June 7

We finally got on the road after a week of 'taking care of business' which included going to the RV dealer to have a side curtain rehung and a leak in the bathroom skylight repaired. Since all it seems to do is rain, we thought that it would be prudent to have it fixed! Some times we feel it is a rain of 40 days and 40 nights!

Of course, it was raining when we left, and after a day of driving in the rain on hilly, curving roads, we called an early day when we reached Binghamton, NY, our first stop. James is feeling more and more like a trucker as we are pulling the trailer behind the VIEW.

In the morning, we ate, got some diesel fuel and headed to Bradford, PA and the Allegheny National Park. As we came to a stop, looking for our next turn we noticed the town of Painted Post--and there were lots of people lining the streets as though waiting for something. A parade? James loves a parade. So, we made a detour and asked a passerby what time the parade started. The reply, 10:30, so we had time to find, with luck, a place to park our RV and trailer and to find a place to sit.

We found a great spot, set up our chairs and in short order, there was a huge line of fire trucks. We were told that there would actually be two parades. First, a firemen's parade, then the 'Colonial Days' parade. While there were plenty of fire trucks, there were no marchers. We found this unususal, as in Connecticut, we always have marchers with each department. After a considerable wait, the next parade began, with lots of antique cars carrying Miss Colonial Day, Junior Miss Colonial Day, Mini Miss Colonial Day--well you get the idea! There were also several school bands, and of course floats. During one interval, we scooted across the street to get some hot dogs and soda. There is something obligatory about parades, hot dogs and soda don't you think?

The name "Painted Post" comes from a story about a Revelutionary War Indian chief. It seems that he was wounded and while being taken back to his tribe, died. He was burried there, and a post erected with carvings and paintings over his grave. As time went by, the post became a meeting place and travel marker. Another story is that instead of an Indian Chief, it was a soldier burried there. Either way, the post gave the town its name.

After the parade, we continued on to the Allegheny National Forest. In the town of Smethport we got a little lost, as their signage for the route we were looking for didn't exist until you get to the other side of town. It is interesting to note as we traverse our great country, states and communities do differnt things with their street signages. We are fortunate in our state and throughout all of Litchfield County, we do things just about right. James thinks it is a Yankee Doodle thing! Since it was Saturday, there were plenty of tag sales along the way. We saw the usual signs for 'tag sale', 'yard sale', 'garage sale', 'moving sale' and a new one, 'porch sale'!

We arrived at our planned campground, Red Bridge, and had the unfamiliar luxury of a complete hook-up. That is, water, electric, and sewer. The last time we were in the Allegheny's we camped at 'Morrison', That site was on the same resevoir, but we had to hike in two miles, carrying everything. We had a very private campsite that time, too, but no ammenities.

Since there are several types of camping, (which we have done all of) perhaps a little description would be helpful. There is:

Backpacking or trekking: you carry everything in and carry everything out (including trash). This is usually done in the backcountry, or wilderness. At night, if you are in an established campsite you might have a 'bear box' to put ALL of your food in and lock for the night. These are like a metal trunk or safe. They are generally found along the Appalachian Trail. If you don't have a 'bear box' handy, you have to hang your food in a tree a distance from your campsite where a bear cannot climb to get it. You don't even want to have chewing gum in your tent! All animals in the forest are not pets and need to be treated with respect and given a safe distance. In return, they all will give the gift of appreciation and wonder.

Camping or Car Camping: Generally what families do, particularly if they want to travel. They pack a tent, camp stove, table, chairs, cooler, etc. in the car and hit the road. Usually, they stop at private campgrounds like KOA or Jellystone Park, where there are lots of activities for the kids, showers, flush toilets, and often a swimming pool.

Seasonal Camping: Finding a campground you really like is often difficult. With a tent, trailer, or camper set up in one campground, there is no traveling involved, but returning to the same place makes it easy to develop friends, and not so hard on the packing and unpacking.

Traveling: What we do! Occasionally we stay in one place for a few days, but generally we stop at a Travel Center, Park and Ride, rest area, or Walmart. We don't set up camp. We go into Walmart to buy supplies and rest, read, watch a little TV or play cards and are on the road in the morning. (James uses his Sirius radio app on his smartphone to keep up with nationl news.) This is sometimes called 'Boondocking'-a mainstay of the American Vagabonds.

Well, we stayed in Red Bridge Campground in the Allegheny National Forest for two days. When we arrived, the campground Host warned us that there was a mother bear with three cubs in the area, and not to leave any food out. We should be so lucky!

Saturday afternoon we rode the scooter about 10 miles into the town of Kane for gas, and a little sightseeing. As we rode over the bridge south of the campground, we could see a high pole in the resevoir with a nest on it. In the water, an area around the pole was roped off to keep boaters away. It was either an Eagle or Osprey nest. We could see at least one bird, but from that distance counldn't tell what kind.

On Sunday, we planned a hike on the North Country Trail. The trail is over 86 miles long, but we only hiked on one small segment. We parked the scooter at the Longhouse trailhead and began our hike. The trail begins with two huge rocks that you have to squeeze between. Then it goes up, and up, and up! The ranger told us the highest elevation in that area is 2,300 feet above sea level, and we must have been been pretty close to that.

It was hot, sweaty climbing, and Joan's asthma was not helping. Along the trail, we noticed a pile of bear 'droppings' and we remembered the mother bear and her cubs. After that, we kept a watch out and made a little noise as we went so we wouldn't surprise her--but didn't see any bears. What we did see, was several old, rusting, oil rigs. We had mixed emotions seeing them. They don't belong in a natural area. If they are abandoned, they should be removed! These pumps have served their useful life!

In the morning, it was raining. James loaded the scooter and we left the Alleghenys, and headed north into New York, and then to Erie, PA. Traveling along Lake Erie on Route 5, we saw acres and acres of grape vines. According to the internet, there are fifteen companies growing, processing, and selling grapes/wine in the villages north of Erie. James often thought of the hard work of the workers in the field. We wonder how many who enjoy their glass of wine give a small thought to the workers who make this joy possible.

We stopped at Walmart. It would rain, clear, then rain again. It became very humid as we settled in for pork chops for dinner and a TV movie.

Traveling along Lake Erie, James noticed a peninsula on the map labeled Presque Isle State Park near Erie. It looked quite interesting, so we headed in that direction--and were rewarded by seeing a wonderful park with something for everyone.

At the entrance, there was an amusement park complete with water slides. There was also the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. It has 7,000 square feet of interactive exhibits.

The state park itself, is a 3,200 acre peninsula that includes 11 individual beaches with picnic tables, pavilions, restrooms and food concessions. There are boat launch areas, free lake excursions, a bike/running path the extends around the entire 11 miles of roads, and nature walks from 1/2 mile to 2 miles long.

At one end of Presque is a lighthouse that was built in 1872. The tower is 57 feet high and is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. The lighthouse still provides warning to ships, but it is a private residence. At one time it was maintained by a lighthouse keeper and his family, who were isolated for months at a time. The original keeper even wrote of the loneliness of his work. As the Americans Vagabonds find over and over is the common theme that all of America throughout its history is bonded together by the efforts and sacrifices of of the American worker.

While the park has a fragile ecosystem, there are many animals that live there along with migrating birds and Monarch butterflies. We saw deer hoof prints in the sand along the beach.

Presque Isle State Park, translated to "almost an island" is free to everyone and is a beautifully maintained area that is used by hundreds of people. Well worth a day's adventure if you are in the area.

Looking through items of interest in the town of Sandusky, we decided to take a ferry ride to see Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, located on an island in Lake Erie. The memorial is a National Park to recognize Commodore Perry and the men who fought with him in the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812.

We checked the map, got directions, and hopped on the scooter. According to the internet, Adults pay $14.00 round trip on the ferry. Also, bicycles are $4.00 and cars are $30.00. We figured the scooter would be about $10.00. When we got there, and paid for our tickets, we were told that the scooter would be $30.00---the same as a car! Since you can park four scooters/motorcycles in the space of one car, that meant that the scooter would cost four times that of a car. We said "no way" and got a refund for out tickets!

We went back to town a bit unhappy with the greed of American business. James wonders if these guys know anything about "the elasticity of demand."

The next morning, Saturday, after going to the gym and doing laundry, we read through a local "Weekender" newspaper. There were a few dances listed and one sounded pretty good so James called the number listed. It sounded like the dance club we have gone to in Keene, NH, so we got directions and arrived with time to change into our dance clothes.

We were right! It was very much like the Keene, NH dance club. Older folks (well, relatively speaking), like us, who love to dance and have a great time. A band that loves to play music--and entertain. We were welcomed by everyone with great friendliness. Several people came over to speak to us and ask where in Connecticut we were from. As we were leaving, we spoke to a gentleman who said he was 92 years old. He was spry and well versed in crafts. He told us about all of his projects that he makes with shells, wire, safety pins and a few other objects. As the other dancers were leaving the hall, they gave us a warm 'good-bye' and a 'safe trip'. Some invited us back if our travels bring us to the area! These guys are true "young at heart" hoofers.

Our plan is now to head north, to the Upper Peninsula--but you never know. Our plans are often changed by the whims of the American Vagabonds!

Pictures of summer 2014 first two weeks.

 Horse drawn hearse at Cole Transportation Museum

 Bass Lighthouse, Mount Desert Island, Maine

 James by moose statue, rest stop, Maine

 James at summit of Flyer Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine

 Joan at summit of Flyer Mountain, Acadia National Park, Maine

 Log Ladder at beginning of trail, Flyer Mountain, Maine

 Penobscot River, Bangor, Maine

 Pumper engine, Cole Transportation Museum, Bangor, Maine

 Snow roller, Cole Transportation Museum, Bangor, Maine

 Snow plow, Cole Transportation Museum, Bangor, Maine

 Seawall Campground picnic area, Acadia National Park, Maine

Dock in Somes Sound, Acadia National Park, Maine

Summer of 2013

May 23.

We had planned to leave on May 20th, but it seemed like things just kept popping up that had to be taken care of. We finally left at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, May 23rd---just as it started raining. We headed east to I-84 and north on I-91--in ever increasing rain. By the time we got to the Vermont Welcome Center on I-91 at 4:00, James decided to call it a day. Driving the VIEW, and pulling a trailer with the motorcycle and motor scooter in heavy rain wasn't fun. We had a supper of pork chops, potato fries, green beans, and French bread. Ice cream cones for dessert and went to bed.

May 24.  In the morning after a breakfast of scrambled eggs and English muffins, we headed out at 7:41 AM.  The rain continued, heavy at times, going north into the White Mountains National Forest. All the rain caused a short in the wiring of the light plug for the trailer, so we had to stop at a Dodge dealership for fuse replacement. We stayed at Walmart in Berlin, NH--and the rain continued. We had chicken, mashed potatoes and beans for supper and retired after watching a little TV and a game of cribbage (Joan won).

May 25.  Bagels and coffee for breakfast, and we left Walmart at 8:00 AM.  IN THE RAIN! At 8:20 we passed the Maine state line. We were headed to Vicky and Bill Birden's in the tiny town of Strong, ME. The Birden's used to live in Harwinton, but moved to Maine in 1996. It was Bill's 70th birthday. We arrived around 10:30 and their friends started arriving at noon--in the rain. The party lasted all afternoon in a barn warmed by a wood stove. Bill’s two sisters and brother arrived from Connecticut as a special surprise. The next morning we had pancakes and sausages for breakfast, and a good-bye to Vicky and Bill, we headed out----IN THE RAIN! James thought in biblical terms for the rain-40 days and nights? 

May 26.  We headed to Bangor, stopping at a Maine welcome center, hoping to get information on the Memorial Day celebration in Bangor. Bangor is a large city, with every mall store known to man. We found Planet Fitness to exercise and shower, and then went on to find a place to stop for the night. We made note of a Park and Ride off the I-95 exit and continued on to Walmart. We saw a Park and Ride right next to the Walmart parking lot and pulled in. We had a map of Bangor and marked out where the parade was going to be. After a game of cribbage (James won) we settled down for the night.

May 27.  We were up early, and, the sun was shining, and after breakfast, unloaded the scooter and went to check out the area where the parade route. We walked around the center of town, along the Penobscot River, which was flowing very rapidly from all the rain. We spoke to some people and mingled with the marchers until it was time for the parade to start. This was a true Memorial Day Parade, with a strong military presence-- veterans from all of the wars. There was very good attendance along the route. The only thing we found missing was no mayor or city council participating in the parade. Usually a mayor will lead the parade, but a police car and then a fire truck were in the lead.  One unique feature of the Memorial Day in Bangor is the issuance of “walking sticks” to Maine veteran’s by the Cole Musuem. To date over 7000 have been handed out. James as a veteran thought this was a nice touch by the Cole Museum and the people of Bangor to honor those who have served in the greatest military in the greatest country in the world.-the good USA. 

After the parade, we went to the Cole Transportation Museum where there were ceremonies taking place. The museum has an astounding array of transportation vehicles on display, including a covered wagon, a hand-pumper fire engine, sleds, snow plows, a train, farm tractors and everything in between. It is an amazing collection. Joan even discovered a toy train engine identical to one her brother had as a child, and his daughter, Tammie still has. There are also pictures depicting the history of transportation, including military uniforms and vehicles. Scattered throughout the museum, are manikins dressed appropriately and placed in, or by, the vehicles. Outside, there are statues and war memorials.

                The Cole Land Transportation Museum has everything from clamp-on roller skates (remember those?) to a diesel locomotive. It was the dream of Galen Cole, whose father operated a trucking business. When Galen was in the Army in WWII and survived an attack by a German tank, he vowed that if he survived the war he would “..leave my community and fellow man better than I found them.” He built the museum in 1989 after 50 years if running the trucking company and saving his money to build the museum. Many of the exhibits have been donated by friends and people in the community. The museum is truly worth a visit.

                We have mentioned many of the meals we have prepared in the VIEW this week to illustrate the normalcy of living in an RV while traveling. It is truly a ‘home away from home.’

May 28--Tuesday

We left the 'Park and Ride' in Bangor, ME and headed east toward Calais. Our plans were to enter Canada there, and travel to visit Joan's friend Anne. As it turned out, we headed 'down east' to Acadia National Park.

 

Joan has had a persistent cough. She has already been to the doctor twice and had a chest x-ray, but the cough has continued, and she developed an uncomfortable, irritating rash. We were discussing what to do when we got an email from Anne, and she told us that she wasn't planning to go to Nova Scotia yet. After a few minutes of deliberation, we decided not to enter Canada, but to stay in the US in case she (Joan) needed more medicine.

 

And so, the aborted Canadian trip became an adventure in the Acadia National Park. We stopped that night at a Walmart in Ellsworth, ME.

 

It rained again the next day. It was foggy and damp. We filled up our water and propane tanks in Ellsworth as there are few services in the park campgrounds. We thought to go to a movie, but they were only open on the weekends! Ellsworth, to James, is reminiscent, of Torrington.   It is an urban center offering many of the retailers and services the people in the outlying communities depend on.  The forecast for the next few days was sounding good, so we were happy with the change of plans.

 

We entered Acadia, which is on Mount Desert Island and decided to go to the Seawall campground. A few years ago we had stayed at the other park campground, Blackwoods, and thought to have a different experience.

 

Remember, with a "senior pass" national parks, monuments, and campgrounds are at least half price. Some are free! In the time that we have had the pass, we have saved several hundred dollars to perhaps nearly a $1,000. Well worth the initial $10.00 cost and being a senior citizen!

 

After setting up the VIEW at Seawall, we unloaded the scooter, and went to explore. The island has several small villages and harbors, as well as the National Park. We stopped at an 'Antique' (more like junk) shop and Joan bought some "pretty dishes". With the dishes packed under the seat of the scooter, we continued around the island.

 

Because the island is formed like a hand, with fjords extending up into the body of the island, we could not go on a direct route. It was north, then south, then north again. No easy way to get from one side to the other.

 

We rode the scooter up Cadillac Mountain. Last time we were there, we hiked up the mountain. On the way down, Joan took videos with her cell phone. the best one is posted on 'facebook'. Instead of guardrails on the curves, they use big stones, with space enough for a scooter to slip through! Just a little disconcerting and reason to pay attention to driving!

 

In Bar Harbor, as well as the other villages, there are loads of small shops. Boutiques, pottery studios, art gallery's, sidewalk cafes, all waiting for tourist dollars. There are also shops where you can rent a bike, canoe, kayak, or a guide. The villages must be pretty quiet in the winter!

 

We stopped at one of the cafés for a genuine Maine lobster roll (well, Joan had one) and watched the people strolling by. There was a park across the road, and many people enjoying the fine weather, as well as a young man playing Frisbee with his dog.

The harbors are all beautiful, with white sailboats and small yachts drifting about. But at low tide, there is mud and rocks!

 

On Friday, after calling the doctor for an appointment, we hiked up Flyer Mountain, elevation 284 feet, which doesn't sound very high, but remember, we started out a sea level. The first portion of the trail was several log ladders. It must have taken many hours to construct them. After the ladders, we encountered lots of tree roots and rocks on the trail. How wonderful!

 

We finally reached the summit, which overlooks Somes Sound. We could see across the water to where the boat docks for the homes stretched into the water. It was low tide, and the docks were built so that when the tide was out, the ends of the docks lowered like a ladder to a dock which sat in the water. When the tide came in, the ladder and dock would rise with the water. This way the property owners could always use their boats, high or low tide. Joan has lots of pictures, and some of the docks, and maybe she will get them out this week!

 

The trail down the other side of the mountain was mostly rock steps. Again, lots of man power to create the staircase. Towards the end of the hike, we encountered another couple. They were the only ones we saw on the trail.  We had to turn left, as to the right was "Valley Cove', and straight ahead the trail was roped off because  Peregrine Falcons we nesting in the area and hikers would disturb them.

 

We started back and the trail became a fire road--so the walking was easy here. We must comment here that we did not see any litter along the entire length of the trail. No gum wrappers, cellophane, or Gatorade bottles. The area was clean and pristine. Joan hates to see litter in the forests so this was a welcome change.

James holds to his theory that the nicest people love mother nature; and mother nature loves people because of the gift of such magnificent scenery for all to enjoy.

 

We had packed some sandwiches and drink for lunch, and decided to go back to the picnic area at the campground to eat. It is a very pretty place along the shore. After a quick stop at the VIEW to change out of our hiking boots and leave the remains of lunch, we were off to find the Azalea Gardens which we had heard so much about.

 

The gardens were something of a disappointment. Not much flowering and the arrangement of pathways left much to be desired. There was an interesting Japanese Sand Garden. If you are in Connecticut and reading this, go to Elizabeth Gardens in West Hartford in June--or anytime for that matter. It is beautiful there and beats the Azalea Garden by a mile!

 

Back at the campground, we cooked steaks on the fire and played '500 Rummy' (Joan won, but don't tell James I told. He wasn't happy to lose!)

 

June 1

We left Seawall at 8:30 AM, and headed south back home. We expected a rainy day, but instead it was beautiful! We stopped at a Maine Rest Stop, and there were large statues of a caribou, moose, and three little bears. After a quick lunch, we headed out again, and arrived back in Harwinton.

 

 Joan went to the doctor's on Tuesday and got some more medicine for her cough. The surprise was that the rash was SHINGLES. We both had the shingles shot last fall so this was a real surprise. The doctor said it was a mild case--thanks to the shot. So, if YOU had Chicken Pox as a child, get the Shingles shot now! It will most likely save you a lot of discomfort and outright pain.

 

We will be here taking care of things, and then head out again. Destination unknown until July 13 when we plan to be in Minneapolis to watch Joan's great nephew's Drum Corps International competition.

 

From Sunny Florida to Snowy Connecticut

FLORIDA AND BACK TO CONNECTICUT

                After leaving the Air Museum in Pensacola, we headed to St. Petersburg to visit with Joan's high school girlfriend, Barrie. Barrie had moved to another part of St. Petersburg since our last visit, and we weren't sure if we would be able to park the VIEW near her apartment. As it turned out, we had a perfect place on a side street at the end of Barrie's courtyard. She lives in a very nice area with brick streets and back alleyways that are used as connectors to homes.

                The next morning, Joan and Barrie walked through her neighborhood and around a small lake. There were birds, geese, and probably a few alligators in the lake, but none appeared. Barrie seemed to know all of the dogs that were out walking their masters.

                The Vagabonds stay with Barrie included a trip to the pier--which the city has plans for a rather ugly replacement. The citizens are up in arms, signing petitions, and carrying signs in protest. The American Vagabonds agree that the change is not for the better, but were not allowed to sign a petition since we aren't residents of St. Petersburg. It seems to us that visitors to the city should be able to give their opinion as that area thrives on tourism! We then hopped a trolley called the 'Looper' and took a tour of the city. For seniors the price of a ride is .25!

                The next day, Barrie suggested that we go to the Manatee Viewing Center at the Big Bend Power Station of Tampa Electric. It seems that where the heated water from the plant is discharged into Old Tampa Bay, the Manatees gather. Spectators can view the Manatees from observation platforms or walk along a boardwalk. You may also see  coastal water birds and marine life--including small sand sharks. There is a picnic area, butterfly garden, and gift shop. Anyone can view the Manatees even from home if you have a computer. Go to: tampaelectric.com/manatee and use the cameras to watch these large gentle creaatures. You can control the cameras (east or west--Joan likes the east camera) for two minutes, or longer if no one else wants a turn.

                Barrie had told us that there was a parade in Tampa called the "Gasparilla" on  Saturday. We couldn't get much information from the local citizens, but we decided to take a chance and go. This is a traditional event where a 'pirate ship' and a group of 'pirates' arrive in the bay and attack the city. After a mock battle the mayor hands over the key to the city and the partying begins.  It seems to be Tampa's answer to Mardi Gras. We got there early, parking away from the parade route and took a trolley to where the parade was supposed to be.  We were quite early, and were able to pick out where we wanted to stand. Needless to say, it wasn't the best place. As the crowds grew, we saw more and more young people drinking and partying. There were some spectators who were dressed in pirate costumes, but most wore skimpy shorts and tops. The parade started around 2:00 PM and was quite colorful with floats of 'pirates' tossing plastic beads into the crowds. The parade continued for at least three hours. We were ready to leave after two hours, but the streets were closed and we had to wait until the  end, while people screamed at the passing floats for beads.  James wrote a letter to the local newspaper expressing his dislike and disapproval of the parade, and comparing it to the much nicer Tournament of Roses Parade.

                We said goodbye to Barrie, and headed to Winter Haven to have lunch with Joan's brother, Carl, and his wife, Tammy, who had left cold Connecticut for sunny Florida. They had found a very nice condo to rent. Two swimming pools and an exercise room are added benefits. We went out to Pizza Hut for lunch and too soon it was time for the Vagabonds to leave if we were going to make it to our next stop before commuting traffic! Next year we will plan a longer visit, if they are still in Florida.

                Joan's cousin, Bruce and his girlfriend Judy, are always a fun stop in Florida. They belong to a dance club called "Boppers" and go at least once or twice a week.  Instead of staying in the VIEW for our visit, we packed up what we would need for a few days, and stayed in the condo. We unloaded the scooter, and went shopping and investigating the area. On our last afternoon at Bruce's, we went swimming in the pool. The weather was quite warm and the sun was shining all the time we were there. It was the only time on our trip that the weather was truly warm!

                It was time for the Vagabonds to start heading north, and a stop at James' son's home in Falls Church, VA. Joan had planned a visit to the archives of the Smithsonian Museum of Art to research a mural by Arthur Covey that is located in the Harwinton Elementary School. We rode the scooter to the Metro Station (a chilly ride), and took the train into Washington, DC. It is always a great place to visit. Our Nation's capital has so many museums, exhibits, and monuments that we can stop at some on every visit and still not see them all!

                We had been watching the weather, and a big snow storm was heading to New England. We had to decide whether to go home before the storm, or wait until all the roads were cleared. We decided to go before the storm, which turned out to be a blizzard, with winds, drifting snow which measured as much as 40" in some areas of Connecticut! Our back deck had a pile of snow 34" deep! The weather continued to be bad, so it is a good thing we headed home, but the American Vagabonds sure do miss that Florida sunshine!

                On this trip, the American Vagabonds traveled 8, 062 miles. We left on November 20, 2012 and returned home on February 7, 2013. We traveled through twenty states. We visited friends and relatives along the way and explored National Parks. It was a super great trip, and we are looking forward to our summer trip, which will begin after Memorial Day.

                Until then, you can Google us, look us up on YouTube (we are SuperTraveler 2012, more videos will be added soon) or check out our website  http://www.americanvagabonds.net, and re-read the blog at http://theamericanvagabonds.blogspot.com.

James and Joan

The American Vagabonds

Beautiful bronze Navy Monuments in Washington, DC.

Geese in the lake by Barrie's.

Manatee coming up for air!

Sunrise along the New Jersey Turnpike.

 

South Along the Coast

SOUTH ALONG THE COAST

It is funny, or maybe strange, how different and yet similar different areas of the country are. We see the same national chain stores, Walmart, Home Depot, Payless Shoes, and all the fast food restaurants. People in different parts of the country dress the same, considering the weather. Then, you go into a Walmart and see entire counter of spicy salsa, or Heinz Chipotle BBQ Style beans, and cans of Hominy and collard greens!

In the middle-Northern states and in the west and mid-west, train tracks are usually close by the interstates and we can hear them rumbling by during the night, sometimes blowing their whistles at road crossings. One night though, we heard a roar overhead. We were parked right at the end of a runway, and jets taking off make quite a noise!

Traveling along I-10 in a winter storm,we arrived in Fort Stockton, TX. Funny, but the last time we were in Fort Stockton, it was cold, and snowy. (Next time we will by-pass Fort Stockton!) We stayed at Walmart with about ten other RVs that wanted to stop traveling during the storm. It was like being in a campground!

The next morning we decided to do something different for breakfast, so we stopped at a little restaurant called 'Pepito's.' It appeared to be a popular place since it was filled with locals. We sat by a window and ordered. Now, this is different. The waitress went to the window and opened it. Someone was in a car outside, and ordered breakfast! It was an 'old style' drive-up window. I guess they haven't heard of microphones. A little later, a town sheriff, who was eating breakfast, got up and went to the window. He opened it and had a friendly conversation with the person in the car. The waitress arrived with the order and passed it through the window, took the payment and off drove the car!

The southern coastal states have  had some major flooding. What was a flat, dry area last time we went through, is now a large lake. This explains the long, long bridges we traveled over. One was 27 miles long! In Lafayette, LA, the Planet Fitness gym had been flooded with 3" of water. Fortunately, the exercise equipment wasn't damaged, but they have to check for mold, and replace some of the floor and wall moldings.

We had seen a flyer for a big flea market in Lafayette, LA, so on Saturday morning, that was our first stop. It was really big, with aisles inside full of vendors and some outside, too. We probably missed some of the booths, but we each purchased a little stool for sitting at parades, etc., Joan bought a pretty bracelet and a floppy hat. James bought some hose clamps. So much for the big shopping trip of the American Vagabonds! Think of the saying that one person's junk is another person's treasure.

Traveling through the southwest, we passed through towns that have songs named after them. "Is this the way to Amarillo", "City of New Orleans", and "El Paso," reminded us of those cities. Then there was Tombstone, of Wyatt Earp fame, and the Rocky Mountains, from John Denver's "Rocky Mountain High". All the old TV westerns and their theme songs come to mind when traveling along through that area.

Along the Gulf Coast, it is everything Cajun and Acadian. In Lafayette we stopped at Walmart on Evangeline Blvd. It reminded Joan of reading Longfellow's poem "Evangeline" about young lovers who were forced to relocate from the north to Louisiana by the British and became separated. They found each other at the end of their lives, and by the end of the poem, Joan was trying to hide her tears from her eighth grade classmates!

We found a dance in Mobile, AL. Actually, it was at a ballroom dance club that we had been to a few years ago. The hall was decorated for Mardi Gras. The dancers were friendly and several spent time talking to us. On to Pensacola and the Naval Air Museum where we experienced a simulation of being on an aircraft carrier flight deck. It was really cool to sit in a chair, feel the 'deck' tremble, and air blow across us as planes on the screen landed and took off! They even 'piped' in the smell of jet fuel. As he promised when we went into the chamber, James could not smell the jet fuel.

From Pensacola we drove along the coast to Florida and St. Petersburg, FL to visit Joan's high school girlfriend, Barrie, brother in Winter Haven, and cousin in Altamonte Springs.  And, from there, we will head north toward Connecticut.

Don't forget to check out our website: http://www.americanvagabonds.net
 

Arizona and Back to Texas

ARIZONA AND BACK TO TEXAS

We left Pasadena and entered the Arizona desert. Most people think of the desert as being all sand and no vegetation. There are parts of the desert with low shrubs, and beautiful cactus. The distant mountain ranges look treeless, and have unique rocky sillouttes formed by centuries of wind. They are quite beautiful and serene.

We stopped outside of Pheonix in Oro Valley to go to the gym. The mountains across from the shopping plaza were spectacular. We were going to stay at Walmart for the night, but this is an upscale area and the city has an ordinance against overnight parking. We continued on and after looking at the map, decided to take the scenic route to Theodore Roosevelt Lake.

TONTO NATIONAL PARK

Tonto National Park in Arizona is breathtakingly beautiful and the road, RT 88, is frightening for anyone only accustomed to driving in New England! Imagine traveling on a road with no guardrail, a drop of hundreds of feet, and no shoulder in a large, 5-ton RV. Up ahead is a 90 degree turn to the left and a drop straight down in front of you--no guard rail. If an oncoming vehicle takes a wide turn you have no place to go--but down or collide! But look up, and you can see the most scenic, beautiful vista you can ever hope to see. When James drives in many parts of this beautiful country he is constantly reminded of New Hampshire's State motto "Live Free or DIe," yes indeed! That is Tonto National Park! (A short video of RT. 88 is on our YouTube channel--SuperTraveler2012.)

We started on RT. 88, heading to Theodore Roosevelt Lake. As the road climbed, we went over two one-lane bridges, through a small 'frontier town' called Tortilla Flat, and past a private marina at Canyon Lake filled with boats put to bed for the winter. There is an expensive (especially for off season) campground at the marina, and a restaurant. We by-passed that and kept going--rarely seeing another vehicle. At one sharp turn, brush scraped against the VIEW. If James had moved over, we would have been across the mid-line of the road, and possibly hit an on-coming vehicle. Every once in a while we would see a sign warning of animals on the roadway. If we did meet one, it would own the road! Fortunately we did not meet any wildlife. All along the sides of the road, and the hillsides, were Saguaro Cactus. Joan loves seeing them as they seem to each have its own personality. There is a national park in Arizona named for the Saguaro Cactus, where there are pathways around the cactus. You can get up close---but not personal with the cactus.

Suddenly we came to a sign, "PAVEMENT ENDS 500 FEET AHEAD." There was a dirt road for the next 22 miles. RVs are not all terrain vehicles. We had to turn around and go back the way we came--90 degree hairpin turns, no guardrails, and narrow road. With the slow going, it was beginning to get late--and dark. James decided that it would be too dangerous to drive after dark so we found a pull-off that was fairly level and parked for the night. After eating a steak supper (we eat like we do at home) we played some cards and went to bed. We only heard two vehicles go by during the night. Night driving on Rte 88 is too exciting for us!

In the morning we continued down the mountain. After passing by the marina again, we began to meet more cars. The drivers all with two hands on the wheel--obviously concentrating on the road!

We had been having intermittent problems with our batteries. Although the three speciality batteries had been replaced in December, we woke up one morning to dead batteries. After this happened twice, we went to a dealership who did a diagnosis, but not much else. The next place, in ElPaso, was a Dodge dealership which could work on the Sprinter part of the problem, but not the Winnebago part. So the next stop was a Camper's World where the defective part was diagnosed and ordered. It had to be ordered and shipped overnight, so we packed the scooter with our overnight items, and went to a motel for the night.

The next morning we were told that 'overnight' meant it would arrive on Monday! The next two nights we stayed in the VIEW in their parking lot. On Monday night, a little skeptical of their repairs, we stayed at the Walmart in town. Our batteries were dead by 8:30 pm!! So much for their good work. On Tuesday morning we returned to Camping World and after much hassel, and much complaining to the General Manager, we finally got new batteries. Not willing to trust their workmanship, we drove to the grocery store for a few items, and back to Camping World for another night in their parking lot.

James has written many times to the news media concerning the state of American business today. The local technician you know and trust at home is not replicated all over the country. "Caveat Emptor" is required whenever repairs are necessary. For service, we say, we know, and we have experienced-"Sometimes you eat the Bear; and, some times the Bear eats you!"

End of this saga. Don't forget to check out our website, http://www.americanvagabonds.net. We added a new page 'Fitness' to evaluate gyms around the country.

The following pictures are all from Tonto National Park.

 

Tournament of Roses Parade

PASADENA>>>PLACES>>>PEOPLE>>>PARADE

Since this was our fourth trip to the Tournament of Roses Parade, we weren't going to write about it---again. But then, there are people who haven't read our previous blogs, and since we wanted to expand on what we wrote, we decided to go ahead and write.

Most people in the East watch the parade on television. It is a good way to begin the new year, relaxed in front of the TV in their 'jammies' drinking coffee. What they miss, is the before parade fun, the interaction with many local people, and the close-up look at the floats and the majesty of it all. We sit with our feet on the 'blue line' which is the closest anyone is permitted to the parade--but then I should start at the beginning.

We arrived in the Pasadena area on December 25th. After the festivities of Christmas, we rode the scooter into Pasadena, about a 30-minute ride, to scope out the area where we planned to park the VIEW (RV). There already were RVs parked on street near the end of nthe parade. The internet has a page of information on the parade, which stated no parking on the streets until noon of the 31st. We rode around, but no other RVs were in sight.

On Friday, the 28th, we had to move the VIEW for a few hours for street cleaning, so we drove into Pasadena again. We got some diesel fuel, and again looked around the streets for RVs. We saw the same ones, and were told that they would allow street parking on the 29th. Those parked earlier would receive a parking ticket! We returned to Rosemead, CA and loaded the scooter in anticipation of moving to Pasadena the next day.

We arrived and parked in 'our' spot. This is the same spot we have parked in every year. We picked it out because it is close to Colorado Blvd., has fast food restaurants and many other businesses that we frequent. It also has porta-potties, which used to be an issue, but are not an issue any more as we have the VIEW. Since where we park the road is wide, traffic is not an issue, as it is with other narrower streets.

We unloaded the scooter, and rode up and down Colorado Blvd. Now there were more and more RVs parked on the side streets. Eventually, some of the streets had up to ten RVs parked on them, making them into one-way streets!

On the morning of December 31st, we were up early and out on the sidewalk by 6:00 AM. There were one or two others out, but the dark and cold probably kept the rest in. The reason we go out that early is to reserve our space to watch the parade. After a while, the sidewalks began to fill up. People were bringing their chairs, tables, and other supplies for the day. Usually, the police drive by and make everyone stand up, but this time we were allowed to sit in our chairs against the fence. They want to keep the sidewalk open, but when everyone is standing and moving around, the sidewalk gets clogged. This way, we were sitting down, not blocking the sidewalk. There is a sort of beautifully executed and elegant anarchy to the machinations prior to the parade and we are continually amazed at how everything works out for everyone. And, the City of Pasadena, with all its experience and monetary return to the local economy, has the elements of the day down pat! We hypothesize that everyone appreciates the commitment we all share braving a certain amount of discomfort with the cold in the evening and the expected New Year's Eve hoopla that occurs on Colorado Blvd. Anyone can spend the money for a bleacher seat; but we few choose to test ourselves and our resolve to a group dynamic unique to the American Experience.

This movement usually goes on until around noon--but this year we moved up about 11:15. Moving up means you can move all of your 'stuff' up to the curb. Where we stay, it is a grassy strip between the sidewalk and the road. Once we move up and really stake our claim to about ten feet of space, we settle in for the rest of the day. This is when the classic cars, motorcycles, and bikes come out. They cruise up and down Colorado Blvd., entertaining the growing crowd. We have been trying for a few years to start a tradition of "scoring" the cars, but only having one card with a 10 and a 9 on the backside. We don't want to offend anyone, but we like some better than others. Perhaps in a few years, Southern California classic car owners will be greeted with thousands of happy spectators scoring 10, 9 and who knows what. And this all will have begun with a couple of Connecticut Yankees on Colorado Blvd. Dec. 31st, under the cover of being the American Vagabonds.

This entertainment goes on all day, and as the sun warms us we shed our heavy coats, winter hats, and gloves. We put a sign on the front of our table, "CONNECTICUT and the AMERICAN VAGABONDS salute the TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE." It gets a lot of attention, and people wave, and stop by to speak to us. This year we met folks from Winsted, Bristol, Southington, New Haven, and Manchester. One guy in a classic car remembered us from last year! He said James gave him a "10" last year too! James said he deserved it. We hope "it made his day."

We went back and forth to the VIEW to make lunch and supper, and to use the bathroom. As the crowd grew, we rode the scooter up Colorado Blvd. to see what was going on. The RVs were really pulling into the side streets. Every available parking lot had RVs parked in a line. Some were charging up to $250.00 to park for one night. The second night could cost as much as $100.00. We were parked for free!

People had filled the sidewalk with chairs, tables, cots, and piles of blankets. Rugs and tarps were put on the sidewalk to help reduce the cold from the cement. They were playing cards and boardgames, and some of the tables were loaded with food and drinks. It was a regular street party. (I took a video as James drove, and we will be putting it on our YouTube channel as soon as we can.)

When it started to get dark, and colder, the coats and hats came back on. Fire pits were lit as were propane heaters to ward off the cold. The classic cars disappeared and out came the silly string and tortillas covered with shaving cream. These were thrown at passing cars (which is why the classic cars disappeared) which became covered with 'glop', but also shot back with ammunition. We were bombarded with marshmallows at one point, but that was our only attack---only here in Pasadena!

The girls next to us were running out into the street to throw things, and the police, who patrolled constantly, told them to stop as it was dangerous in the street. One of the girls began to talk back, and the officer said, "I can issue a citation and you will be removed from the parade route." That ended that! Both thge city of Pasadena and the LA County Sheriff's Department do an impressive job of keeping people safe, but not dampening the spirits of the crowds.

There were vendors working the street, and one guy with three youngsters stop to ask where we were from. He was originally from New Haven, and frequently visited his grandmother who still lived there. Everything you might find at a parade was on sale. There was even pizza delivery. James wants to test his theory of being there with nothing save his good spirit and see if the masses will take care of him. Joan thinks NOT!

At 11:00 PM we were allowed to move up to the famous 'blue line' painted on the street. This is the closest anyone can get to the parade, and where we spend the night. We got into our sleeping bags and chairs, but the street was still alive. It was very cold, in the low 30's, and as prepared as we were, we were still cold and didn't get much sleep. Other years Joan slept like a rock, but not this year. Finally, she went to the VIEW to sleep for about an hour.

What she missed, was the 5:30 wake-up call. All of the tow trucks that pull the broken floats(?) in the parade drive down Colorado Blvd. with air horns blasting, waking everyone who is still asleep. This is a tradition! As we began to pack up our things, crowds of people began to fill in behind us. The stands behind us probably hold 5,000 people, and seats go for $45.00 - $90.00 along the route. We get a front row seat for free. The crowd is so thick, that people cannot get to the stands and their seats.

In past years, a Stealth Bomber flies over the parade route as the parade starts at 8:00 AM. We were out in the street with cameras ready, when the police told us that the bomber would not fly over until the Korean Memorial Float began the route. Every year Joan has wanted to get a picture of the Stealth, but it comes so quickly and quietly, it is nearly impossible. This year she did get a picture, but not a good one. (It is in the pictures at the end of the blog.)

The parade got to us around 9:00 AM. The beautiful floats, bands, and horses were led by Grand Marshall, Jane Goodall. A perfect and most deserving Grand Marshall.

As soon as the parade was over, the crowd began to disperse, leaving behind garbage. We carried our things to the VIEW, and since the traffic is horrendous, we had lunch and loaded the scooter. We didn't plan to leave for at least an hour.

What everyone watches on television is nothing like the real parade. Next year, anyone wishing to see the parade and all the festivities, is welcome to join us. Bring food and drink, bring warm clothing and chairs; but, most importantly bring a spirit of adventure and friendliness. You will experience a wonder of the American Spirit occurring once a year in Pasadena, USA--the Tournament of Roses Parade.

We will have front row seats saved for you when you get there!


 

Stelth Bomber and Goodyear Blimp.

Bikers before the parade started.

A car covered with silly string.

Crowd waiting for the parade.

Cool motorcycle with sidecar.