Sunday,July 29, 2007
We packed up once again and headed east. We took the back roads of S. Dakota and found not very many people travel on them. What senic views and wonder times can be had traveling the slower lanes. The best item for travel on back roads is there is hardly a billboard in sight. Not many travel these roads so they are on the interstate roads.
We have wonderful friends in Watertown, S.D. and that is where we are for the next two nights. Bob and Eve were at a friends party, but Eve took time out to open the house for us. What a wonderful view they have from the front room. It reminds us of our home at Canadian Lakes, you sit and can see the lake. Great thoughts.
Tom and Nancy decided before arriving at Eve and Bob's that they would fill the motor home with gas. At the station Nancy thought she would put things away so when they arrived the motor home would be great. Nancy went to open the shower door and the shower door fell off and the door fell out of the frame work and Nancy got a nice gash on her forhead. It bleed like crazy and now she has a gash on her forhead. Not, bad but there. Eve does not want anyone to think that this happened because she was in S. Dakota.
We had a wonderful visit last night and today (Monday) we are off and running.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Spearfish Canyon
Saturday, July 28, 2007
What a wonderful day for a ride. The morning was crisp cool weather so we started out layering our clothing. We rode the interstate highway to Spearfish, S.D. finding road 14A. We start out in the city of Spearfish, nothing to write home about. Nancy was wondering if she made a mistake in wanting to ride the canyon.
Not more than a few short miles down the road, Nancy and Tom were treated to some of the most magnificent scenery that they have had the pleasure riding. The curves were gentle, the sun shining and the stream beside the road was gently flowing. Wow, what a nice ride. Just about 10 miles into the canyon we were treated to the "Bridal Veil Falls". Thinking we would have to take a short ride off the main road we were pleasantly surprised to find the falls right alongside the main road. We took lots of photos, and met many bikers stopping to admire the falls. About this time one layer of clothing came off.
Continuing down the road every turn we were treated to high canyon walls of stone, some so high you can't begin to guess how high they were. The little stream continues almost all the way on the canyon road. Some places so picture perfect, and always a gentle reminder how we have so many beautiful places to visit in America.
We made it into Deadwood, where Nancy wanted to go to the Harley Shop. We had lunch in Deadwood and from there back to the campsite is about14 miles. It is a nice ride, but Tom and Nancy enjoyed the ride down Spearfish Canyon so much they decided to return to the canyon and travel it the other way. Wow, both ways are neat and so very pretty. If you get the chance to visit here, I strongly recommend visiting Spearfish Canyon.
What a wonderful day for a ride. The morning was crisp cool weather so we started out layering our clothing. We rode the interstate highway to Spearfish, S.D. finding road 14A. We start out in the city of Spearfish, nothing to write home about. Nancy was wondering if she made a mistake in wanting to ride the canyon.
Not more than a few short miles down the road, Nancy and Tom were treated to some of the most magnificent scenery that they have had the pleasure riding. The curves were gentle, the sun shining and the stream beside the road was gently flowing. Wow, what a nice ride. Just about 10 miles into the canyon we were treated to the "Bridal Veil Falls". Thinking we would have to take a short ride off the main road we were pleasantly surprised to find the falls right alongside the main road. We took lots of photos, and met many bikers stopping to admire the falls. About this time one layer of clothing came off.
Continuing down the road every turn we were treated to high canyon walls of stone, some so high you can't begin to guess how high they were. The little stream continues almost all the way on the canyon road. Some places so picture perfect, and always a gentle reminder how we have so many beautiful places to visit in America.
We made it into Deadwood, where Nancy wanted to go to the Harley Shop. We had lunch in Deadwood and from there back to the campsite is about14 miles. It is a nice ride, but Tom and Nancy enjoyed the ride down Spearfish Canyon so much they decided to return to the canyon and travel it the other way. Wow, both ways are neat and so very pretty. If you get the chance to visit here, I strongly recommend visiting Spearfish Canyon.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Mt. Rushmore
Friday, July 27, 2007
This morning we decide to take the Mt. Rushmore trip. We head to Deadwood and go through town to find route 385 to Mt. Rushmore. The road is full of curves, uphills and downhills a lot of different speeds. We wind our way around and through the hills and finally heading uphill we start to see the famous faces on the side of the mountain. What a view!
We arrive to the entrance to the parking lot, and wait there is a parking fee. The fee for an auto is $8.00, a motor home $10.00 and a bus $50.00. We get to the gate to pay and they tell us it will be $16.00 for the two motorcycles. Wait, we can see the famous faces down the road, so turn around and head back. We go about 1 mile down the road to get our pictures. It is like about the 3 time to Rushmore for Nancy and the 2 time for Tom. Enough! All our other ventures we had a senior pass to National Parks and that gets both of us in.
From Mt. Rushmore we think we will take the way into Rapid City. We arrive in Rapid City and think we should fill the gas tanks. From the filling station Nancy sees a Black Hills Gold Jewelry Outlet. We had to go and check it out. Nancy just can't find anything she wants, so we leave. Thinking we should go into the Harley Shop we head north out of town.
Finding the Harley shop we made a few wrong turns, but we did arrive and look at the shop. They are setting up lots of tents for the Sturgis Bike Rally. They are not dealing on motorcycles, so we head out. Before we head out we ask the salesman if there is a back road we can take to get to Sturgis. Wow, we asked the right person. He told us the back roads and what a ride it was. Remember how I said we had a few 8% grades (?) well this route gave us a few 10% grades. I am certainly learning how to make the curves and hills much easier.
We stopped along the way at the little creek running beside the road. Nancy wanted to take pictures. It was a great stop, very photo perfect.
Arriving in Sturgis we made our way back to the campsite via Main Street and Lazelle Street. They set up more tents every day. We stop and look at a few of the different tents. What an assortment of t-shirts. Every shop has zillions of tees, not what we want. We are looking for saddlebags for Nancy and roll bags for both Tom and Nancy.
Arriving back at the campsite for a few hours, then we go to Pizza Hut for dinner. When we are finished eating we walk outside to rain. Oh well, they need rain here in Sturgis so we ride home in the rain. What a wonderful day. We rode about 150 miles today.
This morning we decide to take the Mt. Rushmore trip. We head to Deadwood and go through town to find route 385 to Mt. Rushmore. The road is full of curves, uphills and downhills a lot of different speeds. We wind our way around and through the hills and finally heading uphill we start to see the famous faces on the side of the mountain. What a view!
We arrive to the entrance to the parking lot, and wait there is a parking fee. The fee for an auto is $8.00, a motor home $10.00 and a bus $50.00. We get to the gate to pay and they tell us it will be $16.00 for the two motorcycles. Wait, we can see the famous faces down the road, so turn around and head back. We go about 1 mile down the road to get our pictures. It is like about the 3 time to Rushmore for Nancy and the 2 time for Tom. Enough! All our other ventures we had a senior pass to National Parks and that gets both of us in.
From Mt. Rushmore we think we will take the way into Rapid City. We arrive in Rapid City and think we should fill the gas tanks. From the filling station Nancy sees a Black Hills Gold Jewelry Outlet. We had to go and check it out. Nancy just can't find anything she wants, so we leave. Thinking we should go into the Harley Shop we head north out of town.
Finding the Harley shop we made a few wrong turns, but we did arrive and look at the shop. They are setting up lots of tents for the Sturgis Bike Rally. They are not dealing on motorcycles, so we head out. Before we head out we ask the salesman if there is a back road we can take to get to Sturgis. Wow, we asked the right person. He told us the back roads and what a ride it was. Remember how I said we had a few 8% grades (?) well this route gave us a few 10% grades. I am certainly learning how to make the curves and hills much easier.
We stopped along the way at the little creek running beside the road. Nancy wanted to take pictures. It was a great stop, very photo perfect.
Arriving in Sturgis we made our way back to the campsite via Main Street and Lazelle Street. They set up more tents every day. We stop and look at a few of the different tents. What an assortment of t-shirts. Every shop has zillions of tees, not what we want. We are looking for saddlebags for Nancy and roll bags for both Tom and Nancy.
Arriving back at the campsite for a few hours, then we go to Pizza Hut for dinner. When we are finished eating we walk outside to rain. Oh well, they need rain here in Sturgis so we ride home in the rain. What a wonderful day. We rode about 150 miles today.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Devil's Tower Ride
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Not sure where to ride to today. We must decide between Mt. Rushmore and Devil's Tower. Nancy wants to head to Devil's Tower as we have been to Mt. Rushmore. (back in 1984) So it is off to ride to Devil's Tower.
We get an early start, thank heavens it rained last evening. It cooled the earth around here off. The only bad part is it is mostly overcast. But the temperature is more normal, 74. We have local maps and find the ride that is for Devil's Tower and follow the recommended route. We head out on back country roads. They are U.S. highways, but since the interstate went in not to heavily traveled. That makes for a nice ride for us.
Arriving at the Wyoming border we take time for photo shots. After all we are tourists. Some guys heading into S. Dakota offered to snap a photo of the two of us at the border. Nice. We continue on thru rolling hills, taking curves and uphills and downhills. One steep grade was an 8% downhill grade, thank heavens for low gear!
We arrived at Devil's Tower close to noontime. We took time to just sit and enjoy the view. What spectacular scenery. I recommend everyone take the time and go see this site.
Leaving Devil's Tower the suggested route us through Sundance. We think that little town would be a great place to eat lunch. We head into town and find a corner restaurant, lots of locals heading into the place. That's where we decide to eat. Wow, typical small town - good food.
Leaving Sundance the tour now puts us on the interstate. But, wait it starts to sprinkle. We take time out and shop in Sundance for awhile. When we come out of the general store, it is still sprinkling, so we decide to go ahead and head for home.
We get out on the interstate and the rain disappears. How lucky can we be? So we head for home and warmth. Did I tell you the temperature dropped? well, it did and we were glad we had worn our warm clothes.
All in all our ride was about 160 miles through the Black Hills. What a great experience.
Our internet hookup speed is so slow I can't be bothered with trying to send any pictures.
Not sure where to ride to today. We must decide between Mt. Rushmore and Devil's Tower. Nancy wants to head to Devil's Tower as we have been to Mt. Rushmore. (back in 1984) So it is off to ride to Devil's Tower.
We get an early start, thank heavens it rained last evening. It cooled the earth around here off. The only bad part is it is mostly overcast. But the temperature is more normal, 74. We have local maps and find the ride that is for Devil's Tower and follow the recommended route. We head out on back country roads. They are U.S. highways, but since the interstate went in not to heavily traveled. That makes for a nice ride for us.
Arriving at the Wyoming border we take time for photo shots. After all we are tourists. Some guys heading into S. Dakota offered to snap a photo of the two of us at the border. Nice. We continue on thru rolling hills, taking curves and uphills and downhills. One steep grade was an 8% downhill grade, thank heavens for low gear!
We arrived at Devil's Tower close to noontime. We took time to just sit and enjoy the view. What spectacular scenery. I recommend everyone take the time and go see this site.
Leaving Devil's Tower the suggested route us through Sundance. We think that little town would be a great place to eat lunch. We head into town and find a corner restaurant, lots of locals heading into the place. That's where we decide to eat. Wow, typical small town - good food.
Leaving Sundance the tour now puts us on the interstate. But, wait it starts to sprinkle. We take time out and shop in Sundance for awhile. When we come out of the general store, it is still sprinkling, so we decide to go ahead and head for home.
We get out on the interstate and the rain disappears. How lucky can we be? So we head for home and warmth. Did I tell you the temperature dropped? well, it did and we were glad we had worn our warm clothes.
All in all our ride was about 160 miles through the Black Hills. What a great experience.
Our internet hookup speed is so slow I can't be bothered with trying to send any pictures.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Arrival!!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
When we awoke this morning, it was once again HOT! Can't begin to tell you how bad the heat is at this time. Overnight it doesn't even get down to 75. Normal temperature for July in this part of the country is 72. How is that for extreme heat?
Nancy does not want to ride her bike on the gravel as it is loose and can be really hard for a novice rider. Nancy calls ahead to a campground in downtown Sturgis. They aren't open, for another half hour, so she leaves a message. When they get in, they return Nancy's call and tell Nancy to come on up, they have room.
Tom and Nancy do a quick pack-up of the motor home and remember that the generator did not work. Tom thinks it might be because they are out of propane, and he looked in the manual and it told him his generator is probably a propane generator instead of a gasoline generator. So Tom stops for propane before leaving from this campsite and hopes this solves the problem.
Pulling out of the campground Nancy and Tom head west to Sturgis. They arrive about 9:30 A.M. The transmission was fine on the drive and Nancy and Tom decide that the motor home was just hot from driving and the temperature the day before. The new campground is so nice. It has lots of trees and has full service.
After going into Sturgis on the bikes, they decide to head to Deadwood. What a beautiful ride, it is about 15 miles away, and the road is gentle rolling hills, and lots of turns. One stop is the Harley store. They look at lots of black hills gold jewelry stores, NO purchase. But, after this time the sky looks a little black and so we head back to our campsite.
When we awoke this morning, it was once again HOT! Can't begin to tell you how bad the heat is at this time. Overnight it doesn't even get down to 75. Normal temperature for July in this part of the country is 72. How is that for extreme heat?
Nancy does not want to ride her bike on the gravel as it is loose and can be really hard for a novice rider. Nancy calls ahead to a campground in downtown Sturgis. They aren't open, for another half hour, so she leaves a message. When they get in, they return Nancy's call and tell Nancy to come on up, they have room.
Tom and Nancy do a quick pack-up of the motor home and remember that the generator did not work. Tom thinks it might be because they are out of propane, and he looked in the manual and it told him his generator is probably a propane generator instead of a gasoline generator. So Tom stops for propane before leaving from this campsite and hopes this solves the problem.
Pulling out of the campground Nancy and Tom head west to Sturgis. They arrive about 9:30 A.M. The transmission was fine on the drive and Nancy and Tom decide that the motor home was just hot from driving and the temperature the day before. The new campground is so nice. It has lots of trees and has full service.
After going into Sturgis on the bikes, they decide to head to Deadwood. What a beautiful ride, it is about 15 miles away, and the road is gentle rolling hills, and lots of turns. One stop is the Harley store. They look at lots of black hills gold jewelry stores, NO purchase. But, after this time the sky looks a little black and so we head back to our campsite.
More Travel
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
This morning Tom got up early and started getting ready to travel even before Nancy was up. It was going to be another HOT day! We started out early, not sure how far our travel would take us today. We crossed the Missouri River today. Sure is nice, I take pictures out the front window of the motor home. Tom says they don't turn out to good, but when your on the road you don't want to stop 15 million times for Nancy to take pictures.
We tour the Badlands today. We go into the park and ride in the motor home through the park. It is so beautiful, but so ungodly hot that we can't take the time to totally enjoy all we would like.
Tom called ahead and we found a campground in Black Hawk, S.D. It was just west of Rapid City and we figured it might be a good place to make the motorcycle trips from. We arrived about 5:30 local time (MDT) and arriving from the interstate highway we found a gravel road to take us into the campground. Tom also turned around right then and there. We had to travel almost a mile on a dirt/gravel road. Nancy said let's stay the night and decide what to do tomorrow morning.
Had a nice steak dinner over the grill, but it was unbearably hot today. We found that with temperatures over 100 the motor home did not like the heat too much. Tom thought at one point that we had transmission trouble. Also when we tried to start our generator it would not work. Oh, what do we do? We read the manuals and see what they say. Good thing all the manuals were packed.
This morning Tom got up early and started getting ready to travel even before Nancy was up. It was going to be another HOT day! We started out early, not sure how far our travel would take us today. We crossed the Missouri River today. Sure is nice, I take pictures out the front window of the motor home. Tom says they don't turn out to good, but when your on the road you don't want to stop 15 million times for Nancy to take pictures.
We tour the Badlands today. We go into the park and ride in the motor home through the park. It is so beautiful, but so ungodly hot that we can't take the time to totally enjoy all we would like.
Tom called ahead and we found a campground in Black Hawk, S.D. It was just west of Rapid City and we figured it might be a good place to make the motorcycle trips from. We arrived about 5:30 local time (MDT) and arriving from the interstate highway we found a gravel road to take us into the campground. Tom also turned around right then and there. We had to travel almost a mile on a dirt/gravel road. Nancy said let's stay the night and decide what to do tomorrow morning.
Had a nice steak dinner over the grill, but it was unbearably hot today. We found that with temperatures over 100 the motor home did not like the heat too much. Tom thought at one point that we had transmission trouble. Also when we tried to start our generator it would not work. Oh, what do we do? We read the manuals and see what they say. Good thing all the manuals were packed.
Days of Travel
Monday, July 23, 2007
Monday we left Hickory Hollow campground and headed west. We made it to Souix City North, South Dakota. What a long drive. We travel no faster than about 65 mph. But we called ahead and went to a KOA Kampground. It was nice, but the heat was unbearable. The temperature was over 100 and we were cooking. The a/c was on for the drive and when we stopped we had a hard time getting the motorhome cooled down. But, finally it did cool down. The campground had lots of trees, but we were just there for the night as we wanted to get to Sturgis, S.D. The campground was just inside S.D. at exit 2 off I-29.
Monday we left Hickory Hollow campground and headed west. We made it to Souix City North, South Dakota. What a long drive. We travel no faster than about 65 mph. But we called ahead and went to a KOA Kampground. It was nice, but the heat was unbearable. The temperature was over 100 and we were cooking. The a/c was on for the drive and when we stopped we had a hard time getting the motorhome cooled down. But, finally it did cool down. The campground had lots of trees, but we were just there for the night as we wanted to get to Sturgis, S.D. The campground was just inside S.D. at exit 2 off I-29.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Sunday Ride
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Today we get to stay in the same campsite. What a relief. Nancy has time to wash all the dirty clothes. What fun, the chores follow you on vacation. Tom does a few odd jobs around the motor home and comes to help bring the laundry home.
After a visit with fellow neighbor campers we get the bikes ready for our ride to Peoria. What a beautiful day for a ride. We leave the campground for a wonderful ride and get about 10 miles away when we come to a bridge that isn't there. No detour signs to help us. Just a road closed sign. We figure a way around this obstacle and get a few more simple cities away only to discover that another bridge is out, and no detour signs. We look at the GPS and find a way to head back toward the campground. We find Starved Rock State Park on the way home and ride through it. Beautiful, and it doesn't cost to get into it. What's wrong with this picture?
Well, we head back to the campground. Don't know if we will head out again or just sit tight.
On our ride thru the community of Standard, Tom makes a quick u-turn. It is because he spotted a beautiful sign that we took a picture of just for Jack and Connie. Yes, it's a picture of a huge sign for Indian motorcycles.
Today we get to stay in the same campsite. What a relief. Nancy has time to wash all the dirty clothes. What fun, the chores follow you on vacation. Tom does a few odd jobs around the motor home and comes to help bring the laundry home.
After a visit with fellow neighbor campers we get the bikes ready for our ride to Peoria. What a beautiful day for a ride. We leave the campground for a wonderful ride and get about 10 miles away when we come to a bridge that isn't there. No detour signs to help us. Just a road closed sign. We figure a way around this obstacle and get a few more simple cities away only to discover that another bridge is out, and no detour signs. We look at the GPS and find a way to head back toward the campground. We find Starved Rock State Park on the way home and ride through it. Beautiful, and it doesn't cost to get into it. What's wrong with this picture?
Well, we head back to the campground. Don't know if we will head out again or just sit tight.
On our ride thru the community of Standard, Tom makes a quick u-turn. It is because he spotted a beautiful sign that we took a picture of just for Jack and Connie. Yes, it's a picture of a huge sign for Indian motorcycles.
Hickory Hollow and the motor home of many moves
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Today we get to move back to a full hook-up site. Wow, we are tired of moving all in the same campground. But, move we do. We think either today or tomorrow we want to ride down the Illinois River to Peoria. Talking with Greg and Lynn we deceide to go into Plainfield today and the ride on the river tomorrow. We look at maps and find yet another way to get to their home. We head west a little then get on route 34 and go north and east to find our way into Plainfield. Nice ride.
We are going to take them to an early dinner at b.d.'s mongolian grill. We all go in Lynn's vehicle to a new mall where the restaurant is. Have a good dinner then Tom and Greg want to go to the Bass Pro Shop (bigger than the one in San Carlos Park) and Lynn takes Nancy to a colorific. The colorific is closed so we head back to Bass Pro Shop and the girls love the fish tank and the tents.
We head back to their home and then we hightail it back to our campsite. We arrive just as the sun sets. Home again feeling safe and sound.
Today we get to move back to a full hook-up site. Wow, we are tired of moving all in the same campground. But, move we do. We think either today or tomorrow we want to ride down the Illinois River to Peoria. Talking with Greg and Lynn we deceide to go into Plainfield today and the ride on the river tomorrow. We look at maps and find yet another way to get to their home. We head west a little then get on route 34 and go north and east to find our way into Plainfield. Nice ride.
We are going to take them to an early dinner at b.d.'s mongolian grill. We all go in Lynn's vehicle to a new mall where the restaurant is. Have a good dinner then Tom and Greg want to go to the Bass Pro Shop (bigger than the one in San Carlos Park) and Lynn takes Nancy to a colorific. The colorific is closed so we head back to Bass Pro Shop and the girls love the fish tank and the tents.
We head back to their home and then we hightail it back to our campsite. We arrive just as the sun sets. Home again feeling safe and sound.
Ride to Illinois Milton's
Friday, July 20, 2007
O.K. today we must move to another campsite. This one has only water and electric, no sewer hook-up. We must move by 12:00 noon, but must wait until the other person has vacated that spot. We move and have everything set by 11:30. Today we find another route to get into Plainfield. Greg is playing golf but we get to visit with Lynn, Emily and Allison.
We leave and have a great ride home
O.K. today we must move to another campsite. This one has only water and electric, no sewer hook-up. We must move by 12:00 noon, but must wait until the other person has vacated that spot. We move and have everything set by 11:30. Today we find another route to get into Plainfield. Greg is playing golf but we get to visit with Lynn, Emily and Allison.
We leave and have a great ride home
Visit from Lynn, Emily & Allison
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Today Lynn, Emily and Allison came out to Hickory Hollow campgrounds. Emily and Allison played with a Frisbee and also on the playground equipment. The girls also had fun in Grandma and Grandpa's house on wheels. Greg stayed at home, a load of mulch was to be delivered and he wanted to spread that before starting his new job. His mulch came late, but by the time Lynn and girls were to leave he had the back yard all done.
This is the afternoon that Tom tried to get satellite television for the motor home. He called direct t.v. and after about 3 hours getting no where he thought o.k. dish network it is. He called dish network and had it all set for someone to come out and do an install on Tuesday afternoon. Dish called back 2 hours later to confirm the appt. for Tuesday afternoon and asked about installing the pole. Tom said "no pole, it's for a motor home" at that time she said they don't install in motor home. Now we need to get a refund for the satellite system that can't be installed as they don't do motor homes. He spent about one hour trying to get a refund.
And again another night with television.
Today Lynn, Emily and Allison came out to Hickory Hollow campgrounds. Emily and Allison played with a Frisbee and also on the playground equipment. The girls also had fun in Grandma and Grandpa's house on wheels. Greg stayed at home, a load of mulch was to be delivered and he wanted to spread that before starting his new job. His mulch came late, but by the time Lynn and girls were to leave he had the back yard all done.
This is the afternoon that Tom tried to get satellite television for the motor home. He called direct t.v. and after about 3 hours getting no where he thought o.k. dish network it is. He called dish network and had it all set for someone to come out and do an install on Tuesday afternoon. Dish called back 2 hours later to confirm the appt. for Tuesday afternoon and asked about installing the pole. Tom said "no pole, it's for a motor home" at that time she said they don't install in motor home. Now we need to get a refund for the satellite system that can't be installed as they don't do motor homes. He spent about one hour trying to get a refund.
And again another night with television.
Leaving the Farm
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Tom and Nancy left the farm in the morning hours. On the way north they ran into a slight drizzle. Nancy called ahead and reserved a campsite at Hickory Hollow. They had room for them, but they would have to move to different campsites. Well, a nice week-end loomed ahead on the horizon so they said o.k. to moving.
We arrived early afternoon and set up. A little later the drizzle stopped and out came the bikes. We checked back roads and discovered a nice ride into Plainfield using all highways, but the likes of which aren't heavily traveled since the inter-states came into use. We rode into the kids for a short visit. It really was fun. We left in time to arrive back before dark.
Tonight it rains and we just get into bed and hear a loud ker-plunk! Then another, ker-plunk followed but yet another ker-plunk. Tom asks what is that noise??? Nancy responds after much thought, well this campground is named Hickory Hollow, you don't think that maybe the Hickory nuts are falling on our roof? Solved that one, didn't I?
Tom and Nancy left the farm in the morning hours. On the way north they ran into a slight drizzle. Nancy called ahead and reserved a campsite at Hickory Hollow. They had room for them, but they would have to move to different campsites. Well, a nice week-end loomed ahead on the horizon so they said o.k. to moving.
We arrived early afternoon and set up. A little later the drizzle stopped and out came the bikes. We checked back roads and discovered a nice ride into Plainfield using all highways, but the likes of which aren't heavily traveled since the inter-states came into use. We rode into the kids for a short visit. It really was fun. We left in time to arrive back before dark.
Tonight it rains and we just get into bed and hear a loud ker-plunk! Then another, ker-plunk followed but yet another ker-plunk. Tom asks what is that noise??? Nancy responds after much thought, well this campground is named Hickory Hollow, you don't think that maybe the Hickory nuts are falling on our roof? Solved that one, didn't I?
Tom's Arrival
Tuesday July 17, 2007
Today, just a trip into Moroa, when Nancy & Tom picked up the motor home Fourwinds forgot to have them sign some paperwork. Nancy signed the paperwork so they could get reimbursed from the company for all the work they did on the motor home.
Then from there Carol and Nancy headed into Decatur. We went to the mall as it was a rainy day and we thought it might be fun. We ate lunch in Decatur before heading back to the farm.
After dinner that evening we heard from Tom. We had left Ft. Myers on Air Tran about 3:30 in the afternoon. By 5:00 he was in Atlanta. Well, everyone knows what a nightmare that airport can be....his plane for the next leg of his flight was late arriving in Atlanta so, he had a longer than planned for delay. But, by this time Nancy knew that his i-pod was not working and that they both had forgotten to pack the power supply for the computer. What to do? Call Connie!!
Connie was due to leave on vacation the next day, but, bless her heart she went to Nancy's home and found the power supply. She took it to Barb who UPS next day aired to Nancy and Tom's sons home in Plainfield, IL. From there it found it's way to Nancy and Tom. Thank heavens for good friends.
Tom was due to land in Bloomington/Normal about 10:05 that night. Mel and Nancy left for the airport about the same time Tom left Atlanta. When Mel and Nancy got to the road (I-74) it was CLOSED! Nary a sign posted as to a detour. What to do? Lo, and behold a McDonald's on the corner. Drive in thru the drive thru and ask where the road to Bloomington is? Get gal she gave us directions and we found our way to the airport. We arrived just as Tom's plane arrived so we did not even have to park. He walked out the jet way and into the airport out the front door and into the car. Great service.
Today, just a trip into Moroa, when Nancy & Tom picked up the motor home Fourwinds forgot to have them sign some paperwork. Nancy signed the paperwork so they could get reimbursed from the company for all the work they did on the motor home.
Then from there Carol and Nancy headed into Decatur. We went to the mall as it was a rainy day and we thought it might be fun. We ate lunch in Decatur before heading back to the farm.
After dinner that evening we heard from Tom. We had left Ft. Myers on Air Tran about 3:30 in the afternoon. By 5:00 he was in Atlanta. Well, everyone knows what a nightmare that airport can be....his plane for the next leg of his flight was late arriving in Atlanta so, he had a longer than planned for delay. But, by this time Nancy knew that his i-pod was not working and that they both had forgotten to pack the power supply for the computer. What to do? Call Connie!!
Connie was due to leave on vacation the next day, but, bless her heart she went to Nancy's home and found the power supply. She took it to Barb who UPS next day aired to Nancy and Tom's sons home in Plainfield, IL. From there it found it's way to Nancy and Tom. Thank heavens for good friends.
Tom was due to land in Bloomington/Normal about 10:05 that night. Mel and Nancy left for the airport about the same time Tom left Atlanta. When Mel and Nancy got to the road (I-74) it was CLOSED! Nary a sign posted as to a detour. What to do? Lo, and behold a McDonald's on the corner. Drive in thru the drive thru and ask where the road to Bloomington is? Get gal she gave us directions and we found our way to the airport. We arrived just as Tom's plane arrived so we did not even have to park. He walked out the jet way and into the airport out the front door and into the car. Great service.
Afternoon of Fun
Monday July 16, 2007
Today we take it early in the morning. Carol had a doctor appt. When she came back to the farm, we ate lunch then Carol and Nancy headed out. We took our Mah Jongg sets into Monticello (Nancy's) and played Mah Jongg. We had two tables, one a four some the other a three some. Nancy answered any questions the players had. It was a learning experience for some and for the others just a clarification of rules. All in all it was nice.
Today we take it early in the morning. Carol had a doctor appt. When she came back to the farm, we ate lunch then Carol and Nancy headed out. We took our Mah Jongg sets into Monticello (Nancy's) and played Mah Jongg. We had two tables, one a four some the other a three some. Nancy answered any questions the players had. It was a learning experience for some and for the others just a clarification of rules. All in all it was nice.
Tom and Saturn to Florida
Sunday July 15, 2007
Early this morning Tom left to drive the Saturn back to Florida. He called every few hours to report how far he had driven. After church, Carol and Mel came back to the farm and collected Nancy. We all went into Campaign for dinner. After dinner Carol and Nancy just had to have Mel take them to Michael's and JoAnn to shop. Then we headed back to the farm. (Just love saying back to the farm) Carol and Nancy did some cross-stitching and Mel went into the den and read some.
Before long it was nightfall and Nancy called Tom he was in south Georgia. By the time Nancy headed out to the motor home Tom was in Florida. Tom rested at the Florida Welcome Center for a few hours then he continued his drive south.
Early this morning Tom left to drive the Saturn back to Florida. He called every few hours to report how far he had driven. After church, Carol and Mel came back to the farm and collected Nancy. We all went into Campaign for dinner. After dinner Carol and Nancy just had to have Mel take them to Michael's and JoAnn to shop. Then we headed back to the farm. (Just love saying back to the farm) Carol and Nancy did some cross-stitching and Mel went into the den and read some.
Before long it was nightfall and Nancy called Tom he was in south Georgia. By the time Nancy headed out to the motor home Tom was in Florida. Tom rested at the Florida Welcome Center for a few hours then he continued his drive south.
Great Day - All the Milton's
July 14, 2007
Saturday - Our daughter-in-law Lynn had called on Friday asking us to come to their home in Plainfield because all the grandchildren would be there on Saturday. Jeff, Amy and their 3 girls were in Chicago for trips to the museums and Shedd Acquarium and would be visiting on Saturday and wouldn't it be nice to have a family reunion. That was a BIG draw for us and so we took the trip up to Plainfield. What fun to see all the children playing and enjoying each other. It was a wonderful day. One certainly to be remembered.
All the grand children were there and so were our kids. Jeff and Amy arrived about 4:00 in the afternoon. We arrived earlier so we had time with Greg, Lynn and their two.
Emily and Lindsay are seven years old. So mature. They both have had their ears pierced this year, and Grandma and Grandpa purchased Disney pierced earrings with birthstones.
Marjorie, the five year old was so cute with her new haircut.
Then the babies, Katie and Allison. They are now three and so cute. What a joy to be able to see them all play together.
We had a cook-out and Greg grilled. Lynn made baked beans and the usual stuff one finds for a picnic. What a great time.
Motor Home finally ready
July 13, 2007
Friday the 13th. Not an unlucky day for us. We picked up the motor home and went back to the farm and plugged in. We had a nice cement pad to park the motor home on. Tom and Mel did some welding so we could pull the trailer a bit better behind the motor home. Actually Mel did the work and Tom watched. I think Mel had a good time with a job to do. He did a professional looking job. Carol and Nancy went shopping and of course that was a good time. That night we went to the Monticello Country Club for dinner with lots of people, some we knew and we met many new friends of the Gulley's. What a great day!
Friday the 13th. Not an unlucky day for us. We picked up the motor home and went back to the farm and plugged in. We had a nice cement pad to park the motor home on. Tom and Mel did some welding so we could pull the trailer a bit better behind the motor home. Actually Mel did the work and Tom watched. I think Mel had a good time with a job to do. He did a professional looking job. Carol and Nancy went shopping and of course that was a good time. That night we went to the Monticello Country Club for dinner with lots of people, some we knew and we met many new friends of the Gulley's. What a great day!
On the Road, Again
July 12, 2007
6:15 AM, Again on the road early in the day. Leaving Dalton, Georgia we were headed for Carol and Mel's in Illinois. We arrived in Cisco, Il. about 4:30ish. The trip was about 1200 miles so we made good time. We never drove over 65 mph. Tom's worrying about the Saturn making the trip was unfounded. The car made the trip just fine. This day was great as Justin called from Fourwinds RV and told us our motorhome was finally fixed and we could pick it up on Friday. As almost everyone knows we had been having trouble with the jack's and they needed to be replaced and the wiring replaced and the computer replaced. Boy talk about luck. We spent the night in the guest room at Gulley's.
6:15 AM, Again on the road early in the day. Leaving Dalton, Georgia we were headed for Carol and Mel's in Illinois. We arrived in Cisco, Il. about 4:30ish. The trip was about 1200 miles so we made good time. We never drove over 65 mph. Tom's worrying about the Saturn making the trip was unfounded. The car made the trip just fine. This day was great as Justin called from Fourwinds RV and told us our motorhome was finally fixed and we could pick it up on Friday. As almost everyone knows we had been having trouble with the jack's and they needed to be replaced and the wiring replaced and the computer replaced. Boy talk about luck. We spent the night in the guest room at Gulley's.
Summer Vacation
July 11, 2007
6:12 AM, We left home early in the morning. Taking time out for driver breaks and eating we arrived in Dalton, Georgia about8:15 PM Found a motel and asked the clerk where there were places to eat within walking distance. We walked across the street to an O'Charley's and had a late dinner. It was the first time we had ever eaten at the O'Charley's chain and it was good!
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