today's plan is to proceed at a slower pace and with proper energy management I might be able to witness the start of the new year. A real wild time enjoying the good life.

Fog

2011-12-30T11:34:00.001-06:00

This morning we awakened to what around here is affectionately referred to as the Marine Layer, everyone else in the world refers to it as fog. Here is what I saw out my window at 7 am.

Once the sun got to work it quickly burnt off the marine layer and the fog disappeared with it and another nice day is at hand. We are already at 70 degrees and headed for 80.

True to form another 4 or 5 units arrived from the north yesterday and began their south Texas thaw. Spots continue to fill up around here.

Today I will be out and about checking out license plates. It will be interesting to see how many states are represented. Just another way of enjoying the good life.

Another nice day in a row.

2011-12-29T11:54:00.001-06:00

We are off to another fine day here in paradise and the golfers are scurrying for a spot on the golf course. You have to be careful on the streets with all the golf carts flying around.

Yesterday I was talking about the after Christmas crowd arriving and sure enough we had 5 units arrive in the afternoon. Today we have already had a couple, with more on the way. Some readers were surprised that people would arrive so late. Let me tell you how that works. Dad says, 'let's head south and beat the cold weather'. Mom say's 'we need to stay for Christmas because the grandkids can't open their presents without us'. Dad responds 'but that will probably mean driving in some snow or ice to get south'. Mom who won't be driving says 'what's a little ice or snow'. And dad who knows what's best for him agrees on the after Christmas departure. Dad will usually say 'never again' when he arrives with white knuckles from playing in the weather on the trip down, but those are hollow words and the process will be repeated next year.

This morning we have already emptied the holding tanks and laid down a new course of bug spray around Mel. We are now ready to venture out and see what can be done about enjoying the good life.

Two in a row.

2011-12-28T12:58:00.001-06:00

Weare in our second day of decent temperatures even though the cloudcover is back. Yesterday I recorded 82 degrees and today we arealready up to 72. Yesterday I was able to locate a couple of folkswho don't play golf during my walk about and we flapped our jaws fora good bit. I'm going to make another attempt today to see who I canscare up. Like I have said, with this park abutting a golf course,it's not easy finding someone who isn't out chasing the little whiteball around the pasture.

Thenext couple of day should see the last of the spots in the park fillwhen the folks who stayed home for Christmas start arriving. We stillhave a few spots left, but it's getting tight.

I'mout of here in search of today's way to enjoy the good life.

Recovery underway

2011-12-27T11:35:00.001-06:00

Last night the thermometer bottomed out at 36 degrees, but with a full blue sky and lots of sunshine we are already at 69 degrees this morning and moving up. It looks like we might enjoy a few nice days in a row.

Last night I had an warning alarm go off that woke me out of a sound sleep. In my disoriented post sleep state it took me a minute to figure which of the three alarms inside Mel was making the racket. It was finally determined that it was the carbon monoxide monitor that was making the ruckus. One rather loud beep about every ten seconds. Does this mean we have a carbon monoxide problem, well actually no. Reading the information on the unit itself a single beep every ten seconds is a warning that the unit itself has worn out and needs to be replaced. So the battery was pulled to shut off the noise and this morning a new unit was ordered. My question is if the unit is smart enough to tell me that it needs to be replace why isn't it smart enough to know it's the middle of the night and wait to give the alarm in the morning?

This afternoon I intend to venture out and stretch my legs and soak up some of the sunshine which sounds like a good way to enjoy the good life.

Report from the front.

2011-12-26T11:05:00.002-06:00

Today's report from the cold front is more of the same. Overnight low of 45 and today's expected high 60 degrees. The kicker is that it is supposed to clear this afternoon and open up the skies for an overnight low approaching the freezing mark. The little space heater will be running full blast trying to keep up.

This afternoon the Missouri football team is playing North Carolina in the Independence Bowl so that's required viewing for an old Missouri fan like me. Other than that not much is going on around here. That is unless you're a golfer. The sun was just coming up and the temperature was 45 degrees when they started heading out for the course. At least with the start of winter they will have more daylight to work with. For me I think there are better ways to enjoy the good life.

2011-12-25T08:35:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas

2011-12-24T12:02:00.001-06:00

And all around the house it continued to rain. It started last night as the thermometer dropped and hasn't let up yet. The moisture is varying between a nasty mist to actual raindrops and with the temperature in the 40's it is making for an unpleasant day. At least this is a football day to help with the survival on the night before Christmas.

I hope your Christmas is everything you want it to be and my wish for you is that you too can join me in enjoying the good life.

Looking a lot like Christmas

2011-12-23T11:50:00.001-06:00

Last night was the first night in a week where it wasn't raining right after dark, so I took a walk around the park and captured some of the Christmas lights.

This morning dawned clear and cool, but we've got a wind from the north trying to blow us into the gulf. The clouds are starting to build in anticipation of tonight and tomorrows expected rain.

More good basketball news last night, both Indiana and Missouri remained undefeated in the season so far.

Today job #1 will be enjoying the good life.

Better day

2011-12-22T11:14:00.001-06:00

Last night at 3:30 am I was awaken by a machine gun like sneezing attack, one sneeze after another until it finally woke me up. Once up I did the only reasonable thing which was to fix a Dr. Pepper and go to the computer to check the morning news. After the sneezing stopped I briefly considered doing the laundry that needed to be done today. Reality quickly set in and it was decided to wait until the sun was up. Besides at 3:30 it was still raining, which it did most of the night. A further spurt of reality and I decided on returning to bed to finish what I had started 4 hours earlier.

The 2nd time I woke up at 7:30 am we were still overcast, but it had stopped raining so I gathered up the laundry and off I went to the laundry room. Sometime between the washer and the drier the sky cleared and out popped the sun. We are now enjoying a 65 degree day in bright sunshine. Finally.

Since the weather has been so unpredictable there is nothing on the schedule for the day. It really doesn't matter though because we always manage to enjoy the good life in my world.

No sun

2011-12-21T12:31:00.000-06:00

Again we are faced with a no sun day and cool temperatures. Rain is in the forecast, but so far no sign of it. I will have to say this has been the longest stretch of cloudy weather I have seen since I started coming to south Texas five years ago. I will also say the result has been that I have done more reading this year that in previous years as a result of the weather.

Yesterday a reader from Arizona wrote to advise me that there were a couple of grocery stores here in Falfurrias and I didn't have to travel the 40 miles to Kingsville. I just wanted to let the reader know that I'm aware of what is in Falfurrias and neither the HEB or Cantus stores are much more than convenience stores and their parking lots aren't set up for RV's. Besides the ultimate purpose of driving to Kingsville is to give Mel some exercise and circulate the fluids.

Today I will continue to work on improving my skills at doing nothing while enjoying the good life.

Road trip

2011-12-20T13:30:00.000-06:00

Today's road trip started with a night of pre-trip panic. Last night while getting things ready the electric steps hung up on the concrete patio and became stuck. I was able to free them by raising the jacks on the right side, but once freed the steps would only recede about half way up. I had visions of going down the road with the steps partially extended looking for an RV repair shop. Not the recommended way to travel. Somehow with the pressure off the steps reset themselves during the night and by this morning they were working just fine.

The trip to Wal-mart was uneventful other than the fact that the billfold sprang a leak at the register and emptied itself right there in front of everyone. Once back out in Mel the groceries were stored and every bit of refrigerator space disappeared. I have now arrived back in the park and reclaimed my spot although I have parked with a different orientation that should eliminate the step hangup problem.

Now that all this has been accomplished I have given myself the afternoon off, something you can do when you're self-unemployed. I chore for the rest of the day is just to enjoy the good life.

Better, but

2011-12-19T11:33:00.000-06:00

Woke up to a much better day today, but when I checked the weather page on the internet I found we were under a wind advisory for the day with 30 to 40 mile and hour gusts expected. Of course this changes my plans for the day as I was expecting to go to the Wal-mart in Kingsville for groceries, but I choose not to drive 80 mile round trip in the wind if I don't have to. Mel actually tracks pretty well in the wind, but why fight it if I don't need to? Besides the Schwan man is expected around here today and he can provide enough rations for a day or too. At least the sun is back in the sky and we are back into the mid 70's.

This mornings e-mail brought a message that moved me and I though I would share it with my readers. It is so appropriate to remember this man during the Christmas season.

My mail should be arriving today, that and waiting for the Schwan man will make for a very full day of enjoying the good life.

Elvis has left

2011-12-18T11:28:00.001-06:00

Elvis has left the building and I'm starting to think the sun has left the solar system, because from where I'm sitting there is no sign of it. We have warmed a bit and instead of mid 50's we are now in the mid 60's so there is hope. The weather man has informed us the tomorrow, at least for part of the day, the big ball of fire will return to the sky to enlighten us. No matter what happens tomorrow, I will be making a trip to Wal-mart to restock the pantry. We have reached the critical stage on food supplies and the leather in the couch doesn't look that tasty. I do have a can of soup for today and a couple of other things lurking in the back of the cabinet and available, so we haven't reached the Donner Party stage, yet.

There were good results yesterday for Indiana basketball and today the Bronco's will be entertaining me so I should be able to withstand this last sunless day while enjoying the good life.

On we go

2011-12-17T11:12:00.000-06:00

Another day of the same. The only difference between today and yesterday is the mist has now thickened enough that it has become measurable rain. We are still at 55 degrees and socked in. One lesson was learned in the wee hours of this morning. When waking to an inside temperature of 60 degrees it does not speed up the process of warming the coach to turn on the heat pump and the space heater and the water heater at the same time on a 30 amp circuit. All this does is result in is a walk in a cold rain to reset the breaker box. It is a pretty quick way to become fully awake though.

Today we are looking at a 50% chance of rain according to the weather folks so it doesn't look likely that we will avoid some moisture. At least it's the weekend and we can use the weekend mode to enjoy the good life.

Mouth shut

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000-06:00

We are told since an early age to keep our mouths shut lest we make things worse. Like a few simple words can disturb the ying and yang of the world, yeah right. Well yesterday's rant about weather conditions around here ended with the statement, well at least it's been warm. Not so fast pardner. Today we have the overcast, the fog, the mist and a brisk wind has brought the temperature down to the mid 50's. So much for 'at least it's been warm'. This has left no alternative but to curl up in front of the space heater for an extended nap while chastising myself to leave well enough alone.

Yesterday someone sent me this video that reminded me of the Saturday cartoons we used to go to the neighborhood theater to watch with the two feature films. I'm sure some of you remember those days too. I hope this brings a smile to your face.

It looks like today I will be moving from nap to nap with brief periods of consciousness in between waiting for the weather to improve so I can better enjoy the good life.

Mixed bag

2011-12-15T11:32:00.001-06:00

Again we start the day with overcast skies and mist in the air.This mixed bag of weather is starting to get old. Like someone said, at least it's warm. It is also approaching the time for me to make another trip to Wal-mart. I am not particularly amped up about going into a Wal-mart this time of year, but then I'm not to excited about starving to death sitting in Mel either. I guess I'll have to bite the bullet and make the trip on the next clear day.

This morning I went to the office and paid rent for another month, so if I behave myself and keep a low profile I'm good to settle in here for another month. At least here we have water.

I spent some time visiting this morning and managed to get home just before the latest shower began. The rain has stopped now and I am thinking it's time to empty the holding tanks which is not the best way to enjoy the good life, but has to be done.

Same ole

2011-12-14T10:27:00.000-06:00

After a brief bit of sunshine yesterday the overcast is back with the high humidity and a light mist. The temperatures have been fine (mid 70's to 80's), but we need a little sun to brighten things up a bit.

During the walk yesterday I was able to snap a couple of pictures to show how the park is filling up. According to management we should have a full house shortly. It's hard to tell, because you don't see a lot of folks during the day. If the weather is nice they are all over at the golf course and if it's not they are all inside.

Today will be another dependent on the weather day. Right now it's misting, but hopefully I will be able to get out after while so I can more fully enjoy the good life.

And it goes on

2011-12-13T12:05:00.000-06:00

More rain fell last night and we have even had a shower this morning, but the end seems to be in sight. Looking up I see black clouds, but to the west I do see some blue skies. I guess that's what you call a mixed bag. It does seem that I'll be able to get out and take a walk around the park without getting soaked. The telling sign is that the golfers have all headed to the golf course.

So today it's off we go to see what has changed since we were out last time. Finding what's new will help me enjoy the good life.

Still waiting

2011-12-12T11:42:00.003-06:00

We are still waiting for the sun to return around here. The rain continued most of yesterday and into the night and finally stopped early this morning. It still feels like rain with the humidity at 86% and a thick overcast above us. So far the sun has made very little progress in burning a hole through the clouds and it's a dreary day around here.

Yesterday's TV was good as I watched the Bronco's come from 10 points down with two minutes to play to win in overtime. Could not have happened if the Bears played smarter, but sometimes football players numbers match their IQ's. Anyway, we will take the win.

Today with things still pretty damp outside I'm going to limit myself to a few inside repairs that are needed and see what develops from there. Always working on enjoying the good life.

More of the same

2011-12-11T11:52:00.001-06:00

Drizzle that is. For the last 24 hours we have been rained on and according to the weather service this might even continue through tomorrow. This of course means more inside time and fortunately it is occurring on the weekend with plenty of sports on the TV to keep me distracted.

Yesterday afternoon I had the pleasure of watching a team that I have followed since the 70's knock off the number one team in the nation. I was transferred to Bloomington Indiana by J C Penney in 1971, the same year as they opened Assembly Hall and their new coach, Bobby Knight, arrived. While living in the area I watched the Hoosiers win two national championships and a whole bunch of exciting basketball. It's good to see them back in contention.

Today will be Bronco day on the tube. I became a fan of the Bronco's when I moved to Denver after leaving Indiana. Another day if enjoying the good life is on tap.

100% humidity

2011-12-10T10:39:00.001-06:00

Well it's the weekend and we are getting actual rain here in Texas. I remember when I was a poor working stiff how disappointing rain on the weekend was. It seemed like too often I worked all week in sunshine and when the weekend finally arrived so did the rain. Now the situation is quite different and here in south Texas we are more than happy to see some rain.

This mornings view out my window. Five years ago this would have been depressing.

Now that the rain has determined that the activity for the day will be conducted from inside the mobile cabin there is nothing more to do but sit back and enjoy the good life.

Pain in the gut.

2011-12-09T11:00:00.001-06:00

This morning I woke up with a pain in the lower right abdomen region which is just a bit uncomfortable. Since I hadn't yet established a doctor in the area I decided this might be a good day to make a few phone calls to see what is available. At this point the pain isn't overwhelming and more a reminder of my age, I am in the wait and see what develops mode. In other words I will continue to enjoy the good life until I can't stand the pain any more.

Above freezing

2011-12-08T10:27:00.001-06:00

Last night we didn't get the low temperature that was predicted. They said we would be into the upper 20's, but in fact 34 degrees was our overnight low and this morning the thermometer has been racing up the glass. We are already at 62 degrees and heading for a 70 degree high. and tonight's overnight low is supposed to be 57 degrees a full 20+ degrees warmer than last night.

This mornings chore was to change the cartridges in the water filter. I use a double filter system with the first filter removing sediment down to 1 micron. The second filter is a carbon filter that removes additional sediment, improves the taste and odor , removes chemicals and cysts. Generally the filters will last about 3 months for the first filter and 6 months for the second filter. I usually replace them when the water pressure starts dropping. This is a good indication they are becoming clogged.

On the right you can see what a new cartridge looks like. The cartridge on the left is the one that I replaced. The green stuff on the old filter is algae which was pulled out of someones water supply. I use The Water Filter Store as my supplier because they provide such good service. This particular order was ordered last Thursday and was here, from California, by Monday. If you want to know anything about water systems and filtering their site is filled with information.

Now that I have labored this morning I have declared that I'm eligible to take the rest of the day off. That is the plan and is an excellent way to enjoy the good life.

Remember

2011-12-07T11:40:00.001-06:00

Today is a day to remember the rapidly dwindling members of the 'greatest generation' who protected our freedom in World War II which began with the attack on Pearl Harbor.

God Bless and thank you.

This morning we woke up to 28 degree temperatures and the first problem was dealing with slush in the water line that had reduced the flow to a trickle. About 15 minutes of running an full flow returned. It looks like tonight will be another 20 degree night before some sense of normalcy returns. At least I have a furnace, which is not the case for many of the locals.

The sun is out and we've almost reached 60 degree, so it won't be too bad enjoying the good life.

More indoor play

2011-12-06T10:23:00.001-06:00

What's with the weather? Yesterday the warmest spot in Texas only made it to 53 degrees and several places were near zero. My friends out in Elephant Butte are down to 15 degrees with snow on the ground. This morning here we hit 43 degrees and today's high is not expected to get out of the 40's. We are under a freeze warning tonight with lows expected in the 20's. It looks like provisions will have to be made to prevent the water lines from freezing up.

Today's activity will be directed at how to avoid claustrophobia while living in 270 square feet of living space. Fortunately we have the computer, Kindle and the TV to help us enjoy the good life while waiting for normal temperatures to return.

More wind

2011-12-05T11:57:00.001-06:00

Looking around the country on the weather map, wind seems to be the big issue. We are no exception here in Falfurrias. The wind is coming strainght from the north (not good) at about 20 to 30 mph and it's keeping our temperature in the mid 60's. The wind is holding up the golfers and the temperature is slowing everyone else up, so there is very little activity around the park. At least some of the clouds finally blew away and we have broken blue skies.

Today's project is watching my neighbor and his three helpers install a WIFI booster antenna on the top of his fifth wheel. Why they picked such a windy day is beyond me.

I also met with the Schwans man this morning and we did some exchanging of money for grub. I think I got the best end of the deal, but then he probably thinks the same.

The rest of the day is set up to participate in indoor activities so as not to get blown away while enjoying the good life.

Dog gone

2011-12-04T10:34:00.001-06:00

About 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon folks started gathering near the pool as the smell of burning mesquite drew them in like a magnet. Ricky manned the grill and Patti provided the condiments and by the time the dust settled it was dog gone. Not one but several dogs gone.

Ricky on the grill.

The crowd around the pool area solving the world's problems.

The wind has finally died down yesterday afternoon, but we are still under overcast skies. Today the Bronco's are on TV here at noon, so that is the first order of business. After that we will just have to figure out how to enjoy the good life.

Rains

2011-12-03T11:18:00.001-06:00

Last night we had some actual rain in the area. My gauge measured 0.04" (that's 4 one hundredths of an inch which almost wets the ground. We are still under cloudy skies and the winds are out of the south, gusting to 30 mph. Today's adjustment was to pull in the slide to keep the slide topper canvas from flopping in the breeze. Other than than we are just taking the day as it comes our way. Management has scheduled a burn a dog event tonight. Burn a dog is a hot dog roast, we'll see how the weather effects that.

My friends down in Zapata now have water flowing again despite the objections of management. The pipes were fixed yesterday afternoon, but management wanted to wait until next Tuesday to turn water back on so it could be tested. The judge ordered it back on and sent folks around house to house to test the water. They then had a meeting with the homeowners, commissioner and judge in the rec hall, but management refused to attend. It sounds like it's a real happy atmosphere down there.

The weekend is in full gear and there will be plenty of sports to enjoy and as long as we don't get blown away we will be enjoying the good life.

Which way will it go?

2011-12-02T11:20:00.001-06:00

Out and about this morning under overcast skies and we are not sure which way today will go. A look up shows patches of blue and a lot of dark gray, what it will bring is a mystery. We are also getting gusting winds from the south so maybe it will all blow past.

I did notice that the birds were stuffing themselves at the feeder and none of them seemed too shy.

I did have a nice chat with management this morning and their intention is to continue to provide water and sewer service to their customers. What a concept.

The golfers haven't been deterred by the skies, but then it would probably take a full hurricane to slow them up.

I also saw some stuff blooming this morning that was a burst of color.

Oranges, ready to eat.

And a little red to enjoy.

I guess the rest of the day will be a see what the weather brings sort of day. One thing for sure we will be enjoying the good life.

Good move

2011-12-01T13:22:00.001-06:00

Last year when the new management took over 4 Seasons RV Park in Zapata it wasn't difficult to tell that things were headed in the wrong direction. After all this was the lady who thought you could get a reading of water usage through the electric meter. That's when the search began for a new place to winter. This week my move was validated. In addition to the rent doubling in the last two years in Zapata, service has gone down hill. Presently the current crisis is water. The city has shut the park water off because they have a broken water and sewer line that the management has failed to fix. This shutoff is currently into it's fourth day with no water to the residents and the natives are getting more than a little upset, as they should. Meanwhile the park I'm in now is supplying water and sewer service with no drama attached. My condolences to all my old friends in Zapata.

Today we started with a real dense fog, but it quickly burned off and warmed up and we are enjoying a nice mid 80's sort of day. A good day to enjoy the good life.

Company drops by.

2011-11-30T15:45:00.001-06:00

First a recap of yesterdays attempt to reach the downtown area. All along the route the new highway through town was under construction so there were obstacles everywhere.

I obviously couldn't cross the road here.

This looked like it was set up to break any ankle that ventured this way.

The What-a-burger sign (the big W) is the downtown area And the wall ahead of me put a stop to the journey here.

This is where the highway goes through and there was no provision for pedestrians. A remapping effort will be required to reach the downtown area.

On the way back I stopped to admire the efficiency of the work crew. There are seven men in this picture and only the one straddling the beam appeared to be working.

This morning about 11:00 am Barney of The Old Fat Man Adventures arrived from Rockport for a day of catching up. We meet about every 6 months or so as our paths cross. Today the subjects were flying and the conversation had many twists and turns as we explored one topic after another. After wagging our jaws for a couple of hours it was decided to insert some food in our mouths for a change of pace. We ventured north on highway 281 to the next town which is Premont. Here we found the Oasis cafe which we left in a dazed condition because of the amout of food consumed.

A trip back to Countryside and it was time for Barney to head back home and me to take a nap. It was a fun day of enjoying the good life though.

Walking day

2011-11-29T11:20:00.001-06:00

After an overnight low of 38 we have warmed quickly and it's now 78 degrees under blue skies. I have decided today will be a good day to head for town to see what I can see. The downtown area is about a mile away as the crow flies. The problem is that I don't fly like a crow and with the highway construction I'm not even sure a pedestrian can make the trip.

I will report tomorrow on today's adventure of trying to enjoy the good life.

I ran out

2011-11-28T11:39:00.001-06:00

This morning I was preparing today's no can do laundry excuse when I realized I had run out. No, not of excuses, but of socks and underwear. So, there was nothing left to do, but bite the bullet and gather laundry up and head for the machines. I was surprised to find myself as the only one there on a Monday morning, but it worked out in my favor, as I was able to put the machines to work and get finished before anyone else showed up. Then it was back to Mel for the folding and hanging which has been completed and we have clothes to wear for a couple of weeks with no excuses needed.

This morning we also woke up to cold temperatures. 31 degrees was the reading on my gauge, but the good news is the wind has blown itself out and the temperature has already climbed to 71 degrees with not a cloud in the sky.

I also spent a bit of time visiting this morning while waiting on the laundry so it's already been a busy day. I'm thinking the pace needs to be slowed the rest of the day while I take time to enjoy the good life.

Slides in

2011-11-27T11:32:00.001-06:00

The rain that was expected yesterday didn't show up, but yesterday afternoon we went under a wind advisory and it continues today. Last night it was whipping up to the point where the slides were pulled in to keep the toppers from flopping in the breeze. This wind is coming directly from the north and it is accompanied with lots of cold air and I believe I saw a couple of Canadians blow past. Right now it's 62 degrees and the wind is blowing between 25 and 30 mph with gusts in the 40 mph range. Tonight we are under a freeze warning. Of course, I'm sure you all are aware and understand that it is just too windy to even make an attempt to get to the laundry room.

With the weather the way it is I will be forced to seek shelter for the day in Mel and probably watch some football, while enjoying the good life.

Excuse found

2011-11-26T11:54:00.001-06:00

This morning was to be laundry day, but after a bit of a search I was able to find an excuse to put it off for at least a day. Rain is in the forecast and the humidity is at 60% and it just wouldn't do to be a laundry room, get the laundry finished and have to walk back in the rain. Discounting the I might melt factor, I just don't have any way to store wet laundry here in Mel.

Not doing laundry will leave time for my busy Saturday schedule which will include a couple of football games, some more disposing of groceries and enjoying the good life.

Unwelcome guests

2011-11-25T12:32:00.001-06:00

Yesterday's Thanksgiving diner ended up being a success. I ended up going with the shrimp, potatoes, green beans and pumpkin pie.The volume of food did require a nap to be digested, but that was to be expected.

Yesterday some new tenants apparently entered the park and no one seems too pleased about it. A family of black cats with the white stripe down their back made their presence known yesterday by marking their territory. Management isn't too pleased and has gone into skunk removal mode. It hasn't been too aromatic around here today so maybe management has been successful in moving them on down the road,

Not much going on today, I think half the park went shopping and the other half is playing golf. I'm doing neither. I'm simply enjoying the good life.

Happy Thanksgiving.

2011-11-24T09:35:00.001-06:00

Today is the day we give thanks for being able to enjoy the good life.

God Bless!

Thanksgiving prep

2011-11-23T10:16:00.001-06:00

Today, the eve of Thanksgiving, will require my attention in the kitchen making preparations for the big day tomorrow. Yeah right, anybody who knows my culinary skills, knows what a lie that is. My big decision will be to figure out if the content in turkey bologna is sufficient to satisfy the turkey requirement for Thanksgiving. I did buy a pumpkin pie at Wal-mart yesterday so the dessert requirement has been satisfied. I also thinking the being this close to the gulf that shrimp might be a reasonable substitute for turkey for the entree. You can see the decisions I'm faced with might keep me occupied most of the day.

The discussion of retail yesterday brought back a flood of memories of my days with Penney's and working with the public. One instance still stands out in my mind of how crazy the public can be. Anyone who as ever shopped for men's underwear knows that they are usually packed three to a package, patterned boxer shorts are no exception. The question is what do you do with a customer who only likes one pattern and is willing to buy a package if only you will open three packages so she can have the particular pattern she likes. How important is pattern selection to her husband/boyfriend. What scares me most about people like this is they vote. Or how about the fellow who every couple of weeks stopped in one of Denver area stores to buy a riding lawn mower, only to return it a few days later. He would keep it only long enough to get his grass cut and then return it. Then he would wait until the grass needed cutting again to head for another Penney's store to start the process over.

Well it's time to head for the kitchen to begin the process of food prep so I can enjoy the good life.

Pre-black Friday trip

2011-11-22T12:34:00.001-06:00

Today was my trip to Wal-mart to avoid the Black Friday crowd which was already beginning to form at the Kingsville store. I'm sure some of the folks were grocery shopping for the big day Thursday, but others already had that power shopper look in their eyes. That look brought back memories of my days in management with J C Penney when the trick on Black Friday was to unlock the door without getting trampled. It also signaled the start of a long two months with the culmination the end of January after the White Sale and inventory. Those two months were never on my list of things I looked forward to.

Now that we have completed the 80 mile round trip to Kingsville and reattached the umbilical cords we are in a position to spend the rest of the day enjoying the good life.

12" RAIN

2011-11-21T11:14:00.001-06:00

This morning I awoke to another one of those famous 12 inch south Texas rains. You know the type where there is just enough rain that the drops fall twelve inches apart. The only real effect was to make things pretty muggy around here with the temperature in the mid 80's and the humidity in the 70% range. The clouds are still pretty heavy, but there are a few patches of blue in the distance so I'm not sure how the day will progress. I just saw a notice in the rec hall that Thanksgiving has been called off because of lack of interest. I sure most of the folks here would rather play golf than eat turkey.

This afternoon I will be preparing Mel for a run tomorrow to Kingsville. I want to get the trip out of the way before Thanksgiving rather than get involved in the madness after the holiday.Other than that we will just enjoying the good life.

Approaching stop.

2011-11-20T13:23:00.001-06:00

Today continues on the weekend schedule which would make a sloth look spastic. I did have good luck on yesterdays sports results. Three out of four of my teams won. No games scheduled for today so it's just a do nothing day We are under a wind advisory for today and tomorrow so some of the effort will be spent just holding on and watching parts of Mexico head north. With the south wind we a getting another blast of hot air and we are well into the 90's. A good day to enjoy the air conditioning.

The park here seems to be like most parks I've stayed in, in that there is very little weekend activity, even the golfers have parked their carts for the weekend and no one is to be seen.

This afternoon I will see what comes my way in an effort to enjoy the good life.

Weekend mode

2011-11-19T10:58:00.001-06:00

The weekend mode has begun and today's sports programs are already lined up and waiting for my attendance. Outside there is a serious effort underway to blow us away with a south wind blowing in the 25 mph range.

Yesterday's test of the toaster oven was successful. Bread was tanned to perfection and pop-tarts were well heated. Now we can venture forward to more complex cuisine.

Time for the games to begin so my day moves forward enjoying the good life.

Gourmet

2011-11-18T11:08:00.001-06:00

Last week the gourmet in me struck again when I decided to turn some bread from a light white to a dark brown only to find out the my $10.00 toaster that I had owned for about the same number of years had retired from the bread browning business. Then the search was on to replace the one appliance I owned that I could operate with some measure of success. A search of appliances on Amazon.com was begun and one unit that caught my eye was a combination toaster oven/toaster that fit into one neat little package that would fit comfortably in the counter space I had available. The unit arrived yesterday and was unpacked and placed on the counter. Now all that awaits is for me to come across something that needs to be toaster ovened. The search is on.

Two slice toaster on top and oven on the bottom.

I have checked my schedule and once again I have the day off to sit around and enjoy the good life.

What happened

2011-11-17T10:09:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, about this time of day, as I sat down to pen my words of wisdom I ran into a real obstacle. I couldn't access the internet. This is about as dramatic as it gets for someone who's life revolves around the internet. With no access to the internet, there was no access to the world so I spent the day trying, every hour on the hour, to access the internet, with no success. Finally about 5 pm I called Verizon to verify that t was their problem and not mine, which they confirmed. Another couple of hours and things began to work again and I was able to catch up to the rest of the world. Sometime during the day it dawned on me how much I rely on the internet to keep in touch with friends all over the country and how much it has become a part of of my life.

This morning the wind has circled around to the north and driven in cooler air. No sun to be seen and 55 degree temperature being pushed around by a 20 mph wind. Today will be spent keeping a lookout for the sun while enjoying the good life.

Today's post

2011-11-16T18:47:00.001-06:00

Enjoying the good life. Explanation tomorrow.

Real rain

2011-11-15T10:42:00.001-06:00

It took awhile, but the rain finally followed me into the drought area and for the first time in months this area is seeing real rain. The pitter pat started around 6 am and is continuing of and on. So far we have 8 one hundredths of an inch, which doesn't sound like much, but the first few hundredths were probably needed to wash the dust out of the rain gauge and in the desert it's a flood.

The other activity this morning was to run to the office and pay for the second months stay here. Arthur required very little arm twisting to get him to except the rent and assured me that next month would be even easier.

Today the plan is to take life easy, encourage the rain to continue and enjoy the good life.

Quick change

2011-11-14T12:23:00.001-06:00

This morning started out foggy, but then the sun broke through and the fog burnt off and just about the time things were looking good a cloud bank blew in from over the gulf. Right now it's mid 80's and overcast, but there are patches of blue sky that look like they are going to take charge as the day wears on.

Last night the rednecks arrived in the park. We've all seen jokes about the homemade rigs, but there was actually a one of a kind, homemade, redneck rig in the park overnight. This rig has all the advantages of pulling a 40 foot trailer and still only having the livings space of a 12 footer.

A 100% genuine redneck camper.
Anyone interested in the plans can contact me.

And off they go to destinations unknown.

Ricky and Patty, the resident managers, have taken of for a couple of weeks and Arthur, the owner, has taken over their duties. Arthur just returned from yacht racing for a couple of weeks. Apparently he is a world class competitor.

I have already made a couple of rounds of the park today and now it seems like a good time just to enjoy the good life.

What's happening

2011-11-13T11:48:00.001-06:00

A walk around the park this morning to see what was happening determined the most folks around here are in the weekend mode. The tour of the park determined no signs of life anywhere. It is especially quiet on the weekend when the construction on the new highway has been shut down and the equipment is parked. I don't even miss the back up alarms beeping away.

Both football games I watched yesterday came out in my favor and today will bring a couple of more games, one football and one basketball, for my viewing pleasure.

Again today the temperature in in the mid 80's with 60% humidity and a 10 mph wind all of which will make for a fine day of enjoying the good life.

A great morning

2011-11-12T11:29:00.001-06:00

We're off to a good start this morning to begin the weekend. Temperature 80, humidity 47% and a slight breeze at 10 mph. To start the weekend it seemed like a good time to test drive my new RediSetGo grill and a cheese omelet was ordered from the kitchen. Here's what appeared.

Proof that all receipts do not start with 'set your microwave'.

Last night I watched parts of three basketball games to start the season. Indiana had a big win and then I watched part of the Carrier Classic which was unique being the first ever NCAA game played on the deck of an aircraft carrier. The carrier was the USS Carl Vinson, which just happens to be the ship my grandson Devon serves on. This is also probably the first game that was stopped at sunset to render colors. Later I watched Missouri knock off SEMO.

Today's schedule includes a couple of football games and a strict adherence to the weekend regimen. This is the way we enjoy the good life.

2011-11-11T09:12:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all Veterans

Click here to listen to
A Pittance of Time

Rain night

2011-11-10T11:31:00.000-06:00

Yesterday the overcast never did go away and finally last evening on three occasions it attempted to rain.One attempt even put drops on the window. None of the attempts were able to dent the rain gauge though. Another decent night of sleep was enjoyed so I believe the mattress is a keeper.

This mornings mail brought the reward gift from my credit card. The gift catalog didn't offer too many ideas for an RVer and I finally opted for the Xpress Redi Set Go mini cooker. Now all I've got to do is figure out what to do with it.

Here's the entire package ready for some gourmet experiences.

The rest of today will be devoted to reading the instruction manual for the Xpress Redi Set Go to see what damage I can do while still managing to enjoy the good life.

Just in time

2011-11-09T10:11:00.000-06:00

The new mattress arrived just in time to let me sleep in this morning as a cold front with swirling winds moved in. It's a good morning for pulling the blankets over you head and ignoring what's going on outside. I can say that I did have the best nights sleep I've had in months, so it appears I have made a good investment.

Yesterday, after I got the bed all setup, I took a walk around the park and noticed some new flowers have come alive. Around this part of the country there always seems to be some color. When one flower goes dormant another comes to life. Here are the latest additions.

Flowers without comment. If you would like to name them feel free.

This afternoon it looks like avoiding the wind will be the challenge I will also spend some time watching for the sun to appear. All of this is just part of enjoying the good life.

New bed day

2011-11-08T12:20:00.000-06:00

Today was the arrival day for the new mattress. The first thing done this morning was to strip the linen off of the old mattress and remove the mattress from the bedroom.

Once that was done space was at a premium in the living room.

However it did open up the dance floor in the bedroom.

Then it was time to head for the laundry room to wash the sheets for a fresh start on the new mattress.

Once UPS delivered the box the wrestling match began.

First getting the mattress out of the box and then moving it into position on the platform. Once in position the cutting of the plastic began and a quick sidestep to avoid the mattress springing from the plastic wrap.

Now it is just a matter of waiting until the mattress fully decompresses with the possibility of a road test later this afternoon.

Having a good nights sleep in your future is another way of enjoying the good life.

Zapped

2011-11-07T10:44:00.000-06:00

This morning I woke up feeling drained, like I had no sleep at all. I think I awoke more tired than when I went to bed. Anyway the energy level is teetering just above zero. Now I am more anxious than ever to get my new mattress which is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. Then I'll be able to jump on one end of the bed without spilling my glass of wine on the other end of the bed. Somehow, based on the TV commercial, this is important for a good nights sleep. Still there is one more night on the old mattress. In the meantime I plan on plugging into a wall outlet in an attempt to recharge my batteries. Looks like today will be a lethargic day of enjoying the good life.

Company gone

2011-11-06T15:39:00.000-06:00

After enjoying the extra hour of sleep that was given to us last night it was time to rise and prepare for today's company arriving from Zapata. They arrived in Falfurrias about 9 am and everyone got busy talking and catching up on all the news. While continuing to chat we toured the RV park here and I showed them all the sights. By then it was time for lunch and we headed to Whataburger, which is the south's answer to gourmet food. At this point the talking slowed down a bit as we fed our faces, note I didn't say the talking stopped. Then it was a return trip back to Mel where the talking continued until my company left about 2:30 for their trip back to Zapata. It was sure a great day seeing Harley and Annis and Roger and meeting Donna for the first time. Hopefully I will get to see them a few more times before the winter is over.

The rest of my day will revert to the Sunday schedule, while enjoying the good life.

Begin the weekend.

2011-11-05T10:01:00.000-05:00

It's 60 degrees and overcast as we begin the weekend. The weatherperson says that we should hit 81 today, but I think it's going to take some sunshine to get there and none is in sight yet.

I found out today that I have company coming tomorrow. Harley and Annis and Roger and Donna, neighbors from 4 Seasons in Zapata, are driving up for a visit.

Today will be prepare for company mode while watching some sports and enjoying the good life.

Improving weather

2011-11-04T10:45:00.000-05:00

Well the wind finally stopped blowing and the sun is back out and now all that is needed is to get the temperature back up a little closer to my comfort range. Right now it's 57 degrees and a plus 20 degrees is a lot closer to my preference. The weatherman assured me he is working on the situation and has promised to deliver mid 80 degree temperatures by the weekend.

Yesterday, being housebound, gave me a chance to check the tracking on all the stuff I have on order. The first thing I checked was the first Rand McNally GPS I ordered and it hasn't been updated since it reached the Falfurria post office a week ago Wednesday, I'm pretty sure that this one has gone to the twilight zone. The next was the clothing order from Haband. Half of the order is here and the other half is still back ordered, to be shipped any minute, I'm sure. I also found out the new Plushbed foam mattress is making progress in this direction and has left Hodgkins, Illinois and is supposed to arrive here on the 8th. The electric grill I ordered with my credit card points left yesterday via FedEx from New Jersey. I looks like it's time to decorate the tree because my Christmas is going to be next week.

The temperature just hit 60 here so it's time to get out and take a stroll through the park to see what's happening. Another day of enjoying the good life is in store.

Unfit day

2011-11-03T11:15:00.001-05:00

Today is one of those days that is pretty much unfit for doing anything. Last night a cold front pushed through the area preceded by 30 mile per hour winds. The winds are continuing to blow things about and the temperature is still in the 50's. To add to the glamour of the day the skies are overcast and there is not a hint of sun to be seen. It looks like to me today will be a good day to curl up with a good book on the computer Kindle and let the day pass quietly into oblivion. I do have a couple of good books on the history of the west I've been wanting to get to so that's my agenda for the day. Fortunately there is more than one way to enjoy the good life.

Dueling GPS

2011-11-02T13:38:00.000-05:00

This morning it was time to make the jaunt to Wal-mart to stock the pantry. I decided to use the trip test out Randy the new Rand McNally RV GPS by running it alongside Mr. Garmin for today's trip.

The first thing noticed was the size, but that was pretty obvious right off the bat and I'm sure most everyone would recognize that. The second thing was the amount of information on the screen. Randy allows you to select what POI's you want to show on the screen. An example would be campgrounds. Then if a campground gets within distance on the map an icon appears. Touching on the icon brings up the campground information, including phone number and touching the icon again will route you to the campground. Icon's are available for lots and lots of services including shopping, fuel, food (which can be drilled down to types of foods), medical and so forth and so on. Also on the screen is your speed, the posted speed limit for where you are, distance to and direction of next turn and a sidebar button that shows what services are available at the next exit. Randy lets Samantha do the talking for him and she is also capable of giving advanced warnings, like when there is a sharp curve ahead or the speed limit is about to change. All in all after a short test drive of 80 miles I am very impressed. The only drawback noted is that Randy seemed to wash out quicker than Garmin in bright sunlight. This can probably be remedied by selecting a different location or creating a sunshade.

Now that I have spent the morning playing and emptied the billfold sufficiently to be able to sit comfortably I think this afternoon will be a time of rest and relaxation. What better way to enjoy the good life.

New GPS

2011-11-01T12:49:00.001-05:00

Well my new GPS arrived today, but not without a lot of help from Amazon. The original order was placed on October 16th and was shipped from Hebron Kentucky on the 21st. The order arrived in Falfurrias last Wednesday the 26th according to the tracking information. It then, which happens with most of my orders, went into a black hole never to be seen again. I contacted Amazon by email yesterday in within an hour they had placed a second order and upgraded shipping to overnight. The GPS I ordered was the new Rand McNally RVND 7710 which was introduced on October 15th and is designed specifically for RV's. It allow you to program in your RV's height and weight and then routes you on routes that will accommodate your size vehicle. It also has RV friendly information or points of interest including campground, fuel stops, Wal-marts and many more. I will evaluate it and let everyone know what I think of it.

This is the 7" main map screen.

And this is the trip information screen.

The rest of the afternoon will be spent figuring out how to make all this technology work for me. Playing with this stuff is always a way for me to enjoy the good life.

Scary day

2011-10-31T11:57:00.001-05:00

Today is a scary day as Halloween should be. For me it was particularly scary because it was laundry day. After putting the laundry in the machine it was time to walk the park. When I got close to the butterfly garden I noticed it was beginning to fill up with residents on their southward migration. I'll have to bring Mr. Canon II over for some close ups. I did take some pictures with Mr. Canon I and if you look closely there is a butterfly in each picture.

After I returned to the laundry room there were two new folks that had arrived with the same idea in mind as I had. One was from the Joplin Missouri area and the other from just north of Des Moines Iowa. We had an nice chat before my laundry was done and I headed back to Mel for a hanging and folding session. It looks like the rest of the day will be spent just enjoying the good life.

Filling up

2011-10-30T12:49:00.001-05:00

This mornings tour of the park revealed a few new arrivals. I guess there are several arrivals scheduled for the next few days. As I took the walk this morning I took a few random pictures around the park.

The park entrance.

These flowers are smaller than a penny.

Looking down one of the roads.

Today we will be in the Sunday mode, watching the Broncos and enjoying the good life.

They did it.

2011-10-29T08:16:00.001-05:00

Last night the Saint Louis Cardinals finished an unbelievable season by becoming world champions.

Congratulations Cardinals.

We can add last nights game to another reason why we are enjoying the good life.

What a game

2011-10-28T11:32:00.002-05:00

If you didn't watch the World Series last night you missed a game that will be talked about for a long, long time. The Cardinals just refuse to die. This is the team that was 10.5 games out of first place on September 1st and has played with their backs to the wall ever since then. Last night they were down 3 runs and came back, then they were down two runs and came back. They were down to their last strike two different times and came back and finally they managed to win it in the 11th inning with a walk off home run. Tonight is the last game of the 2011 season and the championship is on the line. It remains to be seen if the Cardinals can win their 11th title in (20)11, but it's going to be fun to watch.

Yesterday afternoon we began an abrupt weather change. The wind started blowing in the 20 to 30 mph range in an attempt to move the dust from the construction site to the west of us into Mel's interior after it was just cleaned. It's the south Texas equivalent of a rain after a car wash in other parts of the country. The cold front that came through is the remains of the front that left 4 inches of snow in the Texas panhandle. The temperature right now is in the 60's and the wind is still blowing in the 30 mph range. It looks like a good day of staying close to home and preparing for tonight's ball game. If the wind would die down a bit it would make it a lot easier to enjoy the good life.

Inside finished

2011-10-27T11:00:00.002-05:00

The first thing of note this morning is that if you'll look to the bottom of the page you will see that the visitor counter rolled over 100,000 views yesterday. To me that is unbelievable for something that was started with the idea of letting family and friends know where I was and has turned into so much more. Through the blog I have made many new friends and I'm so grateful to all of you that are along for the journey.

The cleanup inside of Mel has been completed and my energy has been exhausted. I am ready to get on with something else. I do think the next time I do serious cleaning it will be a lot easier now that I have stopped smoking. There was still a lot of nicotine film to remove this time that I won't have to deal with next time I lose control and decide to do massive cleaning.

Today I am in the package receiving mode. When I travel in the summer most purchases are held for fear they won't be delivered until I have moved on. So, when I arrive at my winter home it's time to place orders. I am currently waiting for some clothes, a new GPS and a new mattress for Mel. Some of the clothing arrived yesterday and we anticipate the rest of the orders in the next few days. It's just like Christmas around here.

Today we will also spend some time enjoying the good life.

Still going

2011-10-26T12:52:00.001-05:00

The cleaning effort is still moving forward. Today's efforts were directed towards the kitchen area and the hall way. This is the toughest area to clean in Mel, probably because of all the gourmet cooking I do in this area. Most folks know what a lie that is and that almost all my receipts start with "set your microwave at". I also removed the entry mat and took it outside for a good hose down. Had I waited much longer it would have been ready to harvest. Everything up to the doorway is refreshed. I even got my rabbit family, which serves as my official greeters, and now they've been washed behind the ears.

Meet Flopsy, Clyde and Mopsy.

Once again we have expended all usable energy and as the outside temperature rises we will seek shelter for the rest of the afternoon in conditioned air just kicking back enjoying the good life.

Moving forward

2011-10-25T11:09:00.002-05:00

This morning cleaning efforts were directed toward the bedroom and it now has that brand new look, with the wood glistening and the mirrors sparkling. Of course plenty of elbow grease was required to reach this level, but I'm pleased to say I'm maintaining schedule. This is a good thing because I don't want to over extend the rental agreement on the front end loader.

No good news for Cardinals fans last night as we went down to defeat 4 to 2. Now it's back to St. Louis where the Cardinals have to win two games for the championship.

The weather today is excellent. We have 82 degrees and a gentle 10 mph breeze blowing in from the gulf. It will be easy to enjoy the good life today, if I can locate any energy after this mornings labors.

Fall cleaning.

2011-10-24T11:45:00.000-05:00

Today we started the fall cleaning. After being on the road all summer it was time to shovel out some of the accumulated topsoil and do a thorough scrub down. We do one room at a time and go from ceiling to floor. Today I started with the bathroom and it now smells factory new. Tomorrow the bedroom gets the treatment and Wednesday we should be doing the living area. That will leave the drivers area for Thursday and then, if it cools down a bit, we'll do the outside. Now that's an ambitious plan. Stay tuned to see how much of it is actually carried out.

After scoring 16 runs the night before, the Cardinals forgot their bats last night and scored absolutely 0 runs. As it's a requirement in baseball that you must score at least one run to win a game, the Cardinal's lost. They will be back at it tonight and the Cardinal fans are hoping they bring their bats with them.

As I have already expended my quota of work for the day there is nothing left, but to enjoy the good life.

Happy birthday

2011-10-23T09:55:00.000-05:00

Today Mel and I start our fifth year together. On October 22nd in 2007 I went to Des Moines Iowa to take delivery of Mel. and start our life on the road and we haven't spent a night apart since. During that time we have traveled 29,182 miles and we have visited 28 states together. We have visited state parks, national parks. museums of all types, ridden trains and taken tours. We have driven the back roads of America where people live and listened to their story. During that previous 4 years the best thing we have done is to meet some of the nicest people in the country. One thing we haven't done is to get tired of the adventure and we are looking forward to many more years of exploring this great country.

Mel's birthday picture.

Yesterdays scoreboard didn't go too well. Of the four teams I was watching by early evening three of them had been hammered to submission and then the Cardinals came on and did some hammering of their own. Before the evening was over the Cardinals had beaten the Rangers 16 to 7 and Albert Pujols had a monster night hitting 3 home runs and driving in 6 runs. Only two other players in the history of baseball have hit three homers in World Series history. They are names you might recognize, Babe Ruth and Reggie Jackson. I just hope they saved something for tonight.

Today we will continue in the weekend mode while enjoying the good life.

Saturday Schedule

2011-10-22T11:37:00.000-05:00

This morning we implemented the Saturday schedule. This schedule is highlighted by the absence of much activity other than watching a bunch of sports on TV. A couple of football and a baseball game should round out the day.

I have already watched a video on the making of a hummingbird video this morning. If you would like to watch it click here.

Well it's time for the fist football game and on with enjoying the good life.

Just right

2011-10-21T10:25:00.001-05:00

Cool nights and warm days, just the way we like it and right now it's a very pleasant 77 degrees. This mornings walk about found everything in the park in order. I did stop for awhile and watch the hummingbirds feed, but I only had original Mr. Canon I with me so I couldn't zoom in on the action. I did get a few pictures, but tomorrow I will take Mr. Canon II and get some close ups. Double click on the pictures if you want to to enlarge them.

This mornings walk let me visit with new arrivals Cindy and David. They were work campers here last year and then spent the summer in upstate New York. It looks like today will be slow around here with plenty of time to enjoy the good life.

Good looking day

2011-10-20T11:18:00.001-05:00

With an overnight low of 47 the sleeping was excellent last night. Today we are expecting 88 degrees and the wind has dropped below 10 miles an hour. Looks like a good day ahead. This mornings walk was done in mid 60 degree temperatures. As I walked I sort of snapped what I saw with Mr. Canon and spent a little time around the butterfly garden. No butterflies were spotted but there are lots of pretty flowers. Again my lack of knowledge prevents me from naming the various flowers, but I can categorize them for you.

This is the butterfly garden and the house with the slits is a butterfly house.

This flower will be in the lavender category.

We'll go with the red category for these.

Orange category here.

Orange and pink mixed.

Everyone should get white category for these.

A little closer.

A whites and pink mixture.

Another area of the park behind the office is set aside for the birds.

Free meals are available and they show up to take advantage.

Of course the hummingbirds have their own feeding area.

They are entertaining to watch.

This one insisted on playing hide and seek.

This afternoon will be spent collecting energy to deal with the stress of rooting the Cardinals on to victory tonight. Just another effort to enjoy the good life.