Dancing toward Wyoming Spring - 2013

     We left the Roost in Casa Grande, AZ on May 1st.  We had endured temperatures over 100 degrees the last week, while packing up the motor home and summerizing the 5th wheel and shed.  We tried to work early in the morning before it got too hot, but were glad to head to cooler temperatures in the White Mountains.  Since we're looking at Show Low for a future summer getaway, we wanted to check the area out in more detail.  As you drive into the area, you're definitely in the forest.

       I checked out their aquatic center where I found they had about 6 different water fitness classes, five days a week.  I attended one class and was very favorably impressed with the pool, showers, etc.  Gary checked out the Senior Center and their billiard schedule.  There aren't any pool leagues there, but they do have regular tournaments.  He played in two of them at two different places while we were there, meeting a lot of the other pool players.
      Bandit checked out the dog park and seemed to be quite satisfied with the size of it and the number of trees.  It was huge and he enjoyed being able to run and run.  They even had a separate area for timid dogs.
      I had already checked out the main quilt store, but was pleasantly surprised to find there was a new one and a gift shop that was also carrying fabric.  I went to a show and tell at the new shop and heard some of their plans for the future. We also looked at the library, their historical  museum, city hall, etc.  I think it's a great community and we look forward to getting to know it better.
       Show Low is a town named by the turn of a card.  Here is a picture of the statue and plaque commemorating it.  The original game took place in a ranch house at the top of the hill in the background.

      We took one day and drove east to visit the towns of Greer, Springerville, and Eagar.  We were going to do that when we were here two years ago, but the huge Wallow fire prevented it as the towns were evacuated and the roads closed.  Below are mountains above Greer.  They were able to save the town, but you can see the devastation caused by the fire on the mountains.

       Eagar and Springerville are located a few miles apart and together make up Round Valley, with a population of about 9,000.   Located in Eagar is the Ensphere, the only high school domed football stadium in the United States.  It has permanent seating for 3500 and 1500 removable seats.  120,000 sq. feet of unobstructed floorspace provides for a football field as well as seven basketball, volleyball, or tennis courts.  There is a 200 meter track and dressing and locker facilities for simultaneous use by up to four teams.  The dome is 104 feet high.

     We were lucky to have our stay in Show Low overlap the arrival of good friends Suzannah and Frank from Yuma, so we were able to visit with them.  They are the ones who introduced us to this area, and peaked our interest.  We look forward to spending more time with them when we return in July.
     Next it was time to head for Utah.  After spending one night at Canyon de Chelly, we headed for Gooseneck State Park in Utah.  We had visited there before, but not stayed.  The river below makes two huge S curves to form the "goosenecks."  Take these two photos side by side to get the idea.









  
     Although they list four campsites, there were sixteen units there the night we stayed.  The area is quite large, so no one was right next to anyone else, unless they wanted to be.  All camping was boondocking without hookups, of course.  
     Heading straight north from there is a road to Natural Bridges.  On that road is the Moki Dugway, a 3 miles stretch of gravel road with tight 5 mph curves and 10% grades.  As a result we have never driven that.  We were towing our fifth wheel before, and were not allowed on that stretch.  We had instead driven the long way around that area, adding about 45 extra miles to the trip.  This time, we unhitched the car and went to investigate.  Gary felt that unhitched, we would be able to drive it, so the next morning we headed out.
      Gary went first with the motorhome.   I let him get far enough ahead so I wouldn't be tempted to watch him.  Did  I mention that parts of the road are one lane wide, without guard rails, and a 1,000 foot drop?  Needless to say, I kept  my hands on the wheel and repeated to myself, "Don't look down,"  all the way up.  In the areas where I needed to pass someone, I either went to the inside or waited in a sufficiently wide area until there was  no one else on the road.  Here are some pictures.

     Although you can't see the road, this is the hill we are going to climb.  There really is a road!

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This is the road to the one fenced overlook, by the bulge.  You can see a little of the road and fence.

Here is the overlook itself.  A nice wide turn and a good area to pass or let others pass.

And at last, the view from the top!!!  Boy was that a relief. 

    Once we had gathered our wits, and hooked up the car, we continued on.   We passed this area of a northern stretch of the Colorado River and Lake Powell, or what was Lake Powell.  You can see how most of this area that was once under water is now exposed.

 

     Then it was on to Goblin Valley State Park.  It's a favorite spot of Gary's sister, Pam and her husband, Jim.  They usually make reservations and camp there over Mother's Day weekend.  This is the second time we've joined them there.  It's fun place and this year I could hike with them among the goblins in the valley.  The picture below gives you a taste of it, but it is so big, it is hard to capture it in a photo.

     After several days there it was time for the last part of our trip to Evanston.  It's always exciting to get the first sighting of the snow on the Rockies.

     Driving  up Provo Canyon, we watch for Bridal Veil Falls.  This year I got a really good picture.

     We arrived in Evanston on May 13th and are parked at our daughter's house.  We've been enjoying catching up with family and old friends.  We took a ride out to Bear River State Park today to see the elk in velvet and the five baby bison (buffalo).  Another rite of Spring in Evanston.

     The one sad note to report is that we lost our beloved Rusty.  He traveled with us all 13 years of our fulltime adventure and visited all 48 lower states.  He dipped his paws in the Atlantic, Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, and Lake Superior.  A seasoned traveler, he even visited Mexico City and Canada.  Rusty turned 15 years old last month and had gone downhill the last couple weeks until we felt that it was time.  As those of you with furry members of your family know, that is such a gut wrenching decision to make.  Finally on May 16th, Rusty crossed the Rainbow Bridge to join Spicy and run free again in the long grass.  He was such a joy and we treasure the memories he gave us.  Thanks to all of you who sent us notes on Facebook.  Here's a photo I found of  Rusty at one year old, a real charmer!

     That's it for now.  The next few weeks will be busy with two high school graduations and more catch up with kids, grandkids, and hopefully some great-grandkids.  We'll do some camping in the mountains in June and then head for Escapade in Gillette, WY.
     Until then we're Dancing Down the Road in Evanston.......................
     Love and hugs,  Katy, Gary, and Bandit

Dancing thru Lost Dutchman, California, and Phoenix, 2013

      The temperatures are in the 90’s, the Saguaro’s and hedgehogs are blooming, and graduations are approaching.  All are signs that it’s time to be getting back on the road. 

Saguaro in Bloom

Hedgehog in Bloom

      Our past couple months have been jam packed with activity.  We went to Lost Dutchman State Park, by Apache Junction, for a five day mini-rang, as the Boomers call their rallies.  There were about 10 rigs there, so it was a nice turnout.  Our views were spectacular, as usual, and this year I was able to do some hiking as well, thanks to the new ankle.

Gary and Pam lead the way

Views of Superstition Mountains from our rigs at Rally

     Everyone shared their talents.  Leland set up a terrific telescope for a wonderful star star show,  Ken brought his guitar to enjoy at the camp fire, Steve and Pam led some great hikes, and I even led a short session on Laughter Yoga.  Of course we also visited Tortilla Flat and enjoyed the western atmosphere and great views out there. 




    

Ken and Joan

       The last day several of us rode Phoenix’s new lite rail system across town to the Old Spaghetti Factory for lunch.  It was a great adventure and the ones who usually do all the driving in city traffic got to really enjoy themselves.   Lunch at the Spaghetti Factory is always good.  I’d forgotten how good their Mizithra cheese is and bought some to bring home.
  

Lite Rail approaching.

All Aboard!

Boomer Mini-Rang at Lost Dutchman State Park

     The week after we returned I went on a three day Quilter’s bus trip to Eleanor Burn’s studio and store in San Marcos, California.  There were 46 of us on the bus.  We stopped at Cozy Quilts in El Cajon the first day and had a great trunk show by Sandy Thompson, who showed us what great things we can make with selvages.  For the non-sewers out there, selvages are what you rip or cut off the edge of your fabric, before sewing with it.  They are usually discarded.  When I got home, I tried it out and quickly made bags for my I pad and camcorder. 

Bags made from Selvages

Eleanor Burns and I

Classroom at Quilt In a Day Studio

     The second day we went to Eleanor Burn’s.  She greeted us and put on a great show about our country’s First Ladies and quilt blocks named after them.  She also showed us many of her antique quilts.   Eleanor always dresses the part and infuses a great deal of humor into her shows, so it was not only interesting but really funny. 

Eleanor as Eleanor Roosevelt with Antique Quilt

Eleanor with Storm at Sea Quilt

 We had a gourmet box lunch served to us there and then that afternoon she put on another show about some of her new, modern patterns.  Of course we had plenty of time for shopping in between.

    That night we went to dinner and a magic show at the Lawrence Welk  resort.  Then it was off early the next morning to Rosie’s Quilt store in San Diego, before heading back to AZ.   One of the gals had the idea to pass a paper around for everyone to write down how much they had spent in just the 3 quilt stores.  All done anonymously of course.  We totaled it when it came back to us and all together we had spent almost $13,000 at the 3 stores.  With 46 of us  on the bus it was an average of about $282 per person.  Yes, there was room on the bus for all our purchases, but we definitely made California a little greener with our visit.

      In April, Riki and I attended the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation (NFFF) Annual Survivor’s Conference in North Phoenix.  I picked Riki up at the airport on my way to the Hotel on Saturday, we attended Peer Support Training all day Sunday, and the Conference was Mon-Wed, with about 136 attending, plus staff from NFFF.

Peer Support Training Group

       It was really an amazing experience, full of tears and laughter.  We had workshops to choose from each morning and afternoon, plus some special activities.  I had met some of the mothers 8 years ago when we went to Emmitsburg, but like most attendees, that week is still a a bit of a blur.  The NFFF has a special closed group on Facebook, where many of us share our feelings, as we each travel our journey of losing a beloved firefighter in the line of duty.  It was wonderful to finally meet some of these incredible ladies in person.  We hope to be able to attend next year’s conference, close to St. Louis, MO.

NFFF Survivor's

       Monday evening the Hall of Flame in Phoenix opened their doors to us for a private visit though their museum and Hall of Heroes.  After that we were taken to Old Scottsdale for some shopping and dinner on our own.  Somehow I wound up at a Sushi bar with Riki and new friends.  Although I didn’t plan it, I was the one wound up ordering an actually eating some raw fish.  (Who knew “seared” only meant the edges?)  I have to say it was really good.  One more thing I didn’t know I had on my bucket list is crossed off. 

     Tuesday night entertainment was provided by Yellow Bird Family Company, including the 2011 World Champion Hoop Dancer.  They have performed all over the world and were fantastic.  This is an interesting photo I took.  Yes, he was moving that fast.

Yellow Bird Dance Company

      At the closing ceremonies on Wed. afternoon, we all followed the bagpiper to a grassy area where we were given butterflies to release.  It was an incredibly moving experience.   That night Riki drove us and new friend to the Hard Rock Cafe in Phoenix.  She wanted to get her daughter a pin from there.  We were lucky there were no athletic events going on as it’s located by Chase Field and their Events center. 

Hard Rock Cafe, Phoenix, AZ

Bagpiper Brian

Butterfly Ready to Fly 

      The eighth anniversary of Robert’s death was the same day we all went to Sedona and the Grand Canyon on two large buses.  It’s always a hard day, but the tears, laughter, and bonding with new friends sure made it easier this year.  Because it was late, one of the NFFF staff had ordered pizza to be delivered to the hotel that night.  It was a great trip, highlighted by seeing two condors.  Great views brought back memories of our  hikes.

Riki & I at Grand Canyon

Bell Rock at Sedona

     I almost forgot to mention that our rooms were actually suites with separate living rooms, fridges, and microwaves in each room.  We were luck to have our room right outside the swimming pool on the ground floor.  Friday morning Riki and I took one last swim, and hot tub dip before we checked out.  I dropped her off at the airport on my way back to Casa Grande. 

View from our suite!

     Bandit has been going to school the past five weeks and will graduate this Saturday.  He's done great and works so hard to please us.   However it wears him out and he requires a nap when we get home.  At least that's what Gary says, so he can join him.

Worn out Bandit

     Gary was a great sport about my trips and stayed home to care for the dogs.  Of course he also played billiards with his team and entered a few tournaments as well.   Overall, we've had a great Spring and are now looking forward to two more high school graduations (Meghan and Amber), visiting with family and Wyoming friends, Escapade in Gillette, WY, (Row reps for RoVer's Roost this time), travel, and Show Low, AZ.
     We’re going to get the Motor Home Saturday to start packing, and hope to leave on Wed. May 1st.   We’re going up to Show Low for a few days to look around some more, as that may be a  future summer residence.  Then we’ll meet Gary’s sister, Pam and brother-in-law, Jim for a fun few days at Goblin Valley State Park in Utah.  We plan on getting to Evanston, WY around May 15th.  

Dancing on down the road................................
Hugs, Katy , Gary, Rusty and Bandit

Dancing to Deja Vu All Over Again......

     I can't believe it's been over two months since I did my last blog.  Believe me, we have been really busy.   Christmas was made more special when our daughter-in-law, Anna, her fiance Lynn, and their five teenagers made a trip to Phoenix to visit Lynn's parents.  We were glad to drive up to go out to dinner with them.  It was fun seeing family over the holidays. 
     Just as I was feeling like getting more active again, the Board of Directors here at RoVer's Roost came to us once again and said the current managers would be leaving the first of the year and asked us to work in the office temporarily.  As you recall this happened in the Spring of 2012, when we worked through March and April.  We once again said yes, but also emphasized that we really hoped it would be temporary.  (Deja vu all over again.)  We were assured advertisements were already underway.
     With that in mind, we started to retrain and by the first of the year were once again working four days a week in the office.  I had thought I could stay off my feet pretty easily and keep my ankle elevated.  This turned out to be much harder than I thought, as the various tasks took me from one section of the office to another.   It was also far different from the slower pace the end of March and April, as January and February are the busiest time of the year.  I also had to curtail my physical therapy to once a week, but after reviewing this with my Dr., I received his blessing.  By about three weeks into it, I was adjusting and it was getting easier being on my feet.  The hiring committee worked hard and were interviewing four couples by the end of January, with one hired to replace us.  They started training right away and our last work day was Feb 13th.   We were re-re-retired again!!! 
     I had set a goal of dancing on New Year's Eve and was able to meet that without problem.  We enjoyed a New Year's Eve party at our clubhouse and I danced several dances.  Not ready for polkas or 10 steps yet, but we sure enjoyed the two-steps and waltzes.  It was the usual Senior New Year's Eve, with the party lasting until we watch the ball drop in New York, at 10pm AZ time.
     Since then Gary and I have gone dancing on a couple of Friday evenings to the live country bands at one of the other RV parks in Casa Grande.  Gary especially enjoys being able to dance with me without my having a death grip on  him.  Between the pain and trying to stay mainly on one foot, before surgery, I used to grip his arm and shoulder really hard.   Now I have a much lighter touch and it's getting better all the time.  Even the turns and twirls are coming around and getting better.  I've also tried a few line dances and enjoy those as well.
     We've been anxious to replace our couch for sometime and finally found something that fit and we both liked.  We actually got two chairs without arms.  They are super comfy and although it was a little low, Gary built feet to elevate it a few inches.  The cushions can be flipped and interchanged, unlike our previous couch.  When the back cushions are removed it becomes a very comfy bed as well.   The covers are machine washable and replaceable as well.  We're looking forward to enjoying it for many years.

     RoVer's Roost has a fundraising week once a year in February.  This year it was called the "Odd Week" with many fun activities.  During our daily social  hour, there was an odd hat day, odd shoe day, nerd day, and backwards day.  Gary really got into the spirit coming up with great costumes for every day, except the one we worked.  I had knit a bearded hat at the request of grandchildren.  We kept it and it made a great hat for Gary.  In fact it was so great, he was indicted for  "impersonating a terrorist" later that week at our Kangaroo Kourt, found guilty and fined four cans of food for our local food bank.  Below are the pictures of some of his outfits.  Keep in mind this is from someone I have a hard time getting to dress up at Halloween.  Also remember that he designed all his costumes by himself.

Odd Hat Day

Nerd Day

Backwards Day

Impersonating a Terrorist

Kangaroo Kourt

      Odd week was a great success with over $5500 being raised for the park and tremendous fun for all.  Part of the fundraising is a great raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses and people in the park.  We were lucky this year and won several, including an 8 inch cake from Dairy Queen, two large pizzas from Pizza Hut, a $20 gift card from In & Out Burger, and two tickets to the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum (one of our favorite places).  Friends of ours won a 30 day pass to LA Fittness, but couldn't use it.  Knowing I'm still rehabing my ankle, they offered it to me.  They have an Aqua Fit (water aerobics) class six days a week.  I've been going every day and really enjoying the workout.  The only downside is the 12 mile drive to the gym and pool each day.  Evanston spoiled me when we're at Riki's with only a mile to the Rec Center and their water aerobics classes.
      The weather changed quickly after that great week and Arizona was blessed with some of that white stuff we escape, but our friends and family live with all winter.   There was a golf tournament in the Tucson area that was postponed when over 4 inches of snow fell on the course.  Here's a beautiful picture of snow in the desert by Saguaro National Park and one I took of the mountains, about 20 miles west of our park

Desert Snow

Tabletop Mtn Snow

     We also heard of a geologic event taking place on Hiway 89 just south of Page.  This is our most frequent route driving north in the Spring and south in the Fall.   As you can see, we'll be taking some detours for awhile.


As I read about this, it seems the road was built over a previous landslide that has reactivated.  You can see by the white rock at the top and then part way down the hill.  The article I read, said it was a primer on how NOT to build a road.

     The road is the black ribbon you see stretching across the picture, before the landslide resumed.  The picture above that shows some of the damage.

      Last night we were fortunate to have Nancy Ruybal and Stewart MacDougall perform in our clubhouse.  They both write and play fantastic country western music.

Nancy Ruybal and Stewart MacDougall

     As I look ahead, it's a good thing we're not working, as we have more exciting plans for this Spring and Summer.   This Sunday our park is going to a dinner performance of Marty Haggard (son of Merle Haggard).   The third week of March, we're attending a rally at Superstition Mtn. State Park, just outside Apache Junction, AZ for a week.  The week after that, I'm going on a quilting trip to San Diego, where I'll attend a class at Eleanor Burn's studio.  She is an internationally known quilter, author, pattern, and fabric designer.  I've been lucky enough to meet her a couple times, but have always wanted to visit her studio.  The Casa Grande quilters are traveling by bus and will be stopping at quilt shops on the way.
     In April, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is having their annual Survivor's Conference in Phoenix.  Riki is flying down for this, so we'll be roommates.  We are both attending a peer support training exercise just prior to the conference, and after four days of seminars and meeting with other survivors, we'll end it with a bus trip to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. 
     By the end of April, we'll be Dancing on Down the Road again toward Goblin Valley State Park in Utah, where we'll meet Gary's sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Jim for a fun week of camping and a great start to our summer activities.    We are so blessed and lucky to be able to live this great lifestyle.
      We hope to see you while Dancing-On-Down-the-Road.......................
      Hugs, Katy, Gary, Rusty, and Bandit