tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91752887310452106372024-03-12T17:13:21.845-07:00CoolRVers On and Off the RoadJudy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.comBlogger111125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-56911020758726982192020-04-11T18:44:00.001-07:002020-04-11T18:44:58.863-07:00THOUGHTS ABOUT MY NEXT CHAPTER…<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">After a three-year hiatus, I have decided to revive my old blog to bring folks up-to-date on what I have been doing and thinking about since Luke's passing almost one year ago. It's a lot to read, but there is some big news at the end. :-0 </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Writing from my patio</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am writing this update on April 11, 2020 while
sitting in my recliner lounge chair on the patio of my </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Brentwood, California home.
The adjoining golf course tee boxes </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">are empty because of the mandated
recreational shutdown during this pandemic.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">Miss Shade is enjoying the long grassy yard while hunting for lizards
along the decorative rock and bark yard border. Birds and turkeys are singing
and I am wearing a “Life is Good” sweater while contemplating my next chapter.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke and I taking delivery of our Isata</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As I have written before,
Luke and I “had a plan” that included what life would be like after one of us passed
away. A year ago at this time, we renewed those discussions while he was in
hospice care following a series of strokes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He passed quietly on May
16, 2019 and my “plan” became my next chapter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As you may know, last
summer, with the help of my daughter Robin, I found a cute 1500 sq. foot
house in a 55+ community with three 9-hole golf courses in Brentwood, CA. I am 45-minutes away from family and got to watch Grandson Tanner’s varsity
football games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I joined two ladies' golf
groups and was able to use my own golf cart that I brought from my previous
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My Cool house of 40 years sold in
October and I am very comfortable in my new surroundings.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 24' RV parked in front of my new Brentwood home.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Part of the “plan” was to
continue to RV in our previously downsized 24’ Class C Dynamax Isata 3 Series motorhome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On Christmas Eve day I finished loading it up
and began a three-month outing that we would have done as a couple. I took the
rig out of nearby storage, parked it in front of the new house and began the
trip from my daughter’s in nearby Pleasanton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Over t</span>he next couple of weeks, I helped with float decorating for the Pasadena
Rose Bowl Parade, attended an FMCA RVers regional rally in Indio, CA with the Golden Spikes RV Club, and then moved to Arizona where we would have typically traveled as part of our annual winter journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Isata 24FW towing my Honda-CRV</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I had no trouble hooking
up my car for towing, finding places to park overnight, and always had my
faithful and protective companion dog Shade with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did have to deal with a few motorhome
repairs and a recall issue, but time, warranties, and money took care of
everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everywhere I went I knew
friends and received a ton of (((HUGS))) acknowledging my loss of Luke and
congratulating me on tackling the journey as a “solo”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boondocking in the AZ desert</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I went to the annual gathering of my Escapees
“Boomer” family in Boomerville, just outside Quartzsite, Arizona where I taught
about Valley Fever, Essential Oils, and introduced a new talk called “Do You
Have a Plan” that was well-received.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
then moved across town to the annual Geocachers’ rally where, just a year
previously, Luke had his first stroke. A friend honored him with the placing of
a special hidden geocache </span><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://coord.info/GC8JMVK" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #1155cc;">Remembering Cool
Hand Luke (GC8JMVK)</span></a></span></i><span style="background: white; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">and the group let me be
among the “first to find” which was heartwarming.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Again, following the “plan”,
I headed to the Phoenix area where I attended three San Francisco Giants Spring
Training games, played golf, and met up with more friends in the region for
more golf, meals out, and more reminiscing. This leg of the trip also included
getting the “recall” on my RV’s slide mechanism fixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was scary to learn that the controller
board could move the 16’ full-wall slide out on its own while driving!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I got the January dated recall notice in my forwarded mail, I was able to arrange the repair under warranty
at the Camping World in Avondale on March 12.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">With peace of mind, I moved to Yuma for a week of golf with friends at Cocopah RV and Golf
Resort just as the pandemic restrictions were shutting down the country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I concluded that I had been “sheltering-in-place”
except that my place just kept moving.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As I drove north through
California’s Central Valley, I had plenty of time to contemplate what I had
accomplished per “the plan” and to start thinking about my next chapter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With extra toilet paper on hand, a service
call completed on the RV, and a new RV storage space secured, I drove to my new
home, unloaded the RV, and settled down into my happy place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking for the mail</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am successfully social distancing, wearing
a mask to walk Miss Shade daily to get the mail and doing only very
essential driving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have made one trip
to the grocery store, a trip to the vet, and yesterday I traveled two miles to
the Ace Hardware store to get a part so I could (and did) fix the broken handle
on my toilet!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ah, the life of a
sheltered homeowner. </span><span style="font-family: "segoe ui emoji" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">😉</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">THE NEXT CHAPTER…</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Despite the current
pandemic restrictions, I am very content in my new surroundings. Yes, it would
be great if the golf courses and local dog parks opened, but I am happy just “veggie”
out at my new house. My “office” windows, my family room with my 60” Xfinity TV
service, and my patio all overlook my serene setting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I'm a very contented, happy non-camper.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When I think about all the places Luke and I
traveled over our 50 years together, including our extended RV travels the past
16 years, and all the organizing and teachings I have done on the road, <b>I am
ready to settle down in Brentwood</b>. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt;">There is nothing
left on the “RV Bucket List” that I need a motorhome to drive to!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><i>I have now decided to HANG UP MY RV KEYS.</i></span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My RV friends know there comes a time to find a
place to settle and reflect on all the great friends and memories that I accumulated during this RV lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><b><i>This is my
plan!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After much thought, <b>I have
decided to sell my 2019 Dynamax Isata 3 Series 24FW Class C motorhome and to
replace my 2006 Honda CR-V tow car with a new car</b> for driving around town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many
friends toured this cute RV during my recent travels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were lots of folks talking about
downsizing and how perfect this 24'7" RV was with the extras we had added.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">I have done my homework
on comparable pricing for the RV and the car (available for review). </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">I<b> am asking $101,900 for the RV and $4,000
for the towable Honda CR-V. </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: red;">Now’s your chance to buy <u>both</u> vehicles plus extras as a package for </span></b></span><b style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="color: red;">$103,000 !!!</span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roadmaster All-Terrain Hitch w/braking system</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Among the “extras” on this unit that you won’t find on a dealer’s
lot are the following:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a much needed second
drawer and an electrical outlet added to the galley. We also originally paid an extra
$2000 to have a Winegard Traveler satellite dish and DirecTV receiver
permanently added when we purchased the unit in October 2018. (The "out the door" original price was $16,332.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am also including a Roadmaster All-Terrain
hitch package, a 10-station Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and an easy to
plug and drive supplemental brake system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The storage bays and interior will also include many RVer's convenience items that will come as part of the sale price.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Isata RV currently has 6,975 miles (including the 2,191 miles when it was driven from the Indiana factory to California) and all Mercedes Bentz Sprinter servicing
is current as of March 30. The Honda has149,000 driven miles with all services completed by Honda
dealers as recently as December. All service records, including tires, are
available.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The RV and Honda hooked up before my trip.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Trying to sell something during
this global shutdown requires a different form of marketing and I am in no
hurry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I first started by creating a large
photo album of the RV with captions that can be viewed by clicking this link: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/QJ1U6cb5SyYSgXPg9">https://photos.app.goo.gl/<wbr></wbr>QJ1U6cb5SyYSgXPg9</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The album photos include those taken while we were
shopping for the unit and actual shots taken of every interior and exterior
view of this specific unit. The rig is stored just one mile from my home in Brentwood,
CA (Contra Costa County) and can be seen in-person and test-driven when the
times come. Please feel to share a link to this blog and photo albums to alert friends and family who may want to join the RV lifestyle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I have created a
dedicated email address if you would like to ask questions or arrange a
showing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please send inquiries to <i><span style="color: blue;"><b><a href="mailto:selling2019isata@gmail.com">selling2019isata@gmail.com</a></b></span></i>. </span></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">Thank you all for your support this past year!</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><i>I welcome your feedback.</i></span></span></h2>
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<br />Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-32928630143688760902017-05-07T21:08:00.001-07:002017-05-07T22:51:44.965-07:002017 #AtoZChallenge ReflectionsJust when you thought you had heard the end of the "April A to Z Challenge" comes a new task: post a <a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2017/05/just-one-more-thing-atozchallenge.html?spref=fb">REFLECTIONS</a> post about what we like best, least, what worked, what didn't work, and favorite themes. My personal "Reflection" is about how I was finally motivated to resume my blog.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>YES, I SURVIVED...</b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">If you made it through to the end of the </span><b style="background-color: white;">Blogging from A to Z April Challenge</b><span style="background-color: white;">, give yourself a big pat on the back and accept a hearty cheer of congratulations from all of us. That was some feat and you are well deserving of recognition for having achieved it. </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"> As a survivor of the </span><b style="background-color: white;">April A to Z Challenge</b><span style="background-color: white;"> you have earned the official A to Z Survivor Badge to wear proudly on your site to show all of the world your amazing accomplishment.</span></span></i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">REFLECTIONS ON THE PAST..</span> </h3>
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My original blog, "<b><i><a href="http://coolrvers.blogspot.com/">COOLRVERS ON THE ROAD</a></i></b>" had basically died back in 2014 when I got hooked on Facebook (FB). Facebook provided an on-the-go posting environment that allowed me to easily add photos, interact with others, and target my comments to specific groups. "MOST" of my blog readers were already interacting with me and each other on FB so it seemed like a duplication of effort. Yes, I lost a few readers who let me know they didn't "do social media" but we pretty much stayed in touch with those friends and family members through real live visits and telephone calls!!!</div>
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I started writing the blog in 2011 in preparation for a major RVing trip to Alaska and I kept on writing as a form of documentation of where we went, what we did, who we saw, and what we ate! All were favorite topics for the many RVer blogs that I followed. During that initial four year run I wrote 83 different blog postings and had approximately 60+ "followers" and others that apparently liked what they read. When I checked at the end of March, 2017, the "TOTAL PAGEVIEWS" count had grown to 91,325 "hits" during that time period. There is a panel on the right side of the my blog home page that contains an ARCHIVE BY YEAR, MONTH, and SUBJECT TITLE if you would like to read those old postings.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">TIME TO RESTART MY WRITING</span></h3>
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During the break in my regular postings I DID try to resume the blog at least twice. </div>
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This is what I wrote on <b><u>January 4, 2013:</u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <a href="http://coolrvers.blogspot.com/2013/01/im-baaaaack.html" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration-line: none;"><i>I’m Baaaaack…..</i></a></span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Okay, I’m guilty. It has been five months since I have updated the blog. I haven’t a good excuse – busy, lazy, or all of the above. I don’t make New Years Resolutions, but we are back on the road so the time is right to get back into the blogging habit. First a look back at the rest of our 2012 travels.</span></i></span></blockquote>
Then I wrote these familiar words on <b>January 9, 2014</b>:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> <a href="http://coolrvers.blogspot.com/2014/01/im-baaaaack.html"><i>I’m Baaaaack………</i></a></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">No, wait – I wrote that headline the last time I posted and that was one year ago! </span><span style="font-size: small;">One update in 2013 and that was it. So, what happened?</span></span></span></i></blockquote>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">As I apologized last year: “I haven’t a good excuse – busy, lazy, or all of the above.” Consider this my Groundhog Day so we will try going through this again. Forget 2013 ever existed and we’ll move on. </span></i></blockquote>
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Fast forward to <b>August 2, 2014</b>.<br />
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<a href="http://coolrvers.blogspot.com/2014/08/back-on-road-finally.html" style="color: #33aaff; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i><b>BACK ON THE ROAD … FINALLY!</b></i></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>When I committed to writing a blog back in 2011 I fully intended it to be a TRAVEL BLOG. So, what happens to a TRAVEL BLOG when you are not traveling? Well, it sits dormant and, in my case, our family and travel updates have defaulted to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judy.rinehimer" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook.</a></i></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>While most of my blog readers also do <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judy.rinehimer" style="color: #6699cc; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, I am well-aware that I have readers who stay away from “social media” and just want to know where we are and what we are doing. They follow our travels vicariously through these blogs, often telling us they wish they could do what we do. Our advice is always to DO IT! Don’t wait until your health tells you it is time to hang up the keys!</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2017 MOTIVATIONS</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Health reasons shortened our usual four-month "winter" trip the Southwest to just two months but we did make it to RV rallies in March where I attended "seminars" that put the bug in me to start writing again and to use my existing blog as the starting point. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">First I would like to thank Author (and now "friend") <a href="http://www.judyhowardpublishing.com/JUDYSHOMEPAGE.html">Judy Howard</a> for her many writing workshops I have attended over the years. As some of you know, my career included teaching Journalism and Writing for Publication, and a variety of communications and technology courses among my many assignments with Cosumnes River College. It was actually Judy Howard's presentation at a Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) rally in Indio, CA in January, 2011 that kindled my interest in starting a blog in the first place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I still carry a file folder with my hand-written notes and Judy's various handouts that I have collected at other rallies in Indio, Pomona, Phoenix, and Tucson. "The Road to Writing - Part One" focuses on "Helpful Tips on the Craft of Writing". Part Two of her lectures and handouts concentrate on "What Makes a Good Story". These seminars primarily target wanna be 'authors' wanting to publish those books they have in their heads. THAT'S NOT ME. The message I took from her for me was simple: <u style="font-weight: bold;">If you want to write then WRITE!!!</u> Please <a href="http://www.judyhowardpublishing.com/JUDYSHOMEPAGE.html">click here</a> or go to <a href="https://www.amazon.com/JUDY-HOWARD/e/B005H1KXYU/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1">Amazon.com</a> to read all about Judy Howard's books. I have read them ALL, including the writings of her cat, Sportster.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I credit </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chris and Jim Guld,</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><a href="http://geeksontour.com/" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Geeks on Tour</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">, for getting me started with the Google Blogger software that I use for posting my blogs. I call myself a "Geeks Groupee" and I have attended all of their technology for travelers workshops any and every time we are at the same rallies. I can count on Jim and Chris as my gurus for keeping me current on the latest software and hardware technology. When I took my hiatus from writing my blog I would attend one of their seminars and feel guilty that I wasn't doing what I had planned to do in my retirement -- travel AND WRITE!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">FOLLOWING AUTHORS</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are many RVers who wear the title AUTHOR. </span><a href="http://www.nickrussellbooks.com/about/" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Nick Russell</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> is an author I love to read. He has hooked me on using my Kindle for leisure reading with his hysterical but page-turning mysteries in the "Big Lake" Series. In addition to his daily blogs and RV newspaper The Gypsy Journal, Nick is a writing machine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Donna McNicol is another author I knew of as an RVer before I started reading all of her published works. Go to this website http<a href="https://donnamcnicol.com/books.shtml">://donnamcnicol.com/books.shtml</a>. to see the wide range of writing that she continues to produce. She is also a contributing author to the Lei Mystery series based in Hawaii, another series I have read all of.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Donna and hubby Stu have just returned to Tennessee after a two year stay in Ecuador where she was very active with a writer's club. As a matter of fact, DONNA McNICOL is the one who invited me to participate in the Bloggers "A to Z Challenge"!!! She also invited other writer's from Ecuador and created a group she called BLOGGING BUDDIES. We all shared our daily postings and many of the comments you might have read on my postings came from Ecuadorian writers. Donna has been a great mentor throughout this month of blogging. She has a new book about to hit the Amazon Kindle bookshelf and I can't wait to buy it and download it to my Kindle Fire.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">WRAPPING UP MY REFLECTIONS</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for my likes and dislikes about the Challenge my only thoughts focused in my need to NOT MISS A DEADLINE!!! As a journalist I can say I met that goal, including a few blogs that got posted about 11:57 p.m. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The Challenge allowed me to stay with my original theme of writing about the RV lifestyle and our personal experiences on the road. I probably wrote much longer blogs than many of the other AtoZ bloggers. It is my style to "document" my sources and to provide direct links so readers can find more information on their own. Again, I think I was successful at that task.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SO, WHAT'S NEXT???</span></h3>
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Get ready for TRAVEL blogs. They won't be daily but they will chronicle the COOLRVERS ON THE ROAD. <br />
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Expect the next blog to focus on a trip I started today with family members for an 8-day cruise to Alaska. Luke is home with our GSD Miss Shade. After more medical appointments through the middle of June we will get our "rolling condo" back on the road with destinations in Oregon and Washington to visit family. After that we are currently planning to return to the Canadian Glaciers and then decide which way to return to our stick house in Cool.<br />
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THANKS FOR FOLLOWING ALONG<br />
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-63774595233302005912017-04-30T15:56:00.000-07:002017-04-30T16:14:15.073-07:00"Z" IS FOR ZEBRAS (#AtoZChallenge)<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is the last day of the "A to Z Bloggers Challenge" and for our letter of the day I am writing <b><span style="color: red;">"Z IS FOR ZEBRAS".</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">THESE ZEBRAS ARE IN ALBUQUERQUE</span></h3>
When you first read this blog title you probably thought about zebras you have seen in zoos, on safari, or on National Geographic television. The ZEBRAS I am featuring today, however, are on-the-field as Launch Directors during the <a href="http://balloonfiesta.com/">Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta</a>. We have attended the ABQ Fiesta since 2006 as active "crew members" with the Boomers RV Club and have enjoyed our interactions with these characters.<br />
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As you can tell from today's photos, the Zebra "uniform" is more that just black and white referee shirts. Zebras are a fun group of Launch Directors (LD) that display their nicknames in unique ways. Today you'll learn all about the Fiesta Zebras!<br />
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Following is a description of what the <a href="http://www.balloonfiesta.com/news/548/378/So-You-Want-To-Be-A-Zebra">Fiesta website</a> describes as the duties of Zebras.<br />
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Noto Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">What do Launch Directors do?</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></blockquote>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Noto Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></strong>A Launch Director is the first person of contact for the pilots and crews on the field. In their black and white attire LDs, aka Zebras, are rather prominent ambassadors of Fiesta. The LDs work with the pilots to conduct a Safe Coordinated Launch. Even well before daylight, the LDs walk their rows to greet pilots and crews. They remind the pilots about the 3 Row Rule. During inflations, the LDs look for proper tie offs and anything out of the ordinary. The flight operations kick off when the Balloon of the Day launches as the National Anthem is played from the stage. At the conclusion of the anthem, the LDs are able to start launching the first wave. Each LD has a conversation with the pilot about the launch. The discussion may include overhead traffic, layers of wind, false lift warnings, and other topics necessary for a successful launch. The Launch Card (chit) is collected and then the LD clears the spectators down wind and reestablishes eye contact with the pilot. When the airspace above the balloon is clear the LD blows the whistle and gives thumbs up for launch. The LD stays in position until the balloon is above head level and in controlled flight. The LD waves or salutes while wishing a safe flight for the pilot and crew. LDs take this time to observe the balloon’s flight to be prepared for the next launch. Then it is on to the next balloon to repeat the launch process. After all the balloons are launched we shift our hats to become Landing Assistants. When the permission is granted to allow landings on the launch field, the LDs help the incoming balloons land safely until balloon crews arrive.<br />
<span style="background-color: #8eaec5; color: #333333; font-family: "noto sans" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">During the glows, we provide contact with the pilots, check tie offs, collect chits and help with lost parents.</span></blockquote>
In 2016 the Fiesta organizers were looking for ZITs - <b>Z</b>ebras <b>I</b>n <b>T</b>raining.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IT4QDz6qYHM/WQZKgD49VQI/AAAAAAABmgY/R_TgUGKBIegwaWvySszxt4STg3FMmTEOgCEw/s1600/zebra%2Btraining.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IT4QDz6qYHM/WQZKgD49VQI/AAAAAAABmgY/R_TgUGKBIegwaWvySszxt4STg3FMmTEOgCEw/s320/zebra%2Btraining.jpg" width="320" /></i></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Zebras" practicing "thumbs up" for the camera during a ZIT gathering</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">WORKING WITH PILOTS</span></h3>
Here are photos of Zebras interacting with "our pilots". Prior to a Fiesta pilot preparing to launch, they meet with Zebras to learn about current procedures and special conditions that may occur on the launch field. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FKfWsu_62Y0/WQZKceOXbcI/AAAAAAABmgY/B6x2d1VEZ0A6Ympc06_v5WBdCLZ5GS9owCEw/s1600/mike%2Band%2Bzebra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FKfWsu_62Y0/WQZKceOXbcI/AAAAAAABmgY/B6x2d1VEZ0A6Ympc06_v5WBdCLZ5GS9owCEw/s320/mike%2Band%2Bzebra.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">ZEBRAS CHECK BASKETS & COLLECT FLIGHT CHITS</span></h3>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HaYdB3NOrpw/WQZKYkdLi3I/AAAAAAABmgY/pwUlZumdUQ4LCD7iE3jxTMn_73QvqTa1wCEw/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HaYdB3NOrpw/WQZKYkdLi3I/AAAAAAABmgY/pwUlZumdUQ4LCD7iE3jxTMn_73QvqTa1wCEw/s320/IMG_1799.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-EhAWbnhPE/WQZKZqY8RII/AAAAAAABmgY/-7uF8i4aNIcUZqN2gYt5PA2zKhv_DlltACEw/s1600/IMG_1923_edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-EhAWbnhPE/WQZKZqY8RII/AAAAAAABmgY/-7uF8i4aNIcUZqN2gYt5PA2zKhv_DlltACEw/s320/IMG_1923_edited.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">ZEBRAS DIRECT LAUNCH TRAFFIC</span></h3>
Launching has to be very systematic when 600-900 balloons lift off during a "Mass Ascension". As each assigned grid row prepares to launch, the Zebras use their loud whistles to clear the thousands of spectators out of the way of the launching hot air balloons. They also watch for congestion of other balloons above the current launch site.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c0a3F1gzFRo/WQZKYs-H_LI/AAAAAAABmgY/zMIB-3sHLLIqiR2IZBcM42tHRQVUpwVEACEw/s1600/IMG_1804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c0a3F1gzFRo/WQZKYs-H_LI/AAAAAAABmgY/zMIB-3sHLLIqiR2IZBcM42tHRQVUpwVEACEw/s320/IMG_1804.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tkEGTjHBOic/WQZKZEyw8UI/AAAAAAABmgY/AGLQyjiQ5LYIMlIZpHIqDahf0CpXU23-QCEw/s1600/IMG_1914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tkEGTjHBOic/WQZKZEyw8UI/AAAAAAABmgY/AGLQyjiQ5LYIMlIZpHIqDahf0CpXU23-QCEw/s320/IMG_1914.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Zebra patrolling the competition field rope line</span></i></td></tr>
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<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">ZEBRAS DEALING WITH CREWS AND CROWDS</span></h3>
Not all spectators understand what happens during a cold and hot air inflation prior to launching. Each pilot has "crew" to help prepare the grid space for laying out the "envelope" (balloon fabric), assembling the basket and clearing the space after launching in preparation for the "chase" to find and retrieve the balloon. Sometimes voices can become loud and directive!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BL4LJot0rmM/WQZKcntd-tI/AAAAAAABmgY/DpFH10WWil4fTjqaWVO-KKKNvH0IWKEsgCEw/s1600/directing%2Bcrowd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BL4LJot0rmM/WQZKcntd-tI/AAAAAAABmgY/DpFH10WWil4fTjqaWVO-KKKNvH0IWKEsgCEw/s400/directing%2Bcrowd.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pilot Daniel Liberti shouts out commands while a Zebra checks the launch grid area.</i></span></td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">ZEBRA APPEARANCES</span></h3>
Have you noticed the clothing enhancements that the Zebras embrace? Somewhere among my thousands of Fiesta photos on my various computers I have a wonderful photo of a group of Zebras with headgear, "tails" and very young children ZITs. I will add it later in the comments if I come across it. It is "perfect" !!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daG2LfsIoRA/WQZKbZQokKI/AAAAAAABmgY/bDzg6JYhn7MGKmrNehkY3UwImmZDgUriACEw/s1600/Tails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daG2LfsIoRA/WQZKbZQokKI/AAAAAAABmgY/bDzg6JYhn7MGKmrNehkY3UwImmZDgUriACEw/s320/Tails.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Tails, gloves, hats, and even Zebra shoes</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNsGgLQmcAo/WQZKaHyoxGI/AAAAAAABmgY/ynSosrD6XnERG5x8FgLSzdqoUTD8VI09ACEw/s1600/IMG_2027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNsGgLQmcAo/WQZKaHyoxGI/AAAAAAABmgY/ynSosrD6XnERG5x8FgLSzdqoUTD8VI09ACEw/s320/IMG_2027.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Not always "serious" attire</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n35kzQSQ1R8/WQZKaVbrhqI/AAAAAAABmgY/LUPiHtKY40o8oTuRRLIIopV7FLByMx5tgCEw/s1600/IMG_2042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n35kzQSQ1R8/WQZKaVbrhqI/AAAAAAABmgY/LUPiHtKY40o8oTuRRLIIopV7FLByMx5tgCEw/s400/IMG_2042.JPG" width="400" /></i></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="font-size: small;">What to wear to a "Glow". I don't think this is all "official" issue.</span></i></td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />A TOUCHING MOMENT</span></h3>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W19G-XjdAD0/WQZluRZazFI/AAAAAAABmhE/BQ1gUkRWpFIX_2AGnykW9h1UqY53DfA0wCLcB/s1600/banner%2Bclose%2Bup_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W19G-XjdAD0/WQZluRZazFI/AAAAAAABmhE/BQ1gUkRWpFIX_2AGnykW9h1UqY53DfA0wCLcB/s320/banner%2Bclose%2Bup_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a>Our long-time "Crew Chief" and friend Theresa Liberti, better known as "Momma T", was totally surprised one year when her husband and Pilot Mike Liberti unveiled a banner on his <b>Morningstar</b> balloon that honored "T's" late parents. She was in tears, along with the rest of us, as this Zebra embraced her and guided her over to the basket. "T" NEVER flies and everyone insisted that she at least climb into the basket for photos. <b><i>More tears!!!</i></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_T_vJDpIPk/WQZKbcfAkAI/AAAAAAABmgY/7oexyGBgRAIbqQxQ01J_P47ErAcRBucKACEw/s1600/T%2Band%2BZebra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_T_vJDpIPk/WQZKbcfAkAI/AAAAAAABmgY/7oexyGBgRAIbqQxQ01J_P47ErAcRBucKACEw/s320/T%2Band%2BZebra.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>An emotional unveiling</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSxJi6N0-dE/WQZkmXBFAbI/AAAAAAABmgw/7YcxVNOUvlAwQNw6rCsN06AJrqmikxfRACEw/s1600/Tears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSxJi6N0-dE/WQZkmXBFAbI/AAAAAAABmgw/7YcxVNOUvlAwQNw6rCsN06AJrqmikxfRACEw/s320/Tears.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<i>Daughter Michelle comforts Momma T</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o0QexCJLnM/WQZkmc7bJTI/AAAAAAABmg8/YdUerqdFCnEcdR25qPWf9PtmaqeKbRDqACEw/s1600/T%2Band%2BMike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o0QexCJLnM/WQZkmc7bJTI/AAAAAAABmg8/YdUerqdFCnEcdR25qPWf9PtmaqeKbRDqACEw/s320/T%2Band%2BMike.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Yes, a rare photo of "T" in the basket as Mike threatens to launch.</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar1EjAnMcx8/WQZknnMJI0I/AAAAAAABmg8/LnHsMTCblS8XV8cM41ltIfKAY-7_CaHHACEw/s1600/nanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar1EjAnMcx8/WQZknnMJI0I/AAAAAAABmg8/LnHsMTCblS8XV8cM41ltIfKAY-7_CaHHACEw/s320/nanner.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pilot Mike Liberti and T in the basket</i></span></td></tr>
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<i>Mike provides a "helping" (?) hand getting T out of the basket!!!</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E9SoJxePTXA/WQZkmWK4BmI/AAAAAAABmg8/9RkTCCaY6sY3xHqfJqNEEzPlh2rECMcFwCEw/s1600/T%2Bin%2Bbasket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E9SoJxePTXA/WQZkmWK4BmI/AAAAAAABmg8/9RkTCCaY6sY3xHqfJqNEEzPlh2rECMcFwCEw/s320/T%2Bin%2Bbasket.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">THE END</span></b></h3>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6u9NceH5eVI/WQZvq3lm8KI/AAAAAAABmhU/d6TYp53VtZQpjD1u2Ind4516NNC4LKZFgCLcB/s1600/Survivor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6u9NceH5eVI/WQZvq3lm8KI/AAAAAAABmhU/d6TYp53VtZQpjD1u2Ind4516NNC4LKZFgCLcB/s640/Survivor.jpg" width="384" /></a></div>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-57007133239115281142017-04-29T23:49:00.001-07:002017-04-30T01:06:04.163-07:00"Y" IS FOR YUMA (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The A to Z Bloggers Challenge letter of the day is "Y" and, since Yuma, Arizona is a destination for us almost every winter, <b><span style="color: red;">"Y IS FOR YUMA"</span></b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h3nTCDkTDrM/WQQc0KYkVII/AAAAAAABmco/hT4_5rJIwKAmlcJKb7I2Y320xMIHWg_kACLcB/s1600/Y.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h3nTCDkTDrM/WQQc0KYkVII/AAAAAAABmco/hT4_5rJIwKAmlcJKb7I2Y320xMIHWg_kACLcB/s1600/Y.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">WHERE TO STAY</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yuma is located in the southwest corner of Arizona along Interstate 8 and adjacent to the Mexican border. In our typical winter travels we would be heading to Yuma via Hwy. 95 which links I-10 and I-8 through the small town of Quartzsite that we visit in January almost every year. If we head to Yuma from the Phoenix metropolitan area we can follow I-10 towards Casa Grande and/or backtrack on side roads through Gila Bend.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CPagUg2s9GM/WQVyunI-Z8I/AAAAAAABmdU/JiOcFM619rcqoH8TZsIP9m8c8qdsLRhVQCEw/s1600/allstays%2Blogo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CPagUg2s9GM/WQVyunI-Z8I/AAAAAAABmdU/JiOcFM619rcqoH8TZsIP9m8c8qdsLRhVQCEw/s200/allstays%2Blogo.gif" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'd say most of the "Winter Visitors" (aka "snowbirds") that head for Yuma do so for "the season". Snowbirds are travelers that come from the colder climates of the Midwest, upper Midwest and Canada and stay approximately from November to March. They occupy the 80+ formal campgrounds, RV resorts, mobile home parks, etc. Other folks come to the area and "boondock" -- camp without utilities on public lands. The most complete listing of all of the camping options is in an $9.99 app called "<a href="https://www.allstays.com/">ALLSTAYS Camp and RV</a>" which we highly recommend.</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_8A3dbtKuI/WQV2LVU1MaI/AAAAAAABmdg/erCgnqcXyig0EU4CcceEQAo-hp6NysLsACLcB/s1600/Passport%2BAmerica.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_8A3dbtKuI/WQV2LVU1MaI/AAAAAAABmdg/erCgnqcXyig0EU4CcceEQAo-hp6NysLsACLcB/s200/Passport%2BAmerica.png" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For the most part we only head for Yuma for 1-3 week stays and seldom do we have reservations. Many of our Escapee RV Club "Boomer" friends have established home bases in the Yuma area and own plots of lands on the eastern side of Yuma in an area known as the "Foothills". These specially zoned parcels allow multiple RVs to connect to water, electric, and </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">sewer dump stations. We have also stayed in full hook-up campgrounds and look for places that offer 50% off discount rates through Passport America or our Escapees RV Club.</span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">VISITING MEXICO</span></h3>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xQo2pEuZQ2o/WQV_RDfJjAI/AAAAAAABmd0/itF2xdbVE8sizD0ERNakWAs77dOKdevewCLcB/s1600/Algodones-%2B003_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xQo2pEuZQ2o/WQV_RDfJjAI/AAAAAAABmd0/itF2xdbVE8sizD0ERNakWAs77dOKdevewCLcB/s320/Algodones-%2B003_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">From Yuma it is an easy hop, skip, and a walk across the international checkpoint between the USA and Mexico to a small Mexican community called Los Algodones or Algodones. The town enters off I-8 and is approximately 10 miles west of downtown Yuma, just across the California-Arizona border. A local Indian tribe provides parking for a small fee and you walk one block to cross the border. To return to the USA you must present your valid US Passport and declare your purchases with the Customs officers. Wait times to get back to the US during the peak season can sometimes take an hour-plus.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mOMKEbcOk/WQV_RBK1HKI/AAAAAAABmdw/g_2E79UoJ8s8EqnkaeoQqv8Lvu1LU37DACEw/s1600/To%2BUS%2Bfrom%2BAlgodones-%2B004_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mOMKEbcOk/WQV_RBK1HKI/AAAAAAABmdw/g_2E79UoJ8s8EqnkaeoQqv8Lvu1LU37DACEw/s320/To%2BUS%2Bfrom%2BAlgodones-%2B004_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IvYuakAQRW4/WQWB9JlY4mI/AAAAAAABmeI/EEzOSa8qWk0jjZy17Pt3h-uLZGPvQ25twCEw/s1600/IMAG1239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IvYuakAQRW4/WQWB9JlY4mI/AAAAAAABmeI/EEzOSa8qWk0jjZy17Pt3h-uLZGPvQ25twCEw/s200/IMAG1239.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The town's main attraction is low cost dental, pharmaceutical, optical and merchandise sought by snowbirds every winter. The <a href="http://www.algodones.mx/">"official"</a> Algodones website reports there are more than 300 specialized and certified dental clinics plus 50-plus dental labs that make crowns, bridges, and dentures in just 2-3 days. Many of our friends have had implants done and many more go across the border for their annual dental cleanings. Services are typically 70-75% cheaper than in the US or Canada.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Artisans sit around the local shops and outdoor eateries creating uniquely painted "stuff" like custom mailboxes, spare tire covers, and patio decor items. Street merchants will try to sell you their leather goods, jewelry, clothing, etc. US currency is the preferred form of payment and some of the medical and dental practices accept insurances or credit cards, travelers' checks, and personal checks for an additional fee.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2-5D73dOJ6M/WQWB-hO_sII/AAAAAAABmeY/N8nGgyqze9YvKRb7SHFDPUZn1RoSGUL0ACEw/s1600/artisans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2-5D73dOJ6M/WQWB-hO_sII/AAAAAAABmeY/N8nGgyqze9YvKRb7SHFDPUZn1RoSGUL0ACEw/s320/artisans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nYNI5KokXU/WQWB9eKcajI/AAAAAAABmeg/9a7oDgkpuoknfJJ03e3eP97I2VHrMvIQQCEw/s1600/IMAG1259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nYNI5KokXU/WQWB9eKcajI/AAAAAAABmeg/9a7oDgkpuoknfJJ03e3eP97I2VHrMvIQQCEw/s320/IMAG1259.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Alcohol and tobacco products have certain limitations when returning to the USA. Everything in Algodones is located within just a 5-block area from the border crossing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Most everyone we know who cross over the border include a stop for fish and/or shrimp street tacos or complete meals at the restaurants.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">OTHER PLACES TO STAY</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As mentioned above, there are lots of formal places to park a recreational vehicle but there are also other types of places around Yuma we have stayed. The most unusual military FamCamp is off Hwy. 95, north of town, the Yuma Proving Grounds. When we stayed in the area the Army precision parachuting team was training there so that visit provided front row seats to spectacular action. The highway turn-off for the Proving Grounds is marked by unusual landmarks -- military gunnery.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0CMEjvY3UWc/WQWB8hCGBSI/AAAAAAABmeg/DBSyx00rBm497NOBa6b1NE8qKLUUsMB6QCEw/s1600/122_2252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0CMEjvY3UWc/WQWB8hCGBSI/AAAAAAABmeg/DBSyx00rBm497NOBa6b1NE8qKLUUsMB6QCEw/s320/122_2252.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Watch for tank crossings!</div>
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As a golfer I enjoyed meeting fellow Boomers at the Cocopah Golf and RV resort on the far west end of Yuma. My friends now stay there for the "season" and play in tournaments almost daily. My next visit will be longer than two weeks. The rows of RVs are separated by long, straight fairways. Common areas include a dining room, pool, cantina, etc. </div>
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We have attended multiple rallies at the Yuma Fairgrounds, across the street from the Marine Base. I had an opportunity to teach and/or facilitate seminars there when Nick and Terry Russell used to host their Gypsy Journal Gatherings in Yuma. </div>
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That's a wrap on "Y" is for Yuma.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY OF THE</b></span></h2>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"A TO Z CHALLENGE"</b></span></h2>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"Z" IS FOR "ZEBRAS"</b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-72599119459517750802017-04-28T14:28:00.001-07:002017-04-28T14:51:59.354-07:00"X" IS FOR 'X-RAY' (#AtoZChallenge)For this "X" letter of the day for the A to Z Bloggers Challenge I am taking a simple approach: "X" IS FOR '<b><span style="color: red;">X-RAY</span></b>'<br />
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FUR-BABY X-RAYS</h3>
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As the owner of German Shepherd dogs (GSD) over the years we have spent plenty of time in Veterinary Clinics making sure our "fur-babies" are in pain-free, good health for traveling with us in our motorhome.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>"Tasha" with Robin at the top of the stairs<br />with cousins Megan and Laura</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are currently on our fifth GSD. "<b>Tasha</b>" (see photo) was raised from a pup and survived until our daughter Robin was away at college in 1990. After that heartbreak we decided to "rescue" each of our next GSDs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<b>Tobi</b>" was a White Shepherd who loved to run, jump for Frisbees, and, thankfully, was generally in good health. She died from heart disease.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<b>Krissy</b>", on the other hand, was a medical nightmare and we have lots of <b><u><span style="color: red;">X-RAYS</span></u></b> to share. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"Star"</b> was in relatively good health to the end. You'll read her story below.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<b>Shade</b>" or "<b>Miss Shady Lady</b>" as she is now known has taken over our household for the past 1.5 years. At age 5 her only issue is keeping her nails trimmed.</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Meet GSD #3 "Krissy"</span></b></i></h4>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Krissy loved to play ball and her favorite toy </span><span style="font-size: small;">was a "Kong". </span><span style="font-size: small;">While RVing in the Quartzsite, AZ desert the fetched Kong would be covered in her saliva </span><span style="font-size: small;">and collected gravel and rocks that eventually made </span><span style="font-size: small;">it to her stomach.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The first x-ray shows quite a collection of stones that were in her system. The Vet suggested a technique that basically "starves" the dog for a couple of weeks before she would try to pass them. She had to drink Pedialyte to replace her water and electrolytes and, eventually, we were told she would regurgitate (vomit) the stones without having to pass them through her digestive track. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Photo #2 shows them "collected" in the bottom of the stomach and, YES, she did toss them out onto our home deck and we could actually see very specific stones that were visible in the x-ray.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">KRISSY AND "BLOAT"</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here is a description of "<a href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/gastric-volvulus-bloat-dogs#1-2">Bloat</a>" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/default.htm" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">Dog</a> bloat is a common condition that can be dangerous, even deadly. <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/ss/slideshow-is-my-dog-normal" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">Dogs</a> who have it need treatment right away. Know the signs so you can recognize when your pup needs help!</span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>What Is Dog Bloat?</u></b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/gastric-volvulus-bloat-dogs" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">Bloat</a> happens when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/best-dog-food-choices" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">food</a>, or fluid, making it expand. The stomach puts pressure on other organs. It can cause dangerous problems, including:</span></span><br />
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">No blood flow to his heart and stomach lining</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">A tear in the wall of his stomach</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">A harder time breathing</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In some cases, the dog’s stomach will rotate or twist, a condition that vets call gastric dilatation volvulus. It traps blood in the stomach and blocks it from returning to the heart and other areas of the body. This can send your <a data-crosslink-type="tools" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/dog-breeds-rm-quiz" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">dog</a> into shock.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Symptoms</u>: </span><span style="font-size: small;">Bloat usually comes on very quickly. At first, your dog may show signs that his stomach hurts. He may:</span></span><br />
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Act restless</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Drool</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Have a <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/my-dog-swollen-belly" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">swollen stomach</a></span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Look anxious</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Look at his stomach</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Pace</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Try to vomit, but nothing comes up</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">As the condition gets worse, he may:</span><br />
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Collapse</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Have pale <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="http://pets.webmd.com/healthy-dog-teeth-10/slideshow-brushing-dog-teeth" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: inherit; color: #187aab; text-decoration-line: none; transition: color 150ms ease;">gums</a></span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Have a rapid heartbeat</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Be short of breath</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Feel weak</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">If you think your pet has bloat, get him to a clinic right away. If dogs don’t get treatment in time, the condition can kill them.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Krissy survived her <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9175288731045210637#editor/target=post;postID=7259911945951775080"><span style="text-align: center;">gastric dilatation volvulus</span> </a> (aka, bloat, stomach torque, or twist). A late night trip to a Vet directed us to an Emergency Veterinary Hospital in nearby Roseville, Ca. She nearly died on the 30-mile trip but a 3:00 a.m. surgery saved her. Basically, the Vet performed major surgery to "untwist" her stomach that had spun around in her body cavity like you twist a balloon to make toy shapes. As part of the surgery she had part of her spleen removed, too. As you'll read next, that would become a future issue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><u>BELOW:</u> Hubby Luke comforting Krissy following her surgery for bloat. She was eventually cleared to travel with us on our planned cross-country trip to Pennsylvania .</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8rtCfwp4FCY/WQOTZnN4G0I/AAAAAAABmbY/cztLeHqx28oe8GVtHY-4Uv-3obMf_wz3gCLcB/s1600/Krissy%2BRecovering.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8rtCfwp4FCY/WQOTZnN4G0I/AAAAAAABmbY/cztLeHqx28oe8GVtHY-4Uv-3obMf_wz3gCLcB/s320/Krissy%2BRecovering.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Just before leaving PA that summer, Krissy quit eating and was once again showing signs of bloat. A local Vet took new x-rays and then had us come into her office as she explained that the procedure used by the first surgery Vets had left her remaining spleen loose enough that it was now wrapping itself around Krissy's esophagus passage to her stomach. Time for another major surgery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Ah, the dreaded cone of recovery was even more exciting once she was back in the motorhome. She was allowed to travel but we had to find a Vet in Branson, Missouri to remove her stitches. She made it home to Cool, California and later died from heart cancer. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0gDEiNtJfAE/WQOXmpeepfI/AAAAAAABmbw/QD7Hgyp7_B4lYEZ9apQ_zC1u4e_9J3yZQCEw/s1600/Branson%2B-%2Bcopilot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0gDEiNtJfAE/WQOXmpeepfI/AAAAAAABmbw/QD7Hgyp7_B4lYEZ9apQ_zC1u4e_9J3yZQCEw/s320/Branson%2B-%2Bcopilot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MEET MISS STAR</span></h3>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fL-j0U_IBVQ/WQOCdAh3gvI/AAAAAAABmbI/Dn1U334t85YosQYhUuTVNGKeD0kkP7IUgCEw/s1600/Star%2Bsneaks%2Bonto%2Bthe%2Bcouch%2B2_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fL-j0U_IBVQ/WQOCdAh3gvI/AAAAAAABmbI/Dn1U334t85YosQYhUuTVNGKeD0kkP7IUgCEw/s320/Star%2Bsneaks%2Bonto%2Bthe%2Bcouch%2B2_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Miss Star was our 4th GSD and we had her for 7.5 years until she passed at age 13 while on another family visit to PA. We like to say she had 100,000 miles on her! It was only in her last couple of months that her quality of life became an issue. She did develop "hip dysplasia" but it didn't really cripple her until her very end of life. She finally had inoperative cancer throughout her organs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">You can <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/canine-hip-dysplasia-4080646?utm_term=what+is+hip+dysplasia&utm_content=p1-main-4-title&utm_medium=sem&utm_source=google_s&utm_campaign=adid-badb7f11-a2fa-4019-b266-1b1b2f1d8d3c-0-ab_gse_ocode-35420&ad=semD&an=google_s&am=exact&q=what+is+hip+dysplasia&o=35420&qsrc=999&l=sem&askid=badb7f11-a2fa-4019-b266-1b1b2f1d8d3c-0-ab_gse">CLICK THIS LINK TO READ MORE.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.thespruce.com/canine-hip-dysplasia-4080646?utm_term=what+is+hip+dysplasia&utm_content=p1-main-4-title&utm_medium=sem&utm_source=google_s&utm_campaign=adid-badb7f11-a2fa-4019-b266-1b1b2f1d8d3c-0-ab_gse_ocode-35420&ad=semD&an=google_s&am=exact&q=what+is+hip+dysplasia&o=35420&qsrc=999&l=sem&askid=badb7f11-a2fa-4019-b266-1b1b2f1d8d3c-0-ab_gse">ABOUT HIP DYSPLACIA</a></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Hip dysplasia is a very common disease in dogs. This orthopedic condition occurs as a result of abnormal development of one or both hip joints, leading to instability and degeneration of the joints. Hip dysplasia can affect one or both limbs and may range from mild to severe. </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">What is Canine Hip Dysplasia?</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">T</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">he hip joint includes a ball at the top of the rear leg bone (head of the femur) and a socket in the pelvis (acetabulum). </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">When a dog has hip dysplasia, the connection of the ball and socket fits poorly. Typically, there is laxity (loose joint) and instability in the joint. Because of the abnormal connection, movement of the leg causes deformity of the joint. Over time, the cartilage in the joint wears down. Scar tissue and abnormal bony growths (osteophytes) develop. The damage in the joint makes it gradually more difficult for the dog to move the leg without pain and restricted range of motion.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Star's Hip Dysplasia X-rays</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The first x-ray shows Star's hindquarters and you can see the pelvis and hip bones. The second photo really visualizes how she adapted with her hip "out of the joint". She just walked with bone on bone.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">MEET MISS SHADY LADY</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>GSD #5, "Shade" sits and sleeps wherever she wants. She clings to me like Velcro.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">NO HUMAN X-RAYS</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Don't worry, I have no plans to show you all of our own collection of x-rays, ultra-sounds, and CT-Scans that have been taken for broken ankles, elbows, fingers, valley fever and arthritis diagnosis. We are sure glad our Kaiser Permanente Senior Advantage health plan includes radiology and labs!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cWjltAcXiE/WQOeJbx1u1I/AAAAAAABmcA/OTD7XoFnbp0LWoqTAAg0_6QfAA2wL8emwCLcB/s1600/A2Z-BADGE-100%2B%255B2017%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cWjltAcXiE/WQOeJbx1u1I/AAAAAAABmcA/OTD7XoFnbp0LWoqTAAg0_6QfAA2wL8emwCLcB/s1600/A2Z-BADGE-100%2B%255B2017%255D.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>"Pets are humanizing. </i></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><i>They remind us we have an obligation </i></span><i style="color: red;">and responsibility </i></span><i style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">to preserve and nurture and care for all life."</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></h2>
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<a href="https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_pet.html">James Cromwell</a></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-37154653082955675192017-04-27T23:53:00.000-07:002017-04-28T01:21:27.711-07:00"W" IS FOR WASHINGTON STATE (#AtoZChallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are home-based in Northern California but just up Interstate 5 about 600 miles is a wonderful RV destination -- the State of Washington. Today's "A to Z Challenge" blog letter of the day is "W" so we'll explore <b><span style="color: red;">WASHINGTON.</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAJgSSI3HSw/WQFfc1E1HKI/AAAAAAABmT8/VFhQGy1_O_YKGgmvgHcGepV2ODGCGWOMwCLcB/s1600/W.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uAJgSSI3HSw/WQFfc1E1HKI/AAAAAAABmT8/VFhQGy1_O_YKGgmvgHcGepV2ODGCGWOMwCLcB/s1600/W.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PREVIOUS VISITS TO WASHINGTON</span></h3>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eoeOg2hFEKE/WQJq8S0w2UI/AAAAAAABmWc/x2FHuOhqMjMQhX6G7V8WtvQqm3P5esCVACEw/s1600/WA%2Bhighway%2Bsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eoeOg2hFEKE/WQJq8S0w2UI/AAAAAAABmWc/x2FHuOhqMjMQhX6G7V8WtvQqm3P5esCVACEw/s200/WA%2Bhighway%2Bsign.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: red;">Over the years we have made many visits to -- and through -- Washington and we have lots of reasons to go back. On May 7th, for example, I will actually be flying to Seattle's SeaTac airport to start an Alaska cruising vacation with family. From Seattle we'll cruise to Vancouver, British Columbia and then North to Alaska. I plan to share my tourist time in Seattle with the family members new to the area. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Last summer we were in Washington visiting long-time friends in Vancouver, Washington, just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon and then went north to Port Townsend where my nephew and his wife were building a house. We will repeat those stops in late June and then we'll take lots of time to re-visit more of the Evergreen State.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uqXy_b7VicU/WQJq8EVdITI/AAAAAAABmWc/cg8BioTNe_ARLs0R_8N6ae2-XtTpThwdwCEw/s1600/Port%2BTownsent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uqXy_b7VicU/WQJq8EVdITI/AAAAAAABmWc/cg8BioTNe_ARLs0R_8N6ae2-XtTpThwdwCEw/s320/Port%2BTownsent.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">I felt welcomed at Safeway</span></b></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://enjoypt.com/"><b>Washington’s Victorian Seaport & Arts Community</b></a></span></div>
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With its maritime heritage, artist spirit, and a touch of urban chic, Port Townsend is an easily accessible base camp to the Olympic Peninsula and beyond. Whether on land or sea; indoors or outdoors – Port Townsend has activities for every taste. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">The local deer are common on the lawns in downtown Port Townsend</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m15NhRi2mwQ/WQJq88EcclI/AAAAAAABmWY/PxxB4nX5kPcYxYRBp18G0KuBRSWiYkquwCEw/s1600/wa%2Btowing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m15NhRi2mwQ/WQJq88EcclI/AAAAAAABmWY/PxxB4nX5kPcYxYRBp18G0KuBRSWiYkquwCEw/s320/wa%2Btowing.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Our "rolling condo" being towed</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">Unfortunately, our trip home involved a detour to a Freightliner repair service center in Tumwater, WA when the power steering fluid hose broke and forced Luke to steer the 40' motorhome without power steering a short ways to get off the very narrow and winding Highway 101 into Triton Cove State Park. Ah, the memories of a 65-mile towing. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5g4ucZdwLQs/WQJq8Yx8fkI/AAAAAAABmWM/TGJ1roewsVAD3QCRkBeyQ3BHr8_A4N_WwCEw/s1600/WA%2Bstate%2Bpark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5g4ucZdwLQs/WQJq8Yx8fkI/AAAAAAABmWM/TGJ1roewsVAD3QCRkBeyQ3BHr8_A4N_WwCEw/s320/WA%2Bstate%2Bpark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">A geocache was found on this sign while waiting for our tow truck.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">TAKING GRANDSON TAYLOR TO WASHINGTON</span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aWG6FofaX78/WQJq8e-a2TI/AAAAAAABmWE/yTOORH5dktM5YR_tBbGhsh0z851VskHLACEw/s1600/Taylor%2B%253D%2BJet%2Bboat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aWG6FofaX78/WQJq8e-a2TI/AAAAAAABmWE/yTOORH5dktM5YR_tBbGhsh0z851VskHLACEw/s320/Taylor%2B%253D%2BJet%2Bboat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Loved Taylor's happy face</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">In 2012 we convinced our then 12-year old grandson to take a solo trip with his ol' grandfolks in the </span>motorhome. Our goal was to take him to the <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/visitorcenter/">Microsoft Visitor's Center</a> in Redmond, WA and to the <a href="http://www.boeing.com/company/tours/">Boeing Manufacturing plant</a> in Everett, WA. He warmed up to RVing with a whitewater jet boat trip on the Rogue River in Oregon and then a stay at a kid-friendly KOA campground in Kent, WA. He loved the flight simulator rides at Boeing and then challenged himself with numerous roller coaster rides at an amusement water park.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SEATTLE - LANDMARKS AND UNIQUE VISITS</span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQfBugQFOaM/WQJ3Yr84vNI/AAAAAAABmW0/7GDyT7_IflYZOWwzXrJfCLPPtWj0VJn8QCLcB/s1600/Stock-Fish-Throw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQfBugQFOaM/WQJ3Yr84vNI/AAAAAAABmW0/7GDyT7_IflYZOWwzXrJfCLPPtWj0VJn8QCLcB/s400/Stock-Fish-Throw.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>Pike Place Market Fishmonger tosses fish over the counter</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A visit to Seattle means a visit to the iconic <a href="https://www.spaceneedle.com/home/">Space Needle Tower</a> and a variety of nearby attractions you shouldn't miss. <a href="http://www.visitacity.com/en/seattle/attraction-by-type/all?attractionsCategory=top-attractions">CLICK HERE</a> to visit a list of the Top 10 things to do while in Seattle. Among our favorites are <a href="http://pikeplacemarket.org/">Pike Place Market</a> with the fish tossing merchants, the <a href="http://www.ridetheducksofseattle.com/tours/">Ride the Duck</a> land and water tour amphibians, the <a href="http://www.mopop.org/">EMP Pop Music and Science-Fiction Museum</a>, and the unique <a href="https://yeoldecuriosityshop.com/">Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe.</a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://yeoldecuriosityshop.com/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rADdFB66vEk/WQJ2KfqJ3tI/AAAAAAABmWo/sMKIE50WmRY6XpbGokwrbbiszJwOILOvQCLcB/s400/LandWaterTour8-58733_x.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Tour Seattle by land and by sea with crazy drivers that will keep you entertained.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;">WESTERN AND SOUTHEASTERN WASHINGTON</span></span></h3>
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Before driving to the far Pacific Northwest from California and Oregon there are multiple routes through Western and Southern Washington to choose. We have only spent limited time in the popular Coastal communities of Astoria and Long Beach. Those were extended stops that did not happen last year when the motorhome broke down. There is time to spend at the <a href="http://kitefestival.com/">World Kite Museum</a> and the Cranberry Museum so maybe this year we'll do more than just drive through. </span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kMN7krlS1nw/WQLasoQ3GzI/AAAAAAABmY4/MPRwTZdxsy0IYp4kZzSqWhOWrYn3X1l0gCLcB/s1600/world-kite-museum-hall_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kMN7krlS1nw/WQLasoQ3GzI/AAAAAAABmY4/MPRwTZdxsy0IYp4kZzSqWhOWrYn3X1l0gCLcB/s320/world-kite-museum-hall_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">We have passed through and stayed at different parks in the <b>Tri-Cities</b> area of Southeastern Washington. The cities include Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco and they meet at the confluence of the Yakima, Snake, and Columbia Rivers. Much of the area is surrounded by semi-arid agricultural lands.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In 2007 we had the fun experience to meet up with an internet friend visiting from Mazatlan, Mexico on the 4th of July. Her son was the local school principal and a volunteer fireman and we all sat together watching a real down-home 4th of July Parade.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QojbZ_fA9uU/WQLeTQtum1I/AAAAAAABmZE/BcOYWgQ61mk72NsCTp4vX5ev9om_cnVpwCLcB/s1600/4th%2Bof%2BJuly%2B-%2B007_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QojbZ_fA9uU/WQLeTQtum1I/AAAAAAABmZE/BcOYWgQ61mk72NsCTp4vX5ev9om_cnVpwCLcB/s320/4th%2Bof%2BJuly%2B-%2B007_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h1 style="color: #49281f; font-family: Georgia, Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 22px; font-style: italic; letter-spacing: 0.3px; margin: 0px 6px; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.74902) 1px 1px 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">
<a href="https://www.nationalparkreservations.com/park/olympic-national-park/?gclid=Cj0KEQjwrYbIBRCgnY-OluOk89EBEiQAZER58v0pcSgy9SHMzvmjFnZ6N0HdaSXrf4or1iJ_iFIqmyEaAl2x8P8HAQ">Olympic National Park - Washington</a></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Olympic National Park, located along the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, is a very diverse region, with four distinct biospheres: the Pacific coastline, alpine areas, west side temperate rain forest and east side temperate rain forest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The park covers about 922,000 acres and was named Mount Olympus National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1909 and then designated a national park by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1938. Native Americans like the Quileute and the Hoh still make their homes in parts of the area.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Such diverse land makes for a variety of outdoor opportunities, including hiking, backpacking, biking, river rafting, and more. Especially unique to this U.S. national park is the opportunity to participate in whale watching off the coast in the Puget Sound of Washington. River rafting along one of the park’s many rivers allow participants to view the beauty of the park while at the same time experiencing the thrill of riding the river currents. Differently rated stretches of river make it so beginners and experts will find a thrill level that meets their skill level.</span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GqF1YwcjK5A/WQLj7PTiRlI/AAAAAAABmZc/G4CACPUlFC8KP9So-mdl96l4m1cZVdXmgCLcB/s1600/Olympic%2BPark%2B-%2B058_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GqF1YwcjK5A/WQLj7PTiRlI/AAAAAAABmZc/G4CACPUlFC8KP9So-mdl96l4m1cZVdXmgCLcB/s320/Olympic%2BPark%2B-%2B058_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>In 2009 our friend Terry Webb (red jacket) had us tag along with his photography buddies on a wildflower shooting adventure atop Mount Olympus. We could actually see British Columbia, Canada across the straits from where we stood. </i></span></td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br />MOUNTAIN PEAKS</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Washington has beautiful mountains. Even flying over the state you can see Mount Rainier, Mount. Baker, and Mt. Saint Helens all at once.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73WW4yWM4KA/WQK_THpwhnI/AAAAAAABmXc/LsDfOIzyLtID3Dj5TG6sIOJ2R7pDM_tywCLcB/s1600/Mount%2BRanier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73WW4yWM4KA/WQK_THpwhnI/AAAAAAABmXc/LsDfOIzyLtID3Dj5TG6sIOJ2R7pDM_tywCLcB/s320/Mount%2BRanier.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Mount Rainier</i></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mpKT40RydxI/WQK_TL9JHGI/AAAAAAABmXk/I5t2fVfg0eAOmSOZ0wrH3uKxWUrOOcvqQCLcB/s1600/Mount%2BBaker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mpKT40RydxI/WQK_TL9JHGI/AAAAAAABmXk/I5t2fVfg0eAOmSOZ0wrH3uKxWUrOOcvqQCLcB/s400/Mount%2BBaker.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Mount Baker</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X30Q-ODemHM/WQK_Tbbn73I/AAAAAAABmXg/XqNKHbzxB6kIDA7LG0nwWqHFw5KOb1rhACLcB/s1600/Mount%2BSt.%2BHelens_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X30Q-ODemHM/WQK_Tbbn73I/AAAAAAABmXg/XqNKHbzxB6kIDA7LG0nwWqHFw5KOb1rhACLcB/s400/Mount%2BSt.%2BHelens_edited.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Mount St. Helen erupted on my birthday, May 18, 1980</i></span></td></tr>
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<h3>
<span style="font-size: large;">CENTRAL WASHINGTON</span></h3>
In 2011, on our return motorhome trip from Alaska we were introduced to Central Washington and the communities of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wenatchee,_Washington">Wenatchee and East Wenatchee</a> where we met up with our former neighbors.<br />
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The city of Wenatchee shares its name with the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wenatchee_River" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Wenatchee River">Wenatchee River</a>, <a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Wenatchee" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Lake Wenatchee">Lake Wenatchee</a> and the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wenatchee_National_Forest" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Wenatchee National Forest">Wenatchee National Forest</a>. Wenatchee is known as the "Apple Capital of the World" due to the valley's many orchards. The city is also sometimes referred to as the "Buckle of the Power Belt of the Great Northwest". The "Power Belt of the Great Northwest" is a metaphor for the series of hydroelectric dams on the Columbia River. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_Island_Dam" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Rock Island Dam">Rock Island Dam</a> is located nearest to the middle of this "belt", and so was labeled the "Buckle".</blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4gvUxy_Zw5A/WQLHij4h3oI/AAAAAAABmX0/B5li-26KfIkBmE7MaVWjOIfmBPM7xtHigCLcB/s1600/Wenatchee_WA_2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4gvUxy_Zw5A/WQLHij4h3oI/AAAAAAABmX0/B5li-26KfIkBmE7MaVWjOIfmBPM7xtHigCLcB/s320/Wenatchee_WA_2009.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Wenatchee calls itself the 'Apple Capital of the World'</i></span></td></tr>
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Not far from Wenatchee is <b>Levenworth</b>, a community that opted to rebuild itself into a quaint Barvarian Village that now attracts millions of visitors a year.<br />
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<i>Our friends took us to lunch at a restaurant upstairs and across the street from the flower park</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">EASTERN WASHINGTON</span></h3>
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Here's how Wikipedia describes this area:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_Washington">Eastern Washington</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> is the portion of the US state of </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_(state)" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Washington (state)">Washington</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> east of the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cascade_Range" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Cascade Range">Cascade Range</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">. The region contains the city of </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spokane,_Washington" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Spokane, Washington">Spokane</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> (the second largest city in the state), the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tri-Cities,_Washington" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Tri-Cities, Washington">Tri-Cities</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">, the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbia_River" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Columbia River">Columbia River</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> and the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Coulee_Dam" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Grand Coulee Dam">Grand Coulee Dam</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">, the </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanford_Nuclear_Reservation" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Hanford Nuclear Reservation">Hanford Nuclear Reservation</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> and the fertile farmlands of the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yakima_River" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Yakima River">Yakima Valley</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> and the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palouse" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Palouse">Palouse</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">. Unlike in </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Washington" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Western Washington">Western Washington</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">, the climate is dry, including some desert environments.</span></span></blockquote>
Heading east from Central Washington we drove through a diversity of landscapes quite the opposite from the green and wet western coastal area we associate with the Pacific Northwest. High, dry rolling desert hills merge into a colorful "patchwork" of agricultural areas known as the <b>Palouse</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c5-IpChdkAA/WQLN-knDydI/AAAAAAABmYY/dNvLe_x1HLEmP24TCO1Fd0K2zwt5eMq6ACLcB/s1600/350px-Palouse_Hills_from_Steptoe_Butte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c5-IpChdkAA/WQLN-knDydI/AAAAAAABmYY/dNvLe_x1HLEmP24TCO1Fd0K2zwt5eMq6ACLcB/s400/350px-Palouse_Hills_from_Steptoe_Butte.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Colorful farm lands contrast to the Eastern Washington desert</i></div>
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Our final camping destination before driving into Idaho a few years ago was Spokane. We stayed at the Fairchild Air Force Base, just minutes from the Spokane International Airport. That was a handy departure place when Grandma needed to fly back to California to baby-sit the grandsons one year. Grandpa and the GSD stayed on base in the FamCamp.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">GATEWAY TO CANADA</span></div>
For our trip to Alaska in 2011 we opted to miss the congestion of crossing into Canada near Vancouver, British Columbia and chose to enter at the <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumas-Huntingdon_Border_Crossing"><span style="background-color: white;">Sumas / Abbotsford</span> Crossing.</a> It was a quick check into Canadian Customs and we were on our way.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Inspection Booths are always a tight fit for recreational vehicles.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">SUMMER 2017 - DESTINATION WASHINGTON STATE</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are planning our return trip to the Pacific Northwest this summer and you can bet we'll see alot more of Washington state. To keep you busy, <a href="http://www.legendsofamerica.com/wa-facts.html">CLICK HERE FOR FUN WASHINGTON STATE TRIVIA</a></span><br />
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-80910291957913864542017-04-26T18:27:00.002-07:002017-04-26T21:19:33.101-07:00"V" IS FOR VALLEY FEVER (#AtoZChallenge)Valley Fever is not some light-weight ailment that you associate with an exotic island. It is a fungus-based spore that you breathe in that can kill you! Today's "A to Z Challenge" blog letter of the day is "V" so I am taking this opportunity to educate my readers about <span style="color: red;">VALLEY FEVER!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I HAVE VALLEY FEVER</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Yes, I have Valley Fever</b> and this blog will detail what it is and what you can do about it. The<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/features/valleyfever/"> Valley Fever Awareness</a> page from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) states:</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: 700;">Valley fever is a fungal lung infection that can be devastating. Learning about Valley fever can help you and your doctor recognize the symptoms early. </span><a class="tp-link-policy" href="http://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/coccidioidomycosis/index.html" style="color: #075290;">Valley fever</a> is an infection caused by a fungus that lives in the soil. About 10,000 U.S. cases are reported each year, mostly from Arizona and California. Valley fever can be misdiagnosed because its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Here are some important things to know about Valley fever, also called coccidioidomycosis." [** See Update Below]</blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MORE INFORMATION ABOUT VALLEY FEVER (VF):</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The <b>Valley Fever Survivor</b> website (</span><a href="http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">) is a wonderful non-medical advocacy
group that has provides excellent information and resources we can all learn from. I also participate in their <a href="http://valley%20fever%20survivor%20support%20group%20/#1 for Answers, Info, & More since 2002">Facebook Survivor discussions</a>. I also highly recommend you get their book: <u><a href="http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com/gpb/gpb_item_vfe_about.html">Valley Fever Epidemic</a>.</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Here is a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gakZ6aU0t4">YouTube overview video</a> about VF and the book written by David and Sharon Filip.</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3gakZ6aU0t4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3gakZ6aU0t4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4:01 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gakZ6aU0t4</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MY VALLEY FEVER STORY</span></h3>
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I was attending the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in 2011 and about two weeks into our stay I developed severe flu-like symptoms with extensive body convulsions, constant coughing, night sweats, headache, and total exhaustion. I was too sick to even take my temperature. A week later I finally went to an Urgent Care facility in Surprise, Arizona and was diagnosed with Bronchitis and given a steroid, <a href="http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6007-9383/prednisone-oral/prednisone---oral/details">Prednisone</a>. </div>
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Two weeks later we returned to our home in Northern California and I was still extremely sick. I immediately saw my primary care physician (PCP) who ordered a chest x-ray. We discussed my travels to the Southwest so I asked if it could possibly have Valley Fever. I had only heard about VF in dogs but my PCP was very familiar with the fungus disease because he had done his internship in the Phoenix, AZ area, a prime endemic area for VF. When he saw "spots" in my lungs from the x-rays he immediately ordered a CT-Scan and put together my new medical "team" that included an Infectious Disease (ID) specialist and a Pulmonologist who both were familiar with VF. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jXeDpPGbXFE/WQEn2SvGUSI/AAAAAAABmTs/eiApujvLnq4OwGdPTVZZZ6gnAr1Uog1_gCLcB/s1600/VF%2BCT-Scan%2BComparisons_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jXeDpPGbXFE/WQEn2SvGUSI/AAAAAAABmTs/eiApujvLnq4OwGdPTVZZZ6gnAr1Uog1_gCLcB/s320/VF%2BCT-Scan%2BComparisons_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><b><i>VF SPOTS IN <u>MY</u> LUNG!!!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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Further blood testing and two bronchoscopy exams positively confirmed I had Valley Fever with a "titer score" ratio of 1:8 which meant I had a "moderate" case. They immediately began treatment with an anti-fungal medication called "Fluconazole". [See Point #2 below] That drug stopped the growth and spread of the coccidioidomycosis spores. </div>
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Thankfully, I never suffered from "dissemination" of the spores to my joints and other organs. I also never had the associated body rash nor did it spread to my spinal cord where it can travel to the brain as <a href="http://www.webmd.com/children/meningococcal-meningitis-symptoms-causes-treatments-and-vaccines#1">Meningococcal Meningitis</a>. You are never "cured" and it can stay in your body and can "reactivate" at any time in your future. My worst fear!!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MY MISSION TO EDUCATE OTHERS ABOUT VF</span></h3>
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The following information is something I wrote a couple of years ago as a one-page hand-out. It has been distributed at seminars when I have presented information about Valley Fever at RV rallies. I also email copies to folks who are having difficulty with their health and showing symptoms of Valley Fever (VF) or to their friends who can't figure out what is wrong with them. </div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow; color: blue;"><b><i>PLEASE CLICK ANY HIGHLIGHTED LINK TO LEARN MORE.</i></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">MY ADVICE FOR PEOPLE WHO THINK
THEY MAY HAVE VALLEY FEVER<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I developed Valley Fever (VF) in Albuquerque, NM in 2011 so I have become a
self-educated "expert" on this nasty fungal disease. The
official medical name for Valley Fever is: <b><span style="color: red;"> Coccidioidomycosis</span></b>. The
other nickname is "<b><i><span style="color: red;">cocci</span></i></b>" (pronounced cocksey). The blood test score “titer” is pronounced
Tie-ter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Chances are
your primary care doctor will NOT know much about VF, if he/she has even heard
of it. Be sure to tell the doctor if you HAVE BEEN IN THE ENDEMIC AREAS
prior to your feeling ill. It takes 10-14 days for the symptoms to
present themselves. You can say you were traveling in the Southwest or
California Central Valley (and now in other states).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1. Your
first step is to request the VF "cocci" blood test (see link below).
This simple blood test can confirm if you have VF and, if so, how much
exposure you have had. Ask your doctor/lab to send it to UC Davis <i>(THE </i>specialist
lab for evaluating VF blood samples) and then send the results back to your doctor. It can take 10-14
days to get the results because this is a fungus test that must have time to
grow. [See link below]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2. If
your blood test comes back positive, the numbers will determine your follow-up. The
results are called "<b><i>titer scores</i></b>" and are presented as a ratio.
<2 = no VF. My first test came in as 8:1 (moderate). 16:1,
32:1, 64:1 are more serious cases. 4:1, 2:1, 1:1 are milder scores. I
am currently "NEGATIVE" but I will always have VF. You should request
to see either a pulmonary doctor or an "infectious disease" (ID)
specialist with knowledge about VF for follow-up. See the link below for the "Valley Fever Center for Excellence"
and they can help you find a doctor that knows about VF. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I am including
more useful links (see below) and documents that will give you an overview of VF. The
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/">Center for Disease Control</a> VF information (good to give to your doctor), and
links to studies and survivor websites will help with your understanding of this disease. For the most part these sources are written to be understood - non-techie.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The </span><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Valley Fever Center for Excellence</span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> (</span><a href="http://vfce.arizona.edu/valley-fever-dogs/symptoms"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">http://vfce.arizona.edu/</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">) also has tabs for about VF in dogs, cats, and other animals. </span><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #49595e; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; letter-spacing: 0.02em;"><b>"The most common early symptoms of primary pulmonary Valley Fever in dogs:</b></i></blockquote>
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<ul style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #4c4c4c; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 1em 35px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 1.2em; vertical-align: baseline;"></ul>
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<li><i style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">coughing</i></li>
<li><i style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">weight loss</i></li>
<li><i style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">lack of appetite</i></li>
<li><i style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">lack of energy</span> </i></li>
<li><i style="background-color: white; color: #4c4c4c; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">fever</i> </li>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-weight: inherit;">Some or all of these symptoms may be present as a result of infection in the lungs. As the infection progresses, dogs can develop pneumonia that is visible on x-rays."</i></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6W8BSyQPO4Q/WQD801HEfyI/AAAAAAABmS4/FBKAi_8y270PzP1LJynb0_q1biDBXCwVQCEw/s1600/dog_pneumonia_vd_350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6W8BSyQPO4Q/WQD801HEfyI/AAAAAAABmS4/FBKAi_8y270PzP1LJynb0_q1biDBXCwVQCEw/s320/dog_pneumonia_vd_350.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: http://vfce.arizona.edu/valley-fever-dogs/symptoms</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">The <b>Valley Fever Survivor</b> website (</span><a href="http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">) is a wonderful non-medical advocacy
group that has produced excellent resources.
I also participate in their Facebook discussions: </span><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1063806976985799/" style="cursor: pointer; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">VALLEY FEVER SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP #1 for Answers, Info, & More since 2002</a><i style="font-weight: bold;">. </i></span><i style="color: red; font-weight: bold;"> </i>This is a "closed" group but just ask to "join".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer;"><b><u>**UPDATE:</u></b> In reviewing this blog, Sharon Filip, co-founder of Valley Fever Survivor, advised me that this CDC page (linked above) statement is wrong: "</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Hundreds of thousands of Valley Fever Cases occur each year. Reporting is extremely inaccurate as it is believed only 2% of cases are diagnosed accurately leaving 98% either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed</i>." </span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;"> According to Sharon, </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;">"</span><span style="color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;">What the CDC page states is not quite accurate... We have spoken with the CDC about accuracy in the past and how important it was to put up the proper information but they will do what they will do. ... </span><span style="color: #4b4f56; white-space: pre-wrap;">All the information by the founders have been studied and researched for accuracy for the past 15 years."</span></span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Get the Filip's book</span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><a href="http://www.valleyfeversurvivor.com/gpb/gpb_item_vfe_about.html">Valley Fever Epidemic</a> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">and share it with your doctor, your friends and family. This is my copy that I do share...</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbzmAEZEI9E/WQD7phf2PnI/AAAAAAABmSo/LGkfHjXksNc8CE21w9NY5fq4tcVExSWdQCLcB/s1600/VF%2BEpidemic%2Bbook%2Bcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbzmAEZEI9E/WQD7phf2PnI/AAAAAAABmSo/LGkfHjXksNc8CE21w9NY5fq4tcVExSWdQCLcB/s320/VF%2BEpidemic%2Bbook%2Bcover.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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There is also a <a href="https://www.change.org/p/warn-tourists-and-residents-about-the-dangers-of-valley-fever-and-fund-the-vaccine-and-cure-projects">petition drive</a> to warn tourists and Arizona residents about the "dangers of Valley Fever" as part of a VF awareness campaign. The sponsors are also seeking more "funds for vaccines and cure projects". Feel free to circulate the following petition. Kern County in the endemic area of Central California is also now doing an awareness campaign using billboards and public service announcements.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v6JQ9F8X-AQ/WQD7wLjfFkI/AAAAAAABmSw/4m5UZ0G0nS8O6qzhcaxl3gzaesmb4Q9dgCEw/s1600/petition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v6JQ9F8X-AQ/WQD7wLjfFkI/AAAAAAABmSw/4m5UZ0G0nS8O6qzhcaxl3gzaesmb4Q9dgCEw/s320/petition.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">MORE RESOURCES...</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/coccidioidomycosis/">Center for Disease Control (CDC)</a> (quoted above) has extensive research about COCCIDIOIDOMYCOSIS diagnosis and treatment. My health team from Northern California Kaiser followed their "protocol" for my early treatment of Valley Fever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The <a href="https://academic.oup.com/cid">Infectious Disease Society of America</a> has an Oxford academic presentation about Valley Fever called: </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;"><a href="https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/63/6/e112/2389093/2016-Infectious-Diseases-Society-of-America-IDSA?searchresult=1">2016 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)</a></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/63/6/e112/2389093/2016-Infectious-Diseases-Society-of-America-IDSA?searchresult=1"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of </span></span><b style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Coccidioidomycosis</b> </span></a></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><a href="http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/medmicro/cocci.html">University of California, Davis (UCD) Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology</a> is a leader in research and clinical care for coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever.</span> You can go to their website link above and locate the information about the cocci blood tests they will evaluate. <a href="http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/medmicro/serology%20lab%20forms/InteractiveCocciRequisition.pdf">CLICK HERE for the blood test order form.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">MY PROGNOSIS</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As stated above, I currently test "negative" for Valley Fever but I still have one 2.3 cm "nodule" stuck to the back wall of my left lung that is visible in my annual C-T scan. We have been monitoring it for a few years and it actually shrunk this past year from 2.5 cm to 2.3 cm. Yea, progress. :-)</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I annually do two cocci blood tests through my Kaiser Permanente labs and the samples are sent to either the <a href="http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/medmicro/serology%20lab%20forms/InteractiveCocciRequisition.pdf">UC Davis Serology Lab</a> (see above link) or to <a href="http://www.questdiagnostics.com/home.html">Quest Labs</a> for evaluations. My Infectious Disease doctor wants me to have less exposure to radiation so now I only do one C-T Scan annually instead of the two or three I was previously having. She reviews the images and we do a telephone appointment to discuss the results. She told me this monitoring will be done for "the next 15 to 20 years". So at age 68 I was happy to say "I can live with that!" Anytime I think I might be having a relapse I am directed to go to an Emergency Room (ER) with my binder of Valley Fever information and previous test results.</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">WHAT YOU CAN DO</span></span></h3>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Read, read, and read. Help me spread the word about this potentially deadly fungus, coccidioidomycosis, commonly called Valley Fever. May you never get it!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><br /></span>Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-57285910134738955562017-04-25T23:47:00.001-07:002017-04-26T01:28:37.453-07:00"U" IS FOR "UP, UP, AND AWAY" (#AtoZ Challenge)We have been "crewing" for the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival (AIBF) since 2006 and today's "A to Z Challenge" letter of "U" will be for the 5th Dimension's version of <span style="color: red;">"UP, UP, AND AWAY".</span><br />
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BOOMERS & BALLOONS</h3>
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We were introduced to the ABQ Balloon Fiesta at our first event with the Escapees RV Club group known as the "<b>Boomers</b>". </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">2006 ABQ Boomers in 15 RVs</span></i></td></tr>
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In previous years a club member had owned a hot air balloon and had used Boomers as volunteers to "crew" for him. The year we showed up he had sold his balloon and our group was told "no problem" -- just go over to the Pilot's Tent and sign up for a pilot. And off we went. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MEET THE LIBERTI FAMILY</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What started out as a random assignment to meet Pilot Mike Liberti in Grid K-3 at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday morning became a decade-long team effort and a great friendship with Mike and his wife/crew chief Theresa ("T") Liberti and their two pilot sons, Chris and Daniel, and the rest of their families.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Liberti Family launching together: (from the left) Daniel, Chris, and Mike </i></span></td></tr>
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That first Fiesta Luke and I were both introduced to the various jobs associated with "crewing" and we were both rewarded with our very first hot air balloon rides!!! In 2006 there were approximately 900 balloons participating in Fiesta and what an amazing sight that was from the ground and from our space in the balloon baskets. Because of declining landing space around the Albuquerque area the number of participating balloons has dwindled to less than 600. Still, photos don't do it justice. According to Kodak, the Fiesta is the most photographed event in the world. I know that I have hundreds, if not thousands of photos taken during the past 10 years.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Luke's first flight with Pilot Mike Liberti, Tuesday, Oct.10, 2006</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>Judy with Pilot Eric in "Boris"</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">We were "initiated" into the Ballooning Family with a not-so traditional champagne ceremony</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i>Judy's first hot air balloon selfie - Oct. 10, 2006</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Each Fiesta morning begins with the flight of the Dawn Patrol, a group of pilots who take off before sunrise to report back to the remainder of the pilots on the wind direction and speeds at various elevations. <u>BELOW</u>: the balloons are inflated in a very systematic manner and launch on commands from the on-the-field officials known as the Zebras because of their black & white apparel.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>A photograph I shot during a ride.</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />HOSTING THE ABQ BOOMERS & BALLOONS RALLY</span></h3>
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It wasn't long before we became the "hosts" of the Boomers get-together at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Over the years our job of "hosting" evolved into securing discounted RV parking spaces with the Fiesta RV Office, coordinating with the Fiesta RV Campground parking crew, arranging pilot assignments, providing newsletters and crewing "how to" instruction for our volunteers and, ultimately, in becoming the Safety Officer for our group. <br />
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There were 15 RVs with the group in 2006 and the last few years we were dealing with 50 RV spaces in an area now called "Premium Box View", right on the landing zone! Last year we provided more than 100 crewing volunteers on 25+ hot air balloons. Volunteers earn coveted "crew passes" that get them free entry into all activities during the nine day event.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Luke adds the Boomer Banner to our motorhome to identify our group's home base.</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Our Boomer spaces are literally on the "flag line" for the designated landing and competition zone.</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">LOVING OUR BALLOONS AND PILOTS</span></h3>
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Each year we have added more and more balloons asking for our Boomer support teams. With hundreds of balloons launching in "mass ascensions" on the weekends and special shapes flying both mornings and inflating for the evening "glows" it is hard to pick favorites. Here are a few:<br />
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<i><b>Annie the Ladybug</b> chases her crew back to the launch field after a perfect flight.</i></div>
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<i><u>BELOW</u>: "<b>Annie</b>" looks to be whispering into the ear of "<b>Clown</b>", another Boomer crew balloon.</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The very popular 3 Bees - Mama, Papa and Baby launch together holding (Velcro) hands then turn, kiss, and separate.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Speedy Snail is one of the Brazilian balloons that the Boomers have crewed with.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">RETIREMENT TIME</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Last year we pulled our "rip cord" and retired from hosting the ABQ Boomers and Balloons Rally. We had a couple from previous rallies, Jim and Gail McManus, step forward last year as our HIT Team (Hosts in Training). They have already started the recruitment for the 2017 AIBF Boomer Rally. We wish them well!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This blog could have included hundreds more photos with details about all the fun activities that occur in Albuquerque, New Mexico for two weeks every October. For now we will live in our memories and sing along with the 5th Dimension to<i><u><b><span style="color: red;"> "Up, Up, and Away".</span></b></u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>Wednesday "v STANDS FOR valley fever"</i></span></span></h3>
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<br />Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-81249948419834607242017-04-24T23:59:00.001-07:002017-04-25T00:02:32.317-07:00"T" IS FOR TOURIST (#AtoZCHALLENGE)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Most RVers start their travels with a "bucket list" of places to see or things to do. Not us! We might have a trip destination but along the way we just call ourselves <b>"TOURISTS"</b>. Today's "A to Z Bloggers Challenge" blog title is <b><span style="color: red;">"T IS FOR TOURISTS"</span></b>.<br />
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PRE-RETIREMENT TRAVEL</h3>
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I have previously written blogs about our early days of camping and RVing. When we got married in 1970 Hubby Luke was already living in a 22-foot Terry travel trailer. We proceeded to move into apartments, duplexes, condos, and real houses while starting our family with one daughter and both of us working full-time. </div>
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Camping was normally close to home and we can even say we have even tent-camped. Our <span style="text-align: center;">GMC Carry-All that Luke had used to pull his trailer was furnished with ply-wood bunk beds and air mattresses, a porta-potti, a K-Mart cardboard storage trunk we used as our pantry, and a Coleman stove and lantern.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The elevation of Mt. Shasta popped one of the air mattress sections.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Luke and Robin at Ice House Reservoir Campground, about 55 miles from our current home. Changing very messy diapers by flashlight was not a fun night in the tent.</span></i></td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">"See the USA in a Chevrolet...</span></i>"</h3>
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Do you remember those lyrics? Our travels in those early days did include multiple cross-country trips in converted vans and small Class C RVs to visit the Rinehimer family in Pennsylvania. We would drive across the Trans-Canadian Highway in one direction and then take Interstate 80 in the other direction. Our only stops would be overnights in rest areas, small private campgrounds or turnpike service centers. Luke would get on the interstate very early in the morning while Robin and I slept. When he was hungry for breakfast he'd pull off on a ramp, find a place we could stop to eat in the rig, and then he would nap while I drove the next two hour shift. This would go on until dusk with absolutely NO TOURIST STOPS.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">We owned two different American Clipper 21' Class C motorhomes. This was a bunkhouse model.</span></i></td></tr>
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Since most of these trips happened during school summer vacations, Robin spent most of her young birthdays in August playing "<i>find the birthday presents in the camper</i>" where I had managed to hide them. To this day she does not get excited about remembering her early RVing days. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MOVING UP THE RV SIZE GAME</span></h3>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2acvOlC9meY/WP5GeBnYoDI/AAAAAAABmKw/DTpsheNCxu0KXAfgfW_-S8M2ZgUujYG5QCEw/s1600/110_1031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2acvOlC9meY/WP5GeBnYoDI/AAAAAAABmKw/DTpsheNCxu0KXAfgfW_-S8M2ZgUujYG5QCEw/s320/110_1031.JPG" width="320" /></a>In 2004 we knew we wanted to "travel extensively" in our golden years. We had already owned a variety of recreational vehicles but it was time for upgrading. After a New Year's Eve trip to Pasadena for the Rose Bowl Parade with Luke's mother and a German Shepherd in our used 22' Itasca Spirit we knew we needed something more comfortable. </div>
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Later that year we purchased a brand new 2004 Holiday Rambler 24' Atlantis Class C. It still did not have a bedroom so I opted to sleep on the couch while Luke got the overhead bunk that he shared with my golf club bag!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: medium;"> The 24' Atlantis sitting in my niece's driveway in La Pine, Oregon</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Our first Class A gas motorhome was a 2006 Monaco Monarch with a separate bedroom, full bathroom, and lots of storage! This was the Monarch parked near our daughter's Palm Desert Marriott timeshare, the way she and her family now travel. </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">We now drive a 40' Itasca Horizon diesel motorhome. You can take a photo tour of our current "rolling condo" by clicking the blog Archives "H is for Horizon".</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">WHERE WE'VE BEEN...</span></h3>
It is much easier to list where we have NOT been. We have missed the New England states, including Boston and the metropolitan cities of New York City and Chicago, and the states of Florida and Louisiana. We had planned to do these last two states on a southern journey across the USA but we all know what happened in August, 2005 -- <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/23/us/hurricane-katrina-statistics-fast-facts/">Hurricane Katrina</a> hit! We have never made it to New Orleans or down to Florida to see the major tourist attractions of Disney World, Epcot Center, Cape Canaveral, or anywhere along the Florida Gulf Coast. SOMEDAY we will get there so I guess we do have a "bucket list".<br />
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I started keeping track of our travels in Excel spreadsheets back in 2004. I separate trips by their "seasons" - Winter or Winter/Spring, Summer or Summer/Fall. I have a 3-inch loose leaf binder full of log sheets and I can tell you EVERY NIGHT AND EVERY PLACE we have camped by date, city name, campground/RV park name, GPS coordinates, fees paid with or without discounts, WiFi availability, and the miles driven that day! I normally also add "comments" about the type of utilities or special features of the place. I also track all of our RV and towed car fuel expenses and use formulas to calculate averages.<br />
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<b>Since 2004 we have traveled in our motorhomes a total of 130,260+ miles!!! </b>Including a flight to Hawaii and driving the RV to Alaska, we have visited 43 of the 50 states plus Mexico and seven Canadian Provinces. We have not done the popular RV tours of the Maritime provinces. We have also towed our Honda CR-V since 2006 so it has 122,553 miles towed <b>plus </b>another 117,000+ miles "driven" while out sightseeing or running errands. The ol' gal is now pushing 240,000 miles and is still performing well. We do monitor ALL her miles to keep track of tire wear. Scroll to the bottom of this blog to see the <b><i>States and Provinces Maps Visited</i></b>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">BEING TOURISTS...</span></h3>
The night before writing this blog I did not sleep. My mind was wired into recalling EVERYWHERE we had been. I decided not to list each and every place but thought I could summarize our style of traveling and "some" of the tourist places we have been.<br />
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AMERICANA AND HISTORICAL STOPS: </h4>
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On the East Coast we'll start with Washington, D.C. where we have visited the White House, Congress, and many of the Smithsonian Museums. With Luke's family from PA we have taken the grandkids and their cousins to see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. </div>
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We have also spent time touring Gettysburg with a park docent driving our car while describing the Civil War battlegrounds.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Cousins at the Liberty Bell</span></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Gettysburg Docent detailing the Civil War battle locations</i></span></td></tr>
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We have seen the homes and libraries of a few American Presidents. Included in that list is Jefferson's Monticello and the Hoover, Eisenhower and Truman Presidential Libraries. There are many more we have passed by but never have stopped at. </div>
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STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS & MONUMENTS:</h4>
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We are not hikers but we have tried to camp at all the "biggies" including Yosemite and Sequoia Parks that are just down the road from us. We have made multiple stops at the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Death Valley, Moab, Lake Havasu, the Bandlands, Great Smokey Mountains, Custer, Mt. McKinley/Denali in Alaska and Mount Rushmore to name just some of them. Typically our visits include stops at the Visitor Centers, taking Ranger tours, watching historical videos, and buying souvenirs at the gift shops. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaQpeEESNZA/WP5vaDFBMSI/AAAAAAABmL0/SwW3QnKTJe4hr9H1f5BwlmSpoK306BSQACLcB/s1600/magnets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaQpeEESNZA/WP5vaDFBMSI/AAAAAAABmL0/SwW3QnKTJe4hr9H1f5BwlmSpoK306BSQACLcB/s200/magnets.jpg" width="113" /></a>Some folks travel with a Parks Passport and get pages "stamped" each time they visit a new location. Others collect hat pins, coffee mugs, Christmas ornaments, or clothing and hats. A relative teased me once after seeing so many photographs of us wearing clothing emblazoned with location logos. <i>"If you didn't travel, what would your wardrobe look like?"</i></div>
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I am a collector of SOUVENIR MAGNETS as my home refrigerator will attest. I love to stand in front of the double doors and review our many stops. To see some of the magnets, click on the photo and then "zoom in". As you can see I still have lots of room on the lower freezer door so it is still time to keep traveling.</div>
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HALLS OF FAME:</h4>
Husband Luke had a chance to visit the <a href="https://www.rockhall.com/">Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame</a> in Cleveland, Ohio. I while traveling for work. My claim to a Hall of Fame visit was to the <a href="http://baseballhall.org/">Major League Baseball museum</a> in Cooperstown, NY in 2015. Our grandson Tanner was playing nearby in an All-Stars Youth Baseball Tournament during <a href="http://baseballhall.org/hof/class-of-2015">MLB Hall of Fame Induction Week</a> and I was delighted to spend hours there. [You can read about my love of baseball in Saturday's "S" blog in the Archives.]<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2t5wL1iEWgI/WP7V2CCdLcI/AAAAAAABmMo/xGNDnKsenG0qninKjVHarxwzptmsCih3QCEw/s1600/Mays%2BHall%2Bof%2BFame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2t5wL1iEWgI/WP7V2CCdLcI/AAAAAAABmMo/xGNDnKsenG0qninKjVHarxwzptmsCih3QCEw/s320/Mays%2BHall%2Bof%2BFame.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Willie Mays' bronze plaque in the Baseball Hall of Fame</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Standing with Grandson Tanner next to the Barry Bonds Hall of Fame display of Home Run #562. </span></i></td></tr>
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Other sites we hope to hit <u>together</u> include the Football and the Rock n Roll Halls of Fame. We are not into other music genres so we'll pass on others that might be on your list. We have visited Memphis and Nashville but enjoyed the BBQ more than the music.</div>
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INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING AND GEOGRAPHIC REGIONS: </h4>
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Our travels have taken us up and down all of California, the Southwest, Pacific Northwest, the Upper Midwest, down the Mississippi, along the Eastern coastal states, down into parts of the South and into Texas. As "tourists" we seek out notable landmarks and enjoy touring manufacturing plants along key thoroughfares. We have followed the Lewis and Clark Oregon Trail from the top of the <a href="http://www.gatewayarch.com/about.aspx">St. Louis Gateway Arch</a> and starting point museum across their mid-western route to Oregon and the nicely done Interpretive Center near Baker, Oregon.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Luke driving through Downtown St. Louis with the Arch in the background.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">We visited this Oregon Trail Interpretive Museum with the Golden Spikes railroad enthusiasts last year during a week's visit of Eastern Oregon.</span></i></td></tr>
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While attending multiple RV rallies with the Escapees and the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) in Gillette, Wyoming we have learned much about coal mining history and the changing mining technologies, coal train transportation, and environmental issues. (Luke grew up in a family of PA coal industry workers so he has a special interest in coal.) We have followed a 100+ coal car loaded trains from Wyoming to Duluth, Minnesota and watched them off-loaded by conveyor belts onto 1,000' lake ships to continue through the many locks to electrical generator processing plants throughout the Great Lakes. We were on the American side of Sault Ste. Marie located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and took a tour boat through the Soo international locks into Canada and actually shared a lock with one of those huge lake ship. Duluth also has a wonderful Coast Guard Great Lakes Museum with nearby free RV parking.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">1000-foot ships passing our Sault Ste. Marie Elks Lodge river front campground site.</span></i></td></tr>
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Our current motorhome was built at the Winnebago factory in Forest City, Iowa and we have visited that plant many times for service repairs, tours, and rallies. The entire northern portion of Indiana, near Elkhart, is also known as the hub of almost all recreational vehicle manufacturing. There is also the cultural exposure to Amish Country when visiting adjacent communities of Nappanee and Shipshewana, Indiana.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.amishcountry.org/explore-the-area/cities-and-towns/</span></i></td></tr>
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We have toured nearly every plant and watched RVs of all sizes built from the frame up. We have also visited RV plants in Red Bay, Alabama, Southern California, and in the Harrisburg, Oregon area where our Monaco coach was built. </div>
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If you enjoy factory tours like we do there is a wonderful guide called <a href="http://factorytoursusa.com/">Factory Tours USA</a>. Where ever you travel you can find yourself being a "tourist" snacking on local delicacies or tasting beers at a brewery. Fun tours also include the <a href="https://www.hersheys.com/en_us/our-story.html">Hershey, PA Chocolate Factory</a> and the <a href="https://www.jellybelly.com/california-factory-tours">Jelly Belly Factory</a> in Fairfield, CA.</div>
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SPECIAL INTEREST IN MILITARY, AERONAUTICS AND SPACE SITES</h4>
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Luke's career was spent working with the Air Force and as a Department of Defense (DoD) retiree we have the privilege to stay at "FamCamps" on military bases around the country. We have had a chance to visit some of the best military museums and restored aircraft displays. Topping this list would be <a href="http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/">Wright-Patterson AFB</a> in Ohio and <a href="http://www.airplaneboneyards.com/davis-monthan-afb-amarg-airplane-boneyard.htm">"Air Force Bone Yard" at Davis-Monthan AFB</a> in Tucson and their associated military museums. We have toured the Huntsville, Alabama NASA training facility but have not made it to the Johnson Space Center in Texas or watched a launch from Cape Canaveral. We have stayed at Edwards AFB in Southern California but never witnessed a Space Shuttle landing.</div>
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At all of the above bases, the restoration of the aircraft and the docent tour guides are volunteers who were often crew members on those very planes. Two private aircraft museums worth a stop are located at the <a href="https://palmspringsairmuseum.org/">Palm Springs Air Museum</a> and <span style="background-color: white; color: #484848;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.nuclearmuseum.org/visit/faqs/">National Museum of Nuclear Science & History</a></span></span> just outside the gates of Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"No warbird evokes the memories of fighter aircraft in combat like the P-51 MUSTANG. Serving in WW2 & Korea as a bomber escort and tactical fighter-bomber this aircraft has returned to the skies!" [https://palmspringsairmuseum.org/]</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">OUR NEXT ADVENTURES...</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This summer we will roll the RV wheels to Oregon and Washington states to visit relatives and then head into Canada for a return visit to Alberta and the Canadian Glaciers. Travel postings will resume at the conclusion of this "A to Z Bloggers Challenge". If you want to follow along, click the FOLLOW BUTTON on the right-side panel. Thanks for visiting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>TUESDAY "u STANDS FOR uP, UP AND AWAY"</i></span></span></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-67575374297532707232017-04-22T17:31:00.001-07:002017-04-22T17:31:29.992-07:00"S" IS FOR MY SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS. (#AtoZChallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been a San Francisco Giants fan since 1962. Here is a salute to San Francisco for my "A to Z Challenge letter of the day: S IS FOR <span style="background-color: orange;">MY SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS.</span><br />
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When the Giants moved to San Francisco in 1958 my mother, Aileen Montoro, became a true fan. As she fought her battle with cancer for many years she always listened to the voices of Hall of Famers <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russ_Hodges">Russ Hodges</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lon_Simmons">Lon Simmons</a> call the games on <a href="https://www.discogs.com/Russ-Hodges-And-Lon-Simmons-KSFO-Presents-The-Giants-Win-The-Pennant-Hi-Lites-Of-The-1962-Baseball-S/release/3436031">KSFO Radio</a>. I became a true fan, too, when my brother-in-law took us to our first professional baseball game at Candlestick Park in 1962 so she could see her boys play before she died later that year.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/SFG/1962-roster.shtml"><b>1962 Giants Roster</b></a> that played that magic season under Manager Alvin Dark included <b>future <a href="http://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers">Baseball Hall of Famers</a>:</b> Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Juan Marichal. Orlando Cepeda, and Gaylord Perry. Also on the roster were these memorable names: brothers Felipe and Matty Alou, Manny Mota, Jim Davenport, Tom Haller, Chuck Hiller, Stu Miller, Mike McCormick, Dick Larsen, Harvey Kuenn, and others. The Giants finished 1st in the National League that year with a record of 103-62 and won the NL Pennant!!! Unfortunately, they lost that World Series 3 games to the NY Yankees' 4 games. To read a heart-breaking review of the last inning of game 7 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_Giants#1962_World_Series">click here.</a> :-(<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">FOLLOWING MY GIANTS WHILE TRAVELING</span></h3>
Like my mother, I have been listening to Giants baseball on the radio and watching on TV for as long as I can remember. The games are now broadcast on <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=knbr+680&rlz=1C1XYJR_enUS693US693&oq=knbr+giants&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l5.10511j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#q=knbr+680+giants+announcers">KNBR-680 AM Radio</a> and <a href="http://www.csnbayarea.com/giants">NBC SportsNet</a> with equally knowledgeable and entertaining first-string broadcasters: Hall of Famer Jon Miller, Dave Flemming, Mike Krukow and Duane Kuiper (better known as <a href="http://www.knbr.com/kruk-kuip-podcast/">Kruk & Kuip</a>). When traveling I can watch the games on our DirecTV <a href="http://www.csnbayarea.com/giants">Bay Area SportsNet</a> and I also subscribe to Major League Baseball's <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/subscriptions/index.jsp?c_id=mlb&affiliateId=mlbMENU">MLB-TV Premium</a>, <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bamnetworks.mobile.android.gameday.atbat&hl=en">MLB.com At Bat</a>. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'M A GAMER BABE</span></h3>
The internet provides an entirely wide range of experiences for sports fans. For a while I followed a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/krukandkuip/">Facebook "Kruk & Kuip" group</a> that got so obnoxious and rude I couldn't take it anymore. I then found the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/sfgamerbabesanddudes/">SF Giants Gamer Babes</a> on Facebook and fell in love with a group of women (and a few Gamer Dudes) who always support their team and each other with their knowledgeable baseball discussions. There are currently more than 7,000 Facebook group members and besides all the online chat during a game they now hold social get-togethers. The most popular event is a Christmas Lights Cable Car tour around San Francisco. Then there is the "Gamers Babe Day at the Park" where special group seating is designated and the Babes meet with team members and announcers for a Q&A session prior to the game. Unfortunately, I haven't attended either event -- yet!<br />
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Gamer Babe organizer and group administrator Annie Maciel defines the group best:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hi Friends and Giants Family! Gamer Babe/Dude from ____________! That's us! It's all about our G-Men and the gals AND guys who LOVE them! Nothing too serious, just a Fun Fan page. Let us know where you're from.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Just fun talk, photos and videos about the San Francisco Giants! A NICE and POSITIVE place to cheer them on! Let's keep it classy folks. We are Giants fans, after all.</span></blockquote>
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There are posting guidelines and folks posting <i>negative </i>comments or "<i>jinxing</i>" the team are removed. The reference above to where fans are "from _______" ties into the group's black and orange shirts that have been designed to show your membership support. I opted to use my nickname "COOLJUDY" in the center section while others put their home towns or local counties. <br />
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Some Babes sell custom "bling" to accessorize the well-dressed Giants fan. And, if it is your birthday, you will be celebrated with photos of tantalizing Giants concoctions and lots of birthday well wishes.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">WEARING MY ORANGE AND BLACK</span></h3>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNluRjIlazs/WPvXBrkQh7I/AAAAAAABmEs/1Njk_uFtghwfrM3WSX2Mptw5XT4ZdZGeQCEw/s1600/Scottsdale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNluRjIlazs/WPvXBrkQh7I/AAAAAAABmEs/1Njk_uFtghwfrM3WSX2Mptw5XT4ZdZGeQCEw/s320/Scottsdale.jpg" width="320" /></a>When I attend a game in San Francisco or Scottsdale, AZ during Spring Training I certainly dress for the occasion. Here are a few scenes that have shown up in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judy.rinehimer">my Facebook postings</a>. As you can see, I drag Hubby Luke to the games with me. He was never really a baseball fan but he now knows the team members and watches the game with me at home and on the road.<br />
My GamerDude Grandson Tanner has also attended games with me during Spring Training and in San Francisco.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <i>Meeting up at Spring Training in Scottsdale, AZ with my daughter's sister-in-law Lisa Pontes</i></span><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PI-NH-yk6bg/WPvXBu4FEaI/AAAAAAABmEo/l1TL8YNVfnEHC4vo2cRjheOmsek5XuDAACEw/s1600/with%2Blisa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PI-NH-yk6bg/WPvXBu4FEaI/AAAAAAABmEo/l1TL8YNVfnEHC4vo2cRjheOmsek5XuDAACEw/s320/with%2Blisa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Every year around my birthday in May I buy tickets to my one and only game in San Francisco each year. In the past that has also been on Mother's Day when there are extra promotional give-aways. The SF Giants scarf that Lisa is wearing in the above photo was a Mother's Day gift I shared with her.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The team mascot, Lou Seal, also gets into a festive mood on Mother's Day and we get to meet "Mom".</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">GIANT COLLECTIONS</span></h3>
Over the years I have been able to collect game souvenirs that are proudly displayed in my home office. Here are a few:<br />
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<i>Hall of Famer Willie McCovy, Angel Pagan, and Brandon Belt "bobbleheads"</i></div>
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<i>My 2016 Mother's Day Giants promotional give-away bag</i></div>
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<i>An assortment of Giants lanyards, a dog collars and my Hall of Fame souvenir stuffed toy.</i></div>
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One of the most precious gifts I have received came from our friends Barbara and Tom Westerfield whose son, Jason, was able to get while serving as the caterer for the Fresno Giants. As a birthday gift they gave me a replica set of the San Francisco Giants "WORLD SERIES RINGS".<br /><div>
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CAN'T ALWAYS LEAVE MY HEART IN SF</h3>
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Whenever the Giants win a game in San Francisco the fans leaving the stadium hear the classic Tony Bennett tune, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco". As I leave this blog salute to San Francisco, here's Tony Bennett:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1:13 YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QdvNjOAfUY</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>MONDAY "T STANDS FOR TOURISTS"</i></span></span></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-51386706431475349762017-04-21T15:19:00.000-07:002017-04-21T15:33:43.678-07:00"R" IS FOR "RINEHIMERS" (#AtoZChallenge)I'll keep this A to Z Challenge blog brief. The letter of the day is "R" so it is a chance to focus on the RINEHIMER FAMILY.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">RINEHIMER ROOTS</span></h3>
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My husband Luke's formal name is "Luther", named after his father, Luther H. Rinehimer who was one of 17 children born to John C. Rinehimer and his two wives, Mable and Evelyn. As this 1925 photo shows, they were a large family and they all lived long lives. </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "symbol";"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">·</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <u> </u></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif;"><u>Front Row:</u> LLoyd, Millard, Mabel (John C's
second wife), Clifford, John C Rinehimer, Percy, Rita</span></b></span></div>
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Middle Row: Lulu, Clyde, Verna, Lawrence, </span></b><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif;">Luther</span></b><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif;">, Frank, Merrit,
Evelyn</span></b></span><br />
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Back Row</u>: John G Rinehimer (Dennis Whitebread's Grandfather), Clayton,
Carleton, Lee— with Lulu, Llyod, Clyde, John G Rinehimer (Dennis Whitebread's
Grandfather), Millard, Verna, Clayton, Mabel (John C's 2nd wife), Lawrence,
Clifford</span></b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-written photo identifications and the year of birth and age in 1925<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">TRACING GENEALOGY</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I am not into tracing genealogy but in 2015 we had a chance to meet Luke's cousin Dave Rinehimer who has compiled an extensive paper-based Rinehimer family history. He has also established a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/222340241166683/">Facebook page</a> for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/222340241166683/">Conrad Rinehimer Family Tree</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">RINEHIMER HOMESTEAD</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The Rinehimers pictured above lived in the northeast Pennsylvania area near the Susquehanna River and Wilkes-Barre areas in a small town called "Stairville". While on our visit to PA in 2015 Luke's younger brother Dale took us on a drive down memory lane. He was able to point out the original family homestead property and a trip to the local cemetery was an eye-opener. To help future family historians I took photographs of all the related tombstones and also recorded their GPS coordinates in case landmarks disappear in the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>The original family farmhouse in Stairville, PA looks amazingly well.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>The combined headstone for Luke's father and his older sister Judy who died at age nine from a bicycle accident.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>The Rinehimer family name is still visible on local businesses in the Berwick, PA area.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">LUKE'S IMMEDIATE FAMILY</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Luke's mother, Ruth (Yeager) Rinehimer passed away in 2008 at about age 86. She had lived with us in California for 10 years and helped raise our daughter Robin while I was working. She was originally from the communities surrounding Berwick, PA and had returned home to care for her mother and then lived her remaining years near the rest of Luke's immediate family in Boyertown, PA.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">We have returned to Luke's hometown of Berwick, Pennsylvania every five years since 1985 for his Berwick High School Class of 1960 reunions. His younger brother Dale still lives in Berwick and their older brother Eugene (aka Gene) lives closer to Philadelphia in Boyertown, PA. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Luke, Dale and Gene pictured together in 2015</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Luke and his brothers were raised in the little resort town of Lake Nuangola, PA that was populated during the summer with New Yorkers who came to enjoy the lake area. He attended a two-room school house, watched his Grandfather George Ruth enjoy life a little too much, and played in the trees around the lake like an active boy would do. This was the family home before they moved to Berwick. His sister, Judy, died in a bicycle accident on the hill beside their home. It was obviously a sad time.</span></div>
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<i>Luke's Grandpa George Ruth, supposedly related to Babe Ruth, lived in this house in Lake Nuangola, PA.</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">COUSINS REUNION</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2015 was also a time for the "cousins" to get-together. Our daughter Robin and her family were on the East Coast for our grandson's baseball tournament in Cooperstown, NY so they used our car and we followed in the motorhome down to Boyertown, PA for a "Cousins Reunion". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Brother Dale never had children but Gene and his wife Nikki have three grown children and seven grandchildren. Our daughter Robin's closest cousin in age is Jane and her first two children are the exact same ages as our two grandsons. Over the years they have grown close and enjoy getting together by the family pool. Not all the cousins were present for this photo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Robin, Jeff, and Jane held their own cousins' reunion. Older cousin Jennifer missed this gathering.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, you've met the RINEHIMERS of PA. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The brothers are all in relatively good health and the next generation is staying in touch across the miles. We'll plan our next trip with more family memories in 2020!</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: small;"><i>COUSINS </i></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><i><b cwidth="0" eza="cwidth:0px;;cheight:0px;;wcalc_source:child;wcalc:125px;wocalc:125px;hcalc:1976px;rend_px_area:0;" style="background-size: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 750px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: magenta;">No matter how you feel about your extended family or family gatherings you will be attending. This is because now the ultimate reason for attending family gatherings is for your children to have the time of their lives with their cousins. Little kids love their cousins. I'm not being cute or exaggerating here. Cousins are like celebrities for little kids. If little kids had a People magazine, cousins would be on the cover. Cousins are the barometers of how fun a family get-together will be. Are the cousins going to be there? Fun! </span></b><span cwidth="0" eza="cwidth:0px;;cheight:0px;;wcalc_source:child;wcalc:50px;wocalc:50px;hcalc:48px;rend_px_area:0;" style="background-size: auto; color: #555555; margin: 0px; max-width: 750px; padding: 0px;">Jim Gaffigan</span></i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>SATURDAY: "S STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></span></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-32768981207041684392017-04-20T22:21:00.001-07:002017-04-20T23:44:46.723-07:00"Q" is for Quirky (#AtoZChallenge)As an active RVer, when someone talks about "Q" they are almost always referring to the small Arizona desert town of Quartzsite. Today, however, my "A to Z Bloggers Challenge", is going to look at the quirkiness of the letter Q.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1HMD3Y_VhZk/WPlJUx9gn6I/AAAAAAABmAU/cpDyT4ctvb4Ry79MXmVwWhb3B5MHo3cogCLcB/s1600/Q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1HMD3Y_VhZk/WPlJUx9gn6I/AAAAAAABmAU/cpDyT4ctvb4Ry79MXmVwWhb3B5MHo3cogCLcB/s1600/Q.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">ORIGINS OF "Q"</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My electronic research "go to" source for any question I might have is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_source">WIKIPEDIA</a> and a simple search on the letter "Q" will get us started. I am not a Biblical scholar but there seems to be a lot of history on "Q". </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Q source</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> (also </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Q document</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Q Gospel</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Q Sayings Gospel</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, or </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Q</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> from </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_language" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="German language">German</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">: </span><span lang="de" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" xml:lang="de"><i>Quelle</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">, meaning "source") is a </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypothesis" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Hypothesis">hypothetical</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> written collection of </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Jesus">Jesus</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">' sayings (</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logia" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Logia">logia</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">). Q is part of the common material found in the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gospel_of_Matthew" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Gospel of Matthew">Gospels of Matthew</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> and </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gospel_of_Luke" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Gospel of Luke">Luke</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> but not in the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gospel_of_Mark" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Gospel of Mark">Gospel of Mark</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">. According to this hypothesis, this material was drawn from the early Church's </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Oral_Tradition" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Christian Oral Tradition">Oral Tradition</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">.</span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-1" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; unicode-bidi: isolate; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_source#cite_note-1" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;">[1]</a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-2" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; unicode-bidi: isolate; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_source#cite_note-2" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;">[2]</a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-3" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11.2px; line-height: 1; unicode-bidi: isolate; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_source#cite_note-3" style="background: none; color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;">[3]</a></sup></blockquote>
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HOW DO YOU WRITE IT?</h3>
Cursive handwriting is barely taught today but IF you have to write the letter "Q" as a cursive capital letter do you shape it like the number "2" or like the letter "O" with a squiggly tail?<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQ9EIOFQBKA/WPlTI0gfLJI/AAAAAAABmAs/WhbjKV59Y5klcf4eFZzbQIHwH9pxaSEugCEw/s1600/multiple%2BCurisive%2Bcapital%2BQ.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQ9EIOFQBKA/WPlTI0gfLJI/AAAAAAABmAs/WhbjKV59Y5klcf4eFZzbQIHwH9pxaSEugCEw/s320/multiple%2BCurisive%2Bcapital%2BQ.png" width="294" /></a></div>
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There is always <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mOFWAbq2HU">YouTube</a> for digital examples on how to write it. This is a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mOFWAbq2HU">3:26 video</a> after you get past a brief Steve Martin intro!!!<br />
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Can't forget "lower case" Qs. Do you remember learning to write letters with "<i>ascender</i>" and "<i>decender</i>" parts using pre-lined paper with dashes? Are you having a flashback right now asking yourself which way the "q" curled the tail versus the lower case "g". Computer typography doesn't do justice to the way we learned to write "<i>back then</i>"!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ8CCGFrp1w/WPlWRw6qgGI/AAAAAAABmA0/bN-8jjAU4A4Pc6M16UToETbXr1wa2RPaQCLcB/s1600/lower%2Bcase%2BQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ8CCGFrp1w/WPlWRw6qgGI/AAAAAAABmA0/bN-8jjAU4A4Pc6M16UToETbXr1wa2RPaQCLcB/s320/lower%2Bcase%2BQ.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PARTNER WITH THE LETTER "U" </span></h3>
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Learning the Q-U rule in Kindergarten. Click the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSZ3JKyQJDM">> PLAY BUTTON</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">MORE "Q" QUIRKINESS</span></h3>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzAqg0qJcAs/WPmKd5aI_gI/AAAAAAABmBM/lbVYko_yVb4OR-RFBc9ZmUbMZGZFw2jBgCEw/s1600/dating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzAqg0qJcAs/WPmKd5aI_gI/AAAAAAABmBM/lbVYko_yVb4OR-RFBc9ZmUbMZGZFw2jBgCEw/s320/dating.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Not all words follow the "Q" and "U" rule. If you are a Scrabble game player and have the letter Q in your tray there is help for you. Check out <a href="http://scrabblewordfinder.org/scrabble-words-with/q/and-no/u">Scrabble Word Finder</a>. Of the 70 words listed the only word I recognized is from my computer vocabulary: <b>QWERTY</b> <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.thefreedictionary.com/QWERTY">QWERTY keyboard,</a> </span></blockquote>
<i style="box-sizing: inherit; font-size: medium;">n </i><span style="font-size: small;">(Printing, Lithography & Bookbinding) the standard English language typewriter</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">keyboard layout with the characters q,w, e, r, t, and y positioned on the top row of </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">alphabetic characters at the left side of the keyboard.</span><br />
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And an easy <a href="https://scrabble.hasbro.com/en-us">Scrabble</a> point word, and the only two-letter word starting with a Q is <b>Qi</b>:<br />
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"> <b>qi</b><br /> n 1: the circulating life energy that in Chinese philosophy is thought to be inherent in all things; in traditional Chinese medicine the balance of negative and positive forms in the body is believed to be essential for good health <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: monospace , serif; font-size: 16px; white-space: pre-wrap;">syn: {qi}, {chi}, {ch'i},{ki}]</span> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">[<a href="http://scrabblewordfinder.org/scrabble-words-with/q/and-no/u">Source:http://scrabblewordfinder.org/dictionary/qi]</a></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Q's PLACE IN THE ALPHABET</span></h3>
Do you need to sing the "Alphabet Song" to remember where the letter "Q" is in the traditional order of letters in the American alphabet? Thankfully, this <a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/">"Blogging from A to Z Challenge"</a> is keeping me on task to blog about a theme each day in April for each of the 26 letters. (We get Sundays off until April 30 so each letter gets its own day.)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"QUILLINAN" EXPERIENCES</span></h3>
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This is a truly personal story but I can connect it to the letter "Q". My older brother Frank Quillinan and his wife Shirley Quillinan raised me as a teenager after the rest of my direct family had died under various circumstances. My sister-in-law Shirley is now a widow and at age 85 is still going strong. As a matter of fact I am going with her and the other Quillinan girls on a cruise to Alaska next month. <br />
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When I asked if I could use the "QUILLINAN" name in today's blog theme Shirley said certainly! She added it was quite an experience to marry into a last name starting with a Q. Her maiden name had been Sherwood. Her first problem comment about having a last name beginning with "Q" was always going into professional offices and the staff could never find her paperwork because it is always mis-filed. "Q" folders were not where they should have been between "P" and "R".<br />
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As a hair stylist and previous owner of a clothing boutique store, Shirley said another problem was finding "monogrammed" decorating items for the home. Today you can get quite an assortment of "Q" monogrammed ideas from <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/explore/monogram-logo-q/">Pinterest</a>. If you are a <i><b>"Quillinan Queen"</b></i>, for example, you might like this on your love-seat throw pillow:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZQBV2Rr5Xg/WPmKd0w9I-I/AAAAAAABmBI/ula8kwVujtQcMsi9piwo4j2gpAuidbCJQCLcB/s1600/monogram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZQBV2Rr5Xg/WPmKd0w9I-I/AAAAAAABmBI/ula8kwVujtQcMsi9piwo4j2gpAuidbCJQCLcB/s320/monogram.jpg" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic.mhtml?id=392053561" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, "ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3", "Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro", メイリオ, Meiryo, "MS Pゴシック", arial, sans-serif; text-align: start; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Patterned golden letter Q monogram in vintage style. Heraldic coat of arms. Baroque logo template.</span></a></td></tr>
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Now you can go back and re-sing the Alphabet Song! If you are into Rap Music you might like this version:<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jK99ZcVi0b4">1:56 YouTube Rap Video</a> - Click the <b>></b> PLAY button</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, that's a rap on the Letter "Q"</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>FRIDAY: "R STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></span></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-89048429558331840192017-04-19T17:13:00.001-07:002017-04-19T17:13:09.852-07:00"P" IS FOR PARKING (#AtoZ Challenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Keeping with my RVing blog theme my "A to Z Challenge" letter of the day is "P" and <b><span style="color: red;">P IS FOR PARKING</span>.</b><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><i>
HOME IS WHERE YOU PARK IT</i></span></h3>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2saairemf_c/WPeaFiBmesI/AAAAAAABl5s/AV0oN03_JK4emwdMW4EZCeR2YhQQ5vdRACLcB/s1600/home%2Bis%2Bwhere%2Byou%2Bpark%2Bit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2saairemf_c/WPeaFiBmesI/AAAAAAABl5s/AV0oN03_JK4emwdMW4EZCeR2YhQQ5vdRACLcB/s320/home%2Bis%2Bwhere%2Byou%2Bpark%2Bit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So true!!! When we are on the road we have to "mark" our coordinates on our GPS units to where we parked the RV so we know how to get "home" if we go out to play tourist, go shopping or go out to dinner. We actually had friends who had parked the motorhome at Walmart and then took the car to go out geocaching for the day. Then they couldn't find their motorhome! Turns out there were three "Wally Worlds" in the town they were in!!! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">WHERE TO PARK?</span></h3>
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A tall, 40-foot motorhome doesn't quite fit everywhere we would like it to fit. Pre-planning routes, checking campground/RV park guidebooks and online apps are just the beginning steps before picking a stopping point for the night. When we are stopping some place new it may be time to read <a href="http://rvparkreviews.com/">RV Park Reviews</a> or call the hosts and ask questions: <i>"Do you have space tonight for a 40-footer, towing a car, 2 adults and one large dog? </i></div>
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We do not belong to "membership" parks like Thousand Trails but we do have lots of options on where to look. We are members of the Elks and Moose Fraternal Organizations and many of the Lodges have space for "dry camping" or formal sites with water, electric, and dump stations. We carry guidebooks and can look up various lodges as we travel. Our <a href="https://www.escapees.com/support/parking">Escapees RV Club</a> and <a href="http://www.passportamerica.com/">Passport America</a> subscription service are sources to locate "50-percent off" discount parkings.</div>
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Our <a href="http://rand.factoryoutletstore.com/details/158341/rand-mcnally-rvnd7730lm.html?category_id=45888&catalogitemid=140530">Rand-McNally RV GPS</a> is programmed specifically for recreational vehicles and includes our length, height, and weight. It can be used to locate parking places "along our route" or near our destination. If I pick a campground then I can direct the GPS navigational tools to get us there along a route that is safe for our size. You don't want to be surprised by "low bridge" signs or highway weight limitations.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">SMARTPHONE APPS</span></h3>
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One of the best apps we have found is called <a href="https://www.allstays.com/">AllStays</a> and it is available for iPhones and Android platforms. While not free, at just $9.99 it has the greatest list of "places" we could ever think of. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7GExqbEQJw/WPfZ5kvpKNI/AAAAAAABl60/Tad_cnrH3JsrrmZreDpNTnS1CU9MmPKlQCEw/s1600/camprvlogo120x114.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7GExqbEQJw/WPfZ5kvpKNI/AAAAAAABl60/Tad_cnrH3JsrrmZreDpNTnS1CU9MmPKlQCEw/s200/camprvlogo120x114.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">"The number one camping app for iPhone, iPods, iPads
and Android. From resorts to hike-in spots. Amenities, maps, truck stops, rest
areas, Wal-mart and casino parking, RV dealers, sporting goods stores and much
more. Two modes: one uses GPS and maps that you can filter. One is an offline
manual lookup mode for when you don't have service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Walmart Overnight Parking: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">This app lists and shows all Walmarts. See which ones
allow or don't allow RV parking based on thousands of user reports. Stores
change policy often so get the app and stay updated. Also filterable by store
amenities."</span></div>
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Once you select your state, city, and then "filter" the type of place then you are given a detailed listing of amenities, discounts, driving directions and links to the websites and direct phone calling.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">OUR PREFERRED SITES </span></h3>
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At a campground or RV park we look for spaces that are preferably NOT under trees that would block our DirecTV satellite reception, fairly level to ease the use of hydraulic jacks for extending our two slide-outs, and having utilities hook-ups (electric outlets and water) within range of our storage bays. Having "sewer connectivity" isn't always necessary since our "holding tanks" can keep us contained for about a week without worry. Direction of afternoon sun can be a factor in "hot" climates. Having extra space for our towed car and a non-muddy patio area are also pluses.</div>
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RV sites are either "pull through" or "back-in" and room to maneuver also helps the decision on what site to select. Some campgrounds actually "escort" you to the site with a workamper to help guide you in. Consistent communications and hand-signals are best done between the driver and only one "parker". The staff folks are really there to make sure you don't run over the electrical pedestal or water faucets. </div>
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Dry-camping - parking without utilities - is called "boondocking" and site preferences change. At Walmarts that allow RV overnight parking, you don't park near their high traffic area or where the delivery trucks line up. Truck stops are not our first choice but, in a pinch, they will work. Often the truck next to you might be running a refrigeration unit all night and the adjacent highway traffic can be noisy. We learn to deal with it like parking in community parks and campgrounds that have freight trains running the local tracks all night long. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">PARKING OOPS.....</span></h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Parking under trees means no DirecTV satellite reception</span></td></tr>
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When we parked under a large tree branch at Kirtland AFB Famcamp a piece broke off the DirecTV satellite dish when the dish lifted up against the branch. Luke went up on the motorhome roof, found the broken piece and "fixed" it with duct tape. It still works today!</div>
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PARKING AT HOME IN COOL</h3>
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A couple of years ago we had our then gravel driveway re-graded and paved so Luke could back the motorhome up to the house for easy loading and off-loading. This is a recent photo but last year the neighbor's trees had grown up over our portion of the yard and was in a position to scratch our two large solar panels. Under close supervision by Moi (and with my camera in hand) Luke went up to trim the trees. He had strict instructions to stay on his butt!!!</div>
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RV STORAGE LOT PARKING</h3>
Our homeowners association only allows driveway parking for 36 hours but they do have an RV Storage Lot, about one-half mile down the road from us. We pay $40 per month year-round for our 40-foot parking space. Negotiating the tight entrance gate is a challenge and then Luke must maneuver around other RVs, boats, and horse trailers to get to our final parking space. Check out how close the mirrors come before they clear the fence posts.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>THURSDAY "Q STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></span></h3>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-41421273129085396422017-04-18T14:00:00.000-07:002017-04-18T14:00:00.939-07:00"O" IS FOR ORGANIZATION (#AtoZChallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I am a life-long organizer so I was looking forward for today's letter of the day "O" in the Bloggers A to Z Challenge: <b><span style="color: red;">"O" IS FOR ORGANIZATION.</span></b></span><br />
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OH, HOW I LOVE PROJECTS</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Give me a project and I'll give you a detailed plan, often captured in a 3-ring, loose leaf binder with its own cover! Here are a couple of examples:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_m8lR3b0sMM/WPZTrnNl4GI/AAAAAAABlyw/yOrgYGqPrpoL-14dEMGY1k3hanoAL9b0ACLcB/s1600/rally%2Bbinder%2Bcovers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_m8lR3b0sMM/WPZTrnNl4GI/AAAAAAABlyw/yOrgYGqPrpoL-14dEMGY1k3hanoAL9b0ACLcB/s400/rally%2Bbinder%2Bcovers.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">For years I have created reference binders for RV rallies. Sections include information about attendees, Excel-created grids with detailed schedules, and local tourist information.</span></td></tr>
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CARRY BAGS GALORE</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What do you do with all the sponsored cloth carry bags you collect? Yes, many cloth bags are in my car for grocery store trips for "no plastic bags" areas, but the rest carry my "stuff".</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">These are the cloth carry bags I brought in from the motorhome when we got to our stick house. The goal is to sort and clean them out so I can use our recycling can. This means the RV will be on a diet, weighing less when we take off again!<br /></span><h4 style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">ORGANIZED MEDICAL INFORMATION</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">As RVers we need to have our medical information with us wherever we travel. Yes, much of the data is stored in electronic forms on USBs or in the "cloud" but many facilities will NOT insert your storage devices into their equipment for fear of electronic viruses. We each have a carry bag with larger binders containing our Kaiser medical summaries, prescription data sheets, lab reports and blood sugar and blood pressure testing data. Then there are smaller binders for special procedures and conditions. These binders track my Valley Fever condition since 2011, Luke's current Glaucoma condition and his recent surgery for Bladder Stones! N0, not posting procedure photos!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">FINANCIAL RECORDS</span></h3>
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Luke is a wizard when it comes to documenting every credit card, check, or investment transaction in <a href="https://www.quicken.com/qkn17/save10?priorityCode=1337900000&utm_medium=cpc&cid=ppc_gg_b_stan_402-5275432-5468990-191147370640&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=CUS__Brand%20Quicken%20Exact%20-%20New">Quicken software</a>. His data files goes back to 1994! There are times, however, when the printed copies of insurances, veterinary records, technoloogy paperwork, etc. must be available at home or on the road. A traditional filing box supplements the filing drawer in the RV office setup. We also maintain a traveling "fire safe" and another fire safe at home.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xAC2DZkjaKo/WPZhzVKRs9I/AAAAAAABlzY/s40s8MgqiRMTksPGDK2yTzDCOrpSsmxwgCEw/s1600/filing%2Bbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xAC2DZkjaKo/WPZhzVKRs9I/AAAAAAABlzY/s40s8MgqiRMTksPGDK2yTzDCOrpSsmxwgCEw/s320/filing%2Bbox.jpg" width="254" /></a></h4>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I AM A PROFESSIONAL</span></h3>
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Don't laugh! I actually have a Masters degree in "Human Resources and Organization <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Hr96P8GXmc/WPZmLpMd_bI/AAAAAAABlzo/2pzwpyzTus8HWkwb8X9f8cO_BlK-5e8kACEw/s1600/Masters%2Bdegree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Hr96P8GXmc/WPZmLpMd_bI/AAAAAAABlzo/2pzwpyzTus8HWkwb8X9f8cO_BlK-5e8kACEw/s320/Masters%2Bdegree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Development" from the University of San Francisco! This field of study has trained me to evaluate the health of an organization and offer my assistance in various roles. I can assist groups with communications, practices and procedures, and can troubleshoot problems with their internal structures and external "stakeholders". </div>
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Watch out, I am also a trained "facilitator"! I can wield multiple felt tip marker pens in one hand while capturing group thoughts in alternating colors on butcher paper easels. </div>
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RVers who have attended any of my rallies will now understand why my announcement WHITE BOARDS are so organized and updated in multiple colors! It's what I enjoy doing. :-) I try to live an ORGANIZED LIFE!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h3>
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<b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>WEDNESDAY: "p STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></h2>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-16546727245731414102017-04-17T00:25:00.001-07:002017-04-17T00:26:39.734-07:00"N" IS FOR NUMBERS (#AtoZChallenge)<i>So, what are YOUR numbers?</i> We actually ask that question to each other almost daily but we need to put the question into context. Today's #A to Z Bloggers Challenge letter of the day is "N" so my blog for Monday, April 16 is <b>"N" IS FOR NUMBERS</b>!<br />
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NUMBERS ON THE ROAD...</h4>
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We encounter lots of different <b>numbers </b>on our traveling days. If I have done my logistical homework the night before a travel day I should be able to say how many miles we will travel until our next stop-over location. Generally, when traveling multiple days to get from Point A to Point B we will try to drive 200-300 miles a day. We ARE RETIRED and don't have to meet distance or time deadlines. I am not an early morning person so we might not get on the road until about 9:00 or 10:00 a.m., and then we will make Rest Area stops as needed for driver breaks, dog walking, lunch, and sometimes naps. I try to confirm campground/RV park reservations in the afternoon and then hope to arrive before dusk. More <b>numbers </b>for our various campground membership discounts will be needed at check-in.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-prr8_6NXvO4/WPRC6MNyjFI/AAAAAAABluM/2A_i23Ek-z8Ub_43VgV3oHsBQP2345O5wCLcB/s1600/Tire-SafeGuard%2Bimage_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-prr8_6NXvO4/WPRC6MNyjFI/AAAAAAABluM/2A_i23Ek-z8Ub_43VgV3oHsBQP2345O5wCLcB/s200/Tire-SafeGuard%2Bimage_edited.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our TPMS control screen</td></tr>
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The motorhome has its own set of <b>numbers </b>that must be monitored every travel day. We use the <a href="http://www.tiresafeguard.com/frontpage/">Tire-SafeGuard</a> tire pressure monitoring system (TMPS) to check the six RV tires and the four tires on our Honda CR-V "towed" car. It let's us know with very loud alarms if one of the tires is malfunctioning. Twice it has alerted us to a flat tire on the car when we were towing it. Otherwise, towing is so seamless we would not have felt the tire going flat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXMfYegvDyg/WPRMYnWA8rI/AAAAAAABlug/CPGIXf7pw5IMxA8gX9_4DkAOiw0ZVHtCQCLcB/s1600/dash%2Bdisplays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xXMfYegvDyg/WPRMYnWA8rI/AAAAAAABlug/CPGIXf7pw5IMxA8gX9_4DkAOiw0ZVHtCQCLcB/s320/dash%2Bdisplays.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instrument Dash Displays</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jy0ladIyaD8/WPRV6xdNGTI/AAAAAAABlu8/5s-Jizf0FPsPakApUqHKlLiMxlfEvHwowCLcB/s1600/laptop%2Band%2BTPMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jy0ladIyaD8/WPRV6xdNGTI/AAAAAAABlu8/5s-Jizf0FPsPakApUqHKlLiMxlfEvHwowCLcB/s320/laptop%2Band%2BTPMS.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The laptop for SilverLeaf and the TPMS sit on the dash</td></tr>
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Our 2007 Itasca Horizon 40' TD motorhome has a 400 HP Cummins engine and that requires constant monitoring. The dash displays are difficult to read while traveling at 55 MPH so Luke has added a <a href="http://www.silverleafelectronics.com/user/2683?q=node/6">SilverLeaf Electronics</a> software program to a small laptop computer that rides on the dash. He monitors all the <b>numbers </b>on this display!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica"; font-size: 14.4px;">"VMSpc is an intelligent data translator that links between your USB port and engine diagnostic connector on your rig. Together with the special software, it allows you to read performance and diagnostic information right on your laptop computer. You get complete real-time performance gauges, diagnostics, trip information and graphing system that lets you display any number of parameters at once. You can even store the engine data to a file and load it into a spreadsheet."<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQuYn2pgAxg/WPRMYa36NDI/AAAAAAABluk/lIeOgwJm0tAUnPpRiskVrPq7EhrIn9WbwCEw/s1600/VMSpc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qQuYn2pgAxg/WPRMYa36NDI/AAAAAAABluk/lIeOgwJm0tAUnPpRiskVrPq7EhrIn9WbwCEw/s320/VMSpc.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample SilverLeaf screen display.</td></tr>
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MORE RV NUMBERS TO MONITOR</h4>
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Visitors to the motorhome always comment on the electrical control center that sits just behind my seat. Now that we have 870 watts of solar panels on our roof I can turn on our "inverter" to power electrical outlets while traveling down the road. I typically run my smartphone charger and GPS navigational devices in addition to small air circulation fans set on the floor to keep the dog cooled off on hot days.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1jVdkIl7sME/WPRUUs6fHCI/AAAAAAABluw/8uBj3SvMvj8FTELkvPobRM7xIWp5yyR6gCLcB/s1600/Inverter_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1jVdkIl7sME/WPRUUs6fHCI/AAAAAAABluw/8uBj3SvMvj8FTELkvPobRM7xIWp5yyR6gCLcB/s320/Inverter_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This display monitors the status of the power going to our "coach" batteries.</td></tr>
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<br />MEDICAL NUMBERS...</h4>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJrtAF259Ew/WPRY86Q5ISI/AAAAAAABlvI/dwm1jwhhsgQK8XqgyaFpKQTlM3Oauj73ACLcB/s1600/OneTouch%2Bmeter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJrtAF259Ew/WPRY86Q5ISI/AAAAAAABlvI/dwm1jwhhsgQK8XqgyaFpKQTlM3Oauj73ACLcB/s200/OneTouch%2Bmeter.jpg" width="92" /></a>On the medical end of the question <i><b>"What are your numbers"</b></i> we can have lots of different answers. We are both <b>Diabetic </b>so we have "fasting blood sugar" meter <b>numbers </b>first thing in the morning to report. Both of our doctors like the idea that we use computer grid sheets for recording our blood sugar <b>numbers </b>before each meal and at bedtime. Yes, our <a href="http://www.onetouch.com/product/verioiq">OneTouch Verio Meters</a> will provide averages and charts, there is more accountability if we have to tell each other what our <b>number </b>was when we got up. The blood sugar readings also inform us as to the amount of insulin we both must inject.</div>
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Luke has been on insulin for many years but I just started "shooting up" in February. I am providing my "chronic health educator" extra Excel spreadsheet reports while we adjust the <b>number</b> of "insulin units" I inject at bedtime and in the morning. We both also use diabetic medications to control our "<b>numbers</b>". Our "A1c" <b>numbers </b>are in the acceptable range with the help of our meds.<br />
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Our "snack" cabinets at home and on the road have been replaced with prescriptions for cholesterol, blood pressure, and "other" ailments. <i>"Getting old is not for sissies!"</i><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NUQeTIUcVbE/WPRjrnspoHI/AAAAAAABlvo/UpRwhwFK988fQ1TGfzLZSr_8ICxzEQ-lACLcB/s1600/BP%2BMonitor_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NUQeTIUcVbE/WPRjrnspoHI/AAAAAAABlvo/UpRwhwFK988fQ1TGfzLZSr_8ICxzEQ-lACLcB/s200/BP%2BMonitor_edited.jpg" width="200" /></a><b>Blood pressure readings</b> are also something we both do religiously in the morning. The <b>numbers </b>are written into our personal charts and shared with doctors on demand. I am also trying to reduce my blood pressure and adjustments have recently been made to my bedtime medications. Besides lowering "stress" I am in the process of reducing salts and -- oh, no -- caffeine. I will be weaning myself from "regular" to "decaf" java and reducing my use of "French Vanilla" creamers all together. </div>
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We are fortunate to have <a href="https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/">Kaiser Permanente</a> health insurance in our retirement. This means we have <b>Medical Record (MR) Numbers</b> that keep us connected to our Roseville-Lincoln, CA doctors, labs, and pharmacies. We can also get lab results, schedule and/or review appointments, get mail order prescriptions, and research almost anything online at <a href="http://kp.org/">KP.org</a>. We have even had video and telephone appointments while traveling. When we go to Southern California, Oregon, or Washington state we also have <b>MR</b> <b>Numbers </b>for those locations. Oh, we can't forget our Medicare <b>numbers</b>, too!</div>
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<b>NUMBERS ARE NOT FOR ME</b></h4>
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In school I hated math so if I need to count past my 10 fingers then it is time for a calculator or an Excel spreadsheet. I know my life is surrounded by <b>numbers </b>but that's all you are getting in this blog: <b><span style="color: red;">N is for Numbers! </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE </i></b></span></h2>
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<b style="color: red;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">"#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</span></i></b></h2>
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<b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>Tuesday: "O STANDS FOR ORGANIZER"</i></span></h2>
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<br />Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-39555453813391951302017-04-15T17:41:00.000-07:002017-04-18T10:49:36.923-07:00"M" IS FOR MOUNTAIN LIONS (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today's #A to Z Bloggers Challenge" letter of the day is M so I am writing about sharing our community with our local wildlife -- "<b><span style="color: red;">M" IS FOR MOUNTAIN LIONS</span></b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-BczaVyhUw/WPKTykkV1kI/AAAAAAABls0/exusb-27SrMo2ySlE79MAxWtBEawQxI1gCLcB/s1600/M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-BczaVyhUw/WPKTykkV1kI/AAAAAAABls0/exusb-27SrMo2ySlE79MAxWtBEawQxI1gCLcB/s1600/M.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLIISudSoxc/WPKy2G4WDVI/AAAAAAABltU/2VwNmdZXw-Uc6W9KWheVnDYI_kGPqXmzACLcB/s1600/mountain-lion-hissing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLIISudSoxc/WPKy2G4WDVI/AAAAAAABltU/2VwNmdZXw-Uc6W9KWheVnDYI_kGPqXmzACLcB/s320/mountain-lion-hissing.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos from American Expedition</td></tr>
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We live east of Sacramento, CA in the foothills elevation of the California Sierra Nevada Mountains, an area we share with lots of native wildlife, including mountain lions and black bears. While bears tend to be garbage can pests, mountain lions can be killers! The big cats typically go after deer, coyotes, foxes, domestic pests and farm animals. Unfortunately, our neighborhood was the site of one of the rare fatal attacks on a 40 year old women who was running on a local trail in April, 1994. Here is her story from the<a href="http://articles.latimes.com/1994-04-27/news/mn-50967_1_mountain-lion"> LA Times</a>:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Trackers Hunt Mountain Lion That Killed Jogger</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">COOL, Calif. — Trackers hunted
Tuesday for the mountain lion they say stalked and killed a jogger in the
rugged Sierra Nevada foothills northeast of Sacramento.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The mutilated body of Barbara
Schoener, 40, was discovered Sunday in the isolated Auburn Lake Trails area of
El Dorado County.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sheriff's detectives said she had
been attacked by a cougar that bit her neck and crushed her skull, then dragged
the partially consumed body about 300 feet and buried it under leaves and
debris. Experts said mountain lions often conceal their prey and return when
they are hungry.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Sheriff's Department, releasing
preliminary autopsy results, said in a written statement that Schoener
apparently was running along the trail when the lion jumped onto the path about
20 feet behind her and attacked her from the rear.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The force of the animal's assault
knocked her off the path down a steep slope. She struggled to her feet, was
attacked, then moved farther down the slope "to a location where the final
attack occurred," the sheriff's report said.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Investigators said the 120-pound,
5-foot-8 Schoener tried to fight off the animal. "Defensive wounds on
Barbara's forearms and hands make it apparent she did struggle with the lion,"
the sheriff's report said. A lion's
prints were identified on and near the path.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">State experts said Schoener is
believed to be the first person this century killed in California in a mountain
lion attack. In 1909, a woman and child in Santa Clara County were attacked and
died later from rabies.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Mountain lion trackers using dogs
sealed off a 4,200-acre portion of the recreational area to hunt for the
cougar. They planned to kill the animal to prevent further attacks on humans,
said Pete Weisser, a spokesman for the state Fish and Game Department.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">"The (lion's) behavior is likely
to be repeated," Weisser said. "We are still tracking. We are still
looking. When we find it, we'll shoot it." -- </span><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">April 27, 1994| From Associated Press</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></blockquote>
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OUR ENCOUNTER</h4>
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We have lived in Cool for 38 years and have yet to see a mountain lion. We have, however, HEARD the cries of a female cougar in heat! Early one morning while my husband was getting ready for work he heard what he thought was a female neighbor screaming. I was called outside to also listen and we decided to call our local security guards to investigate a possible domestic violence situation. Knocks on our neighbors' door produced no one and life moved on. The next day we were discussing the screams with another neighbor and she confirmed hearing the screams but they were attributed to a MOUNTAIN LION IN HEAT! </div>
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I keep looking for wildlife in our unfenced backyard but our own "critter cam" has only captured deer and turkeys. Others, however, have posted lots of photos of mountain lions on YouTube. To experience a prowling mountain lion from a backyard "critter cam" click this 2:38 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxo8X5uIWRE">YouTube Video</a> and listen to the the first :30 of screaming! </div>
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Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxo8X5uIWRE</div>
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My reason for blogging today about mountain lions is because we are having a lot of sightings of these big cats co-mingling with humans throughout our El Dorado County neighborhoods in search of food. Recent Facebook postings include stories of mountain lions jumping on horses in a corral, strolling residential streets, hanging out in playgrounds, and even entering a home through the front door and checking out the kitchen where the family had taken refuge. Thankfully, no one has been hurt.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDIsV14rt0U/WPKyl6S3xKI/AAAAAAABltY/aI_A8Aa-xD0Q6qh0tEfDbywSlYH06Q8DgCEw/s1600/mountain-lion-head-up-close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDIsV14rt0U/WPKyl6S3xKI/AAAAAAABltY/aI_A8Aa-xD0Q6qh0tEfDbywSlYH06Q8DgCEw/s320/mountain-lion-head-up-close.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain lions have a round heads and erect ears.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">LIVING IN MOUNTAIN LION TERRITORY</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our local El Dorado County Ag Dept. has published the following information supplied by the US<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> Department of Agriculture </span>about sharing our neighborhoods with mountain lions. <a href="https://www.edcgov.us/Ag/Mountain_Lions.aspx">Link to the source here: </a></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now that people and mountain lions occupy so much of the same geographical areas in California, encounters are expected to increase. If you live in mountain lion habitat, here's what you can do to reduce your chances of encountering a mountain lion near your home:</span></span></blockquote>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">DON'T FEED WILDLIFE: By feeding deer, raccoons or other wildlife in your yard, you will inadvertently attract mountain lions, which prey upon them. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"DEER-PROOF" YOUR LANDSCAPE: </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Avoid using plants that deer prefer eat; if your landscaping attracts deer, mountain lions may be close by. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has a brochure entitled "Gardening To Discourage Deer Damage" available at most Department offices. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">LANDSCAPE FOR SAFETY: Remove dense and/or low-lying vegetation that would provide good hiding places for mountain lions, especially around children's play areas; make it difficult for mountain lions to approach your yard unseen. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">INSTALL OUTDOOR LIGHTING: Keep the perimeter of your house well lit at night- especially along walkways - to keep lions visible. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">KEEP PETS SECURE: Roaming pets are easy prey for hungry mountain lions. Either bring pets inside or keep them in a kennel with a secure top. Don't feed pets outside; this can attract other mountain lion prey. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">KEEP LIVESTOCK SECURE: Where practical, place livestock in enclosed sheds and barns at night, and be sure to secure all outbuildings. </span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">KEEP CHILDREN SAFE: Keep a close watch on children whenever they play outdoors. Make sure children are inside between dusk and dawn. Teach your children what to do if they encounter a lion. </span></li>
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MORE INFO: A CAT BY MANY NAMES</h4>
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Mountain lions, the largest wild cat in North America, go by many names. Most commonly they are called Cougars, Panthers, or Pumas and males can weigh about 200 pounds, about one-third bigger than females. <a href="https://forum.americanexpedition.us/mountain-lion-facts">This link</a> will give you a lot more detail about these big cats as predators:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PNtZMYI4SBk/WPKV5rGHZ8I/AAAAAAABltA/NgH0gwwS3OELXztgXRBE3hGocyOSKvfSwCLcB/s1600/mountain-lion-pouncing-toward-prey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PNtZMYI4SBk/WPKV5rGHZ8I/AAAAAAABltA/NgH0gwwS3OELXztgXRBE3hGocyOSKvfSwCLcB/s320/mountain-lion-pouncing-toward-prey.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain lions are excellent jumpers. </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #eedcb8; font-family: "arial" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Their average length of head and body is 3-5 feet, and their tail is 2-2.7 feet long. Their tail, measuring nearly one-third of their total length, gives them excellent balance. When stalking and attacking prey, mountain lions utilize extraordinary leaping abilities. They are capable of running jumps exceeding 40 feet and standing vertical leaps of up to 15 feet.</span></blockquote>
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SHARING OUR LANDS</h4>
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Foothill residents will be the first to acknowledge the wildlife called our area home long before we did. We live adjacent to the Auburn State Recreation Area and the 2700 acres within our Auburn Lake Trails are a protected wildlife area and no hunting is allowed. Major wildland fires have depleted the food sources and protective forestry at higher elevations in the Sierra range and now the wildlife and moved into residential areas in search of food. We all need to be aware of ALL our neighbors. Be safe running and riding the trails and even walking your pet at night. I know I do!A<br />
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<span style="color: red;"><i><b>THIS JUST IN: A mountain lion snatched a dog from the owner's bed: <a href="http://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/article145140424.html">Sacramento Bee article</a> </b></i><b><i>http://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/article145140424.html</i></b></span><br />
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<b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE "#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></h2>
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<b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i>MONDAY: "N STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></h2>
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<br />Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-43162171645320698292017-04-14T23:45:00.002-07:002017-04-15T01:15:43.770-07:00L IS FOR "LIVING ON THE ROAD"<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Non-RVers often have questions about what it is like to travel extensively in a RV. Today's designated #A to Z Bloggers Challenge letter of the day is "L" and "L stands for LIVING ON THE ROAD".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are NOT full-time RVers and still maintain a 2200 square foot "stick house" in Cool, California when not on the road. For the past dozen years or so we have spent 8 or 9 months traveling each year in a 400 sq. foot motorhome. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Typically we leave for our Winter-Spring trip to the Southwest about New Years Day and return in early April. In April and May we get caught up on "routine" medical and dental appointments, prep the yard for wildland fire safety inspections, and spend time with the family. Our Summer-Fall trip usually begins with RV rally "destinations" and ends in early November after hosting a major rally at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Life responsibilities and routines continue regardless of our physical location.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Changing Homes</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Life on the road is actually much like that when we we are not traveling. We still have meals to eat, laundry to do, housekeeping to be done, mail to read, bills to pay, medical appointments to keep, prescriptions to fill, hobbies to pursue, and social media to follow.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T2G3rAYIN5c/SUN4C9_lpnI/AAAAAAAAAOA/KXrzk8nm22M6lZy98JwlDIRumILJqLb-wCPcB/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2BGalley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T2G3rAYIN5c/SUN4C9_lpnI/AAAAAAAAAOA/KXrzk8nm22M6lZy98JwlDIRumILJqLb-wCPcB/s200/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2BGalley.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you haven't already done so, take a tour of our 2007 Itasca Horizon 40' TD motorhome by clicking in the blog archives<a href="http://coolrvers.blogspot.com/2017/04/h-is-for-horizon-our-home-on-wheels.html"> "H is for Horizon"</a>. Our full motorhome kitchen/galley has plenty of storage space, food preparation counters and appliances to cook all our meals on the road. A trip to Costco before hitting the road fills our inside refrigerator and freezer plus there is another freezer in an outside storage bay. And as RVers know, we are seldom very far away from community grocery stores and/or a WalMart. BUT, eating OUT is always a welcomed choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">COMMON QUESTIONS:</span></h4>
The most common questions we get about our RV lifestyle are:<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">How do you get your mail? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What do you do with your house when you are gone?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">How can you be with each other 24/7 living in a shoe box?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">ESTABLISHING YOUR "DOMAIN"</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A critical decision "extended-time" and "full-time" RVers must decide is where is your LEGAL DOMAIN. Your legal address will dictate where you get your mail, register to vote, register your vehicles, renew your driver's license, pay your taxes, and maintain your health and vehicle/property insurances. Escapees RV Club CEO Shawn Loring has published a very thorough explanation about the complexities involved in declaring domains. <a href="https://escapees.com/articles-and-blogs/entry/domicile-revisited-back-to-the-basics">Click here to read it. </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our stick house in California is our domain and legal address. When we travel for extended times we file a "temporary change of address" with the US Postal Service to our Livingston, Texas "address" with the <a href="https://escapees.com/support/mail-service/faq-s">Escapees mail forwarding service</a> to get our mail on the road. A simple email or phone call to the Escapees headquarters is all we need to do to request our collected mail: "Please send our mail to our names, c/o General Delivery, Yuma, AZ" (or any other specific address that can receive a USPS Priority Mail envelope or box). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">MAINTAINING THE STICK HOME and THE RV</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We do not rent out our house when we are gone. We have lived in Auburn Lake Trails, a gated planned unit development, for 38 years and have a "Community Services" department that provides home security checks as part of our Homeowners Association benefits. The Patrol Officers have called us for strange vehicles (a neighbor's truck) in our driveway or gushing broken sprinkler heads. We also pay a neighbor to use our riding lawn tractor to maintain our 3/4 acre of lawn and to keep an eye on the property. In case of an emergency he also has a key to the house.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our subdivision is very concerned about California's wildland fire dangers and we must pass mandatory yard inspections to meet CalFire defensive space requirements. If Luke can't manage the weedeater or tree trimming equipment to meet the stringent requirements we also hire our neighbor to help out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our 2007 motorhome has nearly 94,000 miles but it has been professionally maintained by authorized Freightliner, Cummins, or Winnebago-Itasca Service Centers from Day One. Luke prides himself in how clean the exterior looks and he is also Mr. Clean when it comes to deep cleaning and vacuuming the motorhome. Cleaning is not my thing at home or on the road! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Purple Jobs" </span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our RV friends Sharon and Don Del Rosario have taught us that we should not define RV or household "jobs" as hers (pink) or his (blue): all jobs should be PURPLE -- done by either partner. Health or mobility issue can dictate who does what jobs. While Luke may DRIVE the rig while I navigate, I have had multiple RV Driving School lessons and know I can take over the steering wheel and controls as needed. I have also had to "dump" the tanks and I serve as the hook-up safety checker.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">ELECTRONICS</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our electronic lives are the same at home as on the road. We carry two laptops, an all-in-one printer/scanner, and cell phones. We also have DirecTV satellite service in all locations.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5CU8uwwmBs/T8Ph4xaXhjI/AAAAAAAAGAY/739ccc3ozOcZVJvq5Kv4nw4QVNnRyaQUQCPcB/s1600/2%2Bcomputer%2Bstations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5CU8uwwmBs/T8Ph4xaXhjI/AAAAAAAAGAY/739ccc3ozOcZVJvq5Kv4nw4QVNnRyaQUQCPcB/s320/2%2Bcomputer%2Bstations.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We each have our own laptop office workstations in the motorhome.</td></tr>
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We use our Verizon data plan to maintain communications in our stick house and on the road. We have an "unlimited" data plan that allows my Samsung Galaxy 5 Note smartphone and Verizon Tablet to serve as "mobile hotspots" for internet service. We also have a Verizon MiFi wireless router that allows Mr. Non-Techie to have internet access if I am away with the hotspot smartphone or tablet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Electronic banking, electronic bill paying, credit card monitoring, Quicken 2017 tracking, and TurboTax keep us financially aware wherever we are. When traveling we do notify our bank and credit card companies what states or countries we will be in and for how long. Fraud Departments are excellent in noticing changes in our credit card uses and have been known to detect unauthorized uses when we have failed to notify them of our planned locations.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">CONTINUING EDUCATION</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Over the years we have learned much about living on the road through attendance at rally seminars, a now-discontinued "Life on Wheels" education program, Boot Camps, RV club gatherings, motorhome brand-specific discussion groups, magazines, and campfire circle discussions. We are life-long learners and I have even facilitated "RVing Women" seminars while on the road.</span><br />
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WE'LL KEEP ON ROLLING ON THE ROAD...</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE "#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;"><i>TOMORROW: "M STANDS FOR ________"</i></span></span></h2>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-5429109916992134652017-04-13T21:36:00.000-07:002017-04-15T14:12:50.238-07:00"K" is for Ks in Baseball (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today's Letter of the Day for the Bloggers A to Z Challenge is the letter "K" and, as a baseball fan, that means a STRIKE OUT.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HXzWHENTSo/WO_wZpKbkeI/AAAAAAABlo8/4suKtC0uEsEJI54_NVGh8IKMvOz3b1RQwCLcB/s1600/K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HXzWHENTSo/WO_wZpKbkeI/AAAAAAABlo8/4suKtC0uEsEJI54_NVGh8IKMvOz3b1RQwCLcB/s1600/K.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have always been curious about why baseball score keepers use the letter K to designate a batter striking out. With a little research, here is the history of "K" and how <a href="http://m.mlb.com/glossary/idioms/k">Major League Baseball defines a "K"</a>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">"A "K" is a strike</span>out. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit;"><u>Origin:</u> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Referring to a strikeout as a K goes all the way back to the mid-19th century -- when journalist Henry Chadwick began developing baseball's first scorecard. His original system used only single letters, and Chadwick couldn't use "S" for "struck" (the preferred term of the time period) because it had already been taken by "sacrifice." So instead, he decided to go with what he thought was the word's most memorable sound: the letter K".</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-style: inherit;"> </span></blockquote>
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OFFICIAL SCORE KEEPING</h4>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">True baseball fans appreciate all the details kept on the "official scorecard". Baseball is a game where knowing statistical data enhances the baseball game experience. As for keeping track of strike outs there is actually a lot to learn. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">When it comes to keeping up with the in-game strike outs, the stadiums are doing their part. I am a Giants "Gamer Babe", a devoted Facebook fan of the San Francisco Giants, and if I am at AT&T Park I can not only see the electronic scoreboards with game stats, pitch counts, and pitch speeds, I can also look at the wall in right field to see how many strikeouts the Giant's pitcher has thrown. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">This is a photo of what I call the "K Wall". The fans that sit above each letter sign takes responsibility for keeping the strikeout count up-to-date. They flip over pre-hung blank signs to show whether the strikeout was a </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">"<b><i>swinging strike</i></b>"</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent;">represented by a <b style="background-color: transparent;">FORWARD K</b> or a "<b style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="color: magenta;">called strike</span></i></b>" displayed as a <b style="background-color: transparent;">BACKWARD K</b>. Thanks to a fellow "Gamer Babe" for sharing this photo from last season when Madison Bumgarner threw an outstanding 10-strikeout game. <span style="background-color: yellow; color: magenta;"> [*corrected from original posting]</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Madison Bumgarner threw 10 strike outs in one game last season</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.baseballscorecard.com/images/scorecard.gif">Sample blank baseball score card</a></td></tr>
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A GAME OF STATS</h4>
<span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Baseball fans know that there is a whole world of statistics and jargon that goes with the game. The source of this data comes from each official game score card and the formal <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/downloads/y2016/official_baseball_rules.pdf">Rules of Baseball</a> define the process of keeping score. Here is a link to the </span><a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/downloads/y2007/10_the_official_scorer.pdf" style="background-color: transparent; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">"Offical Rules of Scoring"</a><span style="background-color: transparent; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">. </span></div>
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Scorecards can come in different shapes and sizes but they use a universal language of symbols to represent every action of a game. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorekeeper's code used to assign what happens on the field</td></tr>
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<span style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">This is a </span><a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/how-to-score-a-baseball-game-319934" style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">sample scorecard</a><span style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> from a MLB game between the Cleveland Indians and the Seattle Mariners. </span><span style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"><b><i>N</i></b></span><b><i>otice the use of the letter K.</i></b><span style="font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><b><i>Did you catch the BACKWARD K? </i></b></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">The "normal" <u>forward facing K</u> represents a "</span><span style="font-style: inherit;"><b>swinging strike out</b></span><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">" while the "<u>backward K</u>" (hard to type that on a computer) indicates that the batter was </span><span style="font-style: inherit;"><b>called out on strikes</b></span><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> by the umpire. A positive statistic for the</span><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> pitcher!</span></span></div>
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During a game the broadcast announcers keep us up-to-date on a myriad of statistics from individual batting percentages, batter to pitcher histories, scouting reports, home run to fly ball ratios (HR/FB) and much more. All of this comes from the entries on the official scorecard. The <a href="http://m.mlb.com/glossary">MLB glossary website</a> can help you learn the vocabulary.<br />
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LEARN TO SCORE A BASEBALL GAME</h4>
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There are lots of resources in print and online to learn how to keep an official baseball game score. <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+keep+baseball+score+book&rlz=1C1XYJR_enUS693US693&oq=how+to+keep+baseball+scores&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l5.18099j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#q=how+to+keep+baseball+scorebook">Click here</a> to see links for paper and electronic resources. You can even find a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtmtVHXQpD0">YouTube series</a> of videos to help you learn. From Little League to Major League Baseball, keeping score will keep you involved in the game. </div>
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Hope you learned something about the shorthand symbols used on baseball score cards and how the letter "K" means something different in how it is posted.</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE "#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b><span style="color: red;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;"><i>TOMORROW: L STANDS FOR "LIVING ON THE ROAD"</i></span></span></div>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-45700042001467553452017-04-12T20:13:00.000-07:002017-04-12T20:29:44.992-07:00"J" IS FOR JOURNALISM (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I call myself a Journalist so it was the perfect time to write in the <i>Bloggers A to Z Challenge</i>: <b><span style="color: red;">"J" is for Journalism</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1BG8JHeM_E/WO3n4bkWunI/AAAAAAABloQ/B9j-AdQxWe40TUL7ggTETrR5_ZIDc-OGACLcB/s1600/J.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1BG8JHeM_E/WO3n4bkWunI/AAAAAAABloQ/B9j-AdQxWe40TUL7ggTETrR5_ZIDc-OGACLcB/s1600/J.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<h4>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">DEFINING "JOURNALISM"</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have been calling myself a practicing "Journalist" for approximately 57 years and in researching various sources for writing this blog I found it extremely interesting to see how the role and status of journalism has evolved over the years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Let's start with a basic definition of a "JOURNALIST" from <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/journalist#websters#QPJemzP5SGR0oEL6.99">Webster's Collegiate Dictionary</a></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">(originally) The
keeper of a personal <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/journal"><span style="color: blue;">journal</span></a>, who writes in it regularly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">One whose <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/occupation"><span style="color: blue;">occupation</span></a> or
is <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/journalism"><span style="color: blue;">journalism</span></a>, originally only writing in the
printed press.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">A <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/reporter"><span style="color: blue;">reporter</span></a>,
who <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/professionally"><span style="color: blue;">professionally</span></a> does living reporting on news
and <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/current"><span style="color: blue;">current</span></a> <a href="http://www.yourdictionary.com/events"><span style="color: blue;">events</span></a>.</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yes, that is a definition I can recognize. But wait, Wikipedia takes the term <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism">JOURNALISM</a> much further. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism">Click this link to read the full report</a>, including the embedded links.:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Journalism</i></span></b><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;"><i> is the production
and distribution of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Report" title="Report"><span style="color: #0b0080;">reports</span></a> on the
interaction of events, facts, ideas, and people that are the "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News" title="News"><span style="color: #0b0080;">news</span></a> of
the day" and that informs <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Society" title="Society"><span style="color: #0b0080;">society</span></a> to at least some degree. The word
applies to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalist" title="Journalist"><span style="color: #0b0080;">occupation</span></a> (professional
or not), the methods of gathering information, and the organizing literary
styles. Journalistic media include: print, television, radio, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet" title="Internet"><span style="color: #0b0080;">Internet</span></a>, and, in the past, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newsreels" title="Newsreels"><span style="color: #0b0080;">newsreels</span></a>.</i></span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This detailed reference chronicles the evolution of the changing multi-media channels of communications, the multi-cultural interpretations of the role of journalism in various political societies, and the professional and ethical standards we see debated daily in "the media". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is an outline of the Wikipedia article linked above:</span><br />
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<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Production</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Forms</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> History</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Role -- and 4.1 Elements</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Professional and ethical standards -- and 5.1 Failing to uphold standards</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Legal status -- and 6.1 Right to protect confidentialty of sources</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> See also -- 7.1 Journalism Reviews</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> References, Notes and Sources</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Further reading</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> External links</span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>BLOGGERS AS JOURNALISTS?</b></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism">Wiki article</a> also explores how "bloggers" fit into the definition of journalists. In the Production section I learned interesting details about an FTC ruling that applies to bloggers.</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In the United States, journalism is produced by media organizations or
by individuals. Bloggers are often, but not always, journalists. The </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Trade_Commission" title="Federal Trade Commission"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0b0080; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Federal Trade Commission</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> requires that
bloggers who receive free promotional gifts, then write about products, must
disclose that they received the products for free. This is to eliminate
conflicts of interest and protect consumers.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism#cite_note-5"><sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #0b0080; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">[5]</span></sup></a></span></span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">FAKE NEWS?</span></b></h4>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is a term I had never heard of when I was pursuing my academic preparation or when I began teaching college courses in Journalism and Mass Communications. Again, citing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism">Wikipedia</a>:</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fake_news_website" title="Fake news website"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0b0080; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Fake
news</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> is news that is not truthful or is produced by unreliable media
organizations. Fake news is easily spread on social media. Readers can
determine fake news by evaluating whether the news has been published by a
credible news organization. In the US, a credible news organization is an
incorporated entity; has an editorial board; and has a clear division between
editorial and advertising departments. Credible news organizations, or their
employees, belong to one or more professional organizations such as the
American Society of News Editors, the Society of Professional Journalists,
Investigative Reporters & Editors, or the Online News Association. All of
these organizations have codes of ethics that members abide by. Many news
organizations have their own codes of ethics that guide journalists'
professional publications. The </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Times" title="New York Times"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0b0080; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">New
York Times</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> code of standards and ethics</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journalism#cite_note-6"><sup><span lang="EN" style="color: #0b0080; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">[6]</span></sup></a></span><span lang="EN" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> is considered
particularly rigorous.</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<h4>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>ACCURATE, FAIR AND BALANCE REPORTING</b></span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Reading, watching or listening to news reporting today drives me crazy! As my journalist's biography below details, I was trained, practiced, and passed along my ethical commitment to "accurate, fair, and balanced reporting". We can debate this issue at length on the social media pages that now shape our sources of "news". I won't change my belief on what a journalist should always be committed to doing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<h4>
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">MY ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY</span></b></h4>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This topic has given me lots of time to think about my writing experiences and time to reflect on how Journalism has changed in so many ways over my lifetime. <b><i>First, this is all about ME! LOL</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I actually wrote my first published article in the student newspaper, the "Hoover Hornet", while in the 7th grade. It was about one of our classmates who was back in the hospital fighting polio. I actually knew of Paul's plight since he had polio and was treated at the same hospital as my older brother Frank who had polio as a teenager. I wrote that all our students should send a get-well card to Paul while he was in Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, CA. THEY SENT MANY CARDS and I thought I had made a difference in his life! That was 57 years ago!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">All through junior and senior high school my desire to write for the school newspaper and other publications became my passion. At Highlands High School I was the sports editor </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">for the "Clansman"</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> in my junior year. In my senior year I transferred to the "new" high school and was the first editor-in-chief for the Foothill High School "Hoof Beats". I continued my studies at the local community college and again wore the title of editor of the American River College "Beaver" newspaper and the "Panorama Magazine". I earned an AA degree in "Language/Literature: Journalism" and then transferred to San Jose State [College]. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">During these early years I was actually PAID for selling advertising and helping the editor producing our monthly neighborhood "Foothill Farms Bugler". I spent my college summers working for the "Sacramento Suburban Newspapers". The "Green Sheets", defined by the color of their newsprint, were the annoying free newspapers that were thrown onto your driveway or into your favorite flower garden every Thursday. They contained community news re-written from press releases and carried localized advertising in nine separate editions. My resume lists my job title was "Assistant Editor" as I worked in the Editorial Department as a writer and in Production doing page layout and, literally, cutting and pasting up the production pages before technology made these tasks much easier.</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<h4>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">FROM PRINT TO BROADCAST AND MULTI-MEDIA COMMUNICATONS</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My years at San Jose State were during the era of campus faculty and anti-war riots of the late 1960s. I shifted my journalistic training from "print" to "broadcasting" and earned my B.A degree in Radio-Television Journalism. Once again I wore the title of editor-in-chief of the SJS Radio-TV News Center and lead our staff to a national award for Radio Reporting for coverage of the riots. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This was a defining time for sharpening my journalistic ethics. I was (and still am) an outspoken advocate of ACCURATE, FAIR AND BALANCE REPORTING. I was one of the first females admitted to the Sigma Delta Chi, Professional Society of Journalists and was sworn in at the then all-male San Francisco Press Club. We changed that organization's membership rules!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<h4>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">FROM STUDENT TO PROFESSIONAL</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After college I began my professional career at KXTV-Channel 10 which was a CBS affiliate station at that time in Sacramento, CA. Unfortunately, the General Manager was not encouraging about my seeking a career as a News Producer in their newsroom. <i>"We had a woman in that role once and she didn't work out!" </i>That was in 1970 and it obviously sent shock waves through my body. I did get a job in the Promotions Department where I could write 0:02, 0:05 and 0:10 news department "promos": <i>"Watch the News tonight at 11". </i>I also became a television program trivia guru providing answers daily to viewers who were trying to settle a bet over what character was in what program! Not the best use of my training as a journalist! I did, however, get to research and report back to the viewer! Ethically, I never accepted any gifts for my efforts! LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In 1972 I left the station to start my family and a year later I had my daughter in a car seat in my classroom or office while I started my 32-year career with Cosumnes River College as a Journalism Instructor (later the title was changed to "Professor") and Public Information Officer (PIO). I wore many hats during that career but I always practiced my ethical commitment to accuracy and fairness. While advising college student newspapers and student government groups or supervising the various departments that reported to me I would share and model my ethical standards. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I ended my academic career in 2004 after spending many years both in the classroom and as Dean of the Communications, Visual and Performing Arts Area. As the California Central Valley Study Abroad Consortium Director I opted to leave management and return to the classroom in 2002 where I taught a semester in London, England. This opportunity also gave me first-hand experience teaching "Global Mass Communications", "History of Film " (emphasizing British and European films), "British Life and Culture" (including field trips to the BBC), and "Media Stereotyping: Race and Gender in the Media". </span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">-- 30 --</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As a Journalist I was taught to wrap up each story I sent to the typesetters with the traditional notation of <span style="color: red; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">-- 30 -- </span>that indicates <i><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">"THAT'S ALL FOLKS"</span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></i></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;"><i>BE SURE TO GOOGLE SEARCH THE OTHER BLOGGERS </i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE "#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b><span style="color: red;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><i><b>TOMORROW: "K STANDS FOR ________"</b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></span></div>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-80000682215024695942017-04-11T00:00:00.000-07:002017-04-11T10:51:14.422-07:00"I" IS FOR "INCOME TAXES" (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today's "<b><span style="color: red;">Blogging from A to Z Challenge</span></b>" letter of the day is <span style="color: red;"><b>"I"</b></span> and, since I am totally immersed in meeting an upcoming deadline, I will be quick: <b><i><span style="color: red;">"I"</span></i></b><span style="color: red;"><i><b> IS FOR INCOME TAXES.</b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When Author and Blogger <a href="http://dbmcnicol.blogspot.com/">Donna McNicol</a> invited me to participate in this writing challenge I had already thought about the daunting task of doing taxes while researching topics and doing the daily writings to post each day in April. She already had solved this problem on her own. She and Hubby Stu had already completed their taxes and had already started completing her letter of the day assignments, setting them up for scheduled postings on the appropriate days, and then they were headed off on a cruise. <b>Not my style!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">MEETING DEADLINES</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As a trained journalist and educator I have learned over the years <i><b>I CAN MEET ANY DEADLINE</b></i>, but, sometimes, with very little excess time. <b>The taxes will get done and so will my blogs!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>QUICKEN AND A BIG ENVELOPE</b></span></h4>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gPve6-NwAII/WOwmOLPY4mI/AAAAAAABln0/y-64bT40HxMRdCr3j0THnyd4U5pNZEORgCLcB/s1600/AARP%2Blogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gPve6-NwAII/WOwmOLPY4mI/AAAAAAABln0/y-64bT40HxMRdCr3j0THnyd4U5pNZEORgCLcB/s200/AARP%2Blogo.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What style "tax accountant" are you? Some folks throw everything into a shoe box which then gets carried over to their favorite relative who was trained by <a href="http://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/">AARP</a> to do the work that will eventually go to the IRS or local/state taxing authorities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In our household Hubby Luke is the keeper of our computer financial data in "<a href="https://www.quicken.com/personal-finance/quicken-deluxe-2017#">Quicken 17</a>". He can tell you every dollar we have spent by credit card or check since 1994. Investments, retirements, and online purchases are also all duly entered into the database. When it comes to my duties to prepare our taxes </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I grab our huge envelope of paper receipts for the year and start by sorting the receipts into category stacks on the dining room table. Once totaled, the amounts will be checked against Quicken reports and the proper amounts will be entered into </span><a href="https://www.turbotax.com/lp/ty16/ppc/temp_1.htm?znN=fln&znA=dlx-foc&znP=dphb&znC3=rtb-carousel-flex&srqs=null&cid=ppc_gg_b_stan_all_na_TurboTax-Deluxe_ty16-bu2-sb6&srid=CPDJh4OSm9MCFbMnfgodLAYFJg&targetid=kwd-12035810&skw=turbo%20tax%20deluxe&adid=189705346316&ven=gg&gclid=CPDJh4OSm9MCFbMnfgodLAYFJg&gclsrc=ds" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Intuit TurboTax</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">. In a perfect world, cranking out reports based on the needed categories should be a slam dunk. <b>NOT THIS YEAR!</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">RINEHIMERS vs. TECHNOLOGY</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For much of my community college teaching career I taught Mac and PC computer application classes aimed at computer-phobic adults. I also had to keep multiple college computer labs running so I am not afraid of technology. I know how to troubleshoot issues, look for solutions, and I generally have the patience to solve most technological problems. If not, I call my techie buddy, Barbara Westerfield.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Luke, on the other hand, has no patience when it comes to anything technological. He would much prefer grabbing a sledgehammer versus looking at a YouTube video to solve computer hardware problems. I even have to plug-in his flip phone to keep it charged so I can find him in Walmart!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">These contrasting working styles came into conflict big time last week when we discovered the Vista operating system on Luke's 2009 HP laptop was no longer going to be supported. We could no longer update application programs, there would be no searching for lost IRS 1099-R forms, and certainly no using this year's versions of Quicken or TurboTax. And to further complicate life in Luke's office space, his trusted paper shredder died and his older printer was producing illegible reports that no amount of maintenance head cleaning could solve. I even tried putting in a complete fresh set of ink cartridges and still the pages looked like mush. <b>IT WAS TIME TO GO SHOPPING.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I started my initial laptop comparison research at <a href="https://www.cnet.com/topics/laptops/products/?filter=1-price_under-500_manufacturer_dell_display-diagonal-size_15-in_processor-chipsetab-cpu_intel-core-i3_processor-chipsetab-cpu_intel-pentium_os-provided-type_microsoft-windows-10">cNet.com</a> and then stopped at a local Costco and Staples store to check-out the marketplace in our price range of <$500. I then took Luke to Best Buy for a </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">hands-on </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">keyboard test drive. <i>"Mr. No Opinion"</i> left it up to me so we got him a 15.5-inch </span><a href="http://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/category/laptops/inspiron-laptops?ST=+inspiron&dgc=ST&cid=297802&lid=5695359&acd=123098073120560&ven1=st0bgF5Mk&ven2=b&ven3=263803374455276421&appliedRefinements=1351,18,99,3,1" style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Dell Inspiron 15 3000</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> with an Intel Core i3 processor. We also found him a new compact paper shredder that he can take on the road. For the record, the Best Buy Geeks Squad does not do printer repairs: <i>"It's not cost effective. Go buy a new printer."</i> We have decided to use my existing Canon all-in-one wireless printer over our wireless home network. That will give him some exercise steps to retrieve his printing by walking from his office space to my office in the next room. I don't think he'll wear a FitBit to count his steps.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even before opening the boxes, </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I spent a couple of days backing up all his document files, contacts, favorites, and photos using an external hard drive and multiple USB thumb drives as storage devices. Then we were both on the floor unraveling the jungle of power cords. It was finally time I started installing current versions of Quicken and TurboTax. <b> NOW BACK TO INCOME TAXES!</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>SCHEDULE A and QUICKEN REPORTS</b></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I would love report that Luke was in love with the categorical reports possible in Quicken that would make doing our taxes a speedy task. NO SO! He absolutely hates the new version and I even had trouble compiling the sorted reports we needed. I now need to review the instructional manual so I can proceed with the variety of MEDICAL EXPENSES we can claim on the IRS Schedule A. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">USING TURBO TAX</span> </span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We have used Turbo Tax software forever. Each year we purchase the updated edition for our needs and then the program installs in a location to grab the previous data files so it can import the necessary amounts to the match our circumstances. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In just a couple of hours on Monday I was able to use our organized 3-ring binder of 2016 documents to complete most of our Federal and State taxes. <b>NEXT: SCHEDULE A - MEDICAL.</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WRAPPING IT UP</b></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today I proved I could work on my INCOME TAXES -- at least the Bloggers Challenge Letter "I is for Income Taxes" is finished. I'll do more backing up of this blog and get ready to schedule the PUBLISH TIME at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, April 11. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At our ages, figuring out all of our medical expenses will take a while to compile. Hopefully, the inclusion of Schedule A in Turbo Tax will throw the TAXES DUE result over to the TAX REFUND column. We could use a refund to pay for all of Luke's new technology.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Feel free to comment below and please check some of the postings of the other #AtoZChallenge participants</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">TOMORROW: "J" STANDS FOR JOURNALISM"</span></h2>
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<span style="color: red;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-67090136009331404962017-04-10T03:34:00.002-07:002017-04-10T03:34:32.935-07:00H Is For HORIZON - Our Home on Wheels (#AtoZChallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today you get to tour our home on wheels, a 2007 Itasca Horizon 40TD, as part of the #AtoZ Challenge using the theme starting with the letter of the day -- "<span style="color: red;">H</span>". [A future posting will examine the more technical aspects of our motorhome.]</span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Exteriors</span></h4>
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Even though our motorhome is now ten years old, it certainly doesn't look it. It has 92,650 miles on it, too. Hubby Luke is known as "Mr. Clean" and his passion is having a shiny rig that draws <i>Oohs</i> and <i>Ahhs</i>. The first images show how the motorhome looked in December 2008 when we actually took delivery at DeMartini RV in Grass Valley, CA. It was a great deal! It had been sitting in an enclosed dealership in Indiana that had gone bankrupt in 2007. Because it had never been sold we even got full warranties.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFZ1LNWrJmY/WOsWKzUm2SI/AAAAAAABllU/wrpXRjAY5VoG4lCfGIarSA9YjElzoh95wCLcB/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bexterior%2Bstreetside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFZ1LNWrJmY/WOsWKzUm2SI/AAAAAAABllU/wrpXRjAY5VoG4lCfGIarSA9YjElzoh95wCLcB/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bexterior%2Bstreetside.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The engine is a Cummins ISL400 Diesel, before the requirement for extra DEF tanks. Notice all the outside storage bays.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wYnRu-TqKsU/WOsWK2m8HqI/AAAAAAABllY/EQkccgW-CTIKLmDxztccW8wc6XP-3DahQCLcB/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2Bexterior%2Bcurbside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wYnRu-TqKsU/WOsWK2m8HqI/AAAAAAABllY/EQkccgW-CTIKLmDxztccW8wc6XP-3DahQCLcB/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2Bexterior%2Bcurbside.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Officially, the coach measures 39' 10" and is on a Freightliner XC-F chassis. To drive Highway 49 through our "restricted" canyon the true length cannot exceed 40'. More storage bays and one includes an outside extra freezer.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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We spend a lot of time in Arizona where spectacular sunsets are the norm. Reflections on our front windshield always attracts attention. Our friend Jim Hood took this sunset reflection photo of us near Lake Havasu City, Arizona. This photo also shows the motorhome with the slide-outs extended and our DirecTV dish on the roof. We were "roughing it" in the desert. Thank goodness for our new solar panels.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diC-IGIpyK8/WOsYrSoVqOI/AAAAAAABlls/wYHRi3_KCl4tGSWhx-X9pCw_h_R4rRxYACEw/s1600/_Sunset%2Bon%2BWindow%2Bin%2BQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diC-IGIpyK8/WOsYrSoVqOI/AAAAAAABlls/wYHRi3_KCl4tGSWhx-X9pCw_h_R4rRxYACEw/s320/_Sunset%2Bon%2BWindow%2Bin%2BQ.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Horizon parked on BLM land in Quartzsite at sunset.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">Let's Look Inside</span></h4>
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The Horizon 40TD is a "front kitchen" model and feels very residential. The entry door comes up in front of the co-pilot/navigator (i.e. passenger) seat and the left side features plenty of storage, the food preparation area, cooking appliances (propane stove and convection oven), a dishwasher drawer and even the kitchen sink.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zdX6hTETQ_E/WOsdAoZH6EI/AAAAAAABll0/7aKzFHJVDnICDVcnJ06DsOvnHY4dnbPqgCLcB/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2BGalley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zdX6hTETQ_E/WOsdAoZH6EI/AAAAAAABll0/7aKzFHJVDnICDVcnJ06DsOvnHY4dnbPqgCLcB/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2BGalley.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We do not leave items on the counters when we travel. They could become deadly flying missiles in a sudden stop. When we park we put a toaster oven on the counter and there is plenty of room for fruit baskets and snack containers. The dishwasher seldom gets used. It only uses 6 gallons of water for a normal cycle but that amount can fill the "gray water" holding tanks rapidly.<br /></td></tr>
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<br /><span style="text-align: center;">Next to the galley is the "living area" which has a "jackknife" style couch that converts to a futon-size extra bed. It also lifts up for storage of extra bedding and two dinette folding chairs. There is a wonderful 53" Sharp Aquos HDTV television that receives both over-the-air television signals from a roof antenna and satellite programming from DirecTV. We have a Winegard roof antenna that automatically raises/lowers to find the proper satellite positions at the push of a button.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKVi46d9-3o/WOsdA6NcMyI/AAAAAAABlmQ/wg2MRRAkdxkQDI_Ch_ph5fu-EA5kxos5wCEw/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bcurb%2Bcouch%2Band%2BTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKVi46d9-3o/WOsdA6NcMyI/AAAAAAABlmQ/wg2MRRAkdxkQDI_Ch_ph5fu-EA5kxos5wCEw/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bcurb%2Bcouch%2Band%2BTV.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The floor normally has an area rug over the tile floor. The residential-style bathroom door is normally closed! The shelf below the TV usually has my "artificial" greenery to hide our weather alert and portable radios. The handy storage drawer holds all our various RV group name tags and electronic charging cords. The storage cupboard is deep and holds bags of maps, campground directories, a Wii game machine, and throw blankets for cuddling on cold nights watching TV.<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">Opposite the Kitchen/Galley...</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y4-tdMWlAKE/WOsdA7JjLDI/AAAAAAABlmQ/AaLAvz-YpqIXehigO_3_aZ98HPqNwl91ACEw/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bstreetside%2Bslide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y4-tdMWlAKE/WOsdA7JjLDI/AAAAAAABlmQ/AaLAvz-YpqIXehigO_3_aZ98HPqNwl91ACEw/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bstreetside%2Bslide.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This whole section is on a 16' slide-out that is extended once we get parked and leveled. The 4-door 12 cf refrigerator with ice maker sits directly behind the driver's chair. Next to it are two slide-out pantry storage compartments. The table and chairs you see are no longer there!!! We had a custom buffet-office unit built to fit that space. It will be featured next. Two recliners are wonderfully positioned for socializing with company and for watching TV. Each seating position also has LED reading lights. Ceiling fans keep the air circulating in the living room and bedroom.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">Our Dining Table/Office Computer Space</span></h4>
The greatest modification we have done to this floor plan was to remove the free-standing table with no storage (shown above) and replaced it with a custom built dinette computer cabinet with a hidden expansion dining table leaf. The built-in unit now has two laptop work stations and office storage space. <br />
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The whole unit was built by Amish cabinet maker Carlyle Lehman of <a href="http://focalwood.com/">Focal Wood Products</a> in Nappanee, Indiana. This was the first unit he built with Corian surfaced counters and he matched the pattern and harware to the rest of the coach.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5CU8uwwmBs/T8Ph4xaXhjI/AAAAAAAAGAY/739ccc3ozOcZVJvq5Kv4nw4QVNnRyaQUQCPcB/s1600/2%2Bcomputer%2Bstations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I5CU8uwwmBs/T8Ph4xaXhjI/AAAAAAAAGAY/739ccc3ozOcZVJvq5Kv4nw4QVNnRyaQUQCPcB/s320/2%2Bcomputer%2Bstations.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each side of the table has a storage shelf for our laptops that roll out for use as needed. Electrical wires are hidden under the counter-top to the middle storage compartment with a wall outlet and power junction boxes on the top shelf. The lower portion of the cupboard holds larger pots and pans. Luke's side of his work station has an office supply drawer and a pull out section for hanging files. My side has storage shelves for reference binders, paper supplies, and miscellaneous "stuff". Our shared all-in-one printer is not shown but it rides on the carpeted floor when we travel and has a home base on the counter when we are parked. </td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">Kicking Back</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JO6LiRVhOmk/SUN4b_I1T8I/AAAAAAAAAOw/la3Mh9SW6XUO0XsoG4whFeKw3mvHKyEZgCPcB/s1600/DeMartini%2B-%2B2007%2BItasca%2BHorizon%2B-%2B033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JO6LiRVhOmk/SUN4b_I1T8I/AAAAAAAAAOw/la3Mh9SW6XUO0XsoG4whFeKw3mvHKyEZgCPcB/s320/DeMartini%2B-%2B2007%2BItasca%2BHorizon%2B-%2B033.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The twin recliners do lean back slightly for naps. The chairs are fixed in position but are comfortable for watching television or for visiting with guests on the couch. They also have seat belts which make them legal seats for traveling. There is also a handy storage box between the seats for all TV remotes and for the RV operational and maintenance manuals. Not shown is an adjustable-height coffee table with fold-down leafs that Carlyle also made for us. The wood matches the cabinets perfectly.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><br />The BIG Slide </span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Everything from behind the kitchen sink to the rear closets are on a 22' slide. A touch of one button moves the floor containing the couch, television with cabinets, the large hanging clothes closet with dresser drawers, and the bedroom end tables, headboard, and queen size bed.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKVi46d9-3o/WOsdA6NcMyI/AAAAAAABlmQ/wg2MRRAkdxkQDI_Ch_ph5fu-EA5kxos5wCEw/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bcurb%2Bcouch%2Band%2BTV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKVi46d9-3o/WOsdA6NcMyI/AAAAAAABlmQ/wg2MRRAkdxkQDI_Ch_ph5fu-EA5kxos5wCEw/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bcurb%2Bcouch%2Band%2BTV.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When the long, passenger side slide is extended Luke can have access to his double clothes closet and dresser drawers located in the hall. A nice touch to this space are the curved walls that softens the "boxiness" of an RV.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: times, times new roman, serif;"><br /></span></h4>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: times, times new roman, serif;">Spacious Bathroom</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWwoN1GiPVM/WOsdArA--rI/AAAAAAABlmQ/IioWDmQpVKY-7M-hj-XOIzjaei9wtGnawCEw/s1600/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bbathroom%2Bsink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWwoN1GiPVM/WOsdArA--rI/AAAAAAABlmQ/IioWDmQpVKY-7M-hj-XOIzjaei9wtGnawCEw/s320/DeMartini%2Bweb%2B-%2B07%2BHorizon%2B-%2Bbathroom%2Bsink.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The walk-through bathroom features plenty of counter and storage space. The corner shower has lots of turn-around space and there is another storage cabinet above a porcelain toilet hidden behind the door. The door from the bathroom to the living room is residential style and you normally don't see the bathroom from the living area unless the door has been left open. A pocket door separates the bathroom and the bedroom.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Bedroom Fit for a Queen (and King and Dog)</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The bedroom has a Select Comfort number queen size bed with dual night stands, cedar-lined hanging closet with extra end storage shelves and an under-bench storage compartment opposite the bed. </span><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">One thing we like about this bedroom is that there is walk-around space to get to the far side of the bed and the pillow area is easily accessible when making the bed. The only drawback to a queen size bed is having a German Shepherd who has claimed "her space" between our bodies at night. I would probably sacrifice the night stands to add a KING size bed that would accommodate Miss Shade better.</span><br />
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-91075199965525138242017-04-08T22:54:00.001-07:002017-04-10T15:55:28.436-07:00"G" IS FOR "GEOCACHING" (#AtoZChallenge)<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The assigned letter of <span style="color: red;"><b>"G" </b></span>for my <a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/" target="_blank">"#Blogging from A To Z Challenge"</a> has me posting <span style="color: red;"><b>"G" is for Geocaching.</b></span> </span><b style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">Geocaching</b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> is the perfect hobby for RV travelers on the road so t</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">oday I will focus on our first experience </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;"><b style="color: red;">Geocaching </b><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">and where that has taken us over the past decade.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><i> </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><b>Get settled in for another long blog full of information and photos</b>.</i><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"The Geocaching Logo is a registered trademark of Groundspeak, Inc. Used with permission." </span></td></tr>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1YTqitVK-Ts/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1YTqitVK-Ts?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>There are five videos posted on <b>YouTube</b> to help you learn about the game of Geocaching. </i></span><i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">This first video is 1:15 in length.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">GETTING STARTED WITH GEOCACHING...</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The best starting place to learn about this hobby is <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/guide/"><span id="goog_531811525"></span>clicking this link to the home page for Geocaching.com</a>. Take a look at the <b><span style="color: red;">LEARN </span></b>tab at the top of the page and you will see the following outline for <b>"Geocaching 101"</b>.</span></div>
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<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1aToggle" style="background-color: #efe7db; color: #00a0b0; font-family: "Noto Sans", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.0013px; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="What is geocaching?">What is geocaching?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1bToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="How is the game played?">How is the game played?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1cToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="What are the rules of geocaching?">What are the rules of geocaching?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1dToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="What do I need to go geocaching?">What do I need to go geocaching?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1eToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Where are geocaches located?">Where are geocaches located?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1fToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Are there different types of geocaches?">Are there different types of geocaches?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" id="ctl00_ContentBody_hlSection1gToggle" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13.0013px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; transition: color 0.3s 50ms, text-decoration 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="How did geocaching start?">How did geocaching start?</a></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are five videos posted on </span><b style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">YouTube</b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> to help you learn about the game of Geocaching. This first video is 1:15 in length. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>OUR FIRST GEOCACHING EXPERIENCE</b></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We were introduced to the game/sport/hobby of geocaching on a trip in 2007 to the Cascade region of eastern Oregon to visit with our niece and nephew and their spouses. And so the adventure began. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here are photos from our first geocaching adventure.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> You, too, can get started.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Luke learning to use a GPS</b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our family members were experienced "cachers" so they showed us how to locate hiding spots using the Geocaching.com website, how to load the coordinates into a hand-held GPS, and then how to do a "hunt". Once we were in the vicinity of the hidden container (cache box) we started using our "geo-senses" to narrow the places to look. We were in a wooded area and it took a group effort to "FIND" the cache containers. Inside we would find hidden "stuff" referred to as "SWAG - Stuff We All Get".</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoGF2h2FEvE/WOkzxmc5sPI/AAAAAAABlfE/hcoYxWDnly0r75WgvmyFVIsmCfhHtSxBwCEw/s1600/Richard%2Blooking%2Bin%2Btree.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoGF2h2FEvE/WOkzxmc5sPI/AAAAAAABlfE/hcoYxWDnly0r75WgvmyFVIsmCfhHtSxBwCEw/s200/Richard%2Blooking%2Bin%2Btree.bmp" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Richard: "No, not here! Keep searching"</b></i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wk6adQ0G0IE/WOkzw1HKVuI/AAAAAAABlfE/65TNym1mzGEn-y7gj9sf63VZES5AgmaWwCEw/s1600/Getting%2Bclose.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wk6adQ0G0IE/WOkzw1HKVuI/AAAAAAABlfE/65TNym1mzGEn-y7gj9sf63VZES5AgmaWwCEw/s400/Getting%2Bclose.bmp" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes! The cache container was an "ammo can" and was buried under the fallen tree debris. Niece Sandra reveals the container while the rest of us look on. We will all claim we found it. The "official" name of this cache on Geocaching.com is "Sad Hill...Tread Softly" - GCJZNR. It has actually been moved and is now located at <strong style="background: url("about:blank") 100% 0px no-repeat rgb(240, 237, 235); color: #00a0b0; display: inline-block; font-family: "noto sans", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.0013px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a class="edit-cache-coordinates" href="https://www.geocaching.com/seek/#" id="uxLatLonLink" style="background: url("/images/icons/16/edit.png") 100% 0px no-repeat rgb(240, 237, 235); color: #00a0b0; display: inline-block; font-family: "Noto Sans", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.0013px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 20px 0px 0px; text-align: start; text-decoration-line: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Correct these coordinates">N 43° 43.607 W 121° 26.319</a></strong><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">AFTER THE FIND...</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">An important part of the geocaching experience is SIGNING THE LOG SHEET hidden in the container. You can also exchange items to leave in the cache container. Normally there is very little of "value" in the hidden containers. You are allowed to take something from the cache but game etiquette suggests you should replace the item with something you brought of "equal or greater value". Geocachers carry a supply bag with "SWAG" - Stuff We All Get". </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If there is a TRAVEL BUG - TB (see below) you can take it with you with a promise to move it along on its stated goal</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once you replace the container EXACTLY WHERE YOU FOUND IT your next step would be to go online to <a href="http://geocaching.com/">geocaching.com</a> and POST </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">you FOUND THE CACHE. Write a comment about your search in the space provided so the "cache owner" knows you were there. They may compare your entry against the signed log left in the container. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you took a TB you will also go</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> online to "log" the TB and then also POST you have it in your "inventory" and where you move it eventually so the TB owner knows where it is. When you drop it in a future cache you will once again post its new location. Hopefully, it keeps on moving!!! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlkL_vDe6BE/WOkzwnxk4qI/AAAAAAABlfE/005lP2RCOF4dHF7XSJxqXIL9NnPybW44QCEw/s1600/6-28-2007%2B-%2B009_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlkL_vDe6BE/WOkzwnxk4qI/AAAAAAABlfE/005lP2RCOF4dHF7XSJxqXIL9NnPybW44QCEw/s320/6-28-2007%2B-%2B009_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niece Susan and her husband Richard record the coordinates and what contents they exchanged. Later they would "post" the successful "FIND" back on the Geocaching.com website.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Al3pgnymyds/WOk0Wdoz8BI/AAAAAAABlfg/aX21_FqLDeQPjVtajf2klx0Ph0cnL6vyQCEw/s1600/Judy%2Bwatching%2Bfrom%2Babove.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Al3pgnymyds/WOk0Wdoz8BI/AAAAAAABlfg/aX21_FqLDeQPjVtajf2klx0Ph0cnL6vyQCEw/s320/Judy%2Bwatching%2Bfrom%2Babove.bmp" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I am documenting our geocaching adventures with my camera. <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I was just recuperating from a broken ankle so sometimes it was better for me to be safe and not take chances by going where the others were searching. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-epWgCIR5Cms/WOkzwLwatLI/AAAAAAABlfE/tTuPbNornC4zFXoj4yah9drnsmqBaHE5ACEw/s1600/6-28-2007%2B-%2B001_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-epWgCIR5Cms/WOkzwLwatLI/AAAAAAABlfE/tTuPbNornC4zFXoj4yah9drnsmqBaHE5ACEw/s320/6-28-2007%2B-%2B001_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was one of the first found CACHE containers, an ammo can, we claimed as the "COOLRVERS" - our adopted geocaching nickname. We all signed the log sheet inside and later went online to post our successes.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">TRACKABLES AND TRAVEL BUG ADVENTURES</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">This is <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/guide/">Geocaching.com's explanation of "trackables</a>":</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: 13.0013px;">"A Trackable is a sort of physical geocaching "game piece." </span><span style="font-size: 13.0013px;">You will often find them in geocaches or see them at geocaching gatherings. Each Trackable is etched with a unique code that can be used to log its movements on Geocaching.com as it travels in the real world. Some of these items have traveled hundreds of thousands of miles thanks to geocachers who move them from cache to cache!</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">There are three main types of Trackables: Travel Bug<sup style="line-height: 0; margin-bottom: 0px;">®</sup> Trackables, Geocoins and other Trackables.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">A <b>Travel Bug</b> is a trackable tag attached to an item that geocachers call a "hitchhiker." Each Travel Bug has a goal set by its owner. Goals are typically travel-related, such as to visit every country in Europe or travel from coast to coast. Travel Bug Trackables move from cache to cache with the help of geocachers like you. See the "What do I do when I find a Trackable?" section of the guide for information on how you can help Trackables move.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><b>Geocoins</b> are customizable coins created by individuals or groups of geocachers as a kind of signature item or calling card. They function exactly like Travel Bug Trackables and should be moved to another cache, unless otherwise specified by their owners.</span></blockquote>
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<b>Other Trackable</b> items come in various forms including patches, key rings and more. A common feature of Trackable items is that they bear a unique ID code and text noting that they are trackable at Geocaching.com. More information about Trackables can be found <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/track/default.aspx" style="color: #00a0b0; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.75em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; transition: 0.3s 50ms, 0.3s; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Learn More about Trackables">here</a>."</blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">MY FIRST TRAVEL BUGS... </span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">The glove pictured below was our first </span><b style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; text-align: center;">TRAVEL BUG.</b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;"> Notice the metal "dog tag" that contained a unique identification tag with a tracking number. [It is not appropriate to re-post its "TB number" so others can't claim it by only looking at a photo.] We found it on July 1, 2007 and it has since been found 262 times. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;">This is what we wrote on our first log posting: <i> "Decided to give a helping hand to the "Helping Hand" travel bug and move it along. It will travel with us through the Northwest and then east to Idaho or Colorado." </i>We actually placed it at another cache location in Moscow, Idaho while attending a "Life on Wheels" RV learning rally.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HGNl8mkIChA/WOkzw8xCCiI/AAAAAAABlfE/q1NXJPGWYkoh3hmE-0lofOyUytGMdh0-ACEw/s1600/Helping%2BHand%2BTB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HGNl8mkIChA/WOkzw8xCCiI/AAAAAAABlfE/q1NXJPGWYkoh3hmE-0lofOyUytGMdh0-ACEw/s320/Helping%2BHand%2BTB.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>"Helping Hand"</i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">We exchanged "Helping Hand" for another travel bug -- <b><i>"Mr. Incredible</i></b>". CURRENT GOAL: <i>"Mr. Incredible is on a mission to fight crime! Take him where ever injustice lurks! Action photos of him are fabulous publicity for this Incredible superhero!"</i> So far, he has traveled 5,578.2 miles since it was originally hidden in May, 2006. </span><a href="https://www.geocaching.com/track/map_gm.aspx?ID=226067" style="text-align: center;">CLICK HERE </a><span style="text-align: center;">to see his journey displayed on a map.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDX0J_doHAI/WOk0XJMAvNI/AAAAAAABlfg/rgKfEytzaX8fzRNiR3nXtQ7wMuAgU5KsACEw/s1600/Mr.%2BIncredible%2BTB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDX0J_doHAI/WOk0XJMAvNI/AAAAAAABlfg/rgKfEytzaX8fzRNiR3nXtQ7wMuAgU5KsACEw/s320/Mr.%2BIncredible%2BTB.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>"Mr. Incredible"</i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Escapees Geocaching Club</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bi7nS1SKed0/WOli9DAzWqI/AAAAAAABlfw/6sfaPk5tUdcVMRcuuQc9pMbz9hNQGKQzQCEw/s1600/SKP_GeoLogo%2B-%2Bfinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bi7nS1SKed0/WOli9DAzWqI/AAAAAAABlfw/6sfaPk5tUdcVMRcuuQc9pMbz9hNQGKQzQCEw/s200/SKP_GeoLogo%2B-%2Bfinal.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A logo contest was held for the new club and I was the lucky winner! </td></tr>
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That first adventure into the woods was my introduction into Geocaching. My background as an educator said I needed to share this hobby with my fellow RVers. That walk in the woods eventually connected me with Arlo Thomas, our group's official "Founder". Arlo wanted to start a "Birds of a Feather" (BOF) group for other Escapee Club geocachers. I was able to provide him with the names of Escapee Boomers who I had learned were out geocaching. That list provided enough names to get approval from the Escapees organization to create a <a href="https://www.escapees.com/fun/bofs?id=341">"GeoCache BOF"</a>. A year later the group held its first rally on a patch of desert land near Quartzsite and I was there helping. I would become a "mentor" and then I joined the BOF Administrative Team.<br />
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Following is the "official description" of the club: <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18.72px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">[</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18.72px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">Source: <span style="background-color: transparent;"> https://www.escapees.com/fun/bofs?id=341]</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">GeoCache BOF is for Escapees who share an interest in Geocaching.</span><span style="font-family: "open sans" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "open sans" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">"Escapees BOF (Birds of a Feather) groups are comprised of people who share a common interest. In order to belong to a BOF, one must be a member in good standing of the Escapees RV Club.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">GeoCache BOF provides a communication link allowing members to be in touch with other SKP geocachers. When arriving in a new location it will allow an easy way to find others who have a similar interest. It will also be a forum for sharing information about geocaching as it relates to the RV life style.</span></i></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Experienced members will provide mentoring for new and prospective geocachers.<br />All communications will be posting on our Yahoo Bulletin Board; no fees will be collected.</span></i></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small; font-style: italic;">Come join our GeoCache BOF.... It's easier than finding a cache. Simply send an email to SKPGeoCacheBOF (at) gmail.com with your name(s), SKP number, geocache.com handle, email address and phone number. Within a few days, you'll be welcomed into the BOF and be subscribed to the Yahoo Group." </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsvvCFZ6syk/WOlnP4y0WaI/AAAAAAABlgA/PYS8jskWfrgia3fK-87mGLcvXKYYMAqcQCLcB/s1600/BOF%2BBanner%2Bjpg_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UsvvCFZ6syk/WOlnP4y0WaI/AAAAAAABlgA/PYS8jskWfrgia3fK-87mGLcvXKYYMAqcQCLcB/s400/BOF%2BBanner%2Bjpg_edited.jpg" width="400" /></span></i></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>I designed the current Geocaching BOF "banner" which gets displayed during the group's rallies and at informational tables where we recruit new members.</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EpMOQ997RFE/WOnHWuC_vlI/AAAAAAABlg0/BUw3pKtc5zcrpi5yTXbCJoEN3FupDiTfACEw/s1600/Judy%2Bat%2BGeocaching%2BBOF%2Btable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EpMOQ997RFE/WOnHWuC_vlI/AAAAAAABlg0/BUw3pKtc5zcrpi5yTXbCJoEN3FupDiTfACEw/s320/Judy%2Bat%2BGeocaching%2BBOF%2Btable.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I am recruiting members to the Geocaching BOF during an Escapees Club Open House in Quartzsite, AZ</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red;">GEOCACHING RALLIES</span></h4>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v7OJNApZZ5U/WOnHuq_mcsI/AAAAAAABlg8/pq1Xx_Fj8awS3qGmrNSkDysTBrPebFbOgCEw/s1600/PATHTAG_2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v7OJNApZZ5U/WOnHuq_mcsI/AAAAAAABlg8/pq1Xx_Fj8awS3qGmrNSkDysTBrPebFbOgCEw/s200/PATHTAG_2016.jpg" width="198" /></a>During my seven years on the Geocaching BOF Admin Team I was proud to be actively involved in helping to organize and promote the annual Quartzsite Rally. The rally would typically last four days and include learning seminars in the mornings and "buddy caching" activities in the afternoons. "Old Pros" take "Newbies" out to learn first-hand out to use their GPS, make a find, and then log their found caches. On geocaching.com (or other caching apps like "<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=cgeo.geocaching">c:geo</a>" for Androids) you can search for caches by putting in a location by city name, zip code, or even your current GPS coordinates. There are nearly 1,000 hidden caches within 10 miles of <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/map/default.aspx?lat=33.66391&lng=-114.22995&asq=QD0zMy42NjM5MSwtMTE0LjIyOTk1Jm9yaWdpbj1RdWFydHpzaXRlLCBBcml6b25hJm90PTMmZz0zMjc3NDEmcmFkaXVzPTEwbWk=#?ll=33.636175,-114.164455&z=11">Quartzsite on this map</a>.</div>
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One of the greatest rally Event outings was in 2015 to <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC4YRBG_parade-of-toilets?guid=6fcf0d48-c8ad-4a54-a483-554ab078da5e">PARADE OF TOILETS </a> (GC4YRBG) placed by "Silverheels", Linda Molzhan, a member of the BOF Admin Team. We had 115 attendees that day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plastic flowers were still present when I visited the mining site cache location in 2016.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">FOR ME, IT'S NOT ABOUT THE NUMBERS...</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">While I enjoy geocaching, I am not about finding the most caches. </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This</span><span style="text-align: center;"> is a running joke within the Geocaching BOF club: "<i>Who has found more caches than Judy?</i>" then there is the infamous quotation: "<i>Those who can't do, TEACH"</i>!</span><span style="text-align: center;"> Over the years I have been one of the designated teachers of total beginners because I can still identify with "newbies".</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> I <span style="color: red; font-style: italic;">"only"</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>have 386 found geocaches </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">S</span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">ince starting this hobby in 2007. </span></span><span style="text-align: center;">Many of the cachers I have taught now have over 5,000 finds. Others in the "Old Pro" category have logged 10,000, 20,000 and even more than 30,000 geocaches!!! We say they are "about the numbers". Congratulations to all geocachers regardless of all the 😊 "happy faces" they have recorded for successful geocache finds.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">Geocaching does take us places we may not go on our own. As an RVer, that is especially true for us. For the record, I have logged 372 caches in 28 states (including Alaska), 11 caches in 3 Canadian Provinces, and 3 caches in Mexico. On my geocaching.com profile page I can see <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/my/statistics.aspx">my statistics</a> right down to which day of the week I have logged the most caches - Sundays in August! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">Last year I decided it was time to cut back on a number of labor-intensive activities I had made commitments to within the Escapees RV Club. I "retired" from the Geocaching BOF Admin Team and passed my duties onto others. They had a very successful "2017 Geocaching Rally in Quartzsite" this past January. Thank-you to Barbara and Tom Westerfield for taking on the organizing and teaching duties and thanks to all the BOF Members who stepped forward to assist in true Escapee spirit of caring and sharing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">We also announced our retirement from hosting the "ABQ Boomers and Balloons Rally" which we have been involved in since 2006. We hosted or co-hosted eight Albuquerque Fiesta rallies and Boomers Jim and Gail McManus have accepted the hosting job for 2017 and will do a great job!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">I have also tried to cut back other "teaching" opportunities at rallies but I doubt I will be totally successful at walking away. As I like to paraphrase John F. Kennedy's famous inaugural challenge: "I am passing the torch to a new generation!" Others have picked up the torch and are running ahead full speed. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">My life's lessons learned throughout my career has been <i><b>we can all be replaced</b></i>.</span><span style="text-align: center;"> We will continue to enjoy the RV lifestyle as our health permits. Who knows, maybe I will reach 400 geocaches found this year!</span></span></div>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-10294573118839487142017-04-07T02:02:00.000-07:002017-04-07T14:37:54.854-07:00"F" is for ... NO, Not What You Think!!! :-0 (#atozchallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Today is my sixth day as a participant in the "<a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/" target="_blank">#Blogging from A to Z Challenge</a>" so it is time to reveal that I am writing about the letter "<b><span style="color: red;">F</span></b>" = <b><span style="color: red;"><i>F is for Family.</i></span></b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">FAMILY... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My <b>IMMEDIATE FAMILY</b> includes my hubby of 46+ years, Luther (aka Luke), and our only child, daughter Robin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Robin is happily married to Troy and they have two teenage sons: techie Taylor (age 17 next week) and sports player Tanner (14). They live in Pleasanton, CA and we can conveniently visit them with our motorhome if space is available at the nearby Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We also have been known to tag along with them in our motorhome on family vacations to Palm Desert and Disneyland and to youth baseball tournaments in Cooperstown, NY and the Phoenix area.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">(From left to right) Son-in-law Troy, Grandson Taylor, Daughter Robin, and Grandson Tanner visiting the "Tower of Terror" at Disneyland last year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br />My side of our <b>EXTENDED FAMILY </b>is very small. My parents died when I was a young teenager so my older sister Pat and brother Frank became my legal guardians as I grew up. They and their spouses were present at our wedding in 1970 for this group photo. From the left: Dick and Pat Philip, Luke and I on our wedding day, and Shirley and Frank Quillinan. Except for my dear Sister-in-law Shirley, the others are now all deceased.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">During my high school years I lived with Shirley and Frank in the Sacramento area and their two daughters, Reggie and Corie. The girls have grown up and in May we are all going on an Alaska Cruise together. Here is a photo of my late brother Frank Quillinan's side of the family taken on Mother's Day a couple of years ago:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Starting from the left and going up the stairs are my nieces Reggie and her daughter Randi, Corie and her wife Christine, myself and my sister-in-law Shirley. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">My late sister Pat had three children and they all got together up in the Pacific Northwest last year. Nephew Gary and wife Sandra Philip now live in Port Townsend, WA, Niece Susan and Richard Valente live in La Pine, Oregon, and Nephew Jamie Philip lives in Danville, CA. Pictured in order, from left: Sandra, Richard, Susan, Jamie and Gary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><b>Luke's Rinehimer Family</b> lives in Pennsylvania and we have been driving cross country in our various motorhomes every five years for Berwick High School Class of 1960 Reunions and family get-togethers. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke is on the left with his younger brother Dale in the middle and older brother Gene on the far right.<br />
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Two years ago when Robin and her family were all in Cooperstown, New York for Tanner's "All Star Village Baseball Tournament", everyone met in Boyertown, PA for a "Cousins Reunion".<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My <b>WORK FAMILY and thousands of students</b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">were always dear to me</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">at Cosumnes River College (CRC) in Sacramento and Placerville, California</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">. I worked 32 years for CRC in a variety of roles including public information officer, professor of journalism, photography, communications media and computer science applications, Study Abroad Coordinator, and College Dean. I still stay in touch with my Emeritus Association members and even former students who have gone on to have their own communications career. As a matter of fact, my next door neighbor is a former Desktop Publishing student who went on to have his own printing businesses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our<b> COOL FAMILY</b> <b>HOME</b>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Since I retired in 2004 we have been "on the road" anywhere from six to nine months out of the year. When <b>not </b>traveling we live in a multi-story house on 3/4 acre in a 2700-acre gated community with security patrols, a free 9-hole golf, walking and horse trails and many clubs. As a matter of fact, this week we are celebrating 38 years living in Auburn Lake Trails, in Cool, CA. When we travel our Community Services team provides courtesy house checks for open doors, windows, or strange vehicles in the driveway. We pay a neighbor to mow the lawn when needed.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our RV Family is Huge!</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The greatest part of the RV lifestyle is meeting friends all over the country and online. A few days ago I mentioned that we now have over 1,000 Escapee Boomers and sometime we meet in large groups called "Boomerangs" or small groups called "Mini-Rangs". We also belong to a variety of other RV clubs: Winnebago-Itasca Travelers (WIT), Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), Golden Spikes, Freightliner Owners Club, Good Sam, and plenty of Escapee RV Club "Birds of a Feather" chapters like the Geocachers, RVing Elks, and the Mexican Connection. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We just came from two national RV club gatherings in Chandler and Tucson, Arizona and literally met up with and hugged hundreds of friends. We stay in contact through newsletters and social media, especially Facebook and Yahoo discussion groups, and I can probably tell you where each of my 510 Facebook friends are currently on the road visiting with family or playing tourist somewhere in the world!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WF2RjoIhnWs/WOdLsEHKjJI/AAAAAAABlcw/KyYx5TzkXecdG91Q2doT7SVBcle5SrYewCLcB/s1600/Judy%2Band%2BLuke%2BGoshen%2BIN%2Bstop.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WF2RjoIhnWs/WOdLsEHKjJI/AAAAAAABlcw/KyYx5TzkXecdG91Q2doT7SVBcle5SrYewCLcB/s1600/Judy%2Band%2BLuke%2BGoshen%2BIN%2Bstop.bmp" /></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the RV world I am frequently called "CoolJudy" and I tease that it is an attitude, as well as a nickname, based on our home town. I can't even imagine how many times someone had walked up to me and asked: </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Aren't you Cool Judy"? My photo and nickname are all over the internet in RV discussion groups. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some folks even call my husband "Cool Hand Luke". </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4vqSB7E78Q/WOdKy_6XjVI/AAAAAAABlck/ihWQBVj_5Uc1wCcwAa-0HHWRGCShJDHGQCLcB/s1600/Coolrvr%2Blicense%2Bplate_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4vqSB7E78Q/WOdKy_6XjVI/AAAAAAABlck/ihWQBVj_5Uc1wCcwAa-0HHWRGCShJDHGQCLcB/s400/Coolrvr%2Blicense%2Bplate_edited.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are also called the CoolRVers because of our email address and motorhome license plate. </td></tr>
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So this has been all about our various families both at home and on the road. Hope you will continue to follow this blog and others participating in the Bloggers Challenge.<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 15.84px;"> Please take the time to <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=%23atozchallenge&rlz=1C1XYJR_enUS693US693&oq=%23atozchallenge&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i65j69i61l3j5.15093j0j1&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">Google search "#atozchallenge"</a> and read what all the Participants are writing. You are encouraged to provide feedback by using the <b>COMMENTS </b>box on each blog posting. If you like what you read, take the next step and "<b>follow</b>" the author's compositions by completing the "<b>subscription</b>" box.</span></div>
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<b style="color: red;"><i>PARTICIPATING IN THE "#A TO Z CHALLENGE"</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><i><b>TOMORROW: "G STANDS FOR ________"</b></i></span></div>
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-35278749935102541442017-04-06T00:13:00.001-07:002017-04-07T14:41:38.285-07:00"E" is for EXCUSES (#atozchallenge)<div dir="ltr">
In the RV lifestyle there are days when you "just park it". For whatever reason you can imagine (wind, rain, not feeling well, etc.) you declare the day a non-traveling day and you head for your recliner, couch, or bed and close your eyes. There is always tomorrow!</div>
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Apparently, this is also true in the Blogger's world, or at least in mine. Today I should be writing my #AtoZ Challenge blog using the 5th Day assigned letter of "E". Because "stuff happened", I was not able to complete the topic I had planned to write about: "Escapees RV Club". So, my revised "E" topic is now EXCUSES.</div>
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As I write this blogging assignment using my smartphone, I am already in bed negotiating my leg space with that lovable GSD Miss Shade I featured yesterday. For the record she is winning.</div>
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My next EXCUSE for not staying up until 3:00 a.m. to finish my research and typing in my downstairs office on the laptop is because I am playing GOLF at 8:30 a.m.. The alarm is set for 6:45 a.m. so I have time to take Miss Shade for a walk before hopping in my electric golf cart. Remember "golf" is my exercise!</div>
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Now that I think about it, my topics for the next couple of days in this #atozchallenge will be "F is for Facebook"<i> </i>and "G is for Golf". What I write about will be determined in the morning!</div>
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One of the goals of the Bloggers Challenge is to increase the number of blogs that are read daily. Please take the time to Google search "#atozchallenge" and read what all the Participants are writing. Please provide feedback by using the COMMENTS box on each blog posting. If you like what you read, take the next step and "follow" the author's compositions by completing the "subscription" box.</div>
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Good night from Casa de Cool in the California foothills. </div>
Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9175288731045210637.post-40408043171537932322017-04-05T03:10:00.002-07:002017-04-05T03:10:17.194-07:00"D" IS FOR "DOGS ON THE ROAD" (#AtoZChallenge)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is Day 4 of the <b><span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/" target="_blank">Blogging From A to Z Challenge</a></span></b> which means today's letter of the day is <span style="color: red;">"D" and D stands for DOGS</span>.<br />
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Since this blog is about life on the road as RVers, today we will look at life on the road traveling with our various DOGS (aka "fur-kids"). We have traveled with 5 different German Shepherd Dogs (GSD) during the past 35-plus years. Tasha was raised from a puppy while Tobi, a white GSD, Krissy, Star, and now Miss Shade have all been RESCUES. <br />
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Today's blog will examine<br />
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<ul>
<li>Canine Life in an RV</li>
<li>Finding Dog Parks While Traveling</li>
<li>Dog Park Rules and Courtesies</li>
<li>Emergencies and Locating Vets</li>
<li>Socializing in the RV lifestyle</li>
<li>K-9 Adventures</li>
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<b>Canine Life in an RV</b><br />
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Traveling fur-kids come in all shapes and sizes. I would guess small dogs out number large dogs as k-9 family members. In our household we have only owned LARGE, 70-80 pound German Shepherds. We did try to travel with a cat one time but she got loose at Lake Oroville in California but did find her way home after two days of searching. She never traveled again.<br />
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It is very common to see two small dogs, and/or cats, for obvious reasons. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on the number of pets a guest can have and that number is often two. "Pets" can also include cats, birds, and reptiles. I have seen "pet weight limitations" posted in campground directories where dogs, for example, cannot weigh more than 20 pounds. There are also restrictions for certain breeds that are perceived as aggressive. Owners pleading their case to the campground owners will be told it is the "insurance company" that prohibits pit bulls, rottweilers, or other larger dogs. Luckily for us, our GSDs have not been restricted. <br />
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Being responsible pet owners is a given. Unfortunately, others have ruined pet reputations by not cleaning up after their dogs, leaving dogs tied up outside without supervision, or having a barking dog disturbing the neighborhood. We like to introduce our dog to neighbors while out walking them with our plastic bags in hand and enjoy watching the interaction with children is always great.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sp0xSQGdac0/WOSMLRVunbI/AAAAAAABlUg/lEFfu1dTfHgXL6mwehthoH1vOR-IELj7gCEw/s1600/Star%2Bwith%2Bkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sp0xSQGdac0/WOSMLRVunbI/AAAAAAABlUg/lEFfu1dTfHgXL6mwehthoH1vOR-IELj7gCEw/s320/Star%2Bwith%2Bkids.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We always introduce our GSD to children in the campground.<br />It is important to teach them about safety when approaching an unfamiliar dog.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-y6nVRCPdk/WOSMGATuNBI/AAAAAAABlWM/LNI__9UXrQI8doa5uOsen5GTDhz0DuC0QCEw/s1600/Enjoying%2Bkids%2Bin%2Bleaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-y6nVRCPdk/WOSMGATuNBI/AAAAAAABlWM/LNI__9UXrQI8doa5uOsen5GTDhz0DuC0QCEw/s320/Enjoying%2Bkids%2Bin%2Bleaves.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most of the introductions include asking children if they want to "pet" our dog.<br />These youngsters and the dog were very relaxed on a lawn full of fallen leaves.<br /></td></tr>
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<b>Life INSIDE the RV</b><div>
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Pets and owners develop their own rules about where pets sit, eat, play, and sleep. When we had a Class A gas motorhome with a large front dash it was very common to find "Star" sunbathing or watching the action outside when we are parked somewhere. Dogs should never be allowed to roam free when the recreational vehicle is moving. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-thaxMH--e5M/WOSMVmo-R6I/AAAAAAABlWM/XH7jsNex_kEQCNlSxP8pBXVq1fDYDA2aQCEw/s1600/watch%2Bdog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-thaxMH--e5M/WOSMVmo-R6I/AAAAAAABlWM/XH7jsNex_kEQCNlSxP8pBXVq1fDYDA2aQCEw/s320/watch%2Bdog.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our German Shepherd dogs are always "on duty" checking out our surroundings.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ9svtUc_38/WOSMLC4NjkI/AAAAAAABlWM/w5HHGkCIpHcUexLQ_DX3cFRrtiEQzH9XwCEw/s1600/Star%2527s%2BFavorite%2BSpots%2B-%2B004_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJ9svtUc_38/WOSMLC4NjkI/AAAAAAABlWM/w5HHGkCIpHcUexLQ_DX3cFRrtiEQzH9XwCEw/s320/Star%2527s%2BFavorite%2BSpots%2B-%2B004_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No one is going to mess with your home on wheels<br />when a GSD is watching from the RV dash.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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When the RV is moving our dogs like to keep an eye on where we are going or why we had to stop at a stop sign or train crossing.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BLPrmYQr_rg/WOSMQQoi2qI/AAAAAAABlWM/LHBe6TTNEZ4DOFpiMPJ-aUs4Q45b5x9rQCEw/s1600/looking%2Bout%2BRV%2Bwindow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BLPrmYQr_rg/WOSMQQoi2qI/AAAAAAABlWM/LHBe6TTNEZ4DOFpiMPJ-aUs4Q45b5x9rQCEw/s320/looking%2Bout%2BRV%2Bwindow.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">German Shepherds are tall enough to see over the dash.<br />They have also learned where the air conditioning vents are located in the dash, too.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrM3KnnffLs/WOSMMF4fAMI/AAAAAAABlWM/CKvUk2ojHSwDPKICKQKsvQNAecj2xKc3wCEw/s1600/co-pilot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrM3KnnffLs/WOSMMF4fAMI/AAAAAAABlWM/CKvUk2ojHSwDPKICKQKsvQNAecj2xKc3wCEw/s320/co-pilot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is important that the driver stay awake!<br /> </td></tr>
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Seating arrangements are sometimes negotiable. MOST of our dogs were never allowed on the furniture or the beds in our stick house or the motorhome. "Star" learned to "sneak up" when we were not looking. Our current GSD, Miss Shady Lady has taken over the motorhome and sits and sleeps wherever she wants.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu5tdWjeDN4/WOSMKaUpI4I/AAAAAAABlWM/IMbSOGOLql8DJuSqelws3Kjnasc79cWTQCEw/s1600/Star%2Bsneaks%2Bonto%2Bthe%2Bcouch%2B2_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu5tdWjeDN4/WOSMKaUpI4I/AAAAAAABlWM/IMbSOGOLql8DJuSqelws3Kjnasc79cWTQCEw/s320/Star%2Bsneaks%2Bonto%2Bthe%2Bcouch%2B2_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Star" getting on the RV couch was a "no-no". Of course the<br />scolding occurred after Mom got the camera out.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-25ajsoVrr_4/WOSML4pCF1I/AAAAAAABlWM/wqfOAaAuo3sAViCl4BQ4MWBqQNdYwn6FQCEw/s1600/The%2BUltimate%2BSleeper_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-25ajsoVrr_4/WOSML4pCF1I/AAAAAAABlWM/wqfOAaAuo3sAViCl4BQ4MWBqQNdYwn6FQCEw/s320/The%2BUltimate%2BSleeper_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We gave in on letting our dogs sleep on the bed<br />as long as we put an extra sheet down first.</td></tr>
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<br />The cockpit chairs, when not occupied by the pilot or co-pilot, are great for curling up. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-567tofnKVf0/WOSMLfdXTmI/AAAAAAABlWM/AjYjZO5JEYoEdSeiUx4-rnofF_Nx1-sKgCEw/s1600/Star%2527s%2Bnighttime%2Bbed%2B-%2B001_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-567tofnKVf0/WOSMLfdXTmI/AAAAAAABlWM/AjYjZO5JEYoEdSeiUx4-rnofF_Nx1-sKgCEw/s320/Star%2527s%2Bnighttime%2Bbed%2B-%2B001_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bathmat on the driver's seat made a comfy bed at nights. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nGfMcHWWFDU/WOSXjLlUboI/AAAAAAABlWg/IEmdh8KgFYI7jRY8-DTtVW_Plrhyo1w8gCLcB/s1600/Shade%2Bhead%2Btilt%2Bin%2BRV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nGfMcHWWFDU/WOSXjLlUboI/AAAAAAABlWg/IEmdh8KgFYI7jRY8-DTtVW_Plrhyo1w8gCLcB/s1600/Shade%2Bhead%2Btilt%2Bin%2BRV.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What do you mean? Do you really want to sit HERE?</td></tr>
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Dogs especially like to have their toys, beds, and special treats nearby to feel at home on the road.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7cWxSenSo/WOSY2GFguEI/AAAAAAABlWw/Ltxm9k2_VKwmATfqbuMrgic1zgimuqnrQCLcB/s1600/dog%2Btoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JJ7cWxSenSo/WOSY2GFguEI/AAAAAAABlWw/Ltxm9k2_VKwmATfqbuMrgic1zgimuqnrQCLcB/s320/dog%2Btoy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, the ring toy is mine. Do you want to play "tug"?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M4SMBSHNexM/WOSMS4MwrPI/AAAAAAABlWU/lHjcnPPfmEMX_HWfhXxrGWPWvsM_v4asQCEw/s1600/picking%2Btreats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M4SMBSHNexM/WOSMS4MwrPI/AAAAAAABlWU/lHjcnPPfmEMX_HWfhXxrGWPWvsM_v4asQCEw/s320/picking%2Btreats.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too many treats are never a problem... Hiding them is a problem in a small rig.<br /></td></tr>
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<b>FINDING DOG PARKS WHEN TRAVELING</b><div>
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There are plenty of "apps" to help you find dog parks when on the road. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mrprojects.dogparks&hl=en" target="_blank">Click here</a> to find a Google dog park app search for Androids. Similar searches are available for iPhone/Mac devices at the iTunes Store.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Roboto, UILanguageFont, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"The Find a Dog Park app helps you find off leash dog parks while on the go or while planning a trip. It allows you to quickly find dog parks that are close to you and use Google Maps Directions to help you get there."</span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTdZJcym-zA/WOSMEc0CstI/AAAAAAABlWM/C_yxujiSI9oKQW5fFRpgx1W3iHFdBF_cgCEw/s1600/Cosmo%2Bramp_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTdZJcym-zA/WOSMEc0CstI/AAAAAAABlWM/C_yxujiSI9oKQW5fFRpgx1W3iHFdBF_cgCEw/s320/Cosmo%2Bramp_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cosmo's Dog Park near Gilbert, AZ features a running ramp<br />so dogs and chase balls out into a lake.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kac6fkZYqkI/WOSMNrE2b3I/AAAAAAABlWM/em4oZVn02_IrE4tawVQ4rpuDeholSDSWQCEw/s1600/dogs%2Bat%2BSparks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kac6fkZYqkI/WOSMNrE2b3I/AAAAAAABlWM/em4oZVn02_IrE4tawVQ4rpuDeholSDSWQCEw/s320/dogs%2Bat%2BSparks.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Sparks, Nevada we like to stay at the Sparks Marina RV Park<br />and there is a huge community park with walking paths and a fenced, off-leash dog beach.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfSOU2PPpYo/WOSMP3iMBvI/AAAAAAABlWM/AQZ7ByDEgvo0yYeuJXr7Cb83gHdeyjSYACEw/s1600/gordon%2Bplaying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfSOU2PPpYo/WOSMP3iMBvI/AAAAAAABlWM/AQZ7ByDEgvo0yYeuJXr7Cb83gHdeyjSYACEw/s320/gordon%2Bplaying.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just small, fenced areas can make for safe ball playing.<br />Most dog parks have "doggie bag" dispensers and handy trash cans.<br /></td></tr>
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Some parks have separate sections for small and large dogs. Others let the owners decide if they want their little dogs to play with the big dogs.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQbVZZKc0Ek/WOSMPIKfGsI/AAAAAAABlWM/tyboLyZjZrUgsQ_Z2SiYOjskDIJQNYg7wCEw/s1600/follow%2Bthe%2Bleader%2Bwith%2BGordon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQbVZZKc0Ek/WOSMPIKfGsI/AAAAAAABlWM/tyboLyZjZrUgsQ_Z2SiYOjskDIJQNYg7wCEw/s320/follow%2Bthe%2Bleader%2Bwith%2BGordon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's play follow the leader.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_IlBTT2lzg/WOSMNtY-zZI/AAAAAAABlWM/V0T0LIYUJRwJNtv5os7kST5Z0SEoBdPBQCEw/s1600/dogs%2Bsniffing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_IlBTT2lzg/WOSMNtY-zZI/AAAAAAABlWM/V0T0LIYUJRwJNtv5os7kST5Z0SEoBdPBQCEw/s320/dogs%2Bsniffing.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aren't you glad RVers don't greet each other the way dogs do? </td></tr>
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<h4>
<br />Dog Park Rules and Courtesies</h4>
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Following is a great overview on proper etiquette at dog parks from <a href="http://petmed.com/">PetMed.com</a>.</div>
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"Minding Your Dog's Manners </h2>
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Spending an afternoon at the dog park is great for providing your dog with exercise while allowing her to socialize with other animals. While the experience can and should be fun, it can also be a challenge if Daisy’s bad manners are allowed to go unchecked. Here are some basics for a fun, trouble-free time at the dog park.</div>
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Before You’re Out the Door</h3>
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Your dog should be in good health and old enough to have had her entire series of vaccinations. It’s also helpful if your dog has been through basic obedience training. A city license and/or rabies tag should be on your pet’s collar, as well as proper identification. In fact, in some parks these tags are a requirement for admittance. Be sure to pack waste bags for picking up after your dog, as well as water. You can use a resealable bowl, a collapsible bowl, or a water bottle with a special dog spout. And don’t forget to take your dog’s leash for walking her to and from the entrance of the dog park.</div>
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At the Park Entrance</h3>
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When you first arrive, observe how many dogs are present and how they are behaving. Walk in slowly and let your dog calm down before letting her off leash. If your dog is behaving fearfully, or if any of the other dogs behave aggressively toward her (or she toward them), be prepared to leave right away.</div>
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When Other Animals Approach</h3>
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You are responsible for your dog’s behavior in the park. As the owner, you don’t want to be too sensitive to how she is playing or being played with, but you don’t want to be negligent either. Leave the phone on silent and the book at home. It helps if you are already familiar with normal dog play before you introduce your dog to playing with other dogs.</div>
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Play is normal when dogs are relaxed and the actions are non-threatening. Barking, some growling, pawing at each other, wrestling, bowing, and chasing are all normal behaviors. You might also see some <span class="glossify_term hovertip_target" hovertip="mouthing" style="color: #378bb9; display: inline; font-style: italic;">mouthing</span>, sniffing, and even humping.</div>
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There will be episodes where an older dog will have to put a younger dog in its place for being too pushy and it appears as though the older dog is going to bite. As long as skin has not been broken, you can be sure that it was all for show. This is just one of the ways in which dogs teach each other boundaries and social behavior. Basically, as long as the dogs don't take it too far, it’s all in good fun.</div>
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If you see several dogs acting as a group or another dog crowding or chasing your dog, it’s time to break things up. If a serious fight does occur, it’s time to call your dog over and move to another play space, or leave the park entirely. If the aggressive dog’s owner is nearby, you can also have them call off their dog and take charge of the situation. And of course, if it is your dog that is being aggressive, you will need to remove her from the park immediately.</div>
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As long as everyone is playing nice and the animals have been properly socialized, your dog should have a great time, even if she has to be put in her place by a dog that does not want to play with her. It’s all part of learning how to play nice with each other -- and it’s proper dog park etiquette."</div>
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<h4>
Emergencies and Locating Vets</h4>
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Once again try doing a search on your web browser of your pet becomes ill while traveling. This was one result I found: <a href="http://whether%20you%27re%20hiking%20trails%20an%20hour%20away%20or%20crossing%20multiple%20state%20lines%2C%20there%27s%20nothing%20quite%20like%20taking%20a%20road%20trip%20with%20your%20loyal%20four-legged%20friend.%20but%20the%20pleasure%20comes%20with%20its%20fair%20share%20of%20responsibility.%20what%20if%20your%20dog%20sniffs%20out%20the%20raisins%20between%20the%20seats%20and%20hoovers%20them%20up%20before%20you%20check%20the%20rearview%20mirror/?%20In%20addition%20to%20making%20sure%20you%27ve%20packed%20enough%20food%20and%20water%20for%20your%20pet,%20you%20need%20to%20know%20where%20to%20go%20in%20case%20there%27s%20an%20emergency.%20Luckily,%20The%20American%20Animal%20Hospital%20Association%20noticed%20the%20upward%20trend%20in%20roaming%20Rovers%20and%20launched%20a%20pet-focused%20trip%20planner.%20The%20planner%20pinpoints%20veterinary%20clinics%20and%20hospitals%20along%20your%20route.%20Just%20plug%20in%20your%20starting%20point%20and%20final%20destination,%20and%20you%27ll%20not%20only%20get%20driving%20directions%20for%20your%20trip,%20but%20the%20name,%20location%20and%20contact%20information%20for%20pet%20help%20along%20the%20way.%20Of%20course,%20you%20can%20ask%20your%20veterinarian%20for%20recommendations,%20as%20well." target="_blank">How to find a reputable vet when you're on the Road</a>.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Whether you're hiking trails an hour away or crossing multiple state lines, there's nothing quite like taking a road trip with your loyal four-legged friend. But the pleasure comes with its fair share of responsibility. What if your </span><a class="crosslinked cl-mapping-vetstreet cl-dictionary-vetstreet" href="http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent !important; background-color: white; color: #0099be; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;">dog</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> sniffs out the raisins between the seats and hoovers them up before you check the rearview mirror? In addition to making sure you've packed enough food and water for your pet, you need to know where to go in case there's an emergency. Luckily, </span><a href="http://www.healthypet.com/RelocationAndTravel/TripPlanner.aspx" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent !important; background-color: white; color: #0099be; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">The American Animal Hospital Association</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> noticed the upward trend in roaming Rovers and launched a pet-focused trip planner. The planner pinpoints veterinary clinics and hospitals along your route. Just plug in your starting point and final destination, and you'll not only get driving directions for your trip, but the name, location and contact information for pet help along the way. Of course, you can ask your veterinarian for recommendations, as well.</span></blockquote>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kbpjpgY-dMk/WOSMHnTXAhI/AAAAAAABlWM/DJUj_yFMyfwV2fN0DUQvVYHRrAUfhW9awCEw/s1600/SoCal%2BVet%2B001_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kbpjpgY-dMk/WOSMHnTXAhI/AAAAAAABlWM/DJUj_yFMyfwV2fN0DUQvVYHRrAUfhW9awCEw/s320/SoCal%2BVet%2B001_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was one of many vets we visited with our Krissy. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">She had "bloat surgery" at a vet </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">in California, another surgery in Pennsylvania, and stitches removed in Bransnn, Missouri on one cross-country trip. She survived until we got home but passed away a year later.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcs02-SMvkk/WOSMGuf2GoI/AAAAAAABlWM/nbLbGKPn_fAnMmyqp959V8pmP_a88Ed2gCEw/s1600/Krissy%2BRecovering_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcs02-SMvkk/WOSMGuf2GoI/AAAAAAABlWM/nbLbGKPn_fAnMmyqp959V8pmP_a88Ed2gCEw/s320/Krissy%2BRecovering_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo was taken during Krissy's recovery at home. We re-arranged<br />our travel schedule multiple times for this unlucky dog.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUHfz3Czleg/WOSMF4a2XrI/AAAAAAABlWM/TNwftaK6-vM3A1VzzDf_M4gBDTP5pnMJACEw/s1600/Home%2BAgain%2Bbooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUHfz3Czleg/WOSMF4a2XrI/AAAAAAABlWM/TNwftaK6-vM3A1VzzDf_M4gBDTP5pnMJACEw/s320/Home%2BAgain%2Bbooth.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These dog owners were checking out a vendor for <a href="https://www.homeagain.com/lost-pet-hotline.html" target="_blank">"HOME AGAIN"</a><br />a National Pet Recovery Database and microchip service. Our dogs<br />have been chipped and wear these tags in addition to their licenses, rabies tag,<br />our contact information.</td></tr>
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<h4>
<br />Socializing in the RV lifestyle</h4>
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The RV lifestyle is all about socializing and your pets need to be well-behaved and welcomed to participate in the fun of meeting other travelers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ6fBpX6J_c/WOSMNloL72I/AAAAAAABlWM/KCx5B4Mckj0EQaY7ZQZT3HHG2LgpSL_JwCEw/s1600/WARE%2Bpet%2Bparade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ6fBpX6J_c/WOSMNloL72I/AAAAAAABlWM/KCx5B4Mckj0EQaY7ZQZT3HHG2LgpSL_JwCEw/s320/WARE%2Bpet%2Bparade.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was taken at a Pet Parade and contests at the 2015 Western Area Rally<br />for Escapees (WARE) in Yuba City, CA. Hubby Luke is holding<br />Miss Star, sitting pretty just left of center.<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O32Xyj2hu-8/WOSMI1e0WdI/AAAAAAABlWM/1vq8d9M6Pa4DW-PFE_gXmnUUr6UnAfdzQCEw/s1600/Lucky%2B%2526%2BStar%2Binside%2BRV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O32Xyj2hu-8/WOSMI1e0WdI/AAAAAAABlWM/1vq8d9M6Pa4DW-PFE_gXmnUUr6UnAfdzQCEw/s320/Lucky%2B%2526%2BStar%2Binside%2BRV.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your well-behaved dog will often be invited into your friends'<br />RVs to socialize. Space to play can be limited and sharing of<br />toys can be territorial.</td></tr>
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If you have been following these blogs you have learned that RVers love to get-together and food is normally involved. Some groups, like the Boomers, have adopted courtesy rules that say no pets at Happy Hours or food events.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQeHcApHDQY/WOSMWuBgMTI/AAAAAAABlWM/PTl4KgT0unAPC4oJzeQ-tMeO1aRKHYpxwCEw/s1600/whip%2Bcream%2Beating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQeHcApHDQY/WOSMWuBgMTI/AAAAAAABlWM/PTl4KgT0unAPC4oJzeQ-tMeO1aRKHYpxwCEw/s320/whip%2Bcream%2Beating.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Lucky" loves to get squirts of whipping cream<br />during dessert time. "Lucky"also likes to eat corn<br />off a corn cob while Dad holds it and turns it for her.</td></tr>
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<h4>
<br />K-9 Adventures</h4>
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Our fur-kids like to have fun outdoors and there are plenty of opportunities to explore and check-out where they are. Obey leash laws and keep your pets safe.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlZ3QNXiit8/WOSMUrNXUkI/AAAAAAABlWM/8AVsHVl__gUyzLGJk-HQBqSxCrWIbSrEQCEw/s1600/two%2Bgeocaching%2Bdogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlZ3QNXiit8/WOSMUrNXUkI/AAAAAAABlWM/8AVsHVl__gUyzLGJk-HQBqSxCrWIbSrEQCEw/s320/two%2Bgeocaching%2Bdogs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geocaching is a great hobby for RVers. These two "geo-pups",<br />a black poodle and our GSD, have found the hiding spot for a cache container<br />along a lake in Eastern Oregon.</td></tr>
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Keep an eye on your pet when they discover great critter hiding spots.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zM0_oqew20o/WOSMQRvpOzI/AAAAAAABlWM/dwrbAWRX95Ug7y6GLlpBo3yqlTcUSqKSQCEw/s1600/head%2Bin%2Btree_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zM0_oqew20o/WOSMQRvpOzI/AAAAAAABlWM/dwrbAWRX95Ug7y6GLlpBo3yqlTcUSqKSQCEw/s320/head%2Bin%2Btree_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I know it's in there! I smell it!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6JeYq3x2Do/WOSMU3Vke8I/AAAAAAABlWU/WHRH6cH1LT8XPfhJXGyzvFEe0LIPIPRngCEw/s1600/squirre%253B%2Bin%2Btree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6JeYq3x2Do/WOSMU3Vke8I/AAAAAAABlWU/WHRH6cH1LT8XPfhJXGyzvFEe0LIPIPRngCEw/s320/squirre%253B%2Bin%2Btree.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It can be frustrating to see a squirrel and<br />not be able to get to it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4YcenSuGTU/WOSMWhzGc2I/AAAAAAABlWM/A234hQg0hDcqFcVjjPJ904YxRkKP2_svgCEw/s1600/wet%2Bdog%2Bpark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4YcenSuGTU/WOSMWhzGc2I/AAAAAAABlWM/A234hQg0hDcqFcVjjPJ904YxRkKP2_svgCEw/s320/wet%2Bdog%2Bpark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This off-leash dog park at a campground in Casa Grande, AZ<br />doubles as a water retention pond during the monsoon season. <br />It made for a nice, muddy swimming hole.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yCsrCV83InE/WOSMJa3NHgI/AAAAAAABlWM/6DnEeLGWwrwctGoAtbpvfq6rfDIqOaTrgCEw/s1600/Star%2Bat%2BCattail_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yCsrCV83InE/WOSMJa3NHgI/AAAAAAABlWM/6DnEeLGWwrwctGoAtbpvfq6rfDIqOaTrgCEw/s320/Star%2Bat%2BCattail_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cattail Cove State Park, south of Lake Havasu City on the<br />Colorado River, has a dog-friendly beach. These two ducks teased<br />and pestered Miss Star one too many times and she took a flying<br />leap but was unable to tease them back.</td></tr>
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Include your pets in group activities or when you are playing tourist.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tfBPCvehmSY/WOSMDVSbmrI/AAAAAAABlWM/_-749rrCDSMkUpO9BLIfLuKrScCPmc8ZgCEw/s1600/ABQ%2Bdog%2Bouting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tfBPCvehmSY/WOSMDVSbmrI/AAAAAAABlWM/_-749rrCDSMkUpO9BLIfLuKrScCPmc8ZgCEw/s320/ABQ%2Bdog%2Bouting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta we encourage pet owners<br />to have a get-together at a local dog park.</td></tr>
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There is a campground near Yosemite National Park that has a menagerie of pets in an enclosure they call a "petting zoo".</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rg35_C3ybm8/WOSMHNOqbqI/AAAAAAABlWM/WKZmD7xVK3Yxsd9K_DtNizzMWsSsbLu-wCEw/s1600/Krissy%2Bat%2Bpetting%2Bzoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rg35_C3ybm8/WOSMHNOqbqI/AAAAAAABlWM/WKZmD7xVK3Yxsd9K_DtNizzMWsSsbLu-wCEw/s320/Krissy%2Bat%2Bpetting%2Bzoo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Krissy found the creatures very friendly.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rnt6bSMSQrs/WOSMDQxlL6I/AAAAAAABlWM/zn7nxa_QHHU4nNf-UnNUBhXmzHQJPqe4ACEw/s1600/Banff%252C%2BAB%2B-%2B068_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rnt6bSMSQrs/WOSMDQxlL6I/AAAAAAABlWM/zn7nxa_QHHU4nNf-UnNUBhXmzHQJPqe4ACEw/s320/Banff%252C%2BAB%2B-%2B068_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make sure your pets are included in your tourist photos. This<br />was taken in Banff, Canada on a walk past a raging river and<br />waterfall while out looking for a geocache. </td></tr>
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And sometimes the RV Lifestyle means just kicking back and enjoying the great country around us.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tr13p6wyxPs/WOSMVXoRPLI/AAAAAAABlWM/shSgcBG36P4VC8SPAyfNwoCJbQiTD30PQCEw/s1600/upside%2Bdown%2BStar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tr13p6wyxPs/WOSMVXoRPLI/AAAAAAABlWM/shSgcBG36P4VC8SPAyfNwoCJbQiTD30PQCEw/s320/upside%2Bdown%2BStar.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying green grass at the Freightliner Service Center dog park<br />after many days in the desert.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M9Z45Hdat_k/WOSMT5sqLKI/AAAAAAABlWM/qF8imwDHl3w5ez2aTQPvHWMRVAqpC8vegCEw/s1600/smell%2Bthe%2Bflowers%2B-%2BMontana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M9Z45Hdat_k/WOSMT5sqLKI/AAAAAAABlWM/qF8imwDHl3w5ez2aTQPvHWMRVAqpC8vegCEw/s320/smell%2Bthe%2Bflowers%2B-%2BMontana.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A night walk around the beautiful grounds of <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g45277-d1636065-Reviews-Jim_Mary_s_RV_Park-Missoula_Montana.html" target="_blank">Jim and Mary's RV Park</a><br />in Missoula, Montana means it is time to stop and enjoy the flower gardens.</td></tr>
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No matter how you travel, be sure to include your pets. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rDlp2ak6hbc/WOSMKSmbsCI/AAAAAAABlWM/WCF9Rfq5Wf8Gn0Q47t9sLfRRRqbi1_-HgCEw/s1600/Star%2Bin%2BHonda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rDlp2ak6hbc/WOSMKSmbsCI/AAAAAAABlWM/WCF9Rfq5Wf8Gn0Q47t9sLfRRRqbi1_-HgCEw/s320/Star%2Bin%2BHonda.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We tow a Honda CR-V behind the motorhome when traveling long<br />distances. For day trips, however, our dogs always have their<br />own beds and non-spill water bowls.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeqZs0uZNME/WOSMRNDrZCI/AAAAAAABlWM/u2HnVss5810rEWK-AI2fDs_m25NqdKE6ACEw/s1600/motorcycle_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeqZs0uZNME/WOSMRNDrZCI/AAAAAAABlWM/u2HnVss5810rEWK-AI2fDs_m25NqdKE6ACEw/s320/motorcycle_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the goggles on this GSD riding in a side-car in<br />downtown Auburn, California. I was glad I had my camera handy!</td></tr>
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It has been fun going through years of photographs of our travels and finding so many examples of traveling with our various dogs. Unfortunately, photos of Tasha and Tobi didn't make this blog. Maybe I'll get the scanner out and find their lovable faces in photo albums stuck on the shelves in my home office.<br />
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When our previous GSD "Star" began to suffer physically from Cancer in 2015 we were traveling in Pennsylvania. Yes, it is sad when we let our fur-babies cross the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Bridge_(pets)" target="_blank">Rainbow Bridge</a>, but we like to say Star lived to be 13.5 years old, traveled for 7+ years, and had 100,000 miles on her. All of our traveling German Shepherd dogs have seen much more of the country than most people. Miss Shade, who turns 5 years old next week, has lots of miles ahead.<br />
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Thanks for following along with our salute to the letter D and our DOGS on the Road. <br />
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Judy Rinehimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02053392745521488816noreply@blogger.com5