Friday – August 31, 2007 – Yorba Linda, CA

A quick note to let everyone know we arrived safely in southern California. We are staying in Canyon RV Park, located in Yorba Linda (Richard Nixon’s birthplace). Our campsite is about 60 feet from the Santa Anna River (shown above). Not much of a river in late August and there is a dam about four miles upstream.

At the entrance to the park, is at the off / on ramp to the California 91 – Riverside Freeway. We thought it was bad last night when the east-bound traffic was crawling. We figured folks were leaving town early for the Labor Day weekend. This morning when we drove out to have breakfast with our daughter, Carol, the east-bound traffic on the 91 was stopped. All four lanes. This freeway has two car-pool lanes and they were zipping right along. But the regular lanes were stopped as far as we could see to the east. When we got off at Imperial Highway, the east-bound traffic was still at a stand-still as far west as we could see – and that was after driving about 5 miles!

And yes, the smog is back. I thought it had eased, but on this side of LA (at least), it’s as bad as it ever was. A thin brown / yellow haze blankets the hills and valleys.

The drive in from Pyramid Lake was no picnic either. We tried to avoid the “heavy” traffic by taking the Foothill Fwy (I-210) which skirts the basin on the north side through Pasadena and Glendale (among others). The road – at least the truck lane – was as bad as any we have traveled this summer. The traffic going in our direction wasn’t too bad – four to six lanes, usually full, but no stop and go. The other side of the freeway (heading west) was stopped in many places.

In other words, LA still has traffic and smog. I don’t think there’s enough money in the world to pay me to live here and commute every day.

Had dinner at Carol’s last night with Ron and Ryan. We did some shopping this morning. Plan to get together tomorrow at lunch with Joe and Jane – some more good friends from our days living in LA.

Wednesday – August 29, 2007 – Pyramid Lake

Let me tell you about hot. It is so hot at the south end of the San Joaquin valley, that the truck stops have air conditioning for the trucks! It’s true. Take a look at the first photo. Each truck pulls into a spot and connects the big yellow hose to a fitting in his window. Cool air is pumped in so the truckers don’t have to run their engine to stay cool. Way Cooool! They pay for the privilege of course, but what a great idea.

The golf car seemed out of place amongst the big rigs but I guess they needed cooling also?

The last photo is of the start of the San Bernardino Mountains before we started up the Grapevine grade. I turned off the dash air and ran the generator for roof a/c to minimize engine heating. We averaged about 35 mph going up the hill in 2nd gear. But made it to the Tejon Summit (4,142 ft) without incident.

The drive down from Santa Nella was about 215 miles – a little long by our norm. It was a hard drive. Even though we got away at 9:00 and beat the hottest part of the day (we arrived at about 2:30 pm), it was still tiring. The road (I-5) was smooth in places and rougher than H… in other places. Margaret said it was probably the most boring drive on the entire trip. Still not much to see in the San Joaquin (other than new groves of almonds, apricots, pistachios, and other unidentifiable crops. Lots of brown grass and shimmering mirages.

Our RV homesite tonight is near Pyramid Lake, just south of Gorman. Still in the hills (about 3,000 ft per my altimeter), but uncomfortably hot. The Rattlesnake warning sign at the entrance wasn’t reassuring. Just look carefully where I stick my hands tomorrow when I unhook!

It is still about 105 miles to the Yorba Linda, CA, RV park, but we will stay here until late morning and try to arrive just after the lunch hour traffic clears (if it ever does in LA). Then we get to see daughter and grandson!

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 – Santa Nella, CA

It’s been a busy few days since the last blog. Our friends from Torrance, CA, Harry and Carolyn, arrived early Sunday afternoon to the Vineyard RV Park in Vacaville, CA. We spent the afternoon catching up on our lives since we last met, then settled in for a BBQ steak feast under the eucalyptus trees.

Monday, we set out for the wine country – Napa Valley. It was less than 45 minutes to the south end of the valley. Our first stop was Signorello Winery on the Silverado Trail. If you’re not familiar with area, Napa Valley runs generally north / south with the Silverado Trail running up the east side and Highway 29 up the west side. The west side is the touristy route, with the Napa Valley towns built on the west side, including Calistoga, Yountville, St. Helena, Rutherford and Napa. Has it grown!

The east side along the Trail is more picturesque in many ways with nothing but vineyards and wineries with an occasional “palatial” estate built on the side of the hills with a spectacular view of the valley.

We visited Signorello Winery first because Harry and Carolyn know the parents of Ryan, the host and we thought he could give us some good tips on wineries and places to eat. We had supper with his mother – Suedhe – at Rutherford Grille. The Signorello wine was good and we each bought a couple of bottles.

Our next stop was the Bistro don Giovanni restaurant in St. Helena recommended by Ryan. In addition to an excellent lunch (you only have to ask Harry about the fig pizza), the restaurant had many “fun” sculptures. The photo of the metal man drinking was in front. The metal man corkscrew – shown with Harry and Carolyn – was by the entrance. There was a metal flying frog, among other whimsical sculptures, in the patio. The restaurant grounds were lush with fig trees, grape vines, herbs plots, and tomatoes; the patios, with pots of flowers and topiaries.

After lunch we visited Judd Hills winery, new since we last visited Napa, and private – recommended by Ryan. Our host there was a gentleman by the name of Pat. The photo is of Margaret and Pat trying to decide which wine to try next – while Carolyn looks on. No, we didn’t try all of those shown. In fact, the bottles displayed were created by various companies and individuals who purchased one or more barrels from Judd Hills’ winery and had wine bottled for their use. Some were for restaurants, others were for private collections. The labels ranged from serious to quite humorous. If anyone is interested in a wine “investment”, you can design your own label, buy the grapes and barrel(s) from Judd Hills and they will bottle it for you. A barrel of wine will make about 24 cases and costs roughly $9,000. Call if you’re interested!

Carolyn, Margaret and I found several of the Judd Hills’ wines to be excellent. Margaret and I especially liked their Petite Sirah and their estate Cabernet. We signed up for their wine club and will receive 3 bottles once a quarter. During our visit, we learned that Florida now allows direct wine shipment so we can buy direct if we choose. Only Tennessee, Kentucky, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and of course Utah, still have restrictions or bans on direct shipments. But Florida is now OK!

There were many more wineries than there used to be. The old favorites were still there: Sterling, looking less remote on its hilltop now surrounded with trees; Clos Pegase with its Egyptian theme exterior and beautiful sculptures; St. Supery; Rutherford; Heitz Cellars; Chandon… all beautiful. So little time! The other surprise was that grand old stone monastery of Christian Brothers is no longer a winery but houses the Culinary Institute.

Our last stop was the Mumm Napa champagne house where we sampled six different bubblies – three semi sweet and three dry. It was fun, but we didn’t buy anything there – we still prefer Moet de Chandon White Star! Carolyn and Harry chose a sweeter three to sample. It was fun.

After a hard day of tasting, we adjourned to the Rutherford Grille in Rutherford. Napa Valley has developed a number of “gourmet” restaurants since we last visited there in the late 90’s and the Rutherford Grille did not disappoint. I was surprised at the reasonable of the entrée pricing – I expected higher prices. Margaret had a rack of ribs, Carolyn had wild salmon, Harry had steak and enchilada (odd pairing) and I had wood roasted, sliced leg of lamb chipotle sauce and cucumber garnish. Everyone declared their selection to be excellent. Carolyn selected a bottle of Fog Dog Pinot Noir. Strange name, but quite good.

Harry and Carolyn left this a.m. heading for Grant’s Pass, OR, where Harry will participate in a skeet shooting competition. Harry is an avid skeet shooter and shared his knowledge and a look at his shotgun yesterday evening. Margaret could barely hold the gun it was so heavy.

We were going to spend another night in Vacaville to rest up from our hard day in the wine country. But the answer was, “No. We don’t have room for you tonight,” so we packed up and headed down I-5. We have two nights on the road before our reservations in Yorba Linda (close to our daughter’s home), so we’ll take it easy tomorrow and find a place that leaves an easy drive into LA on Thursday. I don’t want to arrive in rush hour, in the heat, after a hard day’s drive.

By the way -- at 3:00 today (here in Santa Nella), the thermometer on the RV Park office porch registered an even 100 degrees. It is supposed to be 105 or 108 on Thursday in LA! Oh, to be back in the northwest cool!

Saturday – August 25, 2007 – Vacaville

We opened the morning with a visit to the Corning, CA, Olive Festival. We missed the parade last night, but did manage to find the Festival Park and participate in the Pancake Breakfast. I normally don’t care a lot for pancakes, but this breakfast included generous helpings of scrambled eggs and large sausage patties. The pancakes were made with buttermilk and were excellent. At $5 / person, it was quite enjoyable.

From what we saw, I think this “Festival” was primarily a local event. Everyone around us seemed to know each other. Lots of kids playing together and folks talking about local stuff. I had looked forward to trying out lots of olives and the various “stuffings” but it was getting pretty warm (even at 9:30 a.m.) and the sun was intense on the olives and olive oil. That fact, together with the big breakfast, turned me off from sampling the wares.

Corning, CA, is an interesting town. Although it looked small from the freeway, it took time to reach the Festival park. From the looks of the various signs, there is a lot of community involvement with various chili cook-offs, church dinners, and fun-runs. I liked one gentleman’s T-shirt: Corning Fun Run – For Olive Us.

We pulled out from our olive-grove campground and headed south. The directions we had to the next RV park – in Vacaville – were mis-leading. Not because they weren’t completely accurate; but confusing because there are two RV parks within a quarter-mile of each other; on the same road; at the same exit off I-505. Of course we pulled into the wrong one. It took several minutes before we could raise the correct RV park on the cell phone (the “wrong one” attendant was out – couldn’t check with him – so we sat there until we could reach the right park on the phone). Anyway, we are here.

Our friends, Harold and Carolyn, are due to arrive tomorrow evening so we have this evening free and plan to find a local gourmet restaurant.

While sitting here, I realized the motor-home next to us was sporting a Florida license plate. So I got out and introduced myself. They are from Leesburg, Florida – about 175 miles southwest of Amelia Island. They have a Holiday Rambler – older than ours, but a little larger. I was surprised that they had made the trip to Vacaville in less than a month and anticipated being back home before the end of September.

I can see why affinity camping clubs exist – those clubs that own similar equipment – it’s fun to compare notes on what works, what doesn’t, and repairs / improvements can be / have been made. Our neighbors belong to two such clubs in Florida. I passed along our family “business” cards. Maybe we’ll hear from them back in Florida.

Friday – August 24, 2007 - Corning, CA

It’s hard to believe that one week from today is the last day of August. Then it will be September. (Those things do seem to follow, don’t they?)

We seem to have the next month pretty well mapped out. From Yreka, CA, we made it to Corning, CA. Not far, but puts us in for an easy run to Vacaville tomorrow to meet with our friends, Harold and Carolyn. In case you haven’t looked at a map, Vacaville is midway between San Francisco and Sacramento. More importantly, it’s very, very close to NAPA VALLEY – wine country.

Our daughter has made reservations for us close to her home in Los Angeles. More accurately, in Yorba Linda, close to Anaheim Hills (East Los Angeles) beginning August 30th. We plan to be there for two weeks before the next change of scenery. I hear the RV park there is a gated community. Ironic that we have to travel almost 5,000 miles and 60+ years elapsed before we live in a gated community!

Anyway, what’s in Corning, CA besides tonight’s campsite? The signs report it to be the olive capital of the USA. This weekend they are having their annual Olive Festival. We’re going to check it tomorrow morning before heading south.

To emphasize the local color, today’s photos are of our campsite, midst a grove of ancient olive trees (adjacent to the I-5 Freeway of course). I’m not a biologist, but from what I can recall and observe, these olive trees are several hundred years old. They are fat at the roots and gnarly – sort of like you-know-you (snicker, snicker). Of course, I’m referring to myself. Never would I refer to #1 spouse in that manner!

Even though San Francisco and environs are often referred to as northern California, a quick glance at a map will show that actually we’re in central California. And folks, it is hot. I don’t have a good thermometer, but it’s got be over 100+ degrees and DRY. A good day for inside air-conditioning.

Thursday, August 23, 2007 – Yreka, CA

Why Yreka? Whoever came up with that name? Actually, WikiPedia gives two reasons: a) it was an Indian Name for Mt. Shasta (close by); or b) Written up by Mark Twain in his autobiography saying, “It was a mining town. The local baker had his sign painted but not yet hung. The word “BAKERY” was wrinkled, partially obscured, and read backwards. Thus the name.” (I’m paraphrasing here). Anyway you take your choice.

We started later than planned today. Margaret had one of her full-moon sleepless-nights (and yes, it’s only a partial(?) full-moon). I had some difficulty getting the car hitched – a first on the trip. We stopped in the first rest area and got the car properly attached (without incident).

We pulled in to another Oregon Rest Area but it was all parallel parking and there was almost no room for anything over 20 feet long! On we went. We tried to stop for lunch in Roseburg, OR, but picked probably the busiest street in town – at lunch hour. I finally found a semi-deserted parking lot where Margaret took over the driving.

Then we needed fuel. Into downtown Medford – again at rush hour; or maybe it just seemed like everyone was late for a meeting / appointment? After refueling at the second gas station (we didn’t “fit” at the first one we pulled into), we headed south over the Siskiyou Mountains. The Siskiyou range divides California from Oregon. Although not particularly tall as mountains go, it is a pretty steep climb for semi-trucks and RV’s.

Anyway we arrived in Yreka at around 4:45 pm and were grateful to find an appropriate pull-thru RV spot. By the way, “appropriate” in motor-home lingo is a pull through that accommodates motor-home and towed auto without unhooking and fits in the spot with all hookups.

The scenery has definitely changed since entering California. No longer are there huge trees and green slopes. Instead, it’s the brown grass and scrub oak of the California inland region. Probably won’t change much until we’re heading east and into the desert areas. Even the San Joaquin valley, while green, is that way because of irrigation.

Today’s photo is from a few weeks ago. After visiting the bonsai garden in Federal Way, Harold was so excited, he went home and created the world’s first cabbage bonsai. At least that’s what he said it was. (Margaret says it's a red-leaf lettuce. In any case, it's a red-leafed something.) I leave that up to the viewer.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007 – Harrisburg OR

Our second day in Harrisburg, OR. In case you haven’t checked your atlas, Harrisburg is roughly half-way between Corvalis and Eugene and about 70 miles from the Pacific. The Willamette River runs through here on its way to Portland and the Columbia River. The valley is home to many Oregon wineries. Unfortunately, there aren’t any close to our campsite.

So what is in Harrisburg that would make us stop here for two nights? Answer: The Monaco Coach Service center. Although we couldn’t get an appointment until November 11 (no, thanks), it is the source for motor-home-unique parts, i.e., the windshield wiper dash switch controller. As you may recall, our wipers started acting intermittently several days ago. We had a few bad moments heading south on I-5 out of Washington when we ran through brief showers, fog and mist. Fortunately, the wipers would wipe every few minutes or so which kept the windshield semi-clear.

When we got into Oregon the rain / clouds cleared, and it was sunshine from there south. Today it’s sunny with scattered clouds, lovely cool breeze and temps in the low 70’s.

I was able to purchase the windshield wiper switch and replaced it successfully. Maintenance is now complete – at least for the moment. Like a house, it seems like there is always something to fix, modify, or improve. Being on wheels changes little.

We have made reservations in Vacaville, CA, for this week-end and will be meeting with our friends, Harold and Carolyn from Torrance, CA. We knew them while living in LA all those years ago. Both are retired police officers. He is an avid skeet shooter and is traveling to a meet in Grant’s Pass, OR. We missed seeing them last year and are looking forward to this get-together.

M. The other evening when the three young deer arrived in the McGuires’ backyard for their repast of cracked corn, I saw one young buck interested in something at his feet in the grass which I could not see. I thought perhaps was a fawn.

It was a young cat, not kitten but not yet adult. The cat, tail in the air – which means no fear, walked off followed by the buck a couple steps behind. They disappeared behind the house, the deer to reappear again a few moments later.

The next morning while Suki and I were out for a stroll, the young doe appeared from behind a group of trees. She stood, flicking her ears but otherwise not moving. Suki was lying in the grass, enjoying the sun and breeze, sniffing all the rare and wonderful scents and did not see her. They finally made eye contact and watched each other, alert but neither afraid of the other and completely ignoring me. So beautiful. She finally ambled off and was joined by another youngster before they disappeared into the brambles.

The photo today is Shell and Wayne resting during our visit to the Master Gardener Demo Garden in Sequim last Friday. (Wayne’s on the right.) Scary how they are starting to look alike and not even be related! M. Appearances are not the only similarity!

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 – Harrisburg, OR

Yesterday – Monday –an interesting day. As mentioned in the last blog, we visited a tire emporium on Friday and had all four rear tire valve stems replaced with stainless steel in an attempt to fix a slow leak. Everyone agreed that that fix was potentially a good fix, given the symptoms.

Well, the best plans, et.al. don’t always work. After driving back to Shell and Lynn’s place Friday night, we encamped for the weekend. The idea was that Margaret would talk to the “parties involved” in Fernandina on Monday a.m. and if necessary, fly directly to Jacksonville from SeaTac to get the ball rolling with the city. As it turned out, things looked a little brighter on Monday, so we headed south.

One of the lessons “learned” in the last 18 months of RV’ing is to check tire pressures all-around before heading out. (A slow leak on one of the 5th- wheel tires cemented this lesson in stone for yours truly.) When I got to the inside right rear, there was zero pressure on the tire. Not just low, but nada. Shell brought out his air compressor and we attempted to put air in, but no, there was nothing but a loud air-blowing sound.

So we drove back to the tire emporium and “complained”. The young man came out to check. He reached in (over the out-side tire) and wobbled the inside tire! No only no air pressure, but it wasn’t even seated on the rim! A wonder we didn’t ruin the tire driving into town.

To make a long story shorter, it was a bad valve stem installation – the tire was fine. Soon, all was well and we headed out of Sequim. Owing to the late start, we only made it back to Tumwater – site of our previous stay. Fortunately, there was a space available so we were set for the night – as late as it was.

Today – Tuesday – we headed south on I-5. After several hours of mist and rain (with intermittent wipers), we hit sunshine (novel!) in central Oregon.

We talked to the folks at Monaco motor-homes (in Harrisburg) but their earliest appointment availability to do repairs was November 11. After a very short discussion, we decided we didn’t want to wait that long before heading back! So the plan is: we’re going to stop in to the parts department tomorrow and pick up a windshield wiper dash – switch assembly (I’ll see if I can put it in). There is an RV repair place just south of here we can try it all else fails. All remains to be seen.

We actually ran both air conditioning units this afternoon after pulling in. A big change from running the heater in Sequim / Olympia. The view out the window looks more like central Kansas, than central Oregon.

Today’s picture is a plum tree in Sequim Master Gardener Demonstration Garden. Although we grew up in Florida amongst lots of citrus, we haven’t seen a lot of the fruit trees so prevalent in the northwest. Before today (Friday), I had never seen a real, live plum growing on a tree. An education!

Wayne

Monday August 20, 2007 – Sequim – Olympia

Monday nite – back in Tumwater, WA. Today was one of those days that occurs – thankfully infrequently – in life. Last Friday, we had new valve stems installed on the four rear tires. This was to “correct” a slow leak in one. The “experts” recommended changing the valve stems on all four rear tires in case we had a bad stem. The thought was, that because we had brass fittings, they might wear faster than the rims. So they put on all new stainless steel valves.

This morning, as we prepared to leave Shell and Lynn’s, I went around the motor-home checking tire pressure (like you do?). Low and behold, there was no pressure on the right inside, rear tire. Not low; Nada!

Shell pulled out his air compressor hose; plugged it in; tried to pump the rear inside tire. Nada again! Just a lot of blowing air sounds. So back to the tire dealer. When the mechanic reached in to the rear tire, it “wobbled” in his hands – NO air pressure. I though maybe it hadn’t sealed / seated properly when they put the new stems on. As it turned out, the valve stem was installed properly and it was leaking. Maybe(?) this was the problem all along. So at 1:00 p.m., we left Sequim.

After a nice jaunt along the west side of the Hood Canal, we arrived back in Olympia, WA! Actually, Tumwater, where we returned to the site we left last Monday. It was that, or press on south along I-5 towards Porland, OR.

We have done some research and find that the Holiday Rambler service center is in Harrisburg, OR – just south of Eugene. I plan to call them tomorrow and see if we can get some service on miscellaneous stuff – stuff that no one wants to work on. Stuff like windshield wipers, wind noise around the door, squeaks around the windshield, etc.

More on that later.

We had a great time visiting with Shell and Lynn in Sequim. Even though it was mizzle and drist for a couple of days, it was great visiting with them.

Sunday August 19, 2007 – Sequim

It’s been several days since the last blog, so I thought I’d put together some quick notes and photos so you’ll know we haven’t dropped off the face of the earth!

Yesterday and today have been very unusual, at least for us. It has been cloudy and rainy in Sequim! Yes, the blue hole of Sequim has been anything but during these few days. But temperatures are mild and we get an occasional sun-break. In fact, at the moment I’m writing (1:22 pm), the sun is shining and I can see blue sky out two of the motor-home windows. So maybe we’ll dry out.

Not much to report in the way of activities. We’ve been catching up on news with Shell and Lynn. Watched some movies. Tried out some of the local restaurants. Enjoying their two cats: Smudge and Sweetie.

We continue to hear of inactivity on the home front – the new windows are still sitting in our driveway – since early July. We are seriously thinking about putting Margaret on an airplane this week to go back to Amelia Island and try to break the log-jam. She’s on the phone right now talking to the contractor.

The picture of Elvis and autos at a local espresso shop needs no explanation. Last year’s guns and espresso shop stopped selling espresso. So this was the next best thing.

The mountains / clouds were at sundown Friday night and are part of the view from Shell and Lynn’s home. The deer arrive at dusk to feed on the corn that Shell and Lynn put out. There was an “event’ yesterday (I didn’t see it) with a young fawn. He (she?) obviously didn’t understand glass doors. The two cats were interested in him and he in them – and kept bumping his nose against the glass door. Ah, life in the wilds of Washington!

Wednesday, Aug 15 – Sequim, WA

We successfully arrived in Sequim, WA and enjoyed our first evening meal with Shell and Lynn. Yesterday, Tuesday, was a spectacularly clear day along the Hood Canal driving north on US 101. When we passed Shelton and could see north across the Hood Canal, there was Mt. Baker in its snow-capped splendor. Considering Mt. Baker is in extreme northern Washington and almost on the Canadian / US border, it isn’t often you can see it from the south end of Puget Sound.

In Sequim, we could see Mt. Baker in all its glory – from base to summit. The Northern Cascade range was also quite beautiful including some distant mountain peaks (with snow) that I don’t ever recall seeing from Sequim. Buildings in downtown Victoria (on Vancouver Island), British Columbia could also be seen with the naked eye. A great day with lots of sun and temperatures in the low 70’s.

Today has been RV / Saturn maintenance day. This morning we took the Saturn to Les Schwab Tires for rotation / rebalancing. When we went back to pick it up, the told me they hadn’t rotated the tires because the back tires were low on tread and if they put them in front, they’d be completely worn out by the time we got back to Florida. They did balance the tires. Best of all, they didn’t charge me for anything!

While in the shop, I asked about the intermittent leakage from the inside right rear tire. I think I’ve reported that all 5 of the 6 tires will go indefinitely without loosing any air pressure. But the 6th one will go for a few days, then suddenly lose 20 – 30 pounds; but not go flat. After kicking around possible causes with Carol (our daughter, cum auto mechanic), I had concluded that it was a valve stem problem. The mechanic at Schwab immediately responded with a comment that on dual rear wheelS (using braided valve stem extensions), the brass stems wore out with the flexing. His recommendation was to replace all valve stems with solid steel stems. So we’re sitting in their truck bay having this work done.

At 3:00 p.m. this afternoon we went to an RV repair place to get our windshield wipers fixed. They ceased functioning Monday on the way to Chehalis. During the drive to Sequim, the wipers cycled twice (on their own), so I figured it wasn’t a wiper motor problem or any kind of gear / linkage problem. The service folks here in Sequim checked wiring / fuses / plugged and unplugged wire / cables but never found anything specific; except after they had been at it for about 15 minutes, the wipers started wiping! The charge was $10 for labor but they couldn’t claim the had fixed anything since they couldn’t find anything specifically wrong. So I guess we’ll start down the road hoping it doesn’t rain too hard! Sigh…

Tonight we’re having Shell’s famous crab cakes. So I’ll break out a bottle of our best Okonogan Valley white wine and enjoy!

No new photos to share today. Maybe next time I’ll get some new ones or dig back for some oldie but goodie shots.

Sunday – Aug 12 – Olympia; Monday – Aug 13 - Chehalis

I am writing today’s blog from the waiting room at the Northwest Cummins / Onan service center in Chehalis, WA. It’s about 20 miles south of the campground where we have spent the last few weeks. Fortunately the Internet access is pretty good, unlike the last few days at the campground where I could never be sure whether I’d be able to log on or not.

This service visit is similar to last year and is the only engine / generator servicing we’ve had to do. I figure once a year servicing is pretty convenient. There aren’t that many Cummins / Onan service centers around so this location worked last year and again this year. Gasoline powered engines usually suggest servicing at 3,000 or 5,000 miles, but the service folks here said 10,000 miles between oil changes (et.al.) was good enough and it just happens that’s about how many miles we’ve put since last summer.

Margaret spent last night with Suki at Connie and Harold’s place. I will be driving up the road this p.m. to another campground for tonight before heading out to Sequim and Shell and Lynn McGuire’s place tomorrow.

Last night (Sunday) we were fortunate to dine at one of Olympia’s newest restaurants – Anthony’s Hearthfire at the Port of Olympia. There is another Anthony’s restaurant at the Port of Olympia but they specialize in seafood while the new one offers both seafood and a variety of steaks. It was a pleasant experience – both in the food, service, and spectacular scenery. The restaurant is located on a point of land at the north end of the harbor and has large glass windows (almost no walls) to allow the scenery in. And it was sunset with beautiful colors and clouds.

Margaret had prawns on a pesto pasta which she enjoyed. I had one of the best Yellowfin Ahi Tuna steaks I’ve ever had – and it’s one of my favorite dishes. It was served on a bed of pasta prepared with seasonings I’ve never tasted before. We tried to find out what was in it, the waitress only knew about olive oil, lemon zest, and white and black sesame seeds. Whatever, it was great. We both had the wedge of iceberg lettuce with bay shrimp as our salad. All in all, a wonderful dining experience I can heartily recommend if you’re ever in Olympia.

Yesterday’s lunch, by contrast, was a hot dog and root beer at Costco in Tumwater. We always enjoy their hot dogs and at $1.50 for lunch, it’s a pretty inexpensive way to go. I was amazed at the crowd. In Jacksonville (at both Costco and Sam’s Club), the “staff” in the food court is usually made up of one person at the counter and one person doing prep. Here, there were 6 people working and three serving lines – and the lines generally had 4 or 5 customers waiting. There were 12 sit-down tables for four (all full) and 2 stand-up tables where we “dined”. Everyone seemed to enjoy their dining experiences!

We spent yesterday cleaning and prepping the motor-home for travel. Not many photo ops there! I’ve included another bonsai tree from our Friday visit. Needless to say, we really enjoyed the bonsai display. This particular bonsai was titled, “Memories of the China Sea”. The rocks represent the shoreline and islands complete with a small boat and temple. I encourage you to double-click on the image to see it as large as possible.

Saturday - Aug 11, 2007 - Tacoma

We have seen various advertisements during our travels for train rides that serve meals, go through spectacular scenery, and in general offer a different kind of adventure. Different in that there are very few billboards and McDonalds along train tracks.

The Spirit of Washington Dinner Train; a 3-hour run, south and east from Tacoma to Lake Kapowsin. We opted for the lunch run instead of the evening meal because it would be light the entire trip. We also tried to get a table in one of the domed cars but they were all booked. There were three domed cars and three “regular” dining cars. There was also an “open-air” car where you could stand and watch scenery; I’m sure it was also provided for the smokers. Finally there were two diesel locomotives – one at each end.

We left promptly at noon and wound our way south from Tacoma through the back-yards of a lot of folks! Not the most scenic part of the trip! Then past a number of farms / ranches; through woods; and arrived a Lake Kapowsin. I believe the long-range plan is for the train to go further but the tracks / road-bed needs repair / upgrading. So we stopped for about 10 minutes, and then went back along the same tracks we came up on. As a result, you ride backwards for half the trip; then forward the other half. Even though we thought we “experienced” train-riders from our days living in Japan, we found the backwards part of the trip somewhat tiring.

We were seated at a table for four (the few tables for two were all booked) and joined by two young ladies from Kent, WA, who had decided to do some touristy things. Having lived all there lives in the area, they had never been to many of the attractions. Both were attending a local junior college.

Train boarding was 45 minutes before departure. Wine and various mixed drinks were available for purchase, so we had a glass of Chardonnay – appropriately labeled: Spirit of Washington. There were rolls on the table and three whipped spreads: butter, salmon, and cream cheese chives.

After we were rolling, we were served salads, fruit cups, and the main course. Dessert was served during the return trip. Margaret had chosen crab cakes and I had salmon. The salmon was prepared with a cherry glaze and topped with ginger slices – fairly tasty. The crab cakes were topped with a pepper puree(?) – Margaret gave them a low grade; edible but not particularly good. But she is a crab cake connoisseur.

Service was excellent with five waiters per car plus various attendants for water, clean-up, and a full-time barkeep.

The cars themselves were in reasonably good condition, given their age. We were never able to find out how old they are, but I expect they are at least 30 years old, maybe older. There was some paint scratches on the overhead luggage racks and some of the wall-paper had peeling spots, but overall the effect was quite nice.

As the trip progressed we regretted not being able to book a table in one of the dome cars. We had an opportunity to walk through them while we were stopped at the lake and the feeling of openness was quite nice. Maybe another time.

Last night was pizza night; the first real pizza we’ve had since leaving Florida. A real treat.

Friday, August 10, 2007 - Federal Way

Today we ventured north to a town, and we thought it was just an exit, known as Federal Way – about half way between Tacoma and SeaTac Airport. During several drives up and down I-5, we had seen signs for a Rhododendron and Bonsai (bone-sigh) gardens. The exit for this happened to coincide with the exit to get to Trader Joe’s grocery; how convenient!

Both gardens are located on Weyerhauser’s Corporate headquarters campus – a beautiful, treed, park setting. I say it was the corporate head-quarters; it was impressive enough to be. Cut into a hillside, the multi-tier building looked more like the hanging gardens of Babylon than a glass and steel structure.

We went snap-happy taking pictures of every bonsai we liked – which was most of them! Margaret’s camera batteries died or we’d have had more. The guide book listed 215 separate trees. I’m not sure all 215 were in this one garden, but there were a lot. Officially, the title of the garden is: Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection. It was amazing. A history of ownership and cultivation of two plants first was recorded in 1500 AD. Can you imagine? A tiny pear rested at the corner of one tray, testifying to its prolific, if miniature, harvest. Several were miniature forests with multiple trees, up to 50, and another was a scenic overview with rock mountains with moss filled nooks, sea –with tiny junk -- and forests. Some of the displays were rescued trees of normal size, pruned and brought back to life. These incorporated the dead, bleached wood with the live. Others draped over rocks, anchored with tiny root fingers reaching into the soil.

I wish we could put all the photos in the blog, but there were too many. So I’ll just include an overview showing the setting and one particular tree we both liked a lot. Enjoy.

Olympia – Mima Mounds and Capitol Forest

About 10 miles south of our campground, there is an area of unusual geological formations – called, the Mima Mounds. Covering 445 acres, these mounds of earth are from 4 – 8 feet in height and approximately 30 feet in diameter. No one has a convincing reason for the mounds. Explanations range from Indian burials to ambitious gophers to earthquake upheaval. The mounds are not particularly spectacular, just strange – appearing on a small prairie / valley where you don’t expect the unexpected.

We walked the short – 1.0 mile – trail through the mounds, but had no new insights. Margaret and I theorized that the mounds might be the result of glacial melt / flood flow, but no one knows for sure. The mounds are supposed to be about 11,000 years old. There were lots of wildflowers, moss and lichens, and enormous trees.

A skeet / trap shooting range on the far side of the mounds kept us alert. I think they were having some type of competition. At first it sounded like WWII, but during the lulls, we heard “PULL”, and decided it was all good, clean fun.

We then drove another 20 miles south to explore the Capitol Forest. A 90,000 acre forest devoted to various forms of hiking, mountain biking, logging, and general nature study. Although we believed we knew where we were going, we ended up on a one-lane muddy / rocky road that appeared to be used by logging trucks. Fortunately, we didn’t meet any since there was nowhere to pass. After a long drive up, we concluded we weren’t getting anywhere – at least not anywhere we wanted to be – so we turned around for a long drive down.

After successfully negotiating the road down, we found a picnic table by a pleasant stream, Mill Creek. All’s well that ends well, i.e., we didn’t have to call for helicopter evac or the auto club!

Today’s photos are pretty self-explanatory. In addition to the mounds (how do you take a photo of a series of 5 foot high mounds in a prairie?), there is a photo from the hilltop in Capitol Forest where we turned around, to lunch being prepared, and a funny tree close by with lots of little moss-covered limbs. Lots of green in the undergrowth in the northwest woods!

Tuesday, August 07, 2007 – Olympia – Nisqually Refuge

Things have been busy with various activities of LIFE. Nothing monumental, but life goes on, even on the road. After reading about some of the local “things-to-do”, we decided to check out the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge.

Originally, the area was a “normal” delta formed by several creeks and rivers, ending at the south end of Puget Sound – between Olympia and Tacoma. In 1904 (approximately), a local farmer built earth dikes to keep the saltwater out of his 1,000 acre farm. Four local artesian wells supply fresh water that mix with the saltwater forming new wildlife habitats for various birds and mammals.

Ironically, the local politicians are talking about removing the dikes and allowing the saltwater to reclaim the land. We wonder if we should tell them about a similar situation on Amelia Island (and the Egan Creek changes), but decided they wouldn’t listen!

We’re off tomorrow to explore some earthen mounds south of us as well as a forest reputed to be quite interesting.

At the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, there were many swallows, including the photo of the chicks of three, tucked under the visitor center eave. Mama swallow was close by and ready to swoop in and feed them. We believe they are ready to leave the nest.

The other photo was of a Riparian Forest. The innocuous looking stream bed is actually an inlet of Puget Sound. Although there was very little water when we were there, the tide comes in and covers the stream bed twice a day. Signs along the walk (elevated board walk) showed the wide variety of wildlife that inhabited the area. Other than a couple of deer and lots of small birds, we didn’t see very much that we could identify.

We think we’ll go back on a sunny day and see if we can spot some of the other wildlife – at least get some better photos.

Saturday, August 4, 2007 – Olympia Farmer’s Market

Saturday morning it’s off to the Olympia Farmer’s Market. As I mentioned yesterday, this Farmer’s Market is so well established, they have their own permanent display building(s). During the summer, they are open 4 days a week – Thursday thru Sunday. In November, they are open Friday and Saturday.

Being Saturday, there was a good attendance. I’m told that later in the day (we were there when they opened at 10:00), it gets really crowded. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. And unlike some markets of this type, most come to buy; and most know exactly what they will find and what they are going to buy before they get there – good for them and the sellers. Today’s photos are from the market and show some of the produce and activities.

Friday, August 03, 2007 – Olympia

Today, Friday, is a “down” day. We have arranged for the windshield in our Saturn to be repaired. They come to the campground and do it on site. The drawback is it’s one of those “We’ll be there between 12 and 5 pm.”, and we all know how that works: about 4:45 they’ll call and say they’re running late; would 6:00 be ok, or let’s reschedule for next week. And another day shot. Do all these service folks attend the same training class on how to irritate customers?

Yesterday was one of those clean-up days. Days where you vacuum, scrub surfaces, and the things that are “easy” to put off, but still need doing.

Dinner last night was another feast at Connie and Harold’s place. Today’s photos are of Harold toiling away at the Barbie, and their Bichon (“Muffin”) trying to capture a bee in the lavender bed. Telling her not to is useless. The only way she’ll learn is if she manages to catch one and it stings her on the nose (or other sensitive body parts). But it’s fun watching her. Her real desire is for ice cubes, preferably soaked in vodka! She’ll beg for that until she gets one (or two, or three, or more!).

Weather has been variable to say the least. One day it will be completely clear; blue skies, no clouds, and warm (high 80’s). Today it is overcast (marine layer working its way inland) and a high forecast to be only 71. So far, no two days in a row have been alike. Oh well, it adds spice to the visit.

Tomorrow we’ll go to the Olympia Farmer’s Market with Connie and Harold. It is quite a Farmer’s Market; none of this set up a few tents in the field. NO, this one has a permanent exhibit building with everything from flowers to butcher shop meats – plus live music going on pretty much all day. Oh yes, things to eat and drink; from Thai food to German wursts. Great fun!

Margaret is busy this morning catching up on her e-mail and phone calls that she’s been putting off until the time is right. So today is IT.

Wednesday – August 1, 2007

After a whirl-wind week, things have returned to normal. Let me hasten to add, it was a wonderful, especially the last 3 days with our daughter – the original threesome! Carol, arrived last week on Wednesday for her 4-day writer’s conference which was a fantastic experience for her. Besides the usual meetings and seminars, she presented a 60-second synopsis of her first book to an editor and a second presentation later in the day to an agent. To say her presentations were a success would be an incredible understatement – both all loved it and wanted to more.

I picked up Carol and Margaret on Sunday noon, and we went to Seattle to visit the Pike Place Market and some of the shops in the area. We enjoyed a great meal at Cutter Point restaurant, located at the north end of the Pike Place sprawl. After a short drive around down-town, we headed south to the campground for some well-deserved R&R.

Monday was a relaxed day. We went to the Red Wind casino for a buffet breakfast and a little video gaming. Carol was still on a roll and won $38 on a $5 investment. She promptly cashed out! Smart girl! Afterwards, we headed over to the Tumwater Falls Park – see photos from the last blog. It’s a great place to stroll and relax; then into down-town Olympia with lunch at Chopsticks, an Oriental Restaurant leaning towards Thai food style. What a treat. Stuffed, we returned home for naps!

Monday evening was a salmon feast at Connie and Harold’s place two kinds of salmon, prepared three different ways; roasted butternut squash, corn on the cob, and a fresh salad from their garden. All was wonderful!

Tuesday was Carol’s departure day, but not until late afternoon. So we headed back into Olympia for a late-morning breakfast at the Spar Café; a café dating back to the late 1800’s complete with many of the original trimmings / décor – and old photographs. We had eaten there a couple times before. A stroll, and then we headed north into Seattle to avoid potential traffic jams on the way to the airport.

We crossed Lake Washington on the pontoon bridge, Mercer Island, and enjoyed a light lunch on the shore of Lake Union where we watched the commuter seaplanes land – right over our heads – and take off. Kids were taking kayak lessons, some taking a quick dip in the cold water. Talk about a good lunch: Dungeness crab, California roll – more crab, and Ahi tuna, and so very good. The local Canadian geese gave us their tradition farewell salute and we were off to the airport.

There were two days of photo-op, so we had a hard time choosing. As a result, there are more photos than normal. I hope this doesn’t overload the blog-system!

Jacksonville FL had a event where there were statues of manatees on many street corners. In Custer, SD, there were buffalos on the corners. In Seattle, there were pigs – or more correctly, swine on streets and buildings. We finally found the proverbial “when pigs have wings, they will fly…”

The usual crowds at Pike Place Market – although there weren’t many fish flying. Lots of folks enjoying eating out.

On Tuesday, while dining on the shore of Lake Union, there was a pristine, Chris Craft available for rental. I would have liked to take a spin on that! The Space Needle is a sky-line fixture. And finally, a shot of Margaret and Carol, taken after checking out the various yacht’s for sale. There was a 92 footer for $3,775,000; but we didn’t like the décor, so we passed.