Castle3

1-19-15 Nothing specific planned for today, so I had a few things to fix on Gracie. Tie up the TV wires was first, then I leveled the wall mount. I was really tired of looking at a tilted picture. An easy adjustment that was waiting for a level parking spot. Next I moved on to airing up the tires. Not so good here. The air fitting hadn't been used for who knows how long and needed replacement. 20 miles to hardware store ^*%#{". Get parts and save that job for another day. Instead I spray lubed the entrance step and put up some hooks in the closet. That's a long list for a retired person so I called it a day. Ruth and I jumped in the Burb a took off for Wally World 20 miles south on Hwy 27. On the way we discovered miles of sugar cane fields. Some were being harvested by a machine similar to a combine. We are both amazed at the amount of farmland in south central FL. As we entered town we spotted a Sonny's BBQ. How handy that it was also time for an early supper. I don't understand why I have never seen one of these outside FL. The food is awesome! But I did save two bites for Oscar. We picked up a few groceries, some household items and finished off at ACE hardware. No HD in town. Back at the CG by 6 and just getting dark. A perfect time to relocate a picnic table form the empty lot just beside us and two spots down. Good thing it was only a 6 footer. Mission accomplished without being noticed. Tomorrow we're going to Sebring (spelled it wrong yesterday) just in case the park patrol shows up looking for a table. And, we get to visit with the Pickman's who also escaped Bradford for the winter. By the way it was 75 today.

F1-17-15 Yesterday was a banner day. Nothing to do but a trip to HD. We slept in until 9:30. The grill was already out so it was a good time to try out the grill mat I purchased at the RV show. It's primary use is cooking vegetables, but it's intended to stay on the grill all the time. So I decided to cook some bacon. It worked like magic. The bacon browned nicely and all the grease stayed on the mat. Clean up later was a cinch. Wipe the worst with paper towels, then heat it up and wipe the rest. Meanwhile Ruth was frying eggs and makin toast. A great start to our day. Next it was off to HD. Except for the halogen bulb I forgot so I could get the right replacement, we got everything we needed and we're off to search for a car wash. It seams Tampa has one on every corner and most of them will vacuum and wash windows. I decided to pick one that looked very busy and most cars had FLORDIA plates. As I moved up in line one of the managers approached and made mention of our NH plate. I told him I was there to give them a challenge since th inside of the Burb had not been cleaned in months. The windshield was so dirty it looked like I was driving in constant fog. To my amazement he offered the works for FREE if I was willing to wait 10 minutes after the wash so they could do a quality control inspection. Dah! Well let me say the burb looked so good it would have increased its trade value 3K had I been in the mood. For supper, it was back to the grill for sweet sausage. We finished our evening watching Shenandoah with Jimmy Stewart. 1-18-15 Another day of wake up when rested. Today that was 8:30. After breakfast, we both commenced our get ready to move chores. When we were nearly done Ruth checked the CG laundry and found it unoccupied. She finally got a chance to wash our cold weather travel duds and stow them away. Don't think we'll need them anytime soon. In the 80s today. I pulled Gracie out of our spot just before noon. After hooking up the Burb we were on our way. It was a pleasant afternoon drive to the M RV campground. George kept us mostly on state roads and gave us a chance to see some countryside. As we were going through Seabring (yes home of the race), I spotted a Walmart. Perfect place to stop for a leg stretch. NOT ! It seems everyone within 60 miles decided to shop today. Did I miss something on the news? So I realize this just as I pull in. Cars everywhere and no open space for us. After two near misses, I managed to get us out of there. So much for a rest. Just after Seabring we drove at least 15 miles with nothing but orange groves on both sides of the road. Several times we saw 16 wheelers being loaded with loose oranges. I guess they use the ones on the bottom for juice. After that it was all fields with roaming cattle. By 3:30 we were arriving at our destination. A quick unhook for the Burb and we were escorted to our site an assisted with the back in. I'm getting spoiled. Set up was a snap. Ruth and I enjoyed a lazy afternoon and ended the day with BBQ chicken. No cable, WiFi, or off air TV here. Thank God we get 5 bars on the phone! The next few evenings will be walks and a DVD.

1-16-15 Today we enjoyed the fun of good neighbors. Ruth took Oscar for his morning walk and met a couple from Nottingham NH just across the road. When I went out to have a cigar, I met our neighbor to the left. He is recently retired and sells jewelry, his wife makes, at rallies, flea markets, and such. Just across the road I met a Viet Nam Marine vet. His wife and he have 5 small dogs. And we think Oscar is a hand full. About 11AM we headed for a Mega RV show at the tampa fairgrounds. Dan this made Boston look like the parking lot at the state store on 93. Over 10 acres of tightly parked campers of all varieties and 2 giant buildings of wall to wall vendors. By the time we walked most of it for a look around, we had been there 5 hours and were too beat to revisit anything. We need to learn to buy when we see and not try to see everything. Oscar was with us all day. He's been sleeping since we got back. Except during cheese and crackers time. Ruth and I stepped out just before dark for another neighborhood block party. Four couples gabbing like we knew each other since grade school. We are getting used to this lifestyle FAST. Pill bottles and early to bed tonight. Tomorrow we will attempt too do nothing.

Melvin comes out of the closet today! Yes he is in the backpack. Wish you had reminded me last trip.☺️

1-15-15 Out last night in a motel gave us good reason to appreciate owning a motorhome. From the time we entered until past midnight, we had to listen to slamming doors, shouting voices and moving furniture. (No, I didn't ask what that was all about). As a result Ruth and I woke up tired and ready get out of there. We arrived at our CG about 11 to get Gracie out of storage. With fingers crossed, Ruth entered first. Oh happy day. No musty smell and no sign of critters. I checked the battery monitor, nearly full charge. Got to love solar panels! One turn of the key and the engine sprang to life. I decided to push my luck and start the generator. Another success. Life is good. Ruth couldn't wait until we were parked in our spot and hooked up so she could get organized. Once that was done, she took off for groceries and I hooked up the Apple TV (new toy). It was lovely to sit down to a meal we had selected and prepared. Except for washing the dishes. The CG has a kitchen and sells breakfast every morning. However I think I'll be happy with good old cereal and toast with some coffee. A huge RV show started today and is only 4 miles from here. Looks like we have plans for tomorrow. Nice chance to get in a walk.

1-13-15 Actually got a great nights sleep. Up at 8 and ready to go by 9. We hit the Waffle House on our way back to the highway. Just as I started up the Burb, I realized I didn't try the Waffles! Oh well my eggs and hash browns were just fine. Drizzly rain and more fog today. Slow going, but we hope to make Jacksonville. Nothing exciting on the road today. Made Jacksonville about 7 PM and we were beat. However it was eat a good supper night. We found a stake house and I had a wonderful filet. Ruth had brisket with massed potatoes. We shared, yummy. Then it was out in the cold FL air temp. of 62 for a short ride back to the motel. 1-14-14 This morning I was startled awake at 8 AM sharp by a 3 piece FLORDIA band. Two leave blowers and a weed wicker. Wish they had started their day on the other side of the property. Again we went to Waffle House. This time I did have waffles and they were great. Seems like every corner has one. Soon we were on I10 on our way to Tampa. Since we had some time on our hands we took a side trip to Tarpon Springs (Sponge capital of the world). With exception of sponges in every store, it's just like any other sea shore tourist trap. 2 hours of window shopping and we had enough. As dark set in, we were in search of one last motel. Tomorrow we get Gracie out of storage and settle into our winter home. Just 2 days at "happy traveler" and we move further south to the Naples area.

After many days of travel with difficulty logging into FMAC all is well. I continued to write as we traveled, so I suggest reading in date order. Another journey began yesterday. The first 500 miles took us to Elizabethtown PA. We left NH at 9:30 (nearly on schedule). We stopped for lunch at Alexis Diner in Newburgh NY. They have a grand menu with breakfast at any time of day. Over the years I have stopped here many times and was never disappointed. This time I decided on fajitas. Ruth selected an open face turkey sandwich. Both were large enough to insure a meal for Oscar. As we left the desert display trapped us. Two Eclairs to go! Dark closed in on us before reaching our destination, but on we went. Time to hit the web and find a motel. Sure beats the old days when you would need to stop at a pay phone. The day ended at 7:30PM. Ruth and I were DUN for the day. The blog will have to wait. Up at 6:30 to check the weather. We anticipated ice and they got it. Too bad, I got to sleep for another hour. When we headed north from FL last month we forgot the bathroom necessities. Ruth resolved that quickly with a trip to CVS. But, I had forgotten she bought Crest special formula. You know, the one that tastes like baking soda with pumis mixed in. Yes, I'm set in my ways and prefer Pepsodent ever since Ipana has been difficult to find. Oh well coffee chases always all sorts of evil. By 9AM the sand trucks had been out and the freezing rain had warmed to just rain. So we packed up and headed for my sister Bonnie's for a brief visit. Once we caught up on the family gossip and compared ailments (she had more), we said our goodbyes and left so Bo (a 5 pound dog) could begin healing his throat. Man can he bark. He had to be horse when we left about noon. Off we went into the dreary rain for the rest of the day. For a change of pace we stayed on 81 all the way to 77. It was too cloudy to see anything but the road we were on. Perhaps another time. I think fall would be nice. So let's talk about 77. I had been warned, but it's different when you see for yourself. Talk about a roller coaster. One downhill grade was 7 miles long! Oh ya, and dense fog just as dark hit was a nice touch. After about 70 miles we had to quit for the day. My bad eye had popped out and was resting on my cheek. At least it felt like that. Checked into our room at 8. After a short trip out for fast food, we settled in for the game while I wrote this. I was prepared for a long night, but snoozed in the 3rd quarter and woke at the end to get the score. What I did see was a great game while I lasted. Two more days to make the remaining 560 miles.

12-8-14 We were up at 8 and getting Gracie ready for a 5 week sleep as we return to NH for the holidays. All went on schedule and we were waving goodbye to Gracie by 11 AM. Another oranges for sale sign caused us to stop in before we left FL. Ruthie found a bonus while waiting to be checked out. Pecan Pralines!!! They are a weekness of mine and she bought both plain and chocolate. Oh happy day. Only fresh pecans can satisfy my craving. Trust me, fresh makes all the difference. After Ruthie had driven 400 miles, we stopped for the night. Tomorrow's weather will determine both our route and distance accomplished.

12-6-14 After seemingly spinning our wheels getting acclimated to this new life, we finally decided it was time for a Lazy Day on the beach. We did a bit of webulating and selected St. Petersburg. By the time we climbed in the Burb, the ski was all blue and the temp was up to 82! In less than one hour we arrived at our destination. Out with Oscar, a couple towels, and the lawn chairs and down the boarded walk we go. At the last turn, just as we could see the white sand, we slap saw a sign stating "NO Dogs". It was too hot to leave Oscar in the Burb, so we all left. Since Ruth had a cousin in the area we headed over there for a visit with Beverly and her husband Ed. Again "No Dogs". After a bit of hesitation, Beverly let us all in for about a 1 hour visit. Ruth enjoyed catching up and I had a great time talking with Ed. When we left we decided to call it a day and headed back to the CG. With a few extra hours before bedtime, I ask Ruthie if we were all ready to fly back on the10th. Still a few details. Oscar had not become comfortable enough with his travel case, our bad. We only had 2 happy pills for the trip, need to call a local Vet Monday. Last we checked with the airline to verify Oscar's boarding instructions. Another surprise. The maximum dimensions we're quite a bit smaller than the one we had bought and Oscar barely fit if he curled. OK let's recap. No beach, no St Pete condo, and no airplane. Only choice left is an all expensed paid trip to NH in the Burb. So we'll be packing up Gracie for storage, loading up the Burb, and leaving sunny FLORDIA a few days early to get home for the holidays. Fly FL to NH 9 hours door to door. Drive FL to NH 25 hours plus 2 layovers. I guess we love our dog. And our family, of course, why else would we do this?

12-5-14 Last night ended with being trapped in our new recliner. No matter what I did I could not get the foot rest to go down. So I finally climbed out. Not a great move for a bad back. So, my plan was to drive back to CW (camping world) early this AM. When I stepped out of Gracie this morning our CG neighbors for the past week were packing up. Skip and his DW Karen are long time campers but as I am, rookie owners of a DP (diesel pusher). In fact they just bought it this week. Anyway we checked the air in the tires. But it took a while since he had a combination of metric and standard fittings on his air hose, and he had to buy a extended air chuck since the inside duals did not have extensions on the valves. Next it was time to retract the jacks. The labeling on the panel was very confusing. Does an up arrow mean jack up or body up? 50-50 chance and we all guessed wrong and we're not watching the jack itself. Next thing we heard was crack! Opps, wrong direction. The wooden 6x6 under the jack split from the weight and down came everything as the bottom plate on the jack tilted too much when the block split and that caused a retractor spring to jump out of the plate. #}^*~\% Lazydays repair service was called, but in the 1 & 1/2 hours it took them to call back we managed to repair it with the help of another neighbor. After a few other minor problems were resolved they were on their way. Hope they write the hole thing off as stuff happens the first time you move a motorhome you have only owned a week. I certainly have had similar issues. However, the fun, freedom, and generally low stress makes up for it. After our good-byes I headed for CW. It took a bit of arm twisting but they squeezed me in and commenced the repair. A bit more involved then I thought, but 4 hours later they worked much better. No issues with the mechanics of the chairs but mounting method needs a bit more refining. I'll have lots of time to think about that before Gracie returns to NH and all my tools. Ruthie got stuck with laundry and Wally World while I was at CW. What happened to relaxing? Maybe tomorrow. It's supposed to be in the 80's again. We ended our day with a couple drinks at the Exit 10 diner. Wonderful place hear at Lazydays. Many say it's priced a bit high, but I feel I'm getting great value for my money. Now we're back in the recliners watching Shark Tank. Life is good. Perhaps tomorrow will be more ho hum. I've added a few random photos for your enjoyment.

Bruce we're new to this also. Thanks for your comments. Flying to NH in a few days for Xmas & New Years. Then returning for a 4 month excursion along the Gulf coast. I'm certain I'll have lots more to write about. Jon

12-4-14 Yesterday was a whirlwind. For starters it was the second day in a row that I had not slept a wink. So when we returned from the days activities I was spent. No energy left to write. Even so, last night made it 3 nights in a row without enough sleep. Although I did manage about 2 hours sleep from 5 to 7 AM. If it wasn't for " Ask a nurse" I doubt I'd have gotten that. I called my sister Bonnie (She's the retired nurse. I also have our daughter Christine that's a nurse) to discuss my ailments and she recommended some OTC drugs that began getting results about 5 AM. Enough about that. Yesterday we traveled about 100 miles north of Tampa and a bit inland just to see what was there. It's mostly cattle ranches and; wait for it, orange groves. We stopped at the second one we saw as neither of us had seen one before. Turns out they look just like apple orchards. Picking season is going on now. We sampled some at the register then bought a bag. Oh boy are they delicious! You just can't beat tree fresh produce. They also had pink grapefruit but I wasn't in the mood. After a few pics were taken we moved on. When lunchtime came we stopped at Sonny's BBQ. Another score! Their pulled pork sandwiches and cole slaw is to die for. Shortly after that we headed for the Gulf coast and then turned South towards Tampa. It was a great scouting trip and we found many places we wish to return to and spend some time. This AM we needed to get Gracie ready to roll and off to Campers World so they could install the double recliner we purchased on Tuesday. Once Gracie was parked we took off on a scouting mission South to Sarasota. Our intention was to take a harbor cruise. But since Oscar wasn't welcome and it was too hot to leave him in the Burb, we nixed the boat idea. We spent a couple hours checking out CG's in the area and then headed back for a three o'clock seminar on RV DIY repairs. We sure got our monies worth staying here. Free daily Breakfast and Lunch, and up to three seminars each day. Next it was off to Campers World to pick up retrofitted Gracie. Oh what a difference. Ruth and I each have our own supper comfortable recliner and we gained a sleeping place. So tonight I sit here in my new favorite chair writing the blog. Perhaps I'll sleep here tonight and break this three day curse.

12-2-14 Today was driver confidence day at the Lazydays learning center. We began with a light breakfast then gathered in the classroom. Our instructor, Bob Bergeron, is a New Hampshire native from New London. He has held his CDL for many years and at one time thought state employees how to run highway plow trucks. Bob not only possessed real experience, but knew how to pass his knowledge on to us in an interesting manor. Each student regardless of their personal experience learned something new or a better way to do something old. The 2 hour lecture whizzed by. Ruth decided to attend the next seminar "cooking with convection/microwave ovens" so I took that time to check on Oscar a catch a few winks. For some reason I got less than 2 hours sleep last night. When we met up for lunch, Ruth had made a new friend, got the personal email of the chef teaching the class, and I was able to keep my eyes open. At 1PM we gathered in the parking lot for the driving portion of our class. After Bob drove the corse we each took our turn benefiting from his guidance. We all passed without any damage to the brand new motorhome, landscaping or other vehicles. Some who had never been behind the wheel amazed themselves. So easy with the proper instruction. As a side benefit Ruth and I met some other rookie owners. One couple was actually parked just behind us in the CG. Skip and Karen are from Atlanta and had purchased there motorhome just 2 days ago. It was easy to strike up a conversation when we returned to the CG. In fact we talked right through the dinner hour without realizing it. Oh well cheese and crackers tonight, with pineapple chunks for desert. Tomorrow we'll exchange contact information so we can keep in touch. Nothing planned for tomorrow, so I feel a road trip to the beach coming.

12-1-14 Today was going to be a do nothing day. Right! First we brought in the new zero gravity chair then a bit of clean up. Then off to Lazydays to get our daily free lunch. Today was meatball sandwich and pasta. Next we checked out the laundry facility and the pool (very nice, heated and covered). They also have a jacuzzi. During lunch we decided to take care of storage for Gracie and the Burb while we go home for the Holiday's. After a bit of webulating we took a road trip to check out some. We settled on Happy Camper CG. Not to far from here and they had both storage and sites available upon our return. We didn't know FMCA is holding a rally the week we return. It has locked up most of the campsites near Tampa. With that out of the way we ventured over to Camping World. We didn't need any thing special, just wanted to look around since it's a very big store. by the time we left it was nearly dark. Back to Gracie for a few minutes then out to supper. Believe it or not we went to Cracker Barrel. Rest assured we didn't order turkey dinner! My southern fried steak was fine but I still left some for a take out box. Oscar needs to eat too. He was a good boy today. Twice we left him in the coach for about an hour. He wined as we left but was quit upon our return and no complaints from the neighbors. Time for beauty rest. Tomorrow is driving school. Breakfast at 8 class starts at 9. Hope all goes well. Sorry no pics today

11-30-14 I didn't have much to write yesterday. A blister the size of a quarter grew on my big toe the night after my many mile march at Daytona. I administered fluid evacuation surgery without anesthesia. Painful but successful. However I needed a day to recover so I nixed another trip to Daytona. Hope the show car judges managed without my input. Today was a moving day. Just a shot trip to Lazydays CG in Tampa. It was a uneventful trip until I was 500 feet away and took the wrong turn. I realized it just as I completed my turn but too late. In about a quarter mile the road was blocked by tree trimmers. So I took the opportunity to unhook the Burb and sent Ruth ahead to scout. A few minutes later she returned and the road was passable. Lucky for me their was a residential intersection just a bit further down. I managed to do an about face with military precision and get Gracie to the CG entrance. What a lovely place this is. About three hundred sites and very nicely landscaped. Because Lazydays was honoring vets the full month of Nov. we got today's site at half price and the next 9'days at 15% off. Imagine, and I wasn't even means tested like the VA does! We drove over to the accessories and supplies store to pick up a few necessities and got another 15% Vet discount. I like this place. Oh yah, did I mention free breakfast an lunch everyday? Since we are staying here over a week, all the goodies came out. Awning down, grill set up and ready to relax. Thanks for the awning stakes and tie downs Marden family. It was a bit windy today. But, the blue sky and 70 degrees made it tolerable. We have many things to do here. Tuesday is driving school, we want to tour an orange grove (it's picking season), and a trip to Yoder's restaurant in Sarasota is a must. But first we need to secure a storage facility for Gracie and the Burb to stay while we fly back to NH for Xmas. That's tomorrow's work. I added a few more auto pics for the cars nuts amount us.

Today was all about me. Ruthie drove me to the speedway and dropped me of at the main entrance after searching over an hour for a parking place closer than Miami. Since she had little interest in looking at rust, the smell of grease, or walking who knows how far Ruth choose to spend the day with Oscar. If you're a car nut, this is the place. But, bring your walking shoes! The entire infield was consumed by vendors, cars of all sorts for sale, and show cars. I walked for 3 hours to get through the vendor area. I spotted nothing for Studebakers. However, if you wanted to restore a tri Chevy or any street rod there was plenty to choose from. Lunch was my biggest purchase today. Don't assume I was disappointed. Yes, it would have been a blast if my friend Paul, my son Don and his son Jonathan were here. Even so, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I must have viewed a thousand cars of all ages, colors, and state of repair. Not to mention I spent the day in the infield of the granddaddy of NASCAR tracks! By 3:30 I began to feel my age and headed for my pickup point. When I picked up the cell phone to call Ruth it displayed "Low Battery". Lucky for me my daughter Christine (who never has a charged phone) had told me I can still text when that happens. After picking me up and trying to find a way out of all the traffic, I spotted the ideal place to view cars tomorrow. Dah, the exit from the infield. We'll be ther at 3 tomorrow with our chairs, a couple bottles of water, and the camera. News flash!! I found Melvin hanging around at the swap meet. (See photo) Actually he was tucked away in my back pack. When I grabbed it today and checked to make sure it was empty, there he was. Just as well none of you won the reward for finding him. It was a turkey dinner for two at Cracker Barrel. Good thing I was not eligible. Now it's time to kick off my shoes and sit by the fake fireplace we purchased for Gracie. It gives the illusion of a wood burning stove while using a ceramic heat element to warm the place. Works great until outside get below 45. If any of you have room and want some ambiance I highly recommend one of these. That's it for today. Time to grab a Mikes Ice and soak my tired feet.

11-27-14 I took a day off from writing yesterday as it was my birthday. Thanks for all the good wishes. Now I have lots to say today. We decided the best plan for enjoying the Turkey Run was to spend the afternoon scouting out Daytona. So into the Burb with Oscar and off to the speedway. Very easy to find and only 20 miles from our CG. I knew it was BIG but it looks even larger in person, and they are adding on to it. We drove through the main parking lot and found the entrance so we know where to park tomorrow. Not very busy today but we didn't go in as it only runs 8 to 3 today admission is $15 each and it was already past 1PM. Then we scouted out the main drag where we expect all the cruising to take place. In the process we found an entrance for motor vehicles to Daytona beach. As we approached the gate I got my $5 ready only to discover it was unmanned, so in we went. How many people do you know that have driven on this historic peace of real estate? After a short drive we parked the Burb and strolled over to the shoreline. Ruth said the water temp was about the same as air temp. (67) While watching to surf, we spotted a couple pelicans floating on the waves and watched them for a few minutes as Ruth recited: What a strange bird the pelican His beak can hold more than his belly can He can store in his beak enough food for a week But I don't know how the **** he can After a few photos of them we moved on and found a man sculpting a Flordia snowman. (See photo) One more trip past the speedway and we headed out in search of a Cracker Barrel restaurant. My sister told me just today that they served the Best turkey dinner she had Ever eaten. After the anticipated long wait, ~70 minutes, Oscar was sent to the Burb and in we went. The place was packed but the wait staff was on top of its game. In less than 10 minutes our plates were in front of us. Yum, it looked great. But wait, there's more. The stuffing tasted like a blend of corn meal and saw dust. The turkey was without flavor with sticky white gravy(eww) and the mashed potatoes were worse than the instant ones of 45 years ago. After just one bite of each, I summoned the waitress and ask for a menu and a doggie box. My second choice, open faced roast beef, was only a bit better. That's the first time I ever rejected an entire meal and reordered. And it's the last time I take my older sisters advise on food. She either lacks taste buds, or her own cooking is so bad that even table scraps mixed with floor sweepings would taste good to her if prepared by another. At least all was not lost. After some coaxing Oscar did consume the turkey dinner. He must gave been awful hungry. *IMPORTANT NOTICE* Melvin update. We are beginning to suspect fowl play. We won't be surprised if either a ransom note or a desperate phone call asking if he can return home come anytime now. Generous reward offered to any person willing to divulge information leading to his safe return.

11-25-14 I spoke a bit too soon yesterday. Last night as I was relaxing watching Fox News, Ruth screams from the bedroom water water. I rushed in to discover the bed had about a 2 foot circle of wet that Ruth found as she was getting in. Soon we discovered the source. No it wasn't Oscar. That was our first guess too. It was coming from the bedroom AC intake. We grabbed a pan and a few towels and I opened the filter access. Fortunately, that did not result in a waterfall. Just a steady drip drip. Open further inspection I discovered the drain hose had been disconnected. Since it's a very tight fit and the clamp was lose, it must have been intentional. Perhaps a repair was interrupted and left unfinished. I do know it wasn't me or Joey. We were working topside replacing the start capacitor. It wasn't easy for an old man with a sore back to crawl on the bed and reach over my head to reconnect the drain, but with much complaining and swearing I got it done. Everyone knows I hate plumbing and usually make things worse. After stripping the bed and being relieved the mattress was not wet, we put things together and Ruth went night night. Today was moving day. I was lucky enough to get a break in the rain while I purged the tanks and unhooked utilities. However, hooking up the Burb was a bit more challenging. Today I discovered if you are not on level ground it's much more difficult to hook up. With that accomplished, off we went. A quick look in the rear monitor and I realized the left bar did not latch. Of course I stopped on a hill and it took three tries to get it latched. Note: steering sharply towards the unlatched side and pulling straight forward seems to be the trick. At last we were off to Orange City CG just outside Daytona. It rained buckets most of the way. Thank goodness I found the proper wiper blades on Amazon and installed them before we left NH. I pulled Gracie into her spot and waited for a break in the rain before I hooked up the utilities. Now we just sit tight stay inside, and wait until tomorrow about noon for the rain to stop. This is the first CG that we were issued a cable box to watch TV. A new experience, but I quickly had the front TV going. Oh boy 2 remotes. Just what Ruthie needed! Melvin is still missing. I'm beginning to think he was left in NH. It's just not the same without him. I guess Oscar will have to be a surrogate for this trip.

11-24-14 In just a week we have gone from electric blankets and furnace heat to just sheets and AC. Today's temp was 79 and a bit humid. Sure glad Joey helped me repair the rear unit this summer. About noon today we went back into St. Augustine. What a lovely city! It's well laid out, clean, and full of things to do and places to see. We took a leisure stroll through the market. Interesting shops and loads of eateries. When we returned to Gracie we took a few minutes to clean things up and then walked the short distance to the beach. With chairs in place we took a long walk. Upon our return we sat down and enjoyed the sights and sounds for an hour. Sooo relaxing! Tomorrow is moving day. In just 59 miles we will arrive in Orange City, our home for the next 5 days. After months of anticipation, the Turkey Run is only 2 days away. For those who are not car nuts, it's a gathering of nearly 4000 antique cars and trucks and a swap meet that supposedly rivals Hershey.

11-23-14 Now we have a mystery on our hands. I went to retrieve Melvin from the closet and he was missing. Either I can't remember where I put him or he's on the lamb. Daylight was wasting and t-storms threatened, so we left without him. If he isn't found tonight, I'll by several milk cartons tomorrow and put his picture on them. Anybody know John Walsh's cell phone number? First stop was The Fountain of Youth. The rain held off and we had a long relaxing stroll through this wonderful attraction. It had something for everyone. Even Oscar was allowed in! Many park employees were dressed in period costume, large trees a bunch, peacocks roaming free, and they even had a cannon fire demonstration. As we left the park we drove down a street that had a full canopy of Sprawling trees. Then we took a leisure drive into old St. Augustine. Wonderful old and stately homes surrounded by mature shrubs and trees of various varieties. Before we headed back we also found the light house. You know I'm crazy about them. This one is now surrounded by newer homes and a school. I imagine there was very little on the island when the lighthouse was built. In spite of that, I managed a couple good shots. After a stop at the hardware store and super market we found our way back to Gracie. Another great day of retirement. Oh, no worries, the shower head cleaned up fine and works better than ever. The hardware stop was to buy some coat hooks. We didn't have one in Gracie. I don't care if the woodwork is solid cherry, I needed a place to hang my hat!

We are now in the Bryn Mawr CG in St. Augustine FL. Current temp is 68! We are right on the beach. We only need to walk 150 yards to put our feet in the water. The drive today was a piece of cake. Interstate all the way and it was level and straight with the exception of the Jacksonville bridge. Of course there were a few road idiots, but my reaction time is getting much better. It's going to rain hard tonight but there are many things to see here. I do intend to give the fountain of youth a go before we leave, provided I remember. Is there a fountain of memory? I think I'd rather take a dip in that. I'm looking forward to burgers on the Barbie tomorrow followed by a walk on the beach. Today we had running water and all worked except the shower ;/&$@)?'n. My first thought was something froze even though I cleared every line with air. After several attempts hoping it would fix itself, I gave up packed up and hit the road. Lots of time to think about it. When we were done setting up here I gave it one more try without success. Then I removed the shower head an presto water! It seems that any dirt in the lines ended up in the shower head. Easy fix, if I can't clean it a quick trip to the Depot will solve it. I think Melvin wants to come out of the closet tomorrow. Stay tuned.

FL11-21-14 Today was a Lazy day. We decided to just stay put and relax. We're at Jolly Acres CG in St George SC. There are several full timers here, so I asked what the rates were out of curiosity. Monthly rate is $325 plus metered electric. Storage is only $65 per month. Yes it's outdoors but so much cheaper than NH rates. I spent some time on the iPad while Ruth slept in. We both needed to catch up. About noon we freed up the Burb and headed to town for lunch and some groceries. I hate it when I don't have bananas for breakfast. This is a small town and looks a bit rundown. But It does have a flying J truck stop complete with Denny's. On our way back to the CG I commented about all the litter on the road side and then Ruth identified it as cotton! Must be harvest season as we soon saw two pickers. When we returned I spent some time talking with our neighbors Steve and Bonnie. They were a wealth of information, so I took advantage and asked about everything from What do you do with your mail to how do they keep data charges down on cell phone bills. Note to self, turn off the hot spot when not in use. I don't need to check mail every 10 minutes or get frequent updates from Facebook. I also found some of there favorite spots after 5+ years on the road. I. Can't wait to try a few places they mentioned. San Antonio is high on the list. After breakfast in the AM its off to St. Augustine FL for a couple days. Perhaps I'll have a few photo opportunities for Melvin. He's still in the cupboard. Ruth and I decided to splurge and get a site right on the beach. Now we'll have to set the alarm to see a sunrise. Hope it's worth it.

11-18-2014 Up at 7am and off to breakfast. When I got into Gracie the inside temp was 29! I turned it off for the night as I don't know if the batteries would last. I'll test that at home where I have time to charge them. But, after breakfast it was up to 47. Warm enough to head out. After a mental struggle about the route we should take we decided on 66 to 17 to 95. With the foliage all gone, the sights were just ho hum. We did pass some large horse farms, but nothing really impressive. Once we got past Richmond the road was straight and flat. What an easy drive. Eagle eye Ruth spotted a huge RV dealership so we took the next exit to get propane. Much too my surprise it only took 20 gallons. The gauge was flickering on 1/4. We now know we can run the furnace around the clock for four days in temps below freezing. That's about 5 gallons per day. Tonight we are in Rocky Mount NC. Tomorrow is a down day. Maybe some local travel in the Toad waiting for this cold front to pass. Perhaps Melvin will get a new wardrobe. The only photo we took today did't turn out so good. Another boat on a flatbed. Also a wide load. But I saw thus on coming.

Today began with Dunkin Doughnuts coffee delivered by John Burd. Saw the twins for a good bye and hit the road. George (our GPS) took us over some interesting country roads. After purposing over hills and small bridges, I think I'll look into new shocks. Rt 22 was much better but full of 18 wheelers. We stopped in Carlisle PA for lunch with Bro-in-law and nephew. As we returned to Gracie, Bobby pointed out the Dash Hound ( see picture). Upon our return to 81 South we rounded a blind corner to see a disabled truck only halfway into the breakdown lane. Picking up speed for the ramp I squeezed by only to be crowded by another truck speeding past at 70 mph. The next 125 miles was nothing but trucks and 4 wheel idiots. As I was about to pass another on ramp, a car cuts me off forcing me to put one foot on the centerline just as a flatbed carrying a cabin cruiser and an OVERSIZED LOAD banner passed my by. I nearly had an oversized load myself. Close call. At the exit in Winchester VA, the sun was directly in our eyes and neither of us could even tell if the traffic light was green! Now in know how Helen Keller felt. I basic navigated by sound. It turned out OK, no horns or bent fenders. Did I mention we are on our way to Lazydays in Tampa for RV driving school? Perhaps I need more than a one day course and the 3000 miles of wheel time I have racked up. As we arrived in Winchester VA it was 29 degrees and going down. Are you kidding me? It was warmer than that when we left NH. We checked further South and it's cold all the way to Georgia. That's 2 more days before we can safely put water in the tank. Enough already, we're staying in a Best Western tonight.

11-17-14 Ruth and I had a great day. We started by having Coffee with Alicen. About 10AM Joley & John showed up. Joley told me she would take me to an Amish bakery to get the best shoe fly pie in the area. So we told Oscar to be a good boy and left him behind in Gracie. In just 45 minutes later we arrived to a CLOSED sign. What can you do but get over it. It did flash me back to our last trip when we bought lemon filled doughnuts that turned out to have no lemon when we returned to the CG. Anyway we decided on lunch at Cracker Barrel and while there discovered they rent books on CD that you can pick up at one location and return to any other. We're stopping tomorrow to pick up our first book. Next we went to Joley & John's house since we had never seen it. They gave us the tour then left us alone for about 30 minutes while they ran some errands. In that short time we managed to break their coffee maker. Opps! So we returned to Alicen's and unhooked the toad so we could get turned around to exit their long driveway in the morning. Another Opps, did I do that? My spotters were carefully watching tree clearance and other obstructions while I backed off the driveway and made some super sized ruts in the yard. Stew will hate me come spring. We ended our evening with yummy supper and lot's of baby time. Buy the way, Oscar did fine. No unpleasant piles or destruction. See photo we took upon our return. Tonight we test the furnace again. Forecast is for a low of 21! Tomorrow we take off in search of our own pie and depending on weather, a stop at Bobby's or head further South. DC area here we come.