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Castle3

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Blog Entries posted by Castle3

  1. Castle3

    Driver confidence day

    By Castle3,

    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.
  2. Castle3

    Do nothing day ?

    By Castle3,

    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
  3. Castle3

    Arrived in Tampa

    By Castle3,

    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.
  4. Castle3

    Daytona Turkey Run

    By Castle3,

    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.
  5. Castle3
    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.
  6. Castle3

    Waterbed! Really?

    By Castle3,

    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.
  7. Castle3

    Lovely St. Augustine

    By Castle3,

    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.
  8. Castle3

    Melvin's gone missing!

    By Castle3,

    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!
  9. Castle3
    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.
  10. Castle3
    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. Castle3
    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.
  12. Castle3
    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.
  13. Castle3

    Oscar left home alone.

    By Castle3,

    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.
  14. Castle3

    Stew at Stew & Alicen's

    By Castle3,

    11-16-14
    We woke up today at about 7. Great nights sleep in a Walmart parking lot. Quite pleased with the furnace, 28 degrees outside and 70 inside. I did drain all systems before leaving sticks and bricks.
    In the daylight we saw a McDonald's, so Ruth headed in for 2 coffees and 2 egg McMuffins. Coffee was average and muffins sucked. Even Oscar would not eat them. Since nothing was set up last night, we put away a few things and hit the road.
    When you see a construction sign that reads "Vehicles over 8' 6", get ready for some squeezes that will cause constipation. At 50 mph you really need to stay focused.
    We arrived at our niece's about 4 to find the turn around at the end of a quarter mile one lane drive would be difficult for a lawn tractor! Tomorrow we get to unhook the toad and back in, then retook. Guess when I ask that question I should explain that if a tractor trailer can't make it, neither can we. I have attached a photo of one of the pleasures of retirement. Great to travel and see friends and family.
    After a great meal I requested the use of Alicen's shower. Remember we are dry camping until we get to a warmer climate. After a few hours of catching up, we retired to Gracie, a turn on the electric blanket. No generator tonight, shore power available.
    Tomorrow is just more visiting and getting to know the twins better.
  15. Castle3
    We are headed for warmer weather in FL. Our dog Oscar is going on a trip with us for the 1st time. He's a bit restless but otherwise he did fine on the first leg. We stopped in Danbury CT for our first overnight at a Walmart. Sub shop was walking distance so supper was easy. Stopped in Walmart to make sure it was OK to stay. 30 outside but comfortable 70 inside. Furnace works great.
    Ruth says my driving has improved
    Last week I moved the TV to the curb side behind front seat. Now we can watch from the sofa (soon to be dual recliners) without getting sore necks. Took some work to re-route wires and get surround sound speakers configured properly, but we're very pleased.
    Note to self. Tank gets water and algae when it sits for 4 months. ATC light blinking again, fuel filters get changed in the morning. Otherwise all systems are go.
    No pics today. It was all drive time.
  16. Castle3
    6-25-14
    Our trip down from Bar Harbor to Wells included getting struck in a Denny's parking lot. We missed the first entrance and should have passed by the second. Not enough room to turn around without backing up. That meant unhooking disabled Lucy and pushing her uphill to a parking space so we could turn around. Oh well, we had a good breakfast, hooked up Lucy and continued on.
    One piece of advise, if you think taking Rt 1 will be a scenic coastal drive, forgot it unless you plan on several 10 or 15 mile side trips.
    Today is our last day. It's been one go our best vacations ever. We arrived in Wells ME 2days ago and spent it all just relaxing. Our site at the Sea View campground is surrounded by shade trees and Ruth's cousin Ellie and her daughter Judy and her husband Dan are next door.
    Since being here we discovered the best part of camping, sharing it with family or friends. Our meals have been a joint effort including clean up. Last night we sat by the campfire until 11:30, just gabbing away the time.
    Yep, we've had our challenges but understand we are rookies at this. However, we'll soon be street smart and hopefully not repeat most of the bad ones.
    I have figured out I can handle the retired life and look forward to it. Wonder if I can handle work when we get back.
    Certainly we'll take a few shorter trips before winter sets in. And those will include our dog Oscar who we decided to leave with my daughter Jenn's family this time. I'm sure he had a great vacation too.
  17. Castle3
    6-22-14
    Today was just too nice to sit around. Ruth an I put a few more miles on the rental car by traveling to Owls Head, with a few stops on the way. Our first surprise was crossing the Penobscot Narrows Bridge near Fort Knox. It's amazing how something man made can still give you a scenic moment.
    We continued on through Belfast and then saw signs for a State park in Camdon. After paying the old folks fee of $3 dollars we scouted out the campground, used the cleanest public restrooms I've seen on this trip, and drove to the summit of Mt. Hattie elevation 780 feet. Height helps, but location is everything.
    Melvin had a perfect view of Camdon bay, Rockport, a bit of Rockland and many islands.
    After that we went in search of the transportation museum in Owls Head. The Hertz GPS took us to a house on Main Street. Just before we turned around Ruth spotted a sign for a lighthouse. One of our many weaknesses as they are impossible for us to pass by.
    We arrived at another state park in about 2 miles, parked the car and walked about 1/4 mile to the site. As we approached 53 steps stood in front of us. Walking sticks in hand up we went. This one was open so we climbed the spiral staircase and the 5 rung steel ladder to the lamp itself. A super view and it was manned by a volunteer that was a wealth of knowledge about both the lighthouse and the surrounding communities.
    While standing there we also saw a 3 master named American Eagle, run aground out in the bay. Lucky for them the tide was coming in. They floated back off about an hour later.
    Our trip back to camp was uneventful. Tomorrow we brake camp and head for Wells ME, our last stop on this journey.
  18. Castle3

    Melvin meets a mate

    By Castle3,

    6-21-14
    Today was another low key day. I could get use to this FAST. I started out by putting away a few things that I bought yesterday. A filter wrench, some oil and 4 more small propane tanks. Those buggers are only good for 3 meals. Then I did my pre trip checks, engine and generator fluids. And, to my surprise the grey tank was full again. Guess we are water hogs! Ruth and I discussed it and decided we're not changing, except for no more sites that don't have full hookups unless we're only in for the night. This time I was too cheep to pay for the honey wagon since black tank was at lest than 1/4. So we closed up, unhooked and did it ourselves. Less than 30 minutes total.
    As a reward we treated ourselves to ice cream at the local stand. Vanilla cherry for himself and black raspberry for herself.
    We then came back and gave Melvin a quick change so he would look good at his next photo shoot. Off to play 18 holes of miniature golf. After the first 2 holes we decided it was best it no score was recorded and we just enjoyed the surroundings and had fun.
    Chicken on the BBQ with green beans and baked potato for supper. Seems like I'm eating healthier. Might even loose a couple pounds.
    Tomorrow we are taking a day trip to Rockland an Owl's Head.
  19. Castle3
    Melvin has a lazy day.
    Today was a no events planned day. We started off by sleeping in and then had BBQ bacon and blueberry pancakes. Then we ventured into Ellsworth, did some grocery shopping, Ruth got a hair cut and I hung out at the auto parts stores. Before we knew it the day was nearly gone.
    But, we couldn't resist another drive. This time we searched out the light house in Bass Harbor. It's a steep descent to it from the parking lot and tough to get a good photo so we spent our time looking at the harbor and several islands out to sea.
    Then we continued onto Sea Wall campground in the national park. It was very rustic with no full hookups. We did spot a couple public water stations and 2 dump sites. No electric either, so plan on just a few days on dry camping. I think I'd like to give it a go next time just to enjoy the peace and quiet.
    Tonight we'll spend some time planing tomorrow's adventure.
  20. Castle3
    Woke up well rested today to 70 degree weather and blue skies. After morning coffee, Ruth choose to hit the laundry mat. Yes we have a combo washer dryer on board, but this way she says it's done in 1 hour.
    That gave me some time to tinker, so I attached the tie downs to the awning and figured how to put the sunscreen over the windshield. The hardest part was figuring out the folding ladder. All done just as Ruth returned.
    We packed the car and took off for Acadia National park. ( less than 10 miles away).
    The first order of business was straight for Cadillac mountain. We hit the summit just about noon. That ment you could take in the full 360 view without being blinded. Don't know for sure, but I'd guess we could see at leat 100 miles. Don't miss this one on your bucket list!
    I made sure Melvin had a picture to mark the occasion.
    Next we followed the park road until we came upon Jordon pond. More like a large lake. To our surprise we spotted a restaurant from the parking lot. It was lunch time so in we went. Famous for their homemade Popovers and tea. The menu was a bit granola, but we both found something. My BLTT turkey and tomato was fine once I separated it from the 5 grain bread. One bite of the salad was plenty. The dressing reminded me of oxen sweat! Ruth had a buffalo meatloaf and the same salad. She was enjoying both until I made the comment about the dressing. Too bad, you know I always say what I'm thinking.
    Since lunch was over we set out to find the Thunder hole on the beach. We took a few wrong turns, but made it about an hour before high tide. Not much action from the hole, however hearing the waves brake on the watch was good enough.
    For supper I decided it was time for a filet. I had checked out the menu at the log house restaurant earlier so that's where we went. Great filet and Ruth love her stuffed haddock. We finished off with Baileys on the rocks then returned to camp.
    Pretty much a perfect day.
  21. Castle3
    6-18-14
    Melvin
    At 6 AM I woke up to pouring rain. With visions of being stuck on this hilltop due to wash outs, I asked Ruth to get us ready to go. First time I got stuck prepping the outside in a downpour. Frankly that sucked.
    So, down the mountain we went. First gear only, frequent braking, and dodging trees that were drooping from hard rain weighting them down. What a relief to see that last turn. Water was running the ditches full and spilling onto the gravel one lane road.
    Next another ferry ride. No other way to leave the island.
    After an hour and a half of hard rain and at times dense fog, the US boarder came into sight. We had to privilege of an on board inspection. After they finished a walk through and looking in a few cabinets, they explained they thought another person was on board. Turns out the mirror near the dinning table fooled them. On well, no harm. The were at least polite and possessed a personality.
    On to Bar Harbor, only another 100 miles. Little did we know it included 49 miles of Rt. 149. Perhaps the worst road in New England! What a shakedown cruise for Grace.
    Upon our arrival at our campsite in Bar Harbor, we discovered just how bad it was. When we unleashed Lucy and tried to start her, bad noises came from the engine room. Somehow, Lucy had jumped into gear and after 40 plus miles the engine gave up. I pulled the dip stick and to oil smelled burned. Got a really bad feeling about this one.
    Even so we can't let it ruin 5 days in Arcadia national park. A phone call to Hertz and 16 numbers got us a rental. When I got back with the car, Ruth still had a long face. Found out no hot water&@$;/!? That turned out to be just a switch turned off. Whew, time for acouple Mike's ice I brought back with me.
    Out to supper at Mainely Meat. Great pulled pork. Followed by a stroll on the boardwalk and a beautiful sunset. Time to tuck in for today.
  22. Castle3

    Melvin fixes Grace

    By Castle3,

    6-15-14
    Now that we've be traveling for two weeks, it was time to name our Monaco Windsor coach. Melvin decide on Grace after Princess Grace of Monaco. What else? After all the plate reads Castle3 !
    Sunday (Father's Day ) was a total rain out. Ruth began our day by making blueberry pancakes for breakfast. The rest of our day was spent relaxing and watching movies.
    6-16-14
    We woke up to rain again. But it was a travel day, so we broke camp and headed out. Just after the causeway leaving Cape Bretton, we stopped for a rest and a bit of shopping. Upon our departure Grace began throwing a fit! Every time she started up a hill it sounded like the transmission was being dropped out on the road. The dash also started lighting up. ATC automatic traction control.
    After cursing her out several times I decided we had little choice but to continue to our. Campsite in Truro. As we checked in the desk clerk told us not to worry as her husband Winston new a few things about motorhomes. By the time I had power hooked up he arrived at our site.
    After we talked a bit he crawled under Grace and checked the tranny fluid. Just on the low mark so we added a couple quarts. No good. Winston went to the office and called the next big town on our way Moncton, to find a repair shop. He returned with a phone number I could call in the morning.
    I paid him for the fluid, but he refused anything for himself. We shook hands and he wished me "good travels"
    Now I'm thinking tow truck if I don't make it, $5000 for a tranny and 3 days in Moncton.
    Could you sleep? I took a short nap due to exhaustion, then stayed up till midnight surfing the web for an answer. Voila! After hours of reading blogs I found the answer. Clogged fuel filters. My good fortune, Marshal the previous owner left a pair on board.
    6-17-14
    At 8 AM I was on a mission. **** they were too tight to remove without a filter wrench. Back to the office to get Winston's help. He finished his breakfast, I had interrupted an was at the coach in 30 minutes with wrench in hand. 20 minutes later we broke camp, said goodbye to my new friend Wilson, crossed our fingers and anticipated slow painful ride to Moncton. By the time we got to speed on the back road Winston had suggested, things were looking better. Grace was driving like a new coach. After 30 miles we hit the highway to Moncton .
    Ruth spotted a Tim Horton's just as we entered town. Not only was there a truck dealer 2 blocks away, the place beside Horton's was doing truck washes. We decided to give Gracey a bath and then go get the spare filters. Life is good now.
    On to St. John NB.
    I set the GPS for tonight's campsite and off we went. Not much scenery top look at, but the road was smooth and the traffic was light. Then the GPS instructed me that in 2 miles I should go straight onto the ferry. WHAT !!
    Sure enough I rounded the corner and there it was waiting for us. Who in the **** picked this campsite? I wasn't sure they would let Grace on, let alone towing Lucy. As I approached I kept waiting for the crew member to wave me off, all the while I was planing my escape route without needed to back up. When he waved me aboard my sphincter tightened up like wet rawhide in the desert heat. The middle lane was no more than 2 inches wider than Grace and one side was already parked. Don't know how I did it without hitting someone. I had just 10 minutes to calm down and it was time to abandon ship. Whew, made it off without incident.
    Next the GPS sent me down 18 miles of the two lane road from ****. Switchback curves, narrow lanes and several places had washed out shoulders. I don't think Ruth opened her eyes the whole time. Except for about halfway there when she insisted I pull into a church parking lot and spend the night. Too late, I was already past the driveway. As the GPS told us we had arrived, we were sitting in front of another ferry ramp. Guess how we 're leaving tomorrow?
    Once we checked in our site guide ask if we wanted by the river or hilltop. Stupid me said hilltop. What a ride. I thought my driveway was steep. It was a 2 mile trip up a bumpy dirt road to the top of a mountain overlooking the river. Again major sphincter issues,
    OK, that should do it for RV boot camp. I think we have had one of everything now.
    Early to bed tonight and off to Bar Harbor for a 4 a 6 day rest. Perhaps by the time we leave my constipation will have resolved itself.
  23. Castle3

    Melvin fixes Grace

    By Castle3,

    6-15-14
    Now that we've be traveling for two weeks, it was time to name our Monaco Windsor coach. Melvin decide on Grace after Princess Grace of Monaco. What else? After all the plate reads Castle3 !
    Sunday (Father's Day ) was a total rain out. Ruth began our day by making blueberry pancakes for breakfast. The rest of our day was spent relaxing and watching movies.
    6-16-14
    We woke up to rain again. But it was a travel day, so we broke camp and headed out. Just after the causeway leaving Cape Bretton, we stopped for a rest and a bit of shopping. Upon our departure Grace began throwing a fit! Every time she started up a hill it sounded like the transmission was being dropped out on the road. The dash also started lighting up. ATC automatic traction control.
    After cursing her out several times I decided we had little choice but to continue to our. Campsite in Truro. As we checked in the desk clerk told us not to worry as her husband Winston new a few things about motorhomes. By the time I had power hooked up he arrived at our site.
    After we talked a bit he crawled under Grace and checked the tranny fluid. Just on the low mark so we added a couple quarts. No good. Winston went to the office and called the next big town on our way Moncton, to find a repair shop. He returned with a phone number I could call in the morning.
    I paid him for the fluid, but he refused anything for himself. We shook hands and he wished me "good travels"
    Now I'm thinking tow truck if I don't make it, $5000 for a tranny and 3 days in Moncton.
    Could you sleep? I took a short nap due to exhaustion, then stayed up till midnight surfing the web for an answer. Voila! After hours of reading blogs I found the answer. Clogged fuel filters. My good fortune, Marshal the previous owner left a pair on board.
    6-17-14
    At 8 AM I was on a mission. **** they were too tight to remove without a filter wrench. Back to the office to get Winston's help. He finished his breakfast, I had interrupted an was at the coach in 30 minutes with wrench in hand. 20 minutes later we broke camp, said goodbye to my new friend Wilson, crossed our fingers and anticipated slow painful ride to Moncton. By the time we got to speed on the back road Winston had suggested, things were looking better. Grace was driving like a new coach. After 30 miles we hit the highway to Moncton .
    Ruth spotted a Tim Horton's just as we entered town. Not only was there a truck dealer 2 blocks away, the place beside Horton's was doing truck washes. We decided to give Gracey a bath and then go get the spare filters. Life is good now.
    On to St. John NB.
    I set the GPS for tonight's campsite and off we went. Not much scenery top look at, but the road was smooth and the traffic was light. Then the GPS instructed me that in 2 miles I should go straight onto the ferry. WHAT !!
    Sure enough I rounded the corner and there it was waiting for us. Who in the **** picked this campsite? I wasn't sure they would let Grace on, let alone towing Lucy. As I approached I kept waiting for the crew member to wave me off, all the while I was planing my escape route without needed to back up. When he waved me aboard my sphincter tightened up like wet rawhide in the desert heat. The middle lane was no more than 2 inches wider than Grace and one side was already parked. Don't know how I did it without hitting someone. I had just 10 minutes to calm down and it was time to abandon ship. Whew, made it off without incident.
    Next the GPS sent me down 18 miles of the two lane road from ****. Switchback curves, narrow lanes and several places had washed out shoulders. I don't think Ruth opened her eyes the whole time. Except for about halfway there when she insisted I pull into a church parking lot and spend the night. Too late, I was already past the driveway. As the GPS told us we had arrived, we were sitting in front of another ferry ramp. Guess how we 're leaving tomorrow?
    Once we checked in our site guide ask if we wanted by the river or hilltop. Stupid me said hilltop. What a ride. I thought my driveway was steep. It was a 2 mile trip up a bumpy dirt road to the top of a mountain overlooking the river. Again major sphincter issues,
    OK, that should do it for RV boot camp. I think we have had one of everything now.
    Early to bed tonight and off to Bar Harbor for a 4 a 6 day rest. Perhaps by the time we leave my constipation will have resolved itself.
  24. Castle3

    Melvin goes to sea

    By Castle3,

    6-14-14
    We were up early today and off in Lucy by 8:30. The weather on the web had forecasted a cold rainy day, but as we woke there were patches of blue sky. So we took a chance and drove to Englishtown so we could take a boat ride to Bird island. Sometimes we just make really good choices. Within 10 minutes of leaving the pier, we spotted an eagle. Then the first mate threw a fish into the water. Almost at once the eagle swooped down and grabbed the fish. GREAT photos of that and about 5 more before our excursion ended.
    As we approached the island we were shown photos of all the birds to help us identify them as we went buy. Puffins are much smaller than I thought (about the size of a pigeon, but with very short wings). The puffins were also rather sparse, we only spotted about a dozen. However, many other birds kept the cruise interesting. After seeing a few seals we turned back to the dock. What a fun morning. Don't miss this if you come to Cape Breton!
    As we drove back to Baddeck the rain began and it appeared our day was over. After we stopped for a cup of coffee, the rain stopped and we quickly decided to take in The Highlands.
    On our way we came to a stop sign and were looking straight into a small ferry. For $5.25 we loaded up and crossed all of 300 feet. Guess it was Cheaper than building a bridge. Once we entered the Highlands and paid our $11 admission fee, the next 2 hours was like being part of history. All buildings were either period accurate reproductions or originals moved to this location. The staff spoke and dressed for their time period ranging from 1810 to perhaps 1900.
    This is another must see if you make it to Cape Breton! Photo opportunities are plentiful and unspoiled by anything modern.
    At 5 PM the rain ended our day of site seeing. Since using the barby was not an option we went to the red barn restaurant for supper. Each of us had a very good meal that finished with a slab of lemon pie.
    Forecast for tomorrow is pouring rain. Guess we'll be staying in.
  25. Castle3
    6-13-14
    The only exciting thing that happened yesterday was paying over $5 a gallon for fuel as we drove from Halifax to Baddeck.
    Today we ventured out to the Alexander Gram Bell museum. I. Learned enough trivia to win Jepordy. However,I was disappointed by the meager display of inventions and prototypes. I had also anticipated taking a tour of his home here, but that is privately owned by a Bell descendant and not open to the public. Oh well, the view of lake Bras d-Or, was quite pleasing to the eye. A small light house in the distance made it even better.
    As we left the museum, Ruth stumbled upon a yarn store. Since she was driving we were up the hill and in the parking lot before I even knew why she had turned. After she was able to touch every skein twice, I managed to get her out the door with only a small bag.
    Our next stop was the information building where we found that the puffins were in residence on a small island near here. Tomorrow we'll be taking a boat ride out to see them. Hope to get some good pics. We also found out there is a village nearby that goes back in time. It's called the highlands and the staff is in period character. Guess we'll try that Sunday as the weather should nice.
    Next we stopped at the local Grocery store to pick up a few things and then to the liquor store for some Baileys.
    Upon our return to the camp ground, we spotted a bald eagle soaring just a hundred or so feet above us. No picture, I was too busy watching.
    Hot dogs and beans finished off our day. We could be sorry while on the boat tomorrow. Ruth will continue her quest for the answer to: What Does a Scotsman wear under his kilt?
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