Well, now that Stu and I are together we have decided to start a new blog together and leave our current blogs as history. I have already copied some of my later blog entries to the new blog and shortly will be posting an update of the last week or so.
Soooooo, change your bookmarks, adjust your blog readers to 2 Taking a 5th and join in our adventures as we travel the country!
Keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Showing posts with label blogs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blogs. Show all posts
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Word of Warning....
Yesterday afternoon disaster hit....my user profile on my laptop got corrupted. While a first for me, after reading around a lot, it's not all that uncommon especially with Vista. After my initial panic and multiple reboots trying to get into my profile, I found out what I needed to do (create two new admin level profiles, one of which would become my new ID).Five hours of copying all my user contents (24GB) to the new ID (using the second new one), then resetting up the things that didn't come over (default programs, desktop settings, start menu, quick launch - still working on those) and I was somewhat back in action. Any program that referenced data locations in my old user profile had to be changed to the new user name.
I am still having a lot of problems...things are missing or not working in Vista. Even though I have two good admin level profiles, a lot of commands just aren't responded to....other programs tell me they can't find the Windows installer and won't run (FrontPage is one of those). I need to run my Vista install disk and restore things but guess what is on its way to Baltimore. Yup...all my disks & manuals. LOL!
So, I am being very careful & cautious for the next two weeks till I can get what I need an hopefully get Vista back on its feet. I just wanted to post a warning, if I disappear - stop blogging and appearing in fthe fourms, then my laptop has bit the big one. Best I can do is add Stu as an author here and hope he can get in and post an update.
Next laptop is going to be a MAC....
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Monday, August 04, 2008
White Sulphur Springs, MT
Just a quick note....still working against the deadline but a good friend of mine posted a nice blog with some great photos of the Conestoga Campground (where I'm workamping) and the town itself. Thought I would pass it along so you can see the area... "Home is Where I Park It"
Speaking of which....if there is anyone reading this that has office/computer experience and might like to workamp 8/15 to 9/15 in my place...PLEASE contact me. Thanks! ;-)
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Speaking of which....if there is anyone reading this that has office/computer experience and might like to workamp 8/15 to 9/15 in my place...PLEASE contact me. Thanks! ;-)
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Living in Limited Spaces
Many think my quarters are tight but it works for me. I go into their 34-40+' rigs with 2-4 slides and feel like I'm in a house. I wouldn't want to share my rig since the space has been set up for me but I don't feel cramped.
There are many living in much smaller quarters than I. I've run into not just singles but couples full-timing in little Casita trailers (11-19'). This past spring at the RV Life on Wheels I met a couple who were planning on full-timing in a small Class B. Since then they have purchased their rig and hit the road. Today they posted photos of how they live in such tight quarters and I thought others might enjoy seeing it as well. Click here for the blog.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
There are many living in much smaller quarters than I. I've run into not just singles but couples full-timing in little Casita trailers (11-19'). This past spring at the RV Life on Wheels I met a couple who were planning on full-timing in a small Class B. Since then they have purchased their rig and hit the road. Today they posted photos of how they live in such tight quarters and I thought others might enjoy seeing it as well. Click here for the blog.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Thank you to Roadmaster...
Today was the day the car went to Camping World here in Tucson to get the newly ordered base plate installed. You'll remember that I was all excited about the fact that my new-to-me car already had a base plate....that is until I tried to order just the quick disconnect extensions for it. First I could get them, then I couldn't, then I could, then I couldn't....round and round I went with two service shops as well as Roadmaster. Finally I ended up just ordering the full base plate kit.
Five days and it would be in, the service appointment was set. I had gone from $140 for the part needed (plus shipping and some minor attachment pieces) to almost $700 for the parts and installation for the full base plate kit. Fortunately the installation was a flat rate, wouldn't matter if it took them 3 hours to get the old one off and 5 hours to put the new one on or two hours for the whole thing. One price...much more than I wanted to spend but it's not like I had a choice.
I arrive on time, have the parts from my new tow bar that I want them to install on the front and everything seems to be going along swimmingly....then the service guy calls me. Oh, oh....now what. After finding out where I was (in the customer lounge), he comes over to see me. I must have looked down because the first thing he said was that he had good news. Phew!
It seems that the base plate they told me they no longer made (the one on my car) was exactly the same as the new one. It also seemed that the quick disconnect extensions fit perfectly. Hmmmm.... So we all truck back to the Camping World service desk where the guys explain the situation to the service writer. He tells me that they can't separate the parts and will have to return the entire kit and order just the extensions (what I was trying to do from day one).
He then proceeds to call Roadmaster only to be told that the extensions are on a DO NOT SELL list. I groan....are we back to step one? He explains the situation, that they extensions in the full kit DO fit my existing base plate and that "the customer is standing in front of me". They have to escalate the issue and tell him they'll call back. I'm telling him that Roadmaster had better not make me regret not buying Blue Ox.....LOL!
The call comes in....I pay for the shipping, the extensions and a 15% restocking fee. That's fine with me....with the much lower labor costs I ended up saving almost $300!!!! WHOO-HOO! Happy camper am I.....LOL! Thank you to Roadmaster for coming through.
On a side note, I had been planning to blog about some of my thoughts on living "green" and some of the things I was doing to have less impact (or a more positive impact) on the environment. Since some folks hate stuff like this, others could care less and it applies to more than just RVers, I decided to start a second blog. I won't blog as much as I do here but if the topic interests you I hope you will visit once in a while. The blog is Newly Green.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
More From My Readers....
While I sit here watching the service guys bleed my brakes, try to get some wires out from behind my dash (for my old GPS that I want to use in my car and for my Sirius that I want to be able to move between vehicles), work on my hydraulic jacks (one has decided to not drop down anymore - lazy thing...LOL!) and then do an annual service on my A/C (which has probably NEVER been cleaned)...I figured I'd do a quick blog replying to some comments and questions from readers.
"My Minnie Winnie is also an E450, just like yours. We probably don't have the same brand of tires but for my 19" tires it is 60# in the front, with a maximum of 80# for the duals. Actually, you should weigh each tire position and consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the particular weight at that location. Mine handles better with 60# than the 80# the local Ford mechanic increased them to."
After getting weighed at the RV Life on Wheels, I am now using 80 in the rear tires and 75 in the front. I am overweight, especially in the rear, but am working diligently to correct that. I hope to get the rig weighed again here shortly.
"With the Nuvi, you should be able to touch MENU and then touch the sat signal strength indicator, it should then show you accuracy, elevation, position of sat's and all sat signal strength."
This was in response to my complaints about missing features on my Nuvi as compared to my older Quest II. If I go to Menu/Tools/Where Am I, then I can see the elevation. Not something you should be doing while driving...the Quest displays it on the screen. Oh well..at least I can find it. LOL! Thanks for the help.
"You have probably ordered already, but although you can handle the 25# portable break system now, there will come a time you may not be as strong or you could just strain your arm temporarily. The Roadmaster seems like it could prove valuable. I also wonder if you should sell the Suzuki would having that brake system on it help the resale value?"
Yup, already bought the Brake Buddy Vantage system (proportional braking). I realize that lifting it may become an issue at some point but since my car IS older and there is always the possibility of needing to upgrade at some point, the portable brake system makes more sense. Unfortunately, have the setup on the car for the Roadmaster Brakemaster wouldn't increase it's resale value. So both for convenience and current outlay, the portable system made more sense. (And keep following along...that's how we all learn!) Thanks for reading and commenting...
"Have you cropped your bird photos or are you able to get those full framed photos with your camera system?"
Yes, my bird photos were cropped. They were all taken with the 10x zoom on my Canon PowerShot S5 IS at a very high resolution (3264 x 2448) so I can crop them. They are over 1MB each.
"Did you know that you can buy (probably from Camping World & other places) a hose that lets you connect one of the refillable propane bottles to a grill that is made for the disposable bottles? And they have refillable tanks that are smaller than those standard ones so are easier to carry & haul around. Get one of those, then just keep a disposable as a backup if the other runs out when you need to use it."
"Got my hose last week at Lowe's (nice low price) and am still looking for a reasonably priced tank. I can find plenty of 20# ones for around $35 but that is just too big & heavy for me. I really want the 5# one but they seem to run $55-60. Yikes!
"You will have to let us know how that little grill does with chicken, especially drumsticks & thighs. I just can't seem to get decent chicken from the grills I've had - from the big one to the little one and they have all had tops that close which the one you just got doesn't have. I just don't seem to be able to turn them down low enough to decently cook the chicken and get it done in the middle and not burn the outside."
Ah, I already knew the secret for that one...from many years of watching hubby do this. You parboil the chicken for 20 minutes then cook it on the grill till it's browned the way you want. The parboiling cooks it, the grill then sears in the flavor (butter, BBQ sauce, whatever you use).
"Question re: the California Duster....I imagine it could be used to keep the solar panels clean. Ours sure got dusty in the southwest.. Do you put it in water or always use it dry.."
You MUST use it dry...it actually contains wax that's impregnated into the fibers. I don't think that would be a good idea for the solar. I know that mine will need washing soon...been in the desert too long. But first have to find a park that will let me and then need to be sure I have an extension long enough to reach it from a side ladder (I don't do rooftops). So far I do like it on the car...seems to help repel the dust a bit as well.
"I saw that very same solar light in WalMart's clearance aisle for $17 last week. No shipping & handling needed."
Say, you want to pick up two of them for me and I'll pay you the S&H? I have checked here and they don't have them. Mine actually blew off the table and broke (I have semi-glued it precariously back together). Sigh...
"We use Grand Central and love it. Since we can't get cell phone reception at our home, I have GC set so that when someone calls us on the GC phone number, it rings both on our landline phone and on our cell phone. That way, no matter where we are, at home, at the beach, on the road, I can answer the calls."
Oh yeah, rub it in...the BEACH....LOL! Seriously, nice to hear that it works so well.
And thank you to Tina who called my voicemail to test it out...she came through loud and clear. I love having voicemail alternatives!
Speaking of alternatives, I did find one more FREE incoming fax site - Fax Digits. I actually like it better than eFax because they email you a PDF file, no special software needed!
"By the way, that external propane outlet, I hope they did not sell you the kit! I think it has gone up to $150+/-. I just got the gizmo itself and the RV guy made me a hose as long as I wanted to!"
Nope, all I got was the valve and it was around $25-30 if I remember correctly. Still have to get the hose though...
One last side note...following the intrepid example of my fellow RVers, I have added a little Shout-Out space on the right. As long as it's used (and not abused), I'll keep it. So far I'm the only one who has posted...give it a whirl!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
"My Minnie Winnie is also an E450, just like yours. We probably don't have the same brand of tires but for my 19" tires it is 60# in the front, with a maximum of 80# for the duals. Actually, you should weigh each tire position and consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the particular weight at that location. Mine handles better with 60# than the 80# the local Ford mechanic increased them to."After getting weighed at the RV Life on Wheels, I am now using 80 in the rear tires and 75 in the front. I am overweight, especially in the rear, but am working diligently to correct that. I hope to get the rig weighed again here shortly."With the Nuvi, you should be able to touch MENU and then touch the sat signal strength indicator, it should then show you accuracy, elevation, position of sat's and all sat signal strength."This was in response to my complaints about missing features on my Nuvi as compared to my older Quest II. If I go to Menu/Tools/Where Am I, then I can see the elevation. Not something you should be doing while driving...the Quest displays it on the screen. Oh well..at least I can find it. LOL! Thanks for the help."You have probably ordered already, but although you can handle the 25# portable break system now, there will come a time you may not be as strong or you could just strain your arm temporarily. The Roadmaster seems like it could prove valuable. I also wonder if you should sell the Suzuki would having that brake system on it help the resale value?"Yup, already bought the Brake Buddy Vantage system (proportional braking). I realize that lifting it may become an issue at some point but since my car IS older and there is always the possibility of needing to upgrade at some point, the portable brake system makes more sense. Unfortunately, have the setup on the car for the Roadmaster Brakemaster wouldn't increase it's resale value. So both for convenience and current outlay, the portable system made more sense. (And keep following along...that's how we all learn!) Thanks for reading and commenting..."Have you cropped your bird photos or are you able to get those full framed photos with your camera system?"Yes, my bird photos were cropped. They were all taken with the 10x zoom on my Canon PowerShot S5 IS at a very high resolution (3264 x 2448) so I can crop them. They are over 1MB each."Did you know that you can buy (probably from Camping World & other places) a hose that lets you connect one of the refillable propane bottles to a grill that is made for the disposable bottles? And they have refillable tanks that are smaller than those standard ones so are easier to carry & haul around. Get one of those, then just keep a disposable as a backup if the other runs out when you need to use it.""Got my hose last week at Lowe's (nice low price) and am still looking for a reasonably priced tank. I can find plenty of 20# ones for around $35 but that is just too big & heavy for me. I really want the 5# one but they seem to run $55-60. Yikes!"You will have to let us know how that little grill does with chicken, especially drumsticks & thighs. I just can't seem to get decent chicken from the grills I've had - from the big one to the little one and they have all had tops that close which the one you just got doesn't have. I just don't seem to be able to turn them down low enough to decently cook the chicken and get it done in the middle and not burn the outside."Ah, I already knew the secret for that one...from many years of watching hubby do this. You parboil the chicken for 20 minutes then cook it on the grill till it's browned the way you want. The parboiling cooks it, the grill then sears in the flavor (butter, BBQ sauce, whatever you use)."Question re: the California Duster....I imagine it could be used to keep the solar panels clean. Ours sure got dusty in the southwest.. Do you put it in water or always use it dry.."You MUST use it dry...it actually contains wax that's impregnated into the fibers. I don't think that would be a good idea for the solar. I know that mine will need washing soon...been in the desert too long. But first have to find a park that will let me and then need to be sure I have an extension long enough to reach it from a side ladder (I don't do rooftops). So far I do like it on the car...seems to help repel the dust a bit as well."I saw that very same solar light in WalMart's clearance aisle for $17 last week. No shipping & handling needed."Say, you want to pick up two of them for me and I'll pay you the S&H? I have checked here and they don't have them. Mine actually blew off the table and broke (I have semi-glued it precariously back together). Sigh..."We use Grand Central and love it. Since we can't get cell phone reception at our home, I have GC set so that when someone calls us on the GC phone number, it rings both on our landline phone and on our cell phone. That way, no matter where we are, at home, at the beach, on the road, I can answer the calls."Oh yeah, rub it in...the BEACH....LOL! Seriously, nice to hear that it works so well.And thank you to Tina who called my voicemail to test it out...she came through loud and clear. I love having voicemail alternatives!
Speaking of alternatives, I did find one more FREE incoming fax site - Fax Digits. I actually like it better than eFax because they email you a PDF file, no special software needed!
"By the way, that external propane outlet, I hope they did not sell you the kit! I think it has gone up to $150+/-. I just got the gizmo itself and the RV guy made me a hose as long as I wanted to!"Nope, all I got was the valve and it was around $25-30 if I remember correctly. Still have to get the hose though...One last side note...following the intrepid example of my fellow RVers, I have added a little Shout-Out space on the right. As long as it's used (and not abused), I'll keep it. So far I'm the only one who has posted...give it a whirl!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Just a little ramblin'.....
While I took it a little easy today, I did accomplish some stuff but nothing major like yesterday. I plowed through paperwork looking for something specific....I found it but also found some things that need to get taken care of.
One was changing my emergency road service coverage. I have had RV Roadhelp since 2000 and have nothing but good to say about it. Over the years I've had a motorhome towed over 300 miles, a tire changed on my car and two tows for my motorcycle. Great service all times. So why change? Well, the industry has changed and there is now a service Coach Net that offers much more for the same money. Many times when you are broken down it's something minor that a mechanic can quickly fix. Getting back on the road without having to be towed someplace is good. There is a lot more but I don't want to sound like an infomercial. Anyway, the change is made with perfect timing since the old service was due to renew on April 11th.
I canceled several credit cards today or at least started the process to do so. Over the years it's always been easy to apply for a store credit card to get a discount on the first purchase. Figured it was time to cull those out. Since I was doing that, I took a look at what's out there for cash back reward credit cards and decided to move to one of those and cancel my other MC & Visa cards. With gas prices climbing higher and higher it makes sense to get something back for the money I spend. ;-)
I also continued my calls to motorcycle and trailer dealers. Nothing really popped up except a really nice gentleman from Big Tex Trailers here in Tucson offered to stop out to take a look at it from a personal basis. We talked price and he is going to get back to me tomorrow. Not holding out a lot of hope though...wish it were up north. Northern riders are much more apt to use & buy a trailer for their motorcycle. Sigh....
The weather was really nice today, cooler than the last two weeks and little wind. Well, until about 2-3:00 that is....the clouds rolled in and the wind REALLY blew for a bit. It cooled down enough that I started closing windows....of course not before a fine layer of grit was deposited on everything. Of course once the weather tantrum was over it got hot again...LOL!
You know I love blogs....otherwise I wouldn't be following over 170 of them. All kinds - computer, photography, crafts, motorcycles, RVing, living green and more. As I've said before, this wouldn't be possible without Google reader to track & show me only the ones with new updates. I'm always adding new ones that I find by reading my current list....and yes, sometimes one will be removed.
Recently I found a couple of great new blogs, Colored outside the lines and Fulltiming Roadrunners. Both these ladies do some unbelievable beading... Sandy, Colored outside the lines, loves hummingbirds and does some beautiful native-looking necklaces. Judy, Fulltiming Roadrunners, makes beaded Bonzai type trees as well as jewelry. I saw this gorgeous bracelet in her blog and had to email her about it. Long story short, she's made one for me in the colors I asked for...it's perfect.
Well, it would have been perfect if I had asked for a magnet style clasp BEFORE she started. But nice lady that she is, she said she'd put that one into her stock and build one with the clasp I needed (arthritis). She also tossed together a little frog pendant that I plan to use on my key chain. He's so cute....she can make earrings for me, too, if I want them. Since I have NO talent when it comes to crafty stuff, I really appreciate it when I find someone that does. My friends Ellie & Karon do, just to name a couple, even if they don't advertise it much.
Anyway, if anyone is interested in the daisy bracelet, 7" for smaller wrists, drop me a not and I'll put you in touch with Judy. (And remind me that I don't need one of those gorgeous trees...I really don't, I'm getting rid of stuff....LOL!)
Lastly, I made a couple of minor changes to my blog....most to do with the comment section. Previously a pop-up window was opened for the comments but I found that was awkward if you wanted to read the posted comments so I changed it to open a new tab/window. I also added a little note above the comment form and I changed the description for the comment link.
I also expanded the Google ads at the bottom of each post. Like many folks, I try to supplement my income in any way I can...stretching that dollar. Hard in a fifty dollar world....LOL! So if you see something of interest in one of the Google boxes, check it out. If you don't, then don't...it's as easy as that!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
One was changing my emergency road service coverage. I have had RV Roadhelp since 2000 and have nothing but good to say about it. Over the years I've had a motorhome towed over 300 miles, a tire changed on my car and two tows for my motorcycle. Great service all times. So why change? Well, the industry has changed and there is now a service Coach Net that offers much more for the same money. Many times when you are broken down it's something minor that a mechanic can quickly fix. Getting back on the road without having to be towed someplace is good. There is a lot more but I don't want to sound like an infomercial. Anyway, the change is made with perfect timing since the old service was due to renew on April 11th.
I canceled several credit cards today or at least started the process to do so. Over the years it's always been easy to apply for a store credit card to get a discount on the first purchase. Figured it was time to cull those out. Since I was doing that, I took a look at what's out there for cash back reward credit cards and decided to move to one of those and cancel my other MC & Visa cards. With gas prices climbing higher and higher it makes sense to get something back for the money I spend. ;-)
I also continued my calls to motorcycle and trailer dealers. Nothing really popped up except a really nice gentleman from Big Tex Trailers here in Tucson offered to stop out to take a look at it from a personal basis. We talked price and he is going to get back to me tomorrow. Not holding out a lot of hope though...wish it were up north. Northern riders are much more apt to use & buy a trailer for their motorcycle. Sigh....
The weather was really nice today, cooler than the last two weeks and little wind. Well, until about 2-3:00 that is....the clouds rolled in and the wind REALLY blew for a bit. It cooled down enough that I started closing windows....of course not before a fine layer of grit was deposited on everything. Of course once the weather tantrum was over it got hot again...LOL!
You know I love blogs....otherwise I wouldn't be following over 170 of them. All kinds - computer, photography, crafts, motorcycles, RVing, living green and more. As I've said before, this wouldn't be possible without Google reader to track & show me only the ones with new updates. I'm always adding new ones that I find by reading my current list....and yes, sometimes one will be removed.
Recently I found a couple of great new blogs, Colored outside the lines and Fulltiming Roadrunners. Both these ladies do some unbelievable beading... Sandy, Colored outside the lines, loves hummingbirds and does some beautiful native-looking necklaces. Judy, Fulltiming Roadrunners, makes beaded Bonzai type trees as well as jewelry. I saw this gorgeous bracelet in her blog and had to email her about it. Long story short, she's made one for me in the colors I asked for...it's perfect.
Well, it would have been perfect if I had asked for a magnet style clasp BEFORE she started. But nice lady that she is, she said she'd put that one into her stock and build one with the clasp I needed (arthritis). She also tossed together a little frog pendant that I plan to use on my key chain. He's so cute....she can make earrings for me, too, if I want them. Since I have NO talent when it comes to crafty stuff, I really appreciate it when I find someone that does. My friends Ellie & Karon do, just to name a couple, even if they don't advertise it much.
Anyway, if anyone is interested in the daisy bracelet, 7" for smaller wrists, drop me a not and I'll put you in touch with Judy. (And remind me that I don't need one of those gorgeous trees...I really don't, I'm getting rid of stuff....LOL!)
Lastly, I made a couple of minor changes to my blog....most to do with the comment section. Previously a pop-up window was opened for the comments but I found that was awkward if you wanted to read the posted comments so I changed it to open a new tab/window. I also added a little note above the comment form and I changed the description for the comment link.
I also expanded the Google ads at the bottom of each post. Like many folks, I try to supplement my income in any way I can...stretching that dollar. Hard in a fifty dollar world....LOL! So if you see something of interest in one of the Google boxes, check it out. If you don't, then don't...it's as easy as that!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Friday, March 21, 2008
Tucson RV Life on Wheels - Part 2
Okay, so the title is about the same. Guess I should have renamed yesterday's when I realized it was too long to include everything. Oh well...in five years no one will care (I suspect no one does now...LOL!)
As many of you know, I attended my first RV Life on Wheels in Bowling Green, KY in the spring of 2006 and really enjoyed myself. I attended a lot of technical classes to help me better understand some of the mechanics of RVs as well as learning how to look at used rigs and make an informed decision.
Well let me tell you....by the end of day two of the RV Life on Wheels, I was on overload...head busting out with information and voice hoarse from talking with everyone. What a blast! I took sessions on solar, boondocking, motorhome driving tips, taking better digital photos, towing a car, exercising and more.
I realized that each time I attend events like this, my focus will have slightly shifted and I will be interested in new and different things or will have moved to the next level in other areas. There wasn't one session that disappointed me and at least two could have been split into two sessions (each for different reasons).
The staff, instructors and volunteers all went over and above to make sure that everyone had a good experience. I got parked easily...pull in and then out. The last minute class changes due to the unexpected death of an instructor, Dave Baleria, was handled extremely well. Some instructors added classes they had done before and were similar to the ones originally planned. Others pulled something related together in less than a week. The final openings were filled with unrelated classes. But it all came together....
The first night we were welcomed at Beaudry RV with a delicious dinner of lasagna, Caesar salad and breadsticks. That was followed by a cheesecake desert at Camping World. We got to wander through many open rigs as well as shop to our heart's content at CW (no, I didn't buy a thing).
The second night was RV open house....RV owners could put a pink sign in their window showing that they were willing to let you in to tour their rigs and ask questions. Just prior to that a group of solo RVers gathered together to socialize....everyone brought a chair, drink and a snack. Delicious! The last session of the day had been a roundtable discussion that was very good.
I met so many wonderful people as well as seeing old friends again. I was totally floored by the number of folks who came up and told me they read my blog. Thank you one and all...I'll try to keep it enjoyable and sometimes educational but still fun to read. You all honor me....
Today I ended up sleeping in....and not attending any sessions (there were only two). An online friend stopped by and we ended up chatting for over two hours! Enjoyed it though... From there I attended the closing ceremonies and door prize drawings. As usual I won nothing...but that's okay. LOL!
I decided to grab lunch in the cafeteria, I had been eating in the RV, and sat down with two Escapee form "gonnabees", Dave & Linda Sands. They plan to go as green as possible and full-time in a custom built Class B. They were amazed at how much they learned and how valuable the information was....they plan on making several changes & adjustments to their future home.
As I got ready to leave, one of the parking crew, Jim, stopped by and told me that he needed to buy my Solar Oven for one of the instructors. Seems as though the instructor was waiting for his wife to arrive...she did but since I wasn't in my RV, we never connected. They left and directed Jim to buy the oven for them, if I hadn't sold it. Thank you Mike Steffan and hope you enjoy the oven.
I had also posted my Kyocera Router (never taken out of the box) on the bulletin board and Rick & Joyce Lang from RVSEF decided to buy it. They were the folks that weighed my rig at the Goshen Escapade and although I knew I was overweight, Rick convinced me it was better to know how overweight and where. Now that I know, I have to get serious about reducing some of the rear weight. I'm actually a little lighter in the front but that is probably due to the added weight at the rear. Side to side I'm pretty good...not as good as I was previously but not as bad as I thought I would be. So the next month will see me doing some wholesale cleaning...gonna get vicious. Anyone need any office supplies? LOL!
When I sell the motorcycle/trailer and move to towing a 4 wheels down car, I will actually reduce the rear weight. I didn't realize that towing flat has no added tongue weight. I like that!
This weekend will be very busy...I hope to look at the car I am interested in buying. I will continue to find ways to advertise the bike and motorcycle here locally in Tucson (already on Craigslist). I will answer the over 50 outstanding blog comments that are in my inbox as well as the other 30 backlogged messages. I will catch up on some client billing. I know there is more but that's a start. Phew, tired already!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
As many of you know, I attended my first RV Life on Wheels in Bowling Green, KY in the spring of 2006 and really enjoyed myself. I attended a lot of technical classes to help me better understand some of the mechanics of RVs as well as learning how to look at used rigs and make an informed decision.
- RV Life on Wheels, Bowling Green KY - Arrival and ...
- RV Life on Wheels, Bowling Green KY - Day Two
- RV Life on Wheels, Bowling Green KY - Final Day
Well let me tell you....by the end of day two of the RV Life on Wheels, I was on overload...head busting out with information and voice hoarse from talking with everyone. What a blast! I took sessions on solar, boondocking, motorhome driving tips, taking better digital photos, towing a car, exercising and more.
I realized that each time I attend events like this, my focus will have slightly shifted and I will be interested in new and different things or will have moved to the next level in other areas. There wasn't one session that disappointed me and at least two could have been split into two sessions (each for different reasons).
The staff, instructors and volunteers all went over and above to make sure that everyone had a good experience. I got parked easily...pull in and then out. The last minute class changes due to the unexpected death of an instructor, Dave Baleria, was handled extremely well. Some instructors added classes they had done before and were similar to the ones originally planned. Others pulled something related together in less than a week. The final openings were filled with unrelated classes. But it all came together....
The first night we were welcomed at Beaudry RV with a delicious dinner of lasagna, Caesar salad and breadsticks. That was followed by a cheesecake desert at Camping World. We got to wander through many open rigs as well as shop to our heart's content at CW (no, I didn't buy a thing).
The second night was RV open house....RV owners could put a pink sign in their window showing that they were willing to let you in to tour their rigs and ask questions. Just prior to that a group of solo RVers gathered together to socialize....everyone brought a chair, drink and a snack. Delicious! The last session of the day had been a roundtable discussion that was very good.
I met so many wonderful people as well as seeing old friends again. I was totally floored by the number of folks who came up and told me they read my blog. Thank you one and all...I'll try to keep it enjoyable and sometimes educational but still fun to read. You all honor me....
Today I ended up sleeping in....and not attending any sessions (there were only two). An online friend stopped by and we ended up chatting for over two hours! Enjoyed it though... From there I attended the closing ceremonies and door prize drawings. As usual I won nothing...but that's okay. LOL!
I decided to grab lunch in the cafeteria, I had been eating in the RV, and sat down with two Escapee form "gonnabees", Dave & Linda Sands. They plan to go as green as possible and full-time in a custom built Class B. They were amazed at how much they learned and how valuable the information was....they plan on making several changes & adjustments to their future home.
As I got ready to leave, one of the parking crew, Jim, stopped by and told me that he needed to buy my Solar Oven for one of the instructors. Seems as though the instructor was waiting for his wife to arrive...she did but since I wasn't in my RV, we never connected. They left and directed Jim to buy the oven for them, if I hadn't sold it. Thank you Mike Steffan and hope you enjoy the oven.
I had also posted my Kyocera Router (never taken out of the box) on the bulletin board and Rick & Joyce Lang from RVSEF decided to buy it. They were the folks that weighed my rig at the Goshen Escapade and although I knew I was overweight, Rick convinced me it was better to know how overweight and where. Now that I know, I have to get serious about reducing some of the rear weight. I'm actually a little lighter in the front but that is probably due to the added weight at the rear. Side to side I'm pretty good...not as good as I was previously but not as bad as I thought I would be. So the next month will see me doing some wholesale cleaning...gonna get vicious. Anyone need any office supplies? LOL!
When I sell the motorcycle/trailer and move to towing a 4 wheels down car, I will actually reduce the rear weight. I didn't realize that towing flat has no added tongue weight. I like that!
This weekend will be very busy...I hope to look at the car I am interested in buying. I will continue to find ways to advertise the bike and motorcycle here locally in Tucson (already on Craigslist). I will answer the over 50 outstanding blog comments that are in my inbox as well as the other 30 backlogged messages. I will catch up on some client billing. I know there is more but that's a start. Phew, tired already!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Monday, January 14, 2008
If the rig's a rocking....
...then it's too windy outside! It was windy when I went to bed and windier when I got up. Initially I had planned to leave today but opted to stick it out one more day in hopes the wind will die down.
Yesterday was a quiet day....I did laundry, exchanged a couple of books in the campground library and did a little packing up inside the RV. Before I knew it 6:oo had rolled around - my favorite Sunday time of day when in an Escapees park. ICE CREAM SOCIAL HOUR!
This is my third SKP park and I have yet to miss out on this treat...a nice sized chunk of ice cream for a paltry 75 cents. I've been able to get Butter Pecan every time! For anyone who has never attended one of these, it is accompanied by park announcements. Beyond that it's park (and host) dependent. At Rainbow's End in Livingston, they asked for introductions from new arrivals and those leaving the next day. Since I fit both, I opted out...don't two positives make a negative? Oh, do I have that backwards...LOL!
Since there were a lot of new folks here at the Dream Catcher, I bit the bullet and did an introduction. As they rounded the room, a couple stood and introduced them selves, Paul & Connie, and then he mentioned his Escapee forum name - TopSweep. I let out a huge squeal and had to run over and give him a huge hug. We've followed each other's blogs for a while and chatted a lot on the forum as well. (As soon as introductions were over, I went back and gave Connie her hug as well.) Hope you'll visit their blog, A Breath of Fresh Road.
Well, we chatted long enough to get kicked out of the kitchen activity area so they could lock up. From there we headed to their rig, IDK, and I got to meet Allen (or is it Alan, we never discussed spelling) their new companion who replaced Addie (who went back home). Paul snapped a photo of me with Allen, I expect it to show up when I least expect it. Anyway, we chatted another hour or so and could have probably gone on all night except they also planned to leave today.
Today I caught up on some personal web site work in preparation for some upcoming client site redesign. I also replied to a bunch of emails and did a little reading. It was too cold to sit outside but since the sun comes into the front door so for a while I sat on the steps inside the RV, just enjoying the sun.
Early this evening I got a note from two other Escapees that I've chatted with for close to two years....Jeff & Suzanne, Two Hams in a Can. They arrived today for a week....I was already in my night clothes so we're going to meet in the morning before I leave.
Ya know.....it just gets better every day!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Yesterday was a quiet day....I did laundry, exchanged a couple of books in the campground library and did a little packing up inside the RV. Before I knew it 6:oo had rolled around - my favorite Sunday time of day when in an Escapees park. ICE CREAM SOCIAL HOUR!
This is my third SKP park and I have yet to miss out on this treat...a nice sized chunk of ice cream for a paltry 75 cents. I've been able to get Butter Pecan every time! For anyone who has never attended one of these, it is accompanied by park announcements. Beyond that it's park (and host) dependent. At Rainbow's End in Livingston, they asked for introductions from new arrivals and those leaving the next day. Since I fit both, I opted out...don't two positives make a negative? Oh, do I have that backwards...LOL!
Since there were a lot of new folks here at the Dream Catcher, I bit the bullet and did an introduction. As they rounded the room, a couple stood and introduced them selves, Paul & Connie, and then he mentioned his Escapee forum name - TopSweep. I let out a huge squeal and had to run over and give him a huge hug. We've followed each other's blogs for a while and chatted a lot on the forum as well. (As soon as introductions were over, I went back and gave Connie her hug as well.) Hope you'll visit their blog, A Breath of Fresh Road.
Well, we chatted long enough to get kicked out of the kitchen activity area so they could lock up. From there we headed to their rig, IDK, and I got to meet Allen (or is it Alan, we never discussed spelling) their new companion who replaced Addie (who went back home). Paul snapped a photo of me with Allen, I expect it to show up when I least expect it. Anyway, we chatted another hour or so and could have probably gone on all night except they also planned to leave today.
Today I caught up on some personal web site work in preparation for some upcoming client site redesign. I also replied to a bunch of emails and did a little reading. It was too cold to sit outside but since the sun comes into the front door so for a while I sat on the steps inside the RV, just enjoying the sun.
Early this evening I got a note from two other Escapees that I've chatted with for close to two years....Jeff & Suzanne, Two Hams in a Can. They arrived today for a week....I was already in my night clothes so we're going to meet in the morning before I leave.
Ya know.....it just gets better every day!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Friday, January 11, 2008
How to see things....
Well, since some viewers aren't liking my handy dandy method of using pop-up windows for viewing larger photos (and I'm not happy myself, I love the pop-up but also get irritated with having to scroll back down after closing the window), I'm posting a poll to get a consensus on what method the majority prefer. (Now keep your fingers crossed that this works!)
If you choose OTHER, please type your idea in the little box! Thanks...
More tonight on my trip yesterday and the park I'm currently in - Dreamcatchers SKP Park in Deming, NM.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
If you choose OTHER, please type your idea in the little box! Thanks...
More tonight on my trip yesterday and the park I'm currently in - Dreamcatchers SKP Park in Deming, NM.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Saturday, December 29, 2007
New & Noteworthy (or not)
Been both a quiet and yet busy week, will post more later but wanted to jot a couple of notes.
Note 1: For those who follow my blog via some type of reader, I have changed the format to a short rather than full which means you will have to click the title to read the rest of the entry (at least that's how it works in Google Reader). While I realize that isn't as convenient, it's the only way you will ever see my entire website. Since I use Google ads and a couple of affiliate programs to help finance the cost of maintaining my websites, if no one sees those ads, they can't click them. So, I apologize for the slight inconvenience but do appreciate those who check out the featured ads.
Note 2: Worrying about keeping mice out of your RV (&/or car) during these winter months. I've read many different remedies and we all know that bait/traps work but prefer something that doesn't require having poison around or handling dead rodents. One remedy I had seen mentioned several times was peppermint oil. In my RVing Riders forum, I mentioned that to someone who was looking for winterizing tips. Another reader decided to give it a try and has been posting to let us know that it appears to be working. Check it out here.
Note 3: I've got company! I've been corresponding for several months with another full-timer who also rides a BMW (with a sidecar for his pup, Spirit). We had hoped to meet in Big Bend but I never made it that far. He is heading back east to spend some time with his mother who is flying in from Germany for a month's visit but his route was taking him along the coast, several hundred miles from my campground. Two days ago I get a phone call and he's decided to re-route (don't you just love setting your plans in JELL-O, I'm still working on that but am getting a little better) and going to come this way for a visit. I will post another blog with more details and photos...here are a couple I snapped when we took Spirit for a walk yesterday as well as one taken this morning as they headed off for a ride (click for larger photos).
Be sure to check out his blog, The Oasis of My Soul, for a feast of photos and an outlook on life that I hope to emulate even a little bit. He is truly my hero and now a good friend.
Note 4: I've been fighting what I thought was a cold but have decided is actually allergies. I still get the sore throat from time to time, sniffles & sneezing off & on as well as headaches. All seem to be worse after being outdoors for a bit so thus the final deduction - allergies. UGH! We'll see what happens when I leave the area and travel through NM to AZ, where I will spend most of my time until spring.
Note 5: I hope everyone is getting ready for a wonderful New Year. As some of you know, New Year's Eve is always a bittersweet time for me. This would have been my 22nd anniversary. A special date no matter how I spend it.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Note 1: For those who follow my blog via some type of reader, I have changed the format to a short rather than full which means you will have to click the title to read the rest of the entry (at least that's how it works in Google Reader). While I realize that isn't as convenient, it's the only way you will ever see my entire website. Since I use Google ads and a couple of affiliate programs to help finance the cost of maintaining my websites, if no one sees those ads, they can't click them. So, I apologize for the slight inconvenience but do appreciate those who check out the featured ads.Note 2: Worrying about keeping mice out of your RV (&/or car) during these winter months. I've read many different remedies and we all know that bait/traps work but prefer something that doesn't require having poison around or handling dead rodents. One remedy I had seen mentioned several times was peppermint oil. In my RVing Riders forum, I mentioned that to someone who was looking for winterizing tips. Another reader decided to give it a try and has been posting to let us know that it appears to be working. Check it out here.Note 3: I've got company! I've been corresponding for several months with another full-timer who also rides a BMW (with a sidecar for his pup, Spirit). We had hoped to meet in Big Bend but I never made it that far. He is heading back east to spend some time with his mother who is flying in from Germany for a month's visit but his route was taking him along the coast, several hundred miles from my campground. Two days ago I get a phone call and he's decided to re-route (don't you just love setting your plans in JELL-O, I'm still working on that but am getting a little better) and going to come this way for a visit. I will post another blog with more details and photos...here are a couple I snapped when we took Spirit for a walk yesterday as well as one taken this morning as they headed off for a ride (click for larger photos).Be sure to check out his blog, The Oasis of My Soul, for a feast of photos and an outlook on life that I hope to emulate even a little bit. He is truly my hero and now a good friend.
Note 4: I've been fighting what I thought was a cold but have decided is actually allergies. I still get the sore throat from time to time, sniffles & sneezing off & on as well as headaches. All seem to be worse after being outdoors for a bit so thus the final deduction - allergies. UGH! We'll see what happens when I leave the area and travel through NM to AZ, where I will spend most of my time until spring.Note 5: I hope everyone is getting ready for a wonderful New Year. As some of you know, New Year's Eve is always a bittersweet time for me. This would have been my 22nd anniversary. A special date no matter how I spend it.Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Tag, you're it!
We all remember playing tag when we were kids...great way to get exercise and unless all your friends ganged up on you, the playing field was pretty equal. Well, I've discovered that we can play tag as bloggers.I was reading an entry in my middle daughter's crafting blog and she was all excited because she'd been tagged. As I read about the tagging, I thought this would be fun to share with RVers. There are many, many blogs I follow. Some folks post daily, some more than once a day, some less frequently and some very infrequently. But I follow them all (and thank goodness they don't all post every day - phew!).
So, here are the rules as I've modified them to fit our RV lifestyle:
- Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
- Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
- Share the 5 top places on your "want to see or want to see again" list.
- Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
- Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
Random/Weird facts about me:
- I didn't get my first tattoo until age 54 - I now have six.
- Besides 30 years as a computer professional I have also been a:
A & W car hop
Grapefruit packer
Fiber optic construction inspector
Long distance telephone operator (back when we used switchboards with wires) - My favorite ice cream is black raspberry -- followed closely by Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey!
- I hate to have my head underwater when swimming.
- My favorite flowers are daisies and black-eyed susans (I also love wildflowers).
- Yellowstone - rode through from three directions on the motorcycle, now want to camp there.
- Australia - maybe someday....
- Alaska - since I know I will never ride my motorcycle TO there, what better way to go than RV there and then ride!
- Yosemite - never been there but hear that it's better than Yellowstone.
- Glacier - another visited on bike but want to camp there, and I want to revisit the Blackfeet friends I made in nearby Browning while volunteering on the reservation.
- Diane & Andy - diandy
- Ellie & Jim - justravelin
- Chris & Jim - Geeks on Tour
- Kris & Al - On the Road
- Sandra - Nightly News
- ZoAnn - O. B. Sirius
- Randy & Di - Life on the Road
- Tom & Paula - Our Adventures with Emily
- Kelly & Al - Travel with the Bayfield Bunch
- Brian & Heidi - RV Boondocking the Good Life
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Bits & Pieces
This will be a somewhat disjointed blog today....lots of little bits & pieces to mention. First and foremost...for you RVers (and riders) out there...check your tires! Why?
Read this blog from one of my friends, Nick Russell (full-timer & rider), for the definitely gory details. Makes you think twice.....I already knew I would need a rear tire on the BMW very soon but his tale reminded me that I need to get new tires on the motorhome as well. They have a lot of tread left but the sidewalls (at least on the four I can see) are showing signs of dry rot. I don't know the condition of the inside rear tires nor the spare but based upon age, I will probably end up replacing them all (to the tune of probably $2000 or so....EEEEK!).
Next are two more blog mentions that are somewhat related in their themes:
Both are excellent and will help non-RVers better understand the call of the lifestyle. I've marked both to read over again from time to time.
The final blog mention is a touching one, it speaks about the folks we consider lost...but are they really? Maybe they are getting it right and we're the lost ones. Randy Gets the Story
Some other bits....had a productive day (read, no two hour nap taken). I got the insurance set on the motorhome, motorcycle and trailer. I had talked to Foremost at the Escapade and gotten some tentative quotes. It was time to finalize and activate them. I was still covered under State Farm but since the house was sold, even though I was paying for the homeowner's I might have had a problem trying to collect if something happened. Full-timers insurance covers not only your contents (personal effects) but liability for accidents that might befall visitors.
Then I made the call to State Farm to cancel all my coverage. This was harder than I thought...I've had coverage with them since I first left home at age 18. All my cars, motorcycles, and houses have been covered by them. But they don't offer any type of full-timers insurance so it was a must.
The campground is probably 95% occupied with the HOP here. They brought in two buses this morning to take them on their adventures. When they returned this afternoon, I was tired just thinking about their busy day.
Almost forgot, got up this morning to no water....looked at the outside thermometer, this was about 7:45am, and it was only 27 degrees out there! Figured the hose had frozen since I hadn't disconnected it...the freeze was totally unexpected. I had water from my tank so that was okay. I took a walk to 1) get a little exercise and 2) to see if I was the only idiot to have their water hose connected last night (I wasn't). Snapped a pic of the geese in Turkey Creek - all headed the other way....LOL!
Tomorrow is laundry and pack things up in the RV day so that I can head out Saturday morning. Plans call for me to head to the Escapees Livingston, TX park, Rainbow's End, for a day or two, then on to my "home" for the month of December - Luling, TX. Found what looks to be a nice park (good reviews) with everything I need - laundry, pull-throughs (already booked), free wi-fi if I have problems with Verizon (which has been an issue the last couple of days so right now I'm on the last two hours of my 24 hours purchased from Tengo Internet, the provider here), as well as close to the BMW dealer in San Antonio and two good sized Camping Worlds.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Read this blog from one of my friends, Nick Russell (full-timer & rider), for the definitely gory details. Makes you think twice.....I already knew I would need a rear tire on the BMW very soon but his tale reminded me that I need to get new tires on the motorhome as well. They have a lot of tread left but the sidewalls (at least on the four I can see) are showing signs of dry rot. I don't know the condition of the inside rear tires nor the spare but based upon age, I will probably end up replacing them all (to the tune of probably $2000 or so....EEEEK!).
Next are two more blog mentions that are somewhat related in their themes:
Both are excellent and will help non-RVers better understand the call of the lifestyle. I've marked both to read over again from time to time.
The final blog mention is a touching one, it speaks about the folks we consider lost...but are they really? Maybe they are getting it right and we're the lost ones. Randy Gets the Story
Some other bits....had a productive day (read, no two hour nap taken). I got the insurance set on the motorhome, motorcycle and trailer. I had talked to Foremost at the Escapade and gotten some tentative quotes. It was time to finalize and activate them. I was still covered under State Farm but since the house was sold, even though I was paying for the homeowner's I might have had a problem trying to collect if something happened. Full-timers insurance covers not only your contents (personal effects) but liability for accidents that might befall visitors.
Then I made the call to State Farm to cancel all my coverage. This was harder than I thought...I've had coverage with them since I first left home at age 18. All my cars, motorcycles, and houses have been covered by them. But they don't offer any type of full-timers insurance so it was a must.
The campground is probably 95% occupied with the HOP here. They brought in two buses this morning to take them on their adventures. When they returned this afternoon, I was tired just thinking about their busy day.
Almost forgot, got up this morning to no water....looked at the outside thermometer, this was about 7:45am, and it was only 27 degrees out there! Figured the hose had frozen since I hadn't disconnected it...the freeze was totally unexpected. I had water from my tank so that was okay. I took a walk to 1) get a little exercise and 2) to see if I was the only idiot to have their water hose connected last night (I wasn't). Snapped a pic of the geese in Turkey Creek - all headed the other way....LOL!
click to see larger image
Tomorrow is laundry and pack things up in the RV day so that I can head out Saturday morning. Plans call for me to head to the Escapees Livingston, TX park, Rainbow's End, for a day or two, then on to my "home" for the month of December - Luling, TX. Found what looks to be a nice park (good reviews) with everything I need - laundry, pull-throughs (already booked), free wi-fi if I have problems with Verizon (which has been an issue the last couple of days so right now I'm on the last two hours of my 24 hours purchased from Tengo Internet, the provider here), as well as close to the BMW dealer in San Antonio and two good sized Camping Worlds.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Bits and Pieces
Several quick notes today:
The guys working on the Lily Pad have been great....very patient. It's beginning to look like we might get the bulk of my list accomplished with two full days left. While they have a reputation for good work but being slow, I think giving them a deadline with my items prioritized is helping.
A couple of rigs left today but another arrived. I think we are at 4 or 5 staying here. All very nice folks, enjoy chatting with them. All are couples except the gentleman from Washington state with the little Min Pin.
I wanted to take some photos but never got around to digging out the camera today. I love my new camera but it's overkill for basic little shots like this. I think I will put a cheapie little digital on my Xmas wish list. Something small, easy to fit in a pocket but no real extras. Currently when I move into the customer lounge I have my laptop bag, BoBo and a tote bag with my purse, magazines, a book, and for BoBo a small bowl for water, food, a chew toy & rawhide, water bottle, bagel and a snack for me. Hard to add a large camera bag to that mix and made more cumbersome because I can't leave BoBo alone so every trip in or out, he accompanies me.
The weather is turning colder with a low forecast for 38 tonight but tomorrow night it's 32...glad my heat works well! Daily highs are dropping from the mid-60's to the mid-50's. Winter is approaching this are and I need to get moving for sure.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
- You may have noticed that the Frappr map is back! It seems as though Frappr was bought out by Platial.com and it was taking time to move everything over. I'm not sure they are completely done since I am unable to edit my own pin. Once I leave here I will delete it and re-add it to this map and others I am on.
- Frappr photo size - someone posted that they were unable to add a photo. That may be due to the changeover, not sure. Here is a link to the Frappr FAQ on photos if you have questions.
- I have added my email address to my profile. If you have a question and want me to answer you, you need to email me directly. If you post a comment I cannot email you back and if I post a comment back I have no way of knowing if you will ever read it. So please feel free to email me and I will reply as I have time (please be patient
).
The guys working on the Lily Pad have been great....very patient. It's beginning to look like we might get the bulk of my list accomplished with two full days left. While they have a reputation for good work but being slow, I think giving them a deadline with my items prioritized is helping.
A couple of rigs left today but another arrived. I think we are at 4 or 5 staying here. All very nice folks, enjoy chatting with them. All are couples except the gentleman from Washington state with the little Min Pin.
I wanted to take some photos but never got around to digging out the camera today. I love my new camera but it's overkill for basic little shots like this. I think I will put a cheapie little digital on my Xmas wish list. Something small, easy to fit in a pocket but no real extras. Currently when I move into the customer lounge I have my laptop bag, BoBo and a tote bag with my purse, magazines, a book, and for BoBo a small bowl for water, food, a chew toy & rawhide, water bottle, bagel and a snack for me. Hard to add a large camera bag to that mix and made more cumbersome because I can't leave BoBo alone so every trip in or out, he accompanies me.
The weather is turning colder with a low forecast for 38 tonight but tomorrow night it's 32...glad my heat works well! Daily highs are dropping from the mid-60's to the mid-50's. Winter is approaching this are and I need to get moving for sure.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Monday, October 29, 2007
Few Blog Changes Made
Quick note....my Frappr map is gone. All the member entries were lost (and not just on my map, many other suffered a loss) so I sadly removed it. Sorry! If I can find a replacment I will try it again. I loved the visual representation of where everyone was located.
I also removed the clock on the right...took too much time to change it. Instead I have a little text blurb that will give you a rough representation of where I am, what the time zone is and where I will be heading next.
As soon as I finish my cup of coffee I will be heading north to Elkhart. We survived the cold night and all seems to be intact. Now just hope all the tires held their pressure! Will post again tonight.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
I also removed the clock on the right...took too much time to change it. Instead I have a little text blurb that will give you a rough representation of where I am, what the time zone is and where I will be heading next.
As soon as I finish my cup of coffee I will be heading north to Elkhart. We survived the cold night and all seems to be intact. Now just hope all the tires held their pressure! Will post again tonight.
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Backing up is hard to do.....
No, not an RV....your blog! Today I was googling around and ran into a topic that I hadn't thought about. What happens if your blog provider LOSES your blog? Do you have a backup? I sure don't...I used to host the blog on my domain, then I had backup. Now that it's under Blogger's upgraded plan, they host the blog but display it under my name.
So, found what looks to be a possible solution (actually two) for those of us that blog and don't want to lose our content (words are precious....).
The first is easy but is only good as long as 1) it exists and 2) it's priced right. Presently it exists and being free, the price is right. It only backs up text so be sure to save any photos to your hard drive where you can easily find them.
Here is what PC World had to say about this solution:
So, found what looks to be a possible solution (actually two) for those of us that blog and don't want to lose our content (words are precious....).
The first is easy but is only good as long as 1) it exists and 2) it's priced right. Presently it exists
Here is what PC World had to say about this solution:
"If you have a blog and you aren't sure that your blog provider will always have a backup in case of a crash, head over to BlogBackupOnline pronto. The site is straightforward: Log in, enter information about your blog, and the site diligently backs it up every day (provided that you use one of the 11 supported blogging services--Blogger, Friendster, LiveJournal, Movable Type, Multiply, Serendipity, Terapad, TypePad, Vox, Windows Live Space, or WordPress). The site is also a great tool if you ever decide to move your blog from one platform to another. After you've backed up your blog, BlogBackupOnline can bring all of your old entries into the new service."
Yes, I've signed up and will give it a try. But in addition I am also using the other approach. It means creating a page with all your blog entries on it. Some folks said it doesn't work over 1000 posts but since I don't have that many, I created it today and dated it. In a week I will do it again...if it starts dropping them off the end, they will still be there in my older saved pages.
This page explains how to display the entries. Then just do a FILE SAVE AS, give the page a name you will remember and voila....a simple backup!
Till next time - keep on rollin',
Froggi/Donna
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