November 30, 2018 Fender's River Road RV Resort, Needles CA

We are on the way to Arizona.  Finally back on the road.  We are in Needles tonight and already missing our place in Coarsegold.   We had good luck this morning as we were able to load the bike while it wasn't raining. It was however quite cold.
Was up at 6:30 and we were on the road at 8:13.  We travelled 413 miles and arrived in Needles about 4:30.  We got here at set up before dark.  It was very windy coming across the desert we took Hwy 41 from Coarsegold to 99 in Fresno.  Then we took Hwy 40/15 to Needles.  We stopped at several rest stops along the way.  We had some rain across the Tachipai mountains.
Sophie did her normal freak put when we arrived and refused to come out of the truck.
We barely unpacked and will be quickly be on our way again in the morning.   Dinner Dishes and TV.

November 29, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Our last day at Park Sierra and it was a rainy one.  Steve got me up at the crack of dawn (7) am to help him put the Terex on the trailer.  It wasn't raining but it was cold and damp. It took us less than an hour.  By eight I had breakfast in the oven. We had left over french toast bake.
I then gathered up all the clothes for the laundry.  Trooped down to the laundry with all the dirty clothes.  5 more loads of clothes.  Of course I changed the sheets so I had to wash the old ones.  Done by 12:30 the laundry.
Then lunch.  We kicked back the rest of the afternoon watching TV and dragging the dogs out for potty attempts.  Fed the dogs, made our dinner and did the dishes.  More walking the dogs this time it wasn't pouring down rain.  Hazel finally decided she couldn't hold it any longer.  Sophie his acting really weird.   She won't stay on the bed for our nightly camp out.  Right now she is on the floor occasionally making noises so I know she is there.
I have mixed feelings about leaving Park Sierra this time. I am excited about going to Arizona but I am sad to leave our friends here in Coarsegold.  I am excited about becoming involved in our little community here.  I hope we have as much fun in our place in AZ!

November 28, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

One more day and we will be back on the road to sunny Arizona.   Here it is  cold and rainy.  Got up just after Steve left for work. Dressed the dogs and myself for wet weather once that was done we hurried back to the rig for breakfast.  Steve was back by 9 or 9:30 as the rain prevented the maintenance crew from getting much done. 
Did my morning chores and decided to make the hamburger strognanoff for dinner.  Once that was done  we decided to hop in the car and head over to our lunch date with the Russell's. We ate at the wild Fig in Coarsegold.   It was very good and as yuppie as it was the food was very good and even Steve approved.  We were there about an hour and a half.  Then we got gas at the casino.  After that we headed to the meat counter at Hillside Market in Yosemite Lake Park or YLP as the locals call it.   Picked up a propane bottle at the filling station.  Steve dropped me and the dogs off and we walked home in a steady drizzle.   I finally finished the latest James Patterson Alex Cross book.  I found it hard to follow there was so many things going on.  I guess there will be another book since there was a cliff hanger at the end.  It was a hard book to get through. 
Dinner and dishes and TV for the rest of the night. 
Just a side note on day three of the week I have over 10 thousand points in words!

November 27, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Great news arrived today.  Jim won't do any jail time--just time served.. 5 years probation.   Best news ever. I half to admit I cried when I read the text.  Got up late this morning but I didn't get to sleep until well after 1 a.m..   walked the dogs ate breakfast and changed the bed sheets. Steve popped in to give me the good news.i walked the dogs down to the dog park and ran into Steve at the clubhouse.  Actually he was on the roof of the clubhouse. 
Then we went to the poke barn and the propane filling station.  We had lunch and then picked up the back end.  Steve tried to put the motorcycle in the back but it wasn't far enough from the back to allow him to safely do it. 
We then packaged the return turret and loaded it into the back of the truck and high tailed it to Oakhurst.  We dropped it on at the FedEx shop center and then we were off to True Value and lastly Von's. 
On the way back we stopped at the Chevron station and picked up Chester's  chicken for dinner.  First and last time.
Reading and TV for the rest of the night.

November 26, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Steve was up and out the door by 6:30 to take the truck into Madera for service. Or that was the plan. He was home by 1030 so he must have got in and out right away.  I on the other  hand got up leisurely.  I got dressed right away and took the puppies for a walk.  We walked a long ways and finally Hazel got the urge and pooped a nugget out.  Hooray!  A little further down the road she did more. 
Once Steve got home he grabbed his tools and the turret and went to work to install the thing on the roof.  Thank God there were no mishaps.  He pulled the tools up in a bucket with a rope.  Then we tried a rope to the turret and levered it up on a rope as well.  In about an hour he had the thing up and working.   He really is an amazing man despite his faults. 
Once we had it up I made lunch.   I had several calls to make. Winegard forgot to include a return shipping label.  They will email one hopefully by tomorrow which we then print and attach to the package and drop off at the FedEx shop center. 
While Steve was on the roof he clipped some branches off so I gathered them up and put them in the Teryx.  So we took a little ride down to the creek to dispose of them  we stopped by Russell's so we could set up a meal date with them. 
Then we stopped by the pole barn to talk to Kent.  At the propane filling station Steve picked up a tank and I got out to walk the dogs.  Soon Hazel delivered a huge poop.  Sophie too. 
Steve smoked and cooked some chicken thighs on the BBQ.  His best ever.  Yummy.
Dishes and TV and a shower complete the evening. 
Tomorrow is Jim's court date.  We will pray that things go well for him and Becky.   He is such a great guy.  Please let everything go well for him Lord.

November 25, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

I  got up leisurely this morning as I was dreading lifting the new  microwave into the prepared hole.  Had breakfast and made the bed.  Ate breakfast finally it was time to do the deed.  Steve of course was chomping at the bit.  But things went smoothly and in under a half hour it was done. 
We cleaned up the mess and eventually I walked the dogs hoping Hazel would poop but no luck on that end.  As soon as she does life will be good. 
We ate lunch and hung out at the house waiting for ice cream time.  It is actually getting old as the only serve strawberry, chocolate and vanilla.   Oh and butter pecan.
We had a knock on the door .  It was a neighbor who found the missing package from Weingard which had been delivered to site 317.  A typo I am guessing.   Anyway what was lost is now found.  Now Steve is all excited to get up on the roof to get that reinstalled.  Hope the install goes well as he anticipates. 
Then another walk around the block but still  no poop from Hazel. 
Then dinner prep and dishes.  Just waiting now to hear how Jim's court goes on Tuesday.   Fingers crossed  all goes well there. 

November 24, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

All last night I wondered what I was going to do today.  Steve went to bed in a snit about our little spat.  Of course he was really upset about the package we didn't get from Fedex.  Then I got up. Steve was already out on the couch. I decided to warm up Hazel's food.  I opened the microwave door and it died.  We made sure that it was the microwave and not the outlet.  We talked about whether we should turn it into the extended warranty people but by the time we paid the $100 deductible and waited for the appointment to get it replaced it would just be easier to get a new one.  So we packed up our marbles and drove down to the jungle in Fresno 2 days after black Friday.   And it was a zoo! We went directly to Lowes.  Found a microwave but had to wait in line for assistance.   Steve's patience was wearing quite thin.  Finally we loaded up the cart with the microwave and shelving and headed to cashier who he just about killed as the price came up wrong $20 more than we were quoted.
Finally we loaded up our purchases and got out of dodge as fast as we could.  It was much cooler here than in Fresno.   It was also drizzling in Coarsegold.   It was about 1:45 PM so we decided to have lunch at the Mexican place in Coarsegold . Much better food than El Cid in Oakhurst.  We could not eat all the food.  A quick stop at the market for creamer then we headed home.
Of course the minute we arrived it was out with the old and in the new.  We have the hole where it goes but we are waiting until tomorrow to put in the new one when we are fresh.
Shower and TV for me. 
Hazel is getting back to normal though she hasn't pooped  which is concerning but then she hasn't eaten much either. 
She has peed often. She is still  a little groggy.  She wants to sleep covered up all the time.

November 23, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Steve had a hard day today.  We got up really  early today to get Hazel to the vet for her teeth cleaning.  Steve was on edge because it cost a lot of money for someone that once again was not important to him.. he didn't bat an eye when he was going to spend the same amount of money on a cover for the Terex. 
Once we delivered Hazel to the vet and they did the induction we went for Breakfast at Pete's  in Oakhurst.   It was pretty good.  Then a quick stop at Von's for some groceries. 
Back to the rig.  Sophie was lost without Hazel.  We sat around waiting for us to go pick up Hazel.  We did a few chores around the house but mostly it was a cold and dreary day.  Every time I turned around Steve was snoring on the sofa.  It was ridiculous. If he wasn't snoring he was stuffing food in his mouth.  Some diet he is on.   Around 2:30 we headed back to Oakhurst to pick up the dog.  About 3 Mike's south of Oakhurst there was an accident which delayed our trip about a half an hour.  When we got to the vet and before we got Hazel we were shown color pictures of the work they did on her teeth as well as X-rays of her entire mouth.  We left there and came back about 4:10. We were expecting a package with the new satellite turret.   When we tracked it it said they delivered it.  We called FedEx. We now have a case number.  What we don't have is a turret. They have until Tuesday to figure out what happened to it.  Most likely it was delivered to the wrong site.
So we grabbed the dinner things and ran down to the clubhouse for the social hour.  There were only 7 of us.  Fortunately we still had left overs from the Turkey dinner which Sue quickly warmed up.  And I got stuck with washing dishes.  Again.
I caught Steve sleeping again and me the mistake of calling him on it.  With all the other issues of the day it spiraled into a major argument.   He doesn't do well with gray rainy days anyway so he packed up his marbles and went to bed at 9 or a little before.  Life is tough I guess.
For me I watched TV in the bedroom til he wanted in. Now I am banished to  the sofa til I go to bed. I must admit that I found the day rather boring and depressing as well. 

November 22, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Happy Thanksgiving! I  got up around 7,breakfasted and morning chores.  Steve and I hung out at the house and watched football.  I had a 1 PM work schedule at the clubhouse.  It rained pretty good last night and a few showers today.  I did get out a couple of times to walk the dogs.  When I got to the kitchen to work there was about 15 minutes if work.  She dished up the butter for the tables and we washed the table with a clorex solution.   Then Steve came picked me up and another lady, Betty Prange. Back to the house.  I decided to make the first part of the Cranberry salad for the social hour tomorrow night.  Then we both took showers another walk for the dogs feeding time.  Then it was time to walk down to the clubhouse.  When we got there most of the tables were reserved for others. Guess we will have to go at three and get some spots reserved.  We sat with Jane Darrow and her husband and Patty and Ray Wiley and their daughter Laura. 
We were done with dinner which I might add was very  good.   Sue Evan's who must think I am an incompetent boob did a really great job. 
We walked back to the rig in the dark.  TV until bedtime.   Tomorrow Hazel gets her teeth cleaned.  Not looking forward to that but Hazel probably  isn't either. 

November 21, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

I got up with the alarm at 7 am.  I had to get my French Toast creation in my new pan in the oven as well  as warming the oven up . And I had to be down at the clubhouse to help prep at 10 a.m.  Of course it wasn't enough to have the french toast but for whatever reason we also had to have eggs.  After breakfast was over  Steve took me down to the Clubhouse and I started to work.  I helped with the cranberry relish and made the gravy with Sue Evan's.  At noon we broke for lunch.  I walked back to the rig .  Steve decided we needed to make our daily tour of the park.  Then a quick lunch and a return trip to the clubhouse to finish the prep work.  I was  scheduled from 1 to 3.  We were finished at 2. There was a guy there who was a guest.   He was making mashed potatoes. He did pretty good.  He was a janitor in another life so he volunteered to mop and he did a real good job cleaning up the large mixer.  I got stuck washing dishes again.  She said I might get to cut pie. 
I was tired when I finished so I called Steve to come and get me which he did.  Came back and relaxed on the couch.   I finally finished the book.  Look Alive Twenty-five.  If I had not read the last twenty four books I would not have read this one.  Really bad and somewhat boring.  Unbelievable.   The author needs to move the personal relationships along.
I ended up taking a nap then walking the dogs before it started  to rain.  It was sprinkling when I came back.  About an hour later it started in earnest. 
Fixed dinner and did the resulting dishes. 
Then TV and a cuddle with the dogs. Highlight of the day-the rain.

November 20, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

I got to sleep in this morning.  Steve was off to the salt mines around quarter to 8 and I got up shortly thereafter. Dressed and took the dogs out for their morning constitutional.   Once they did their part we headed back to the rig for treats and breakfast for me. Then I read and played words and read.  Did mt morning  chores . Steve came back to use the bathroom and take me back to the clubhouse for the monthly board meeting.   We left there about 11:30 after taking care of several housekeeping chores.  We got help getting on the Park Sierra website and forum.
Back to the rig for lunch and a short respite.  Then a short jaunt in the Terex to visit the Elys in spot 350.
Laundry was next on the agenda 5 loads of clothes.  Steve walked the dogs down on a poop run and I was able to take a break to have a short visit with them.  Finished the laundry and was finished by 3:30.
Back to the rig. I made the dip for the french toast bake.  And the topping to be put on just prior to baking. Then made all the preparations for the tacos we had.  Then dishes and TV.
Steve was a little miffed I think that I bought two towels.   He saw that I gave some to Nikki. We had too many I told him.  Which we did after I bought 2 new one.  He thought that was sneaky.  I was a little miffed that the only way I could get some new towels was to be sneaky.  I am changing the color scheme and adding some color to our living space.  It was kind I hard to tell him much when he threw a fit about the money I spent at Walmart.  Especially since he was upset about the satellite antenna and not having TV.

November 19, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Well not much took place today yet we seemed busy enough.  I got up early as I had really loose stool.. I tried going back to sleep but ended up really getting up about 6:30. We were out of milk so I made breakfast burritos  with just egg and cheese and Steve had oatmeal for breakfast.  After  breakfast I lazed around and read for while.  Then I did a touch of housework and made the bed.  I washed some dishes and finished putting some decor out.  Steve was home at 10:30 after he and Kent did some water valve work.
When Steve came back he put the filled propane tank on the trailer.  We then jumped in the truck and went to Oakhurst for an early lunch at Pete's.  Then a run thru Safeway for the necessities .  Stopped at the casino for gas and diesel.   Finally got our mailbox key from Yvette. 
Got back from lunch put the groceries away.  I did some recipe copying while Steve did some outside chores and chatted with the neighbors.  Steve taped the awning ends together so they won't come off which they are wont to do.
The we did our little tour of the park ending up at the dog park.  We saw Leah Gonzalez and stopped to chat with her. Then a stop at the dog park.  We saw several people there including our neighbors Ken and Kathy .  There older dog was pretty  vicious with all the dogs.
Back to the house for some coloring..  Dinner and dishes.  Then a partial movie and the finale of  Dancing with the Stars.
Sure do miss the Satellite TV.  Forced to watch commercials. 

November 18, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

We are finally back at Coarsegold in our site and will be for the next 12 days.  Then we head down to Arizona.
We were both anxious to leave Ponderosa so we were hitched up and on the road before 9 a.m. . it was rather chilly when we left.  It warmed up as we traveled south. One sad not there was a semi that went off the side if the road south of Turlock.  The trailer was lying off the side of the road.  Looks like the tractor twisted off as it went over.  We took the same route as normal but we tried getting off  at Robertson road.  That was a mistake. It was slightly shorter but the roads are rough and twisty so it was longer and harder on the truck and trailer.
We arrived about 1:30 and quickly set up the trailer. We then jumped in the terex to the ice cream social.  We came back and grabbed the dogs so that we could turn the propane bottle in at the filling station. Steve dropped me at the dog park so that the dogs could do their thing. And he could start watching football with his eyes closed.  I walked back to the trailer.
Unfortunately the satellite is still not working so we are watching cable TV.  So our viewing schedule is limited  as we cannot record programs. We are forced to watch commercials.  I keep reaching for the remote to fast forward but alas we cannot.
We ate a quick dinner of chimichangas Steve's favorite.  I doubt if I will buy any more as they have lost their charm for me as well.
After dinner we took the terex down to the clubhouse to listen to Gary Stowe sing the songs of Josh Groban.   It was a phenomenal performance.   He has an outstanding voice. I only recognized a couple of songs but he certainly has a wide range of singing abilities.   He sang for about an hour and a half with one shot break.  It was amazing.
Back to the rig for shower and TV.

November 17, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

Well we had a wonderful Christmas and Thanksgiving celebration at Stephanie's house.  We got up at the normal time and I made the bed while Steve took the dogs out for their constitutional.   Then Steve wanted sausage and eggs with his cinnamon roll.  Then I started getting things pulled together for the party.  We took off for Stephanie's about 11:30.  Everybody was there about noon.  Carmen Becky's friend came.  Nice lady.
Jim was there as well  as Forest.  We brought the tri tip roast as well as the 7 layer cookies.  Steve did the BBQing.  The roasts were wonderful.  Skye, Jim,  Jaime and I played rummy.  Jim beat me by 5 points. I never played that way before.  After we ate we did the gift exchange one gift at a time.  It was wonderful.   Best ever.
We took off about 3:30 and headed over to the outlets so that I  could get some new bras.  Then we stopped at Costco for gas.  Then back to the yellow house to see if Steve's pants came.  Used the potty.  Had to leave the bathroom door open otherwise the child proof door knobs would keep us locked in.
Finally back to the rig to have a snack for dinner, copy some recipes into the cookbook.  Hard boiled some eggs for egg salad sandwiches for tomorrow.   Heading back to Coarsegold tomorrow.
We are anxious to get back to our home base.  Entertainment tomorrow night at the clubhouse.   The satelite should be arriving on the 23rd.  Life should be back to normal soon. Fortunately they have cable at Coarsegold so we won't miss everything. 

November 16, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

Wow what a great say.  Went to Debbie Snodgrass's house to do some holiday baking.  We made our usual pan of cinnamon rolls.   Basically it was a morning to catch up on our busy lives.  Don't really care for Bill but he mostly stayed in his room.  Deb related things about her trip to Israel.   Very interesting country.  The situation with the Palestinians is interesting.   We made the rolls way too small and put them in too small of a pan.  But the sure tasted good.  I left there about 12:30.
Stopped at Safeway to pick up some last minute items for the party tomorrow.   Then back to the house.  We signed the car over to Nikki.  Bye bye car.  Oh well we are still able to drive it while we are here. 
We headed back to the trailer.   Fed the dogs then headed out to the Spaghetti factory for the Birthday celebration.   This time the food was good as always but the service was terribly slow.  It was good to see big Teddy and his girl friend Brandy.  We got back to the rig about nine.  Took a shower and washed my hair.  Cleaned the bathroom  shower and decided to watch some recorded TV.   Reading and bed is the order of the day. 

November 15, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

We got up early and hitched up for our final trek from Coarsegold to Placerville for awhile.  We took the normal route and made our usual stop at the Turlock rest stop since that is the only one on 99 between W Cleveland Ave in Madera and our Dillard Road turnoff.  We ate lunch on the side of the road on Dillard Road.  The only hiccup was that the satellite would not stow.  No surprises there. Also no surprise that it would not work when we reached Ponderosa Resort.
On the way here we decided to cut our stay short due to the really bad air quality from the Paradise fire.  We rearranged Hazel's teeth cleaning from Placerville to Oakhurst.   So now instead of having them cleaned on Monday she will have them done on Friday the day after Thanksgiving. 
We are in E8 this time.  So once we decided that the satellite would not work Steve's whole world came crashing down as well.  He decided to give up football it is no longer important to him.  Decided to get the printer down and send the proof of purchase to the gal at Winegard and have her send a replacement to Coarsegold. Hope it gets there timely as we leave the 30th and there is a holiday in there.
About 4 I suggested we grab a couple of pizzas and go to Nikki's to watch the game.  Then us girls could go shopping while Steve watched the game.  So at 4 Steve was against the idea as he no longer cared about football.   He was fine having chimichangas for dinner.  By 5 PM we were rushing out the door to grab pizzas and heading to Nikki's place to watch the unimportant football game.  What a drama king.  He and Sophie were made for each other.  Of course by that time it was his idea. But of course
Nikki and I went shopping with the girls.  She doesn't realize that she shops just like her Dad.  I felt as much pressure as when I shop with her father.  I did quite a bit of shopping most of it staples  and things like paper towels which according to Steve was too much.  He pitched his normal fit mostly because of the satellite antenna failure.  So of course nothing made him happy and therefore it was be an asshole to my wife night.  Let's just say it was a very quiet ride home. 
After putting away the groceries from Walmart.   TV and bed.  Maybe some reading.   Of course my Sunday bra shopping  plan bit the dust.  Oh well we may be able to squeeze it in tomorrow or the next day.  The best part of going back on Sunday is that we will not miss out on the Sunday night entertainment  at the clubhouse.   Songs by Josh Groban will be sung by Gary Stowe. 

November 14, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

I was bad today.  I should have walked with the group but I decided not to.  Got up  in time for Steve to walk the dogs. Then he took off for work.early. Steve went off to work I made the bed as usual then had breakfast.  I decided to make seven layer cookies.   Steve popped in with Kent Russel in tow. I ran into the bedroom since I was still in my PJ's.  Once I was dressed and Steve finished showing  off  his carving projects they took off.  Steve came home early but not before I finished the frosting for the cinnamon rolls and the seven layer cookies.   We walked down to the dog park with the dogs.and headed for the dog run and clubhouse.  I signed up to work on the preparations for the Thanksgiving dinner.  The dogs hit the dog park and then we returned to the rig for lunch.  Steve could not wait to eat the left over Chinese food.
Once lunch was over and Steve had one of his numerous siesta we took the Terex down to the pole barn to rinse it off.  We then did our daily drive around the park. Came back and covered up the terex then put away a few things in preparation for out trip tomorrow.   In many ways I wish we were not leaving tomorrow as there are things in the park I would like to do.  There is a music program on Sunday that I would love to be here from. Maybe the will record it and play it on channel 19.  We both really love being a part of this community. 
I did a lot of reading today.  We BBQ'ed Brats tonight.  Then dishes and TV.  And of course more reading.

November 13, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

Steve went off to work bright and early this morning in the Terex.  I got up shortly after Steve left. Walked the dogs and did the morning chores. Then I decided to make the filling for the cinnamon rolls.   Tomorrow I will make the frosting and maybe the 7 layer cookies.   I want to make sure they get fully set before the party on Saturday.  Steve got home about 11:30.  We ate lunch and I finally finished my book.   Can't wait for the next installment of Mercy and Truman.
We hung out at home for awhile. Did some dishes and watched some TV. Then I fed the dogs and took them for a walk.  Then we left for our dining out night at China Delight in Oakhurst.   It was good food  and great company . We rounded out the evening at the grocery store,Von's .  Then we headed back to the ranch poorer but we will be well fed.  We finished the evening with TV and reading once the groceries were put away. 

November 12, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

The dreaded day came and went without a hitch. I was dreading this day but it all turned out well. I was able to get on and off the bike easier than I thought.  I will  deny this to my dying breath but it was good to be back in the saddle on the motorcycle.   If Steve gets a better seat I will  definitely ride with him again.  The way the seat is now it is just uncomfortable for long runs.
 We got up early in order to get the truck to Body by Boyd in Oakhurst.   It was less than 40 degrees out. Unfortunately we were also out of propane in both tanks so Steve was out taking the last tank to the filling station.   I walked the dogs.
I drove the truck all by myself to Oakhurst and then I hopped on the back of the motorcycle and we headed home.  Fifteen miles.  It was very cold
D but doable.  I had on two heaves sweatshirts.  The helmet, gloves,sherpa,and goggles but that didn't keep me from all that warm.  We came back and ate breakfast.   I read my book and Steve napped.  Then a quick run to the propane filling station to pick up our two tanks and one for out neighbors.  At 11 am we appeared at site 519 which was the former site of the ice plant lady who put ice plants all over the park.  We helped them back out of the park.  The have a 376 TH.  I am glad that we don't have that model as there are a few things I don't like about it. 
Then a quick stop back at the rig and a short walk with the dogs.  Back on the motorcycle which I might add was much warmer to Oakhurst.   Got the truck and I drove it back to the park.  Then much to the dogs chagrin we decided to have lunch at the Casino. We were headed over to the buffet but someone from the park who was outside the cafe talked us into avoiding a huge line and going to the cafe instead.   We found the Russell's having lunch there as well.  We didn't need any dinner that's for sure. We also got player's cards for Chukchansi.  I came back and watched TV.  We walked the dogs to the dog park and met Vicki who moved into 430 and the former occupant of this site.  The a short ride in Sophie's favorite mode of transportation the Terex to the dumpster.   Back to the trailer for reading and more TV. 

November 11, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

I spent most of my day going to the bathroom.  I woke up this morning with diarrhea.   Not sure why and I am hoping that it wasn't because I ate those salted mixed nuts.  Needless to say I won't be eating anymore of those.
I got up about 7 and put a pork roast in the crock pot.
About 9 we walked down to the clubhouse for a Veteran's breakfast.  Steve got his for free.  It was OK but the pancakes really didn't satisfy Steve as he came home and ate waffles and eggs but decided he would for go sausage with his meal. We watched  football and other TV.  We did some more trimming around the yard and took it all down to the Creek  to dispose of it.  Steve helped the neighbor take his propane container down to the filling station.
Finally two o'clock came and it was time to go down to the club house for ice cream.  We stayed down there for about an hour then back to the rig for more Sunday football fun and I finally finished up catching up on my shows.
I took the dogs for a walk around the long block.
We ate dinner then back to the club for the jam session.  We have some very talented people in the park.  It was great.  Lots of guitar players in the park.  We stayed down there for almost 2 hours.
Back to the rig to watch TV and bed. All in all a great Sunday and a great Veterans Day.

November 10, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

We had a very productive day.  After a big breakfast of breakfast burritos and the clean up thereof I loaded up the laundry and headed to the laundromat in the park. Steve decided that he would work outside and we decided to put up the small dog enclosure.  Steve checked everywhere including the shed.  Then I checked everywhere including under the bed.  It had just disappeared.   Finally I decided to check the shed.  And guess what was sitting in plain sight. The pen we were looking for.  Go figure. 
After washing, drying and folding 5 loads of clothes Steve picked me up with the dogs.  A quick trip to the dog park and back to the rig for lunch.   I finally finished my book a Harry Bosch novel called Dark Sacred Night.  It was good.  No nonsense police procedural novel.  Very descriptive about what actually goes on in the LAPD.
We took the Terex out to the back forty of the park and we checked it out on the trex
At 4 I walked with the ladies.  Then home for dinner and TV. 
Talked to David about participating in the Christmas gift exchange.  He is not going to. Oh well his loss.

November 9, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

It was very cold when I woke up this morning  but the sun soon warmed everything up. We had breakfast and did our morning chores. Then we did a few chores around the yard and trailer.  Steve put up our McCrumb sign on the shed.  It looks great. You could tell that Steve was in seventh heaven.  He had his work bench out and was quite content working in his 'shop'.
 Then we put the tire covers on the utility trailer in the storage and took the dogs to the dog park.
Then we decided to run into town and go to the Coarsegold grocery store and had lunch at Bob's Frosty.  It was OK.  Then back home.  Steve decided to was the motorcycle which of course led to a motorcycle ride. 
While he was doing that I was writing out postcards and making the casserole for the social hour at the clubhouse. 
Steve got back at almost 4 o'clock as he got lost in the hills and didn't have his phone with him. 
We were down at the club house by 5 and ate dinner.  We met the Sullivan's who just got on the waiting list.  The just went full time in June. 
We sat and chatted with them for almost 2 and a half hours before we went home and and watched TV and ended into the bedtime ritual. 

November 8, 2018 SKP Park Sierra, Coarsegold CA

We are finally back in Coarsegold. We left about 9 from Ponderosa RV Resort taking Hwy 50 to Silva Parkway to Eldorado Hills Road which turns into Latrobe Road.   Right on Old Sacramento Road to Jackson Hwy.  Left on Dillard on Road to Hwy 99.  From there we took a pit stop on the on ramp to 99 and lunch at the newly reopened rest stop in Turlock. We arrived in the park about 1:30.
We were set up and ready to rumble by 3 PM.  We took a ride down to the dog park and clubhouse.   Back to the rig to chill out before our dinner with Randy and Linda Etzel who interestingly know Denikka and Josh Maly who we met in Weshes OR.  We met the Etzel's at the rally in Sonora. They invited us for dinner so I wouldn't have to cook on a travel day.  So sweet.  We were at their rig a 376Th.  I don't really think I want a 376 after being in theirs.  They pulled one set of sofas out and put in a huge dog bed. And made it a storage area.  She made an instant pot dinner.  I think I need an instant pot.  We were there about 3 hours.  They met on line as well.
We will look them up while we are in Arizona. 
Oh and wonders of wonders the Satellite worked just fine and even was able to get the station for Last Man Standing that we could not get in Lotus.
It is pretty chilly here in Coasegold.   I hope we don't run out of propane before Monday fill up.

November 7, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

We had a rather laid back kind of day .  I think we are both anxious to get back to Coarsegold.
We got up rather leisurely and Steve took the dogs out while I made the bed which is our normal routine.   The I made waffles for breakfast with fruit and a little whipped cream.   I cooked up some of the sausage we got from Swingles.  It was the maple variety which is not my favorite but it was really good. Steve added two eggs.  Then Steve got up on the roof to fix the tear while I cleaned house.  Swept and mopped.  That took me upwards of half an hour.
We ate lunch here so Steve could heat up the burrito he got at the taqueria across from Walmart.  I wanted to go to Ross but the master was having none of that.  That's OK as I will go another day.
We did stop and visit with Debbie Manke at the Chevron station.  The we got hair cuts as planned.
Back to the rig where we planned out our trip to Casa Grande.  We won't be staying in Parhump as they are booked until December 4th.  So we decided to leave on the 29th stay in Boron and Needles.  Arriving in Casa Grande on the first.
Then a movie in the bedroom and decided to make dinner.
I made the philly cheesesteak sloppy Joe's. They didn't wow me like I thought they would.  Steve and I agree the left over chuck roast made into philly cheesesteak is better.
Then wonder of wonders Steve took the dogs out!
We were unable to get a channel that we used to get.  So Steve started rebooting the system.  Not satisfied with that he decided to see if the antenna would stow which off course it would not.  So now we have no TV at all.  Finally we shut everything off and let it rest for awhile.  We finally got the antenna stowed we think.  I told Steve to leave that alone.  The DVR rebooted and we can at least watch things that are recorded .  Steve is still alive but hanging on a cliff about ready to self destruct. That is before I take things into my hands and do the honors. I was really upset that we couldn't watch TV because of the fiasco.
So we will finish the evening with TV and reading. Taking off in the morning for Coarsegold. 

November 6, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

A miracle happened today. For some reason the satellite antenna started working.  We were able to stow it and redeploy the antenna and hook into satellite TV. It is really sad that having a functioning satellite determines whether we have a good  day or not.  Hopefully it continues to function correctly.
We got up at a decent hour and signed and read the paperwork  from Fiesta Grande.  Apparently it is going to cost us $180 for the dogs for the 3 months that we are there.  Not only they take a cheek swab to get the dogs DNA to compare it to any poop they find laying around.
By 10 am we were at the house to meet Louis who came from Walnut Creek to purchase it.  He was from France and said these kinds of units are very popular in Europe.   He is building a tiny house which why he wanted to unit.  Once he tested it we loaded it up and he was off.  Skinny little guy.
Then we loaded the items we are taking back to Coarsegold and dropped some things off at hospice.  Then over to Idle Wheels to get supplies to fix the trailer roof.  A stop at Costco for gas. Next on the agenda was a stop at the bank to deposit the money for the washer/dryer and pick up a few things.  Next we had lunch at I love Teriyaki.   Not as good as the one I was familiar with on Whidbey Island. Then we headed to Jackson to visit Swingles Meat shop.  Much different than what I expected.   Everything was frozen hard as a rock.  We purchased more than I thought we wood.  I guess I will have to get my steaks from Raley's.
Then back to the rig at Ponderosa to unload.  Were rested and stared at our phones for awhile.
Nikki called and wanted Steve to take her meeting  with ADT.  This is exactly why I like living in Park Sierra.   She agreed to reschedule her appointment.   Between the three of them and especially Stephanie and Nikki we would be running around like chickens with our heads cut off.   They always wait to ask till the last minute so there is a crisis and then you feel like a shit if you say no.
The rest of the evening was uneventful  watching satellite TV and dinner.  I am very close to catching up on all my shows.  Especially since it is election nights

November 5, 2018 Ponderosa RV Resort, Lotus CA

Disaster struck this afternoon.  When we arrived and attempted to deploy the satellite antenna. It stalled and we have no satellite TV. A fate worse than death.  We won't have it until the end of the month.
We got up at a reasonable hour just prior to 7.  Wynotts were already gone.  The took off silently just about the time we got up.  We hooked up and skid out of our spot by 9:30.  We headed down hwy 108 which turned into 120.  Hwy 120 to 99 to Dillard Road. Then Jackson Hwy to Grant Line to Prairie City  to 50
Arriving at Ponderosa around 12:30.  We got set up in E4. So far we have stayed in E4, 5 and 6.  That's when the disaster struck.  We were on the phone to Winegard.  They attempted to troubleshoot the problem but to no avail.  Of course Steve could not find the proof of purchase.   For some reason Steve is unable to keep organized in the trailer. We had the receipt of everything else but the satellite work.  We tried calling the sensor but after a few misfires we got through and I think we will be OK.  They will replace the unit under warranty then we will go down to Indio at the end of the month and have them re-install the base unit.  Disaster averted.
Then my son called and told me how pissed he was that while we were gracious enough to give him the car we should if had the decency to make sure it was in running condition.   I am so disappointed in him right now. Brita can have him.  After that disappointing conversation we went to get a bite at the taqueria across from Walmart.  We ran by Nikki's for a minute to pick up the mail. Then Save Mart and Ross.  Finally back to the rig for TV and chilling.
One bright note of the day. We met some people at the rally who were planning on heading to Park Sierra. So I friended them on Facebook.  She messaged me and invited us to dinner on the night we return to Coarsegold.   So sweet.   We have met so many nice people traveling.   Getting hard to keep up with everyone.

November 4, 2018 Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne CA

The Rally is over.  Met a lot of nice people but we won't be going to any more rallies for awhile.  Other than seeing the people the rallies are a lot the same.  They need to vary things a little. 
We changed times last night and the day seems to go on forever.  So I got up at 7:30 but it was really 8:30.  Sophie has been having diarrhea. This morning she pooped right on the kitchen floor which is so unlike her.  Steve was dressed in long pants so I knew he was going on a ride this morning.  After the dogs were walked he was out the door. 
I decided to take a shower and wash my hair this morning so I wouldn't have to worry about it this evening. I think if possible I will do an early shower on hair wash days. 
After the shower I read for awhile then started putting together the tomale pie.  At 11:30 I pulled it out of the oven and we trooped down to the clubhouse for the final potluck if the rally.  We didn't win the 50-50 which was over 500 dollars to the winner.  The rest went to Shiner's hospital. 
We were done by 1 PM.  We went to visit Amy and Jim Angelo and their kids.  We got to meet their foreign exchange student Breno from Brazil.  We stayed for about 30 minutes and dropped by Walmart to pick up a few things.  The we hot footed over to the campground.  We watched TV and chilled till it was time to eat a small dinner, sandwich for me and leftovers for Steve. 
About 6 we all gathered in an empty spot around campfires and people kept dropping by.  We sat there with about 15 or 20 people for a couple of hours until I got too cold.  Then back to the rig to do dishes and watch some screen. 

November 3, 2018 Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne CA

Well only one day left for the rally. We started with our normal morning ritual. Then we went to the clubhouse and listened to the Skymed spiel.  Sounded pretty good so we decided to purchase the insurance.   Of course they had a rally special.  But at least we are covered if something happened to Steve and I needed to get the truck and the rig back to Coasegold.  

Unfortunately the Seminar that we wanted to hear from was the one from Les Schwab who cancelled at the last minute. We talked about modifications that people made to their rigs but left early.  We needed to fill out the paperwork for SkyMed and turn it in.  We did lunch and returned for a discussion about full timers.

As we were returning to the rig intending to go see Amy Angelo and her family but we got a call from the tech who wanted to do some maintenance on the rig.  So we put that off until tomorrow.  Instead after the tech's left I  started to put together the Tamale pie for tomorrow's potluck.
At 5:30 we went down to dinner as they took some of the tables down to make room for the dance floor. Grand Design provides us with Pizza for dinner.  Kind of lame if you ask me.  The Wynotts took a prize for best decorated rig again. The rally was a huge Disappointment, we won't be doing another rally in California anytime soon.  Somewhat disorganized and last minute communications.
 Came back to the rig to watch TV.  I swear Steve is addicted to the TV and phone. Oh well  whatever. 

November 2, 2018 Black Oak Casino,Tuolumne CA

Another busy day at the Rally.  I don't think that we will be attending any more California rallies run by Jarret  Burnett.   This one is very blah. We got up about 8 and Steve wanted a big breakfast.  He also wanted to go to a seminar that started at nine.  So he went on ahead while I finished getting ready and walk Hazel again.

I walked down to the clubhouse and caught the last of the of the Grand Design spiel. 

Back to the rig then for a rest and dishes .  Then the Wynotts and the McCrumbs decided to test our luck at the the casino.  We got player's cards and $30 free play.  We all lost except for Donna who was the big winner a total of $20.05!  We has a wonderful lunch at the King pin Grill.  Took the shuttle bank to the and decided to sit out in the sun for awhile.  I intended to give the dogs a bath but just as I was going to get motivated Connie and Steve Mitchell came by and we chatted until after 4. 
We put the dogs in the trailer after they left and checked out the new models .  I saw a Solitude the was really nice with a forward bathroom.   It was gorgeous with a walk in closet. 
Back to the rig to walk the dogs. Then off to dinner.  Happy Daze provided dinner of tri tip and chicken.  The only problem was the silverware was so flimsy most people were forced to use their fingers. 
Back to the rig and we sat outside in  front of the rig for a half an hour with the Wynotts.  They folded early.  Back in the rig for TV and reading.  Good to spend the time with the puppies. 

November 1, 2018 Black Oak Casino, Tuolumne CA

We made it to the Rally.  This one is rather disappointing as ralky's go.  The first one is usually the best because you don't know what to expect. We slept in till 7 am.  In fact I woke up first and tried to crawl into bed to snuggle for awhile but Steve woke up right away. We got up and started putting things away. We drove down to the club house in the Terex and parked it in 314.  We walked back to our site and continued packing up.
We took off at 10 and arrived here about 1 p.m.  We took hwy 41 to 145 to 99.  Turned off at Merced and took 59 to j59 to 108 to Black Oak Casino about 115 miles.
The Wynotts had just gotten here and there were hugs all around.   We got registered and got all our swag items.  One item in particular was great which was a garden flag stand that I was looking for all over.  That was a boon. The park is very nice. All concrete and asphalt.  There is even fake grass between each space. It's all perfect.
We sat around and chatted with the Wynotts and the Mitchell's.   Around 6 we all trooped down to the Clubhouse for a potluck which was less than best.  Too many people trying to eat at the same time.  It was okay if you like pasta.
A lot of empty dishes when we got there.  We didn't have a lot to choose from.  I really don't like potlucks.  People go to Costco or bring crummy food.  There was one lasagna or ravioli dish I think was purchased at Costco which was very good. 
Back to the rig by 7 for TV .