From Las Vegas, NV, N 36° 05.386’ W 115° 15.719’
Day 106, the last.
Moving day again, up early getting ready to move. Before unhooking I decided to try the cache in the river bed again. This time the gate opened on the first try. I did prop it open just in case. It was an easy walk to the cache along a dirt trail beside the dry river bed. Got it, that makes 285 for this trip.
We were on the road by 8:15. I only got boxed in one time going over Tehachapi so we made good time. We stopped for lunch in Lynwood and then continued on I-15 to Las Vegas. No problems along the way and only two stops.
We got home about 2 and were met by a parade, Capt. Janet and her dog, Sgt. Sugar. Dana and the kids came over, great to see the little ones.
We did get some things unloaded, but have more to do tomorrow.
I probably won’t do many Blogs until we are traveling again. Who knows I might get fired up.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
September 16, 2010
From Bakersfield, CA, N35°22.741’ W119°2.797
Day 105
Before going to Benji’s I did two caches that were near the Park.
We had been to Benji’s a few years ago, but it was a lot better than we recalled. Gerri had Calves Liver, Glenna had the Shrimp Scampi and I had Duck in a green peppercorn sauce. If you aren’t familiar with Basque Restaurants, they serve what are called “set ups”. The set up consisted of pinto beans, soup, sliced tomatoes w/onions in vinegar, sliced tongue, green beans in a tomato sauce and French fries. We all brought food home.
Day 105
We were up early and getting ready to leave Skyline Park. Before we left we notice some balloons flying, they were pretty far off.
We decided to drive back through Fairfield on CA-12 to pick up CA-99 to Bakersfield. I did a cache at a rest stop. We only made one other stop, this one for fuel.
We got to Bakersfield at about 4. This park had good reviews and lived up to them as it is a gem.
We decided to go to a local Basque Restaurant, Benji’s. It is on Rosedale Highway where we turned into the park.
Before going to Benji’s I did two caches that were near the Park.
We had been to Benji’s a few years ago, but it was a lot better than we recalled. Gerri had Calves Liver, Glenna had the Shrimp Scampi and I had Duck in a green peppercorn sauce. If you aren’t familiar with Basque Restaurants, they serve what are called “set ups”. The set up consisted of pinto beans, soup, sliced tomatoes w/onions in vinegar, sliced tongue, green beans in a tomato sauce and French fries. We all brought food home.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
September 15, 2010
From Napa, CA, N38°16.688’ W122°14.967
Day 104
In the morning I went caching, bagged 5.
Gerri and I drove to St. Helena and back seeing the sites. Lots of fields with grapes. We wanted to get a picture of the train but missed it somewhere.
Day 104
In the morning I went caching, bagged 5.
Gerri and I drove to St. Helena and back seeing the sites. Lots of fields with grapes. We wanted to get a picture of the train but missed it somewhere.We had supper at the Olive Tree Inn. I had Spaghetti and Meat Balls, Gerri had Cannelloni and Glenna had Eggplant Parmigiana.
A little route planning and then to bed. We plan on spending tomorrow night in Bakersfield.
September 14, 2010
From Napa, CA, N38°16.688’ W122°14.967
Day 103
We slept in today. There was morning fog and it was conducive to sleeping in and being lazy. We decided to cancel the lunch and ride on the train, in favor of doing nothing.
Gerri and Glenna relaxed at the motorhome while I did a few nearby caches and some grocery shopping. While doing caches I went by another RV Park, the Napa Valley Expo. It’s on the county fairgrounds and is much nicer than where we are staying, concrete pads, grass and paved roads. It is in town, so it may not be a quiet as Skyline. Maybe we will try it next time.
I visited briefly with a couple of neighbors and then just hung out till bedtime.
We had left over enchiladas for supper, they get better but are now gone.
Day 103
We slept in today. There was morning fog and it was conducive to sleeping in and being lazy. We decided to cancel the lunch and ride on the train, in favor of doing nothing.
Gerri and Glenna relaxed at the motorhome while I did a few nearby caches and some grocery shopping. While doing caches I went by another RV Park, the Napa Valley Expo. It’s on the county fairgrounds and is much nicer than where we are staying, concrete pads, grass and paved roads. It is in town, so it may not be a quiet as Skyline. Maybe we will try it next time.
I visited briefly with a couple of neighbors and then just hung out till bedtime.
We had left over enchiladas for supper, they get better but are now gone.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
September 13, 2010
From Napa, CA, N38°16.688’ W122°14.967
Day 102
We were up early for moving day. Our plan is to make it to Napa, CA, 191 miles away with one planned stop. We want to stop at the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, CA.
We were ready to leave by 9. I pulled a bone head stunt, I drove away from the site without unplugging the shore power. This was the first time in 36 years of motor homing. I had even walked around the coach twice making sure jacks were up, awnings all in, no obvious leaks, etc. There was no damage to the power pedestal and only a little bending of the blades on the plug, I was lucky again.
The drive from Reno over the mountains and on to Fairfield was through some beautiful mountain scenery with no serious grades followed by a lot of hills and farmland. There was a harrowing stretch of construction in the mountains. On this part of I-80 this is a yearly event, repair the highway before the snow flies. The difference this time was 6 miles of white knuckle driving between Jersey Walls that seemed much too close together for a 8’6” wide vehicle.
At about Truckee, CA I needed to stop. I had seen a rest stop sign and another sign directing all trucks to enter there. We pulled in and the CHP wouldn’t let us park, saying they were checking trucks all day. I had to pull on to the shoulder of the on ramp so everyone could “rest.” We didn’t understand why they were using the rest stop as a check station since we had already passed at least two closed weigh stations and a large agriculture inspection station. Even after 36 years working in a large bureaucracy they still baffle me.
Somewhere along the line Gerri looked at out dinner reservations for the Wine Train in Napa and saw that they were for tonight. We were a little concerned about stopping at the Jelly Belly Factory and the time and distance to the campground, considering a 5:30 check in for the train ride.
We got to Fairfield a little before noon and decided to go ahead with the factory tour. These factory tours are always interesting. Often time we don’t realize the process that goes into making products that we use. The tour was about 40 minutes and was a walking tour with a free package of beans at the end. Afterwards we sampled a few flavors of Jelly Bellies, bought some and were on our way. During our travels we have toured many factories. Harley Davidson, Hershey Chocolate (and other chocolate makers), Homer Laughlin (and other Pottery makers), a Fleetwood motorhome plant, Spartan and Freightliner chassis plants and others I can’t recall. The Jelly Belly factory had the highest level of noise in the process than any others we have been to.
The distance from Fairfield to Napa was shorter than I thought and we were in the Skyline Wilderness Park by 2 PM. Plenty of time to get set up, rested and refreshed before going to the train.
Since Glenna uses a walker the train staff gave us a head start on the other passengers. We had booked a table in the Vista Dome car. This meant there were a lot of steps for Glenna to negotiate. But, she made like a trooper. The train goes about 30 miles, from Napa to St. Helena, a leisurely trip of about four hours, including loading and unloading. The ambiance was great with waiters and staff that spoke with accents no one could understand.
The meal was several courses. You do know I’m going to bore you with the menu don’t you?
Hors d’Oeuvre; Glenna had Grilled Shrimp with Scallop Seviche in a Lobster Jus Garnished with Salmon Roe. Gerri and I had Seared Foie Gras on Wild Mushroom Polenta in a Cognac Sauce.
First Course; Gerri and Glenna had Soup du Jour. Roasted tomato with shrimp. I had Beet Carpaccio Salad with Baby greens, Camozola Cheese and candied Walnuts in a Mustard Vinaigrette. Gerri won’t touch a salad with beets.
Intermezzo; a trio of Sorbet’s, lemon coconut and raspberry. I even liked the coconut.
Entrée; Gerri and Glenna had the Fresh Seafood, it was grilled Swordfish with Baked Tomatoes Spinach and a sauce, remember I couldn’t understand the waiter so I don’t know what it was really called. I had the Grilled Lamb Chop with Caramelized Onions and Herb Roasted New Potatoes with Goat Cheese Sour Cream.
Dessert; Glenna and I had Crème Brulee and Gerri had Tiramisu, this was followed by excellent coffee for Gerri and me.
The meal was served at a leisurely pace during the ride to St. Helena. The train ride starts in downtown Napa, not too scenic. A lot of construction and some junky places. After leaving town the scenery changed to rows of grapes all the way to the mountains on both sides of the valley. The fields are in various states of growth and interspersed with house and buildings associated with wine production. We passed through a couple of towns so there were the expected residences and business area along the way. We were stopped in St. Helena for about half an hour and were invited to see the rest of the train including the kitchen car. Since there were so many stairs involved we declined.
Day 102
We were up early for moving day. Our plan is to make it to Napa, CA, 191 miles away with one planned stop. We want to stop at the Jelly Belly factory in Fairfield, CA.
We were ready to leave by 9. I pulled a bone head stunt, I drove away from the site without unplugging the shore power. This was the first time in 36 years of motor homing. I had even walked around the coach twice making sure jacks were up, awnings all in, no obvious leaks, etc. There was no damage to the power pedestal and only a little bending of the blades on the plug, I was lucky again.
The drive from Reno over the mountains and on to Fairfield was through some beautiful mountain scenery with no serious grades followed by a lot of hills and farmland. There was a harrowing stretch of construction in the mountains. On this part of I-80 this is a yearly event, repair the highway before the snow flies. The difference this time was 6 miles of white knuckle driving between Jersey Walls that seemed much too close together for a 8’6” wide vehicle.
At about Truckee, CA I needed to stop. I had seen a rest stop sign and another sign directing all trucks to enter there. We pulled in and the CHP wouldn’t let us park, saying they were checking trucks all day. I had to pull on to the shoulder of the on ramp so everyone could “rest.” We didn’t understand why they were using the rest stop as a check station since we had already passed at least two closed weigh stations and a large agriculture inspection station. Even after 36 years working in a large bureaucracy they still baffle me.
Somewhere along the line Gerri looked at out dinner reservations for the Wine Train in Napa and saw that they were for tonight. We were a little concerned about stopping at the Jelly Belly Factory and the time and distance to the campground, considering a 5:30 check in for the train ride.
We got to Fairfield a little before noon and decided to go ahead with the factory tour. These factory tours are always interesting. Often time we don’t realize the process that goes into making products that we use. The tour was about 40 minutes and was a walking tour with a free package of beans at the end. Afterwards we sampled a few flavors of Jelly Bellies, bought some and were on our way. During our travels we have toured many factories. Harley Davidson, Hershey Chocolate (and other chocolate makers), Homer Laughlin (and other Pottery makers), a Fleetwood motorhome plant, Spartan and Freightliner chassis plants and others I can’t recall. The Jelly Belly factory had the highest level of noise in the process than any others we have been to.
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| The guy on the left made Jelly Bellies famous |
The distance from Fairfield to Napa was shorter than I thought and we were in the Skyline Wilderness Park by 2 PM. Plenty of time to get set up, rested and refreshed before going to the train.
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| Glenna and the Car Captain |
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| Happy diners |
The meal was several courses. You do know I’m going to bore you with the menu don’t you?
Hors d’Oeuvre; Glenna had Grilled Shrimp with Scallop Seviche in a Lobster Jus Garnished with Salmon Roe. Gerri and I had Seared Foie Gras on Wild Mushroom Polenta in a Cognac Sauce.
First Course; Gerri and Glenna had Soup du Jour. Roasted tomato with shrimp. I had Beet Carpaccio Salad with Baby greens, Camozola Cheese and candied Walnuts in a Mustard Vinaigrette. Gerri won’t touch a salad with beets.
Intermezzo; a trio of Sorbet’s, lemon coconut and raspberry. I even liked the coconut.
Entrée; Gerri and Glenna had the Fresh Seafood, it was grilled Swordfish with Baked Tomatoes Spinach and a sauce, remember I couldn’t understand the waiter so I don’t know what it was really called. I had the Grilled Lamb Chop with Caramelized Onions and Herb Roasted New Potatoes with Goat Cheese Sour Cream.
Dessert; Glenna and I had Crème Brulee and Gerri had Tiramisu, this was followed by excellent coffee for Gerri and me.
The meal was served at a leisurely pace during the ride to St. Helena. The train ride starts in downtown Napa, not too scenic. A lot of construction and some junky places. After leaving town the scenery changed to rows of grapes all the way to the mountains on both sides of the valley. The fields are in various states of growth and interspersed with house and buildings associated with wine production. We passed through a couple of towns so there were the expected residences and business area along the way. We were stopped in St. Helena for about half an hour and were invited to see the rest of the train including the kitchen car. Since there were so many stairs involved we declined.All in all this was a very pleasant evening. The only problem was that they couldn’t seem to regulate the dining car’s temperature it was much too cold most of the time. Wear a jacket or sweater if you go.
Back at the coach we were pretty tried so it was early to bed. I think Gerri was still feeling the effects of getting up at 4 AM to go to the Balloon Glow in Reno on Saturday. Glenna had done more walking and stair climbing than she had done for a long time.
I repeat, all in all a good day. Not too long a drive, interesting places and a great meal.
Monday, September 13, 2010
September 12, 2010
From Reno, NV, N39°34.084’ W119°49.365’
Tomorrow it’s off to Napa Valley with a stop in Fairfield to see the Jelly Belly Factory.
Day 101
We started the day by tuning in the webcast from the Oakey Blvd. Church.
Gerri and I went to visit Don Damitz in the afternoon. Don used to live in Las Vegas, He volunteered at UMC and the Police Department. I met him when I was Captain at the Downtown Area Command. Don lived on St. Louis in what was known as the naked city. He came to all the First Tuesday and other community meetings. He was a great help and we became good friends. Don is confined to a wheelchair and moved to Reno several years ago to be closer to relatives in the Sacramento area. Don’s nephew Gary was in town visiting too. We hadn’t seen him for several years. So we had a good visit. Gerri also got Don signed up on Facebook. We will see if he uses it very much.
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| Goodbye Reno G's |
Kathleen came to the RV Park at 4 and we visited and had supper before she and Gerri went to pick up the girls from their dad’s house. Gerri visited with the girls until their bed time and I picked her up.
Tomorrow it’s off to Napa Valley with a stop in Fairfield to see the Jelly Belly Factory.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
September 11, 2010
From Reno, NV, N39°34.084’ W119°49.365’
Day 100
Gerri got up at 4AM to go with Kathleen and the girls to see the Balloon Glow program and watch the balloons lift off. I slept in. Gerri got back at about 8. Pictures are posted on her Facebook page. Some of the balloons came over the RV Park. This was looking out the window by my computer.
In the afternoon Gerri took the girls shopping until the credit card melted. Glenna went outside for awhile and sat in the sun.
For supper we went to Panda Express and picked up Chinese to take to Kathleen’s for supper. Now you wouldn’t believe that going to pick up to go food would be an adventure, but you have never gone with the Barkers. The closest Panda’s is on Plumb about 7 miles from the park. No problem yet. I entered Kathleen’s address in to the GPS. It directed us to US-395 north and the west on I-80. Due to construction we turned where we thought the ramp was, that put us on I-80 east. The first place to turn back was over a mile and a half. Off we went but the turn back on the on ramp was so quick we missed it and had to go up the street to make a u-turn. Back on I-80 west bound. More construction a short detour on US-395 north and back to Plumb we made the correct turn and we were back on track west bound on I-80. For a simple errand we saw a lot of Reno and a little of Sparks.
The food was good but I ate way too much. Sean wanted me to watch him play WoW until his Dad came to pick him up at 8. Plans changed and Kathleen took the kids to their Dad’s.
We went back to the coach. Sean called and said he was on restriction for five more minutes and to meet him on WoW. I played for about an hour but no Sean. Gerri went to bed early and Glenna and I watched TV or read until bedtime.
Day 100
Gerri got up at 4AM to go with Kathleen and the girls to see the Balloon Glow program and watch the balloons lift off. I slept in. Gerri got back at about 8. Pictures are posted on her Facebook page. Some of the balloons came over the RV Park. This was looking out the window by my computer.
In the afternoon Gerri took the girls shopping until the credit card melted. Glenna went outside for awhile and sat in the sun.
For supper we went to Panda Express and picked up Chinese to take to Kathleen’s for supper. Now you wouldn’t believe that going to pick up to go food would be an adventure, but you have never gone with the Barkers. The closest Panda’s is on Plumb about 7 miles from the park. No problem yet. I entered Kathleen’s address in to the GPS. It directed us to US-395 north and the west on I-80. Due to construction we turned where we thought the ramp was, that put us on I-80 east. The first place to turn back was over a mile and a half. Off we went but the turn back on the on ramp was so quick we missed it and had to go up the street to make a u-turn. Back on I-80 west bound. More construction a short detour on US-395 north and back to Plumb we made the correct turn and we were back on track west bound on I-80. For a simple errand we saw a lot of Reno and a little of Sparks.
The food was good but I ate way too much. Sean wanted me to watch him play WoW until his Dad came to pick him up at 8. Plans changed and Kathleen took the kids to their Dad’s.
We went back to the coach. Sean called and said he was on restriction for five more minutes and to meet him on WoW. I played for about an hour but no Sean. Gerri went to bed early and Glenna and I watched TV or read until bedtime.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
September 10, 2010
From Reno, NV, N39°34.084’ W119°49.365’
Day 99
We woke up to a cold, clear sunny day. We were on the road about 10am enroute to Reno. The scenery along I-80 is that of occasional ranches around stream area, brown grass and sage with rocky mountain’s not far off. This pretty much describes a lot of Nevada. I for one like the stark scenery which in the clear air seems so in focus for long distances. Central Montana is ok, but I’m not a flatlander. I also feel more comfortable now with the mountains close by.
We stopped at a WalMart in Fernley for some groceries. While Gerri shopped I walked to a nearby cache. It was a lamp post skirt but a cache none the less. We then went to the other end of Fernley planning to buy fuel. We spotted a Blue Beacon truck wash near the station. The coach was the dirtiest I have ever seen it after driving through so much rain and gunk on the road. It looked good again after the wash and after getting fuel we were off to Reno again.
We were in the Shamrock RV Park and setup by 4. The park is not too bad, it’s in an industrial area, it is all pavement but has a lot of trees that make it look better. The roads are narrow but I had no real trouble getting the coach in the site.
Kathleen and the kids came over at about 5 and we decided on supper at their house, which is about five miles away. We had spaghetti and garlic toast which really tasted good. Before and after supper Sean showed me his WoW characters and I watched him play.
Gerri took Shannon shopping and Glenna and I went back to the RV Park. Sean wanted to play WoW, but my computer kept stalling.
The Reno Balloon Festival is this week end so Gerri plans to get up at 4 to go see the Glow and the balloons taking off.
Day 99
We woke up to a cold, clear sunny day. We were on the road about 10am enroute to Reno. The scenery along I-80 is that of occasional ranches around stream area, brown grass and sage with rocky mountain’s not far off. This pretty much describes a lot of Nevada. I for one like the stark scenery which in the clear air seems so in focus for long distances. Central Montana is ok, but I’m not a flatlander. I also feel more comfortable now with the mountains close by.
We stopped at a WalMart in Fernley for some groceries. While Gerri shopped I walked to a nearby cache. It was a lamp post skirt but a cache none the less. We then went to the other end of Fernley planning to buy fuel. We spotted a Blue Beacon truck wash near the station. The coach was the dirtiest I have ever seen it after driving through so much rain and gunk on the road. It looked good again after the wash and after getting fuel we were off to Reno again.
We were in the Shamrock RV Park and setup by 4. The park is not too bad, it’s in an industrial area, it is all pavement but has a lot of trees that make it look better. The roads are narrow but I had no real trouble getting the coach in the site.
Kathleen and the kids came over at about 5 and we decided on supper at their house, which is about five miles away. We had spaghetti and garlic toast which really tasted good. Before and after supper Sean showed me his WoW characters and I watched him play.
Gerri took Shannon shopping and Glenna and I went back to the RV Park. Sean wanted to play WoW, but my computer kept stalling.
The Reno Balloon Festival is this week end so Gerri plans to get up at 4 to go see the Glow and the balloons taking off.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
September 9, 2010
From Battle Mountain, NV, N42°34.178’ W113°43.548’
Day 98
We left Heyburn, ID at about 9:20 and crossed over into Nevada about two Hours later. A lot of people we know don’t like Nevada, but it feels good to be back. Even if it’s only for a few days before we head to central California.
It rained most of the morning and afternoon. We got to the RV Park in Carlin only to find that the park wasn’t suitable even for an overnight stop.
We had lunch at a local Burger King. Between the rain, gunk flying up from the road and driving through a mud lot to get around the Burger King, I don’t think I have ever seen the coach or Jeep so dirty.
I called ahead to the Broadway Flying J Service Center and RV Park in Battle Mountain and made sure they could accommodate us. This park got poor reviews on RVreviews.com. As it worked out it was adequate for an overnight stay.
After setting up, by about 3:15 PST, I down loaded several local caches. I found eight before it got too dark and cold to hunt.
Gerri fixed enchiladas for supper, very good.
We plan to be in Reno tomorrow for a weekend visit with our daughter and grandkids.
Day 98
We left Heyburn, ID at about 9:20 and crossed over into Nevada about two Hours later. A lot of people we know don’t like Nevada, but it feels good to be back. Even if it’s only for a few days before we head to central California.
It rained most of the morning and afternoon. We got to the RV Park in Carlin only to find that the park wasn’t suitable even for an overnight stop.
We had lunch at a local Burger King. Between the rain, gunk flying up from the road and driving through a mud lot to get around the Burger King, I don’t think I have ever seen the coach or Jeep so dirty.
I called ahead to the Broadway Flying J Service Center and RV Park in Battle Mountain and made sure they could accommodate us. This park got poor reviews on RVreviews.com. As it worked out it was adequate for an overnight stay.
After setting up, by about 3:15 PST, I down loaded several local caches. I found eight before it got too dark and cold to hunt.
Gerri fixed enchiladas for supper, very good.
We plan to be in Reno tomorrow for a weekend visit with our daughter and grandkids.
September 8, 2010
From Heyburn, ID, N42°34.178’ W113°43.548’
Day 97
We finally left Montana, roaring across the Snake River into Idaho at about noon.
Our route was southwest on US-287 to US-20 to I-15 to I-86. The country was higher but there was still a lot of agricultural activity and fishing turnouts along the way. We crossed the Snake River several more times. A couple of miles from the RV Park the Snake River separates the town of Heyburn, ID from Burley, ID.
I did one cache by the road just south of Ennis and another at a rest stop in Idaho. We also had lunch at the rest stop.
We got to Heyburn, ID at about 2:30. After setting up I went out and did seven caches. Gerri fixed supper at the coach, baked chicken and sweet potatoes. I thought I needed three more for 3200, so I went out after supper and bagged three more. Turns out I’m only at 3199, well maybe tomorrow. After those three it was too dark, I don’t cache well in the dark.
We plan to make it to Carlin, NV tomorrow, about 224 miles.
Day 97
We finally left Montana, roaring across the Snake River into Idaho at about noon.
Our route was southwest on US-287 to US-20 to I-15 to I-86. The country was higher but there was still a lot of agricultural activity and fishing turnouts along the way. We crossed the Snake River several more times. A couple of miles from the RV Park the Snake River separates the town of Heyburn, ID from Burley, ID.
I did one cache by the road just south of Ennis and another at a rest stop in Idaho. We also had lunch at the rest stop.
We got to Heyburn, ID at about 2:30. After setting up I went out and did seven caches. Gerri fixed supper at the coach, baked chicken and sweet potatoes. I thought I needed three more for 3200, so I went out after supper and bagged three more. Turns out I’m only at 3199, well maybe tomorrow. After those three it was too dark, I don’t cache well in the dark.
We plan to make it to Carlin, NV tomorrow, about 224 miles.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
September 7, 2010
From Ennis, MT, N45°22.088’ W111°43.681’
Day 96
After catching up on e-mail and Facebook, I went out and did the two nearest caches.
For lunch we went to the Ennis Café. I was the only one daring enough to try the Buffalo burger. Gerri had the pork tenderloin sandwich (not as “Big” as those in Indiana) and Glenna had a patty melt. We topped off the meal by sharing fresh strawberry pie.
After lunch we took a more leisurely drive to Virginia City. Gerri and Glenna did a little shopping. I went through a small local museum. We drove to Alder and I did a cache at Robber’s Roost. This was a way station on the stage line from Virginia City and Bannack. The story goes that the gang of robbers hung out there and sized up stagecoach passengers for robbery further down the road.
We did one more cache at a scenic turnout on the way back to Ennis, a great panoramic view of the Madison Valley.
Gerri fixed us hash and eggs for supper, Glenna finished off her patty melt.
We are headed to Heyburn, ID in the morning, a 275 mile drive.
Day 96
After catching up on e-mail and Facebook, I went out and did the two nearest caches.
For lunch we went to the Ennis Café. I was the only one daring enough to try the Buffalo burger. Gerri had the pork tenderloin sandwich (not as “Big” as those in Indiana) and Glenna had a patty melt. We topped off the meal by sharing fresh strawberry pie.
After lunch we took a more leisurely drive to Virginia City. Gerri and Glenna did a little shopping. I went through a small local museum. We drove to Alder and I did a cache at Robber’s Roost. This was a way station on the stage line from Virginia City and Bannack. The story goes that the gang of robbers hung out there and sized up stagecoach passengers for robbery further down the road.
We did one more cache at a scenic turnout on the way back to Ennis, a great panoramic view of the Madison Valley.
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| Gerri and Madison Valley |
Gerri fixed us hash and eggs for supper, Glenna finished off her patty melt.
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| Tin Can Tourist |
We are headed to Heyburn, ID in the morning, a 275 mile drive.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
September 6, 2010
From Ennis, MT, N45°22.088’ W111°43.681’
Day 95
Moving Day! I had already gone over my checklist before travel during the last couple of days. Today I went around the bays making sure everything was stowed securely, unhooked and put away the cable line and water hose. Since we had been parked under trees and during all the wind heard small things hitting the roof, I went up there to check. I took a broom with me. Mostly it was just twigs, one larger piece was on the debris awning of the large slide room. I swept the water off the debris awnings. One ongoing problem is that the awning on the large slide has a long rafter down the center and two smaller ones going side to side. When it rains water gathers between the cross rafters and will give you a shower if you are out there when the room is retracted. The last thing I unplugged was the power.
After getting the inside ready to travel and hooking up the Jeep, we were out of the park a little before 11. First stop was for fuel. We went about 2 miles to a Flying J. Interestingly there is a Pilot across the street. I guess since Pilot bought Flying J last year they haven’t had time to close locations or rebrand them. Ignoring the sign that said “RVs Use RV pumps only” I fueled up at the truck island. No line and the nozzle is larger, getting the job done quicker. I had talked to a clerk last week who told me they would sell me diesel no matter which pump I used.
Our route took us south on I-15 to Helena. About half way to Helena you leave the prairie and start into mountainous terrain. The grades aren’t bad but there was about 15 miles of two-lane with reduced speed. Most of the way from Great Falls to Helena the Missouri River is on the side of the highway. I don’t know how many times we crossed it, but for awhile it’s on the left and then it’s on the right.
At Helena we turned east and south on US-287. This highway runs pretty much along the Missouri until the town of Toston. We stopped at a small BLM Campground for lunch. I pulled into the day use area and realized I should have gone through the campground. There wasn’t room to turn around with the Jeep attached in the day use area. The campground on the other hand was a loop. I had to unhook the Jeep to turn around.
After passing Tosten the highway turns a little west. We didn’t know until later that was our last sight of the Missouri. When we reached the town Three Forks we noticed that the river signs now named the Jefferson River and later the Madison River. Three Forks is where the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin Rivers come together to form the Missouri.
Sometime past Three Forks we noticed that there were snowcapped mountains to the southeast.
We arrived at the RV Park at about 3:30 PM. While registering I ask about the train ride from Nevada City to Virginia City. The lady said today was probably the last day of the season. When we got parked Gerri called and found out the last train for the day left Nevada City at 4:30. After a hurried partial set up off we went to catch the train, about 14 miles away. We left the park at 4. The road goes through the hills with a lot of grades and curves. Who ever posted a 70 mph speed on this road wasn’t driving a Jeep Liberty. At 70 it is more suited for a low slung sports car. Even without being able to go the speed limit we made it with a few seconds to spare.
It turned out the train was open air, we were concerned for Glenna’s comfort. She complains of being cold at 80 degrees. Getting up and down stairs and onto the train was a chore with the walker, but she made it. The train takes about an hour to go the 4 miles from Nevada City to Virginia City and back. This was a booming place during the gold rush, over 10,000 people lived here. There are still a lot of old buildings and equipment.
Before leaving Virginia City I found one cache near the old Boot Hill. On the way back to the RV Park we decided to go through the main part of the town of Ennis. It didn’t take long, one street a few blocks long and you are out of town.
Remember the painted buffalo we hunted in Great Falls? Well here in Ennis they have painted fish out of water. We spotted and photographed 6. One was in a small park in the center of town. The park had a gazebo. As I was lining up my shots of the fish, I glimpsed some red plastic under the corner of the gazebo. I looked at the GPS in the Jeep and sure enough there was a cache. A lucky surprise find.
Back at the RV Park we had the leftovers from On the Border for supper and watched the history channel until bedtime where we enjoy watching Pawn Stars and Pickers. Another new show we have found pleasantly interesting on the History channel is Swamp People.
Day 95
Moving Day! I had already gone over my checklist before travel during the last couple of days. Today I went around the bays making sure everything was stowed securely, unhooked and put away the cable line and water hose. Since we had been parked under trees and during all the wind heard small things hitting the roof, I went up there to check. I took a broom with me. Mostly it was just twigs, one larger piece was on the debris awning of the large slide room. I swept the water off the debris awnings. One ongoing problem is that the awning on the large slide has a long rafter down the center and two smaller ones going side to side. When it rains water gathers between the cross rafters and will give you a shower if you are out there when the room is retracted. The last thing I unplugged was the power.
After getting the inside ready to travel and hooking up the Jeep, we were out of the park a little before 11. First stop was for fuel. We went about 2 miles to a Flying J. Interestingly there is a Pilot across the street. I guess since Pilot bought Flying J last year they haven’t had time to close locations or rebrand them. Ignoring the sign that said “RVs Use RV pumps only” I fueled up at the truck island. No line and the nozzle is larger, getting the job done quicker. I had talked to a clerk last week who told me they would sell me diesel no matter which pump I used.
Our route took us south on I-15 to Helena. About half way to Helena you leave the prairie and start into mountainous terrain. The grades aren’t bad but there was about 15 miles of two-lane with reduced speed. Most of the way from Great Falls to Helena the Missouri River is on the side of the highway. I don’t know how many times we crossed it, but for awhile it’s on the left and then it’s on the right.
At Helena we turned east and south on US-287. This highway runs pretty much along the Missouri until the town of Toston. We stopped at a small BLM Campground for lunch. I pulled into the day use area and realized I should have gone through the campground. There wasn’t room to turn around with the Jeep attached in the day use area. The campground on the other hand was a loop. I had to unhook the Jeep to turn around.
After passing Tosten the highway turns a little west. We didn’t know until later that was our last sight of the Missouri. When we reached the town Three Forks we noticed that the river signs now named the Jefferson River and later the Madison River. Three Forks is where the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin Rivers come together to form the Missouri.
Sometime past Three Forks we noticed that there were snowcapped mountains to the southeast.
 |
| Madison Mountains |
 |
| Alder Gulch Train (more pictures are in my Facebook albums) |
It turned out the train was open air, we were concerned for Glenna’s comfort. She complains of being cold at 80 degrees. Getting up and down stairs and onto the train was a chore with the walker, but she made it. The train takes about an hour to go the 4 miles from Nevada City to Virginia City and back. This was a booming place during the gold rush, over 10,000 people lived here. There are still a lot of old buildings and equipment.
Before leaving Virginia City I found one cache near the old Boot Hill. On the way back to the RV Park we decided to go through the main part of the town of Ennis. It didn’t take long, one street a few blocks long and you are out of town.
Remember the painted buffalo we hunted in Great Falls? Well here in Ennis they have painted fish out of water. We spotted and photographed 6. One was in a small park in the center of town. The park had a gazebo. As I was lining up my shots of the fish, I glimpsed some red plastic under the corner of the gazebo. I looked at the GPS in the Jeep and sure enough there was a cache. A lucky surprise find.
 |
| Montana River Dreams (more pictures in albums on my Facebook account) |
Back at the RV Park we had the leftovers from On the Border for supper and watched the history channel until bedtime where we enjoy watching Pawn Stars and Pickers. Another new show we have found pleasantly interesting on the History channel is Swamp People.
Monday, September 6, 2010
September 5, 2010
From Great Falls, MT, N47°29.386’ W111°19.942’
Day 94
We had lots more rain this morning. We worshiped with Oakey Blvd. via the webcast. There were only a couple of glitches. I still don’t understand why the feed coming into multiple computers is out of sync, sometimes by as much as 20 seconds.
I went to the office and settled up our bill. The electric charge for August was $114. Combine that with the monthly rate and our site was less than $14 a day, compare that to $32 a day for overnighters.
At one point during the afternoon I got crazy and wiped down the coach, at least as far as I could reach. You probably already guessed that it rained really hard later, didn’t you?
Gerri fixed salmon croquettes for supper and served them with the leftover creamed peas and potatoes. What a great meal. Of course I ate more than I should have. She is saving the leftovers from On the Border for tomorrow when we get to Ennis.
Day 94
We had lots more rain this morning. We worshiped with Oakey Blvd. via the webcast. There were only a couple of glitches. I still don’t understand why the feed coming into multiple computers is out of sync, sometimes by as much as 20 seconds.
I went to the office and settled up our bill. The electric charge for August was $114. Combine that with the monthly rate and our site was less than $14 a day, compare that to $32 a day for overnighters.
At one point during the afternoon I got crazy and wiped down the coach, at least as far as I could reach. You probably already guessed that it rained really hard later, didn’t you?
Gerri fixed salmon croquettes for supper and served them with the leftover creamed peas and potatoes. What a great meal. Of course I ate more than I should have. She is saving the leftovers from On the Border for tomorrow when we get to Ennis.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
September 4, 2010
From Great Falls, MT, N47°29.386’ W111°19.942’
Day 93
The good weather of the last two days was already falling apart when I got up. It was blowing and raining off and on in the morning.
Gerri had a hair appointment at two. I cleaned the tires and wheels after airing up three that had low pressure. I have things to check out and catch up on after being parked for two months. The wind kept blowing and turned very dark in the south, with some rain drops so I stopped short of washing the outside of the coach. Instead I opted for watching TV and playing World of Warcraft.
We decided to go to On the Border for supper, but it had to wait for a movie to end.
We did finally go to On the Border. It was good and lots of leftovers, Guess what is for supper tomorrow.
Day 93
The good weather of the last two days was already falling apart when I got up. It was blowing and raining off and on in the morning.
Gerri had a hair appointment at two. I cleaned the tires and wheels after airing up three that had low pressure. I have things to check out and catch up on after being parked for two months. The wind kept blowing and turned very dark in the south, with some rain drops so I stopped short of washing the outside of the coach. Instead I opted for watching TV and playing World of Warcraft.
We decided to go to On the Border for supper, but it had to wait for a movie to end.
We did finally go to On the Border. It was good and lots of leftovers, Guess what is for supper tomorrow.
Friday, September 3, 2010
September 3, 2010
From Great Falls, MT, N47°29.386’ W111°19.942’
Day 92
We were up early (well for us) to take Glenna to an appointment with the surgeon. They made x-rays and then the doctor examined her and said she was doing amazingly well considering the seriousness of her surgery. She gets around well on her walker.
We asked for copies of the x-rays, while they were being made I went to Benifis and had blood drawn for my INR check.
Before going back to the RV Park, I stopped and found a cache that the owner replaced since I had a DNF on it.
I also picked up lunch from Taco Bell. After eating, Gerri went to the grocery store in preparation for leaving Great Falls on Monday.
For supper I grilled rib-eyed steaks. This was the first time this summer I grilled. Gerri rounded out the meal with a salad and creamy potatoes with peas.
Day 92
We were up early (well for us) to take Glenna to an appointment with the surgeon. They made x-rays and then the doctor examined her and said she was doing amazingly well considering the seriousness of her surgery. She gets around well on her walker.
We asked for copies of the x-rays, while they were being made I went to Benifis and had blood drawn for my INR check.
Before going back to the RV Park, I stopped and found a cache that the owner replaced since I had a DNF on it.
I also picked up lunch from Taco Bell. After eating, Gerri went to the grocery store in preparation for leaving Great Falls on Monday.
For supper I grilled rib-eyed steaks. This was the first time this summer I grilled. Gerri rounded out the meal with a salad and creamy potatoes with peas.
September 2, 2010
From Great Falls, MT, N47°29.386’ W111°19.942’
Day 91
It was a beautiful day in Great Falls. I took Glenna to J. C. Penny for her hair appointment. That took a couple of hours. During that time I ran some errands and washed the Jeep.
I had picked up eight travel bugs around the area, so I dropped them off at a nearby Travel Bug Hotel. They are now closer to I-15 and should be moved quickly.
Not much doing today except that I am having more and more trouble with my computer. It keeps stalling when I change programs or open and close a window, with couple of minutes lag time.
Day 91
It was a beautiful day in Great Falls. I took Glenna to J. C. Penny for her hair appointment. That took a couple of hours. During that time I ran some errands and washed the Jeep.
I had picked up eight travel bugs around the area, so I dropped them off at a nearby Travel Bug Hotel. They are now closer to I-15 and should be moved quickly.
Not much doing today except that I am having more and more trouble with my computer. It keeps stalling when I change programs or open and close a window, with couple of minutes lag time.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
September 1, 2010
From Great Falls, MT, N47°29.386’ W111°19.942’
Day 90
It was a cold, windy and rainy/cloudy day to open September.
It was raining so a lot of the dirt road ended up on the Jeep. The cache itself was about a quarter mile of slick mud in heavy rain. I dashed for the cache during a lull and made it back to the Jeep just before the next squall. Interesting area, there was evidence of a lot of buildings and a large orchard, all dead trees now.
At the third cache I did west of US-87 it had not rained at all.
Back at the RV Park, Gerri fixed a great supper of beef enchiladas with a salad made with broccoli slaw, Rotel tomatoes, onions and cilantro.
It hadn’t rained much at the RV Park but was cold and blustery.
Day 90
It was a cold, windy and rainy/cloudy day to open September.
I went northeast to Fort Benton to pick up a few caches. The first was called River Crossing, it was near Carter Ferry, which was open today but not busy.
 |
| Carter Ferry on the Missouri River |
It was raining so a lot of the dirt road ended up on the Jeep. The cache itself was about a quarter mile of slick mud in heavy rain. I dashed for the cache during a lull and made it back to the Jeep just before the next squall. Interesting area, there was evidence of a lot of buildings and a large orchard, all dead trees now.
At the third cache I did west of US-87 it had not rained at all.
Back at the RV Park, Gerri fixed a great supper of beef enchiladas with a salad made with broccoli slaw, Rotel tomatoes, onions and cilantro.
It hadn’t rained much at the RV Park but was cold and blustery.
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