12/31/18 - We went to the UPS store and the store closed early because of the holiday so I have the computer one more day.  I also got a call from the repairman and I am so happy because he sweet talked to the guy who was going to re-build the alternator to let him take it to his shop so he could do it early on Wednesday and the guy already has re-build one exactly like mine and so the repairman stated that he doesn't really celebrate New Years and could come in the late afternoon but Aunt Esther and I have plans as I stated before so he will be here at 9:00 am on Wednesday morning so it looks like Esther and I can start for Missississippi on Thursday.  I am so happy.

12/31/18 - This afternoon we plan to run a few errands.

1/1/19 - Plan to go to Sarasota to visit Aunt Inez and Esther Miller for the last time before leaving.

I need to send this computer back to Delaware since they got me a new one so that Jesse can re-install all the programs I have no here to the new one.  So I will not be blogging for a while as long as he has the computer.

12/31/18 - On 12/28, I left Bradenton and drove to Tampa to pick up Aunt Esther.  She came in from Cleveland at 9:30 am.  We got her unpacked and settled in.

12/29, I went to the office to inform them that I needed to stay at least an extra day or even maybe two since I was having trouble getting the RV repaired.  I was told the space was rented on the 3rd of January and I would have to move out of the space by then.  Aunt Esther and I talked it over and knew we had to move before Monday morning since I had the repair guy come out to take out the alternator since he had to take it to a shop to re-build.

12/30, We went to church and then had lunch with1st cousin Connie Miller, husband and family.  We had a good time.  We decided not to go to their house for the afternoon since we needed to move the RV to another space.  We got home, changed clothes and started to put things away, locked up things, unhook to move to another space, when Aunt Esther went to move in the slides, there was no connection and no movement.  I had a FIT.  I also learned that the engine would not start!  I was so upset but we started to discuss things and decided that we probably could try to jump the battery.  It was very tight between the RV and the trailer next door but with a lot of help from Aunt Esther we got the car in, hooked up the jumper cables and then tried to start the RV but no luck.  I then changed some of the cables, and I had to increase the RPM's in the car and after a little while, sure enough we got it started.  Then to get the car out of the tight area was a bit of a challenge but we got it done without hitting anything.  The slides came in, the unhooking continued and soon I pulled out of the site.  The site I am in now, was a pull through so a little easier to get in.  We got hooked up and then rested awhile and then really hunger for ice cream so off to the store.   Aunt Esther did buy a few more items but ice cream was definitely on the list.  Back to the RV to watch some football since the Cleveland Browns were playing.  Sad to say, they lost by 2 points!  We then showered since it was rather warm, turned on the air conditioner and settled in for the evening.

Today, I made a phone call to the repairman about my battery getting drained and my fiasco but of course he has not called back.  The repair guy came at 9:00 am and took out the alternator to get it re-build and hopefully put in on Thursday so we can leave on Friday.  Time will tell.

12/26/18 - On 12/20, I went to Aunt Inez's house to block an afghan and spent a little time with her before we went over to Esther's house for dinner.

 On 12/22, I spent the evening with Esther, Lloyd, Gail, Mahlon, Jan, Ashley and Allison.  We went out for dinner and then to the house to play some games.

12/23, Off to church and to Esther's house for lunch.  Esther and Lloyd were invited to a wedding anniversary and I went over to Aunt Inez's house to pick up the afghan so I can get it mailed.  Later I learned that my Aunt Kay in Goshen, Indiana passed away.  She was 91 and lived an exciting life.  Her last couple of years, were not the best so I am glad to finally got to go to heaven.

12/25, I spent the day with Esther and her family.  We had a wonderful Christmas dinner and I ate a piece of ham that was too big and the piece ended  up getting stuck in the lower esophagus and ended up not able to eat until around 3 pm.  The family went to a Christmas parade and I stayed at home and started a puzzle.  Ashley, Allison and I did finish the puzzle.  It was a picture of dogs and cats and was 300 pieces.

Today, I waited all day for a repairman to check out my batteries or alternator and he finally came a little over 5 pm!! According to him, it is the alternator so now I am trying to get that replaced.  The repairman promised he would be back tomorrow around noon, to change out the batteries since they have been in the wrong place.  The house batteries are attached to the engine and the engine batteries are attached to the house!! 

12/16/18 - On 12/14, Robyn came over and picked me up and we went to the eye appointment which turned out to be at 10:20 am instead of 10:00.  I got an excellent report with every thing intact and 20/20 vision.  I was finally DONE.  I got a call later and Dr. Harrison requested a visual field test some time in the Spring but that will wait.  Robyn and I then went out for lunch and to the rehab center.  I decided to stay with Aunt Ada so Robyn could go home and get some things done.  Aunt Ada went to Occupational therapy and during that time Jan (an old neighbor of Aunt Ada) so we visited until Aunt Ada returned.  She stayed for awhile and when she left I called Aunt Martha to talk to Aunt Ada but that conversation was very short because she was busy.  Soon she got another visitor Mary (a friend from church).  Later Ron came in after the conference.  We chatted for awhile and then Ron went out and got some Subway sandwiches and we had dinner with Aunt Ada in the conference room.  We then spent a bit of time with her until it was time for them to get her ready for bed.  I went back to the house and did some packing.  Off to bed early since Ron and I decided that we had to leave early for the airport.

12/15, I got up at 4:15 am and we left for the airport at 5:00 am since we were not sure of the traffic and had about an hour to the airport.  Since I did not have a seat assignment, I needed to get there a little early then usual.  Well, we did not have any traffic at all so got to the airport around 5:45 am so I had plenty of time.  Ron then drove to his medical conference and was going to take a little nap in the car since he was really early as well.  I had a good trip with no delays and got back to Sarasota at 6:45 pm.  Esther's husband Lloyd and daughter Gayle came to the airport and picked me up.  I had the car parked at their house.  I left to come home since I knew that I would see them tomorrow.  It was good to be home.

Today, I went to church, was introduced to a grilled venison filet mignon for lunch.  It was very good.  We then played some games and in the evening did a living nativity drive thru that the church had scheduled.  It was very interesting with all the actors, actresses and animals.  They knew about a neighborhood that does beautiful decorations and so we also drove through that neighborhood.  It was beautiful.  The neighborhood put huge arches up over the road and cars drove under it.  Was quite interesting.  Time for bed.

12/16/18 - On 2/12, I got up at 7:00 am to finish packing and meeting my ride at Esther's house in Sarasota at 8:30 am.  My flight was out at 10:10 am from Sarasota to Charlotte, North Carolina.  I had an hour lay over so was hoping to have time to get a sandwich since the next flight was at least 4 hours but I soon learned that I had to walk from Terminal E to Terminal B.  They do have some people movers so that helped but I only had about 10 minutes and then they did start the boarding process late so it was longer at the gate.  I did quickly walk around the corner and got a bag of chips.  I had a good flight but was about 15 minutes late getting in and 1st Cousin Ron was in early.  He is Aunt Ada's son and was coming in to visit his mother and attend a medical conference.  He rented a car so we  had transportation to the rehab center when Aunt Ada was.  Because of the distance and traffic, we got to the rehab center around 7:00 pm.  We said our greetings and gave her a hug and then cousin Robyn, Ron and I went to get some dinner.  Ron and I stayed at Aunt Ada's house.  Off to bed.

2/13 - Ron and I decided to meet Aunt  Ada at around 10:00 am since she would be back from her therapy.  We visited for a while, then went for lunch.  Ron got tickets to visit the Desert Botanical Gardens but of course Aunt Ada could go and Robyn needed to stay and get some instructions regarding Aunt Ada's therapy so it was just Ron and I.  Ron was very kind and gave two of the tickets to a couple that had just gotten to the window to purchase tickets.  He also had a dinner reservation at a restaurant in the gardens.  We walked around for a while but then of course I needed to sit and rest so I sent him on his way to do more exploring since of course he could cover alot more area.  He did come back and walked me to a small art museum in the gardens that was very neat.  We discussed regarding the fact that I would be only to see a small part of the light show that was going to happen after dark and Ron stated I would be missing alot but I wanted him to enjoy it so told him I would just do what I could.  We had seen that some wheelchairs were around so checked and sure enough we good get a rental for free.  I gave up and swallowed my pride since I really did want to see more of the light show.  We had a wonderful dinner at the restaurant.  Soon it was dark and poor Ron was wheeling me around!!  The light show was phenomenal.  It got a little chilly but I did survive.  Ron took some short videos to show his mother later.  We got back to the house a little before 8:00 pm.  Ron went to bed early since he had to leave early to attend the medical conference.

12/10/18 - This morning I started to call at 9:00 am which is 7:00 am in Phoenix for a new appointment because I had checked and the recording stated the phone service starts then.  Well, that is not true but I got so frustrated with the strange recording that I was able to type in Dr. Harrison's name and I got his personal line and I did not tell who I was but I needed to make an appointment and not sure what was wrong with the phones.  I heard him tell his assistant "how did this patient get my number" and will you please help her!!  I was then told that they won't open the phone lines until 7:30 and I should try back.  I finally got them at 7:50 am and of course the receptionist was not helpful at all and stated his next appointment was not until 1/14/19.  Of course, I tried and tried to explain that was impossible but she would not even try.  I then told her to leave a message for Kathy (Dr. Harrison's assistant) to call me and to make the message "urgent".  Now whether that happened or not, I don't know but within the hour Kathy called and was very, very helpful and understood the situation.  I got an appointment for Friday at 10:00 am!!  I also called and have an appointment on Monday 12/17 to get the RV repaired.  Keep your fingers crossed that it won't cost an arm and leg!

I also learned this morning that there were two tornadoes that touched down about an hour north of me.  Thank God, Bradenton was spared.  We are two days of cold weather and then I fly to Phoenix and they are also cold!!

12/9/18 - This part of the blog will not be dated.  I learned some time in late November that I would have to keep my 6 month (and final) cataract appointment in Sun City, Arizona because if I had the appointment here some things would not be covered since Florida did not do the surgery.  My appointment is scheduled on 12/11/18 at 10:00 am.  I then got busy and made my airline reservation using points on a Visa card.  I am scheduled out at 5:06 am on 12/10 and could not get a return until 12/15. 

12/7 - I had appointment with my first cousin's son-in-law who does mobile auto mechanic work to come and check out the batteries to see if there was a loose wire.  He did a lot of checking and could not find a loose wire but did state that the house batteries were running low and may need to be replaced and there was an indication that there was nothing charging the batteries.  Since he does not work on RV's, he gave me a referral to see if I can set up an appointment with a mobile RV individual.  Later in the evening I learned that Aunt Ada had fallen and fractured the left hip and Robyn was on the way to the hospital.  I later got a text and she was admitted to the hospital.

12/8 - Aunt Ada had her surgery today and surgery went well.  I went to dinner with Esther (1st cousin) and her family and back to her house since we were playing some games.  I got a call from American Airlines and my flight on 12/10 has been cancelled due to weather in North Carolina.  I then was informed that they would not be able to re-book me until Wednesday.  Of course, I had my usual fit and requested various possiblities but finally had to give up.  I am now scheduled on 12/12 a 10:10 am.  Now, I have to call on Monday and try to re-schedule my appointment.  Aunt Ada's son Ron, has a medical conference in Scottsdale, Arizona on 12/14, 15 and 16 but was arriving on 12/12 to spend some time with his mother.  So now since my flight has been changed, I learned that he is on American and so am I and we arrive in Phoenix 5 minutes apart so now I have a ride from the airport on that day.

12/9, We had a tornado watch about and hour north of me and did not materialize.  Thank goodness.  Went to church and spent the afternoon and evening with Esther and her family.

11/26/18 - I have been settled in at Tropical Gardens RV Park for three weeks.  It was warm and humid when I arrived and then one week got a little cooler but has been quite comfortable.  This week now it is suppose to get cold (high temperature only  in the 60's) for a couple of days.

I have been visiting family in Sarasota off and on.  I usually go there twice a week.  I have only 11 miles to their house so it is quite easy.  For Thanksgiving, it was very quiet and I was quite content since I started a puzzle.  The families in Sarasota were either out of town or had already made Thanksgiving plans and that was no problem for me.

Today is my Aunt Inez's 94th birthday so there is a dinner party planned.  I plan to leave earlier and run some errands before heading for Sarasota. 

11/5/18 - Today my back is finally much better.  I can still feel it but I don't have the sharp pain anymore.  I am still taking some Tylenol and Ibuprofen but can walk much better.  I even was able to get to the grocery store for a few items but soon learned I need to make more smaller trips instead of one big one.  The rest of blog is for my own information:

From Milford, Delaware to Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina - 310 miles
From Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina to Walterboro, South Carolina - 311 miles
From Walterboro, South Carolina to Rest Stop in Florida - 333 miles
From Rest Stop to Bradenton, Florida - 140 miles - total miles --  1094

11/03/18 - I slept a little better last night until a semi truck parked right next to me and ran the engine all night but did drift in and out of sleep.  I talked with brother Daniel and learned what might be my battery problem so felt better about the red light.  I left the rest stop at 8:40 am and then stopped for gas.  There were signs that it was a Love's truck stop but when I exited off, I could not see any signs which was very unusual but had to make a left and so planned to turn around when two semi trucks came up beside me so I decided to follow them and soon we were at the Love's truck stop.  It really was farther from the freeway then I had ever seen before.  When I started off, my GPS decided to go blank.  I never figured out why but stopped off at the next rest stop and turned it off and re-started it and it worked well.  I got to the RV resort at 11:45 am.  Stopped off at the office, got checked in and told which site was mine. I got to the site and oh, my it was very, very small.  A van (all covered up) was right next to where I needed to back in!!  My back was better and I was able to get the car off without any problems.  I did make the site even smaller by parking the car off to the side but I tried to figure out the best way to start.  I started in and soon I found myself very close to the van.  I also was very, very close to the guy's gutter and awning across the street.  He did come out and helped me a little and I without hitting anything, I got myself in the space.  It is on a cement pad, so I did not have to put wood under the levelers which was wonderful.  I rested awhile and then hooked up the electric and water.  Rested some more and then did the sewer system.  Everything went together great.  I then rested some more, answered some text messages and finally got a sandwich made and a shower taken.  I do feel discomfort in my back this evening but have planned to just sleep, lay on the couch and maybe get some food to eat inbetween tomorrow.  After this writing I am off to the couch for the evening. I have attached a picture of the site:

11/02/18 -  I did not get much sleep last night since I was worried about the battery problem but did finally sleep from about midnight to 2:30 am and the light was still green.  I then woke up around 4:30 am and the light was red.  I did decide not to worry and get a little more sleep.  Woke up at 6:50 am and decided I needed to get things done and on road.  I left the Walmart at 8:10 am.  Around 10:30 am I stopped at the rest stop and sure enough the light was green and I was back in business.  I decided to take my time and get a little rest since I was planning on only about 279 miles.  Plans were to stop for the night at a Love's truck stop just north of Daytona Beach.  I got there about 3:20pm and even thought it might be a little early but it was a very small Love's and there were so many trucks already parked, I just left.  Since I did not want to drive out of the way, I headed for I-4 which was taking me west to Tampa, Florida.  When I arrived at I-4 I was the exit number 131.  I knew of another truck stop at exit number 55 so decided to head for it.  I drove for quite a while and all of sudden saw a sign that said rest area ahead.  I decided to check and see if there were signs posted "No Overnight Parking" and I did not see any and decided to stay here.  It does states there is night time security so not sure what that will mean for me.  I am going to stay and hopefully will be left alone.  There are a couple of trucks here right now and believe they are sleeping as well.  So hopefully will have a good night.  Anyway, I got parked about 4:30 pm and before I could get it together to turn off the car, it started to rain.  Soon it got extremely windy and just poured sheets of rain.  It was kinda scary.  The RV even shook from side to side and I kept praying that it would not overturn.  I did have a semi beside me and I am sure it shielded me some since it kinda came from the direction.  It lasted about 6 minutes and then just rained.  There is debris all over the road next to me.  I talked with Sue Bontreger and learned that Tampa Bay area had several tornadoes touch down and had damaged trees and some buildings and lots of people out of power.  I am about 100 miles from that area so I am glad I found this rest stop for many reasons. I plan to go to bed early and hopefully get more sleep. 

11/1/18 - This morning when I got up at 7:45 am, I soon learned that I had a problem with the house batteries since there was a red light instead of green and the refrigerator was off.  I then immediately checked to make sure the RV would start and it did.  I then got the car ready, got dressed, took pills and left at 8:05 am.  I drove for a while hoping that I was charging up the batteries so I stopped at a rest stop at 10:20 am and sure enough the refrigerator was on and the light was green.  I decided to rest for a hour since I left much earlier than planned and ran the generator.  I then took off again and next stop was to fill up with gas.  I stopped at the next rest area to waste another hour since I did not want to be too early at Walmart.  I got to Walmart at 4:05 pm.  I am at Walterboro, South Carolina. I soon learned that there were a lot of other RV'ers. I believe I have counted at least 10 and more have come in since then!! I did find a stop right next to one.  I decided to run the generator for an hour and when I did, I did not realize the RV next to me had their windows open and my generator was causing quite the fumes.  As I went out to get the car ready for the night, the female put her head out the window and wanted to know how long I would be running the generator and I told her at least an hour and then I realized why.  I explained to her that the car in front of me had moved so I could move up and out of their way and maybe that would solve the problem.  Sure enough, it solved the situation.  In the meantime, she started to talk to me and learned I was alone and we had quite the conversation.  Then the husband came out and showed me the route they were taking to Tampa, Florida but I informed them I had planned another route.  Next thing I knew I was offered this massive piece of fried chicken breast and at first I refused but they insisted.  I did have some for dinner.  I have checked everything and just can't figure out if something is draining the batteries.  I plan to run the generator one more hour before bedtime and see if I can keep that green light on. The RV is so nice and warm!  It appears today my back is not quite as painful so I am hoping it is going to go away soon.  Off to bed.

10/31/18 - I got this morning around 7:45 am and started to get things put away to leave today for Florida.  Still having the back issue so niece Deborah came over and put all of my stuff away.  Brother Daniel did all of the disconnecting of sewer, water and electric.  When I went to start the RV it would not start so Daniel got his truck and jumped me.  I then learned a switch had been left on and so I think it drained the battery because I am not sure when it was turned on.  I did not have any more trouble today.  Daniel and I went to fill up the gas tank and the propane tank and then back to the house to hook up the car.  I left at 11:00 am.  I had a good drive through DC and stopped for lunch around 2:00 pm.  I got to the Walmart in Roanoke Rapids,North Carolina at 5:15 pm.  It was 70 degrees and tonight I ran the generator for an hour and also the heater and got the inside of the RV up to 81 degrees in that hour.  It is suppose to go down to around 53 degrees so will be cold in the morning.  I am resting my back and to bed earlier since it is already dark out.

10/30/18 - On 10/25, Daniel, Mary Ann and I left for Morris, PA to spend the evening and night with her brother Nelson and his wife Rose.  We had dinner with Rose since Nelson had to work. 

10/26, We got up, packed and had a wonderful  wonderful breakfast brunch with Rose and Nelson.  Left for Geneva, New York where we were scheduled for a sibling reunion.  Since we drove right by a niece's house (Miriam) we stopped by for just a few minutes and then stopped at a nephew's house (Aaron) and dropped off some wood for him.  We got to the rented house around 2:45pm.  We got the code to get into the garage and first thing was to get some heat started.  Soon sister Rachel and her husband Ivan arrived and we started unpacking things and figuring how where everyone was going to sleep.  It was quite cold and rainy.  Everyone arrived around 5:00 to 5:30 pm.  We then got some dinner together and had our first dinner with all of my siblings and their spouses.  There were 8 of us.  Since all of  us were traveling, we called it an early evening.

10/27, Still cold and rainy.  We decided to have a breakfast brunch and then some snacking in the afternoon and an early dinner.  After breakfast and clean up, we divided up and 4 played Rummy Q and 4 of us played Parcheesi.  We had some snacked and then the guys were trying to figure out if they would be able to barbecue chicken out in the fire fit or not.  Soon it was decided that it was not rainy very much and soon the fire fit got started.  For dinner, we had a wonderful barbecue chicken dinner.

10/28, We got up and breakfast was either left overs or cereal.  For lunch we had all left overs and then had to do some packing, cleaning up of the house and sister Ruthie and her husband Andrew left around 2:00pm.  We then got packed up and Daniel, Mary Ann and I left around 2:45pm.  Ruby was planning to stay until Monday morning and she was staying at my sister Rachel's house.  We  stopped by the Taughannock Falls.  It was beautiful with the changing of the leaves.  Will attach a picture. We had excellent traveling and were home in Delaware by 9:20pm.  Of course, still having problems with back pain.

10/29, Mary Ann and I met Donna Jones and her mother for lunch at the West Side Diner.  Was very good and had great conversation.  We then stopped at the post office and went to Walmart to get some items.  Niece Christina came over and helped me put a lot of things away.  She informed me that she had made dinner and her family was coming over and I was invited.  Dinner was delicious.  Her husband Jesse wanted me to go with him to Walmart to look at some laptops just to get an idea what I need since my keyboard has quit working and I am using a portable keyboard for now.  We have decided to wait until Black Friday or special sales to see if we can find something.  Off to bed.

This morning, Deborah and I went to a Chiropractic office since I had a 9:15am appointment to see if I could get some relief from the back pain.  He gave me some excerises to do and use a heating pad.  Will see if I get any relief.  Now, I am slowly doing things to get ready to leave tomorrow for Florida.

10/30/18 - I want to add a picture from my visit in Lancaster, PA on the 20th:

                                            Laura, Anne, myself and Laura's Mom

10/24/18 - On 10/20, Around 12:40 pm, I left for Lancaster, PA since I was going to visit some dear friends of mine from San Diego.  Since Laura's mother lives there, Anne and Laura went to visit her for a long week end.  It took me 2 and 1/2 hours since I got into a traffic jam in a little town called Intercourse, PA.  I had a wonderful visit with all of them.  We had a delicious dinner and lots of conversation.  I then left around 10:00 pm for Delaware.  It started to rain a little but was never heavy and I drove out of it in about a 1/2 hour.  I could not figure out why the stupid GPS gave me a different route home but I soon learned that I needed to follow Gertrude's (GPS) instructions or I will be really lost on those country roads.  I also did not realize that every time I did a re-set, then she found a new direction and before long I ended up in Maryland instead of Delaware.  I finally found my way home and it got home at 12:35am.  So needless to say, I did not drive much out of the way!!

10/22, I went shopping with Christina, Deborah, Charis and Mary Ann.  I got a scan of yarn to finish a baby afghan.  In the evening, we went over to Christina and Jesse's new house for a wonderful taco soup.  Since early afternoon, I have been suffering with low back pain on the left side.  I was thinking it is sciatica but not sure.  It  has been very hard to walk but I have no pain when sitting or laying down. 

10/23, Back pain in still there not sure what combinations to take to make it better but finally took an ibuprofen 800 mg and felt it might have helped a little.  I also had a dentist appointment in the afternoon.  Well, he repaired a small hole on the top denture and then put another rubber snap in the bottom denture so hopefully am good for a little while. 

10/24, Back pain is a little more under control but have a ben gay patch on given by Mary Ann.  I also took some Aleve and Tylenol and am hoping for the best.  Today, a guy came and cleaned the carpet so I am out of the RV for most of the day.  Of course, it is really cold and I am trying to dry the carpet so I have some heat on and windows cracked and a fan going.  He told me about 6 hours!!!  So I am at the house and decided to blog and then work on a puzzle that we have started. 

10/17/18 - On 10/15, we got up at 6:20 am to leave the house for a breakfast buffet in town.  A sister owns the restaurant and Vernon wanted to take us out for breakfast and we needed to be there around 7:00 am.  It was a really nice buffet.  We then went back to the house to get ready for the funeral.  Since it was a large funeral, we decided we needed to be there at 8:30.  Oh, yes, I must state that I woke up to SNOW!!  It was cold enough to stay on the grass most of the day.  Unbelievable!!

It was a large funeral and I saw alot of cousins from all various parts of the country.  Since it was so cold I did not go to the grave site.  We then had lunch and visited with family the rest of the afternoon.  They served an early dinner since alot of the family members were leaving to go home that same evening.  Daniel and I decided to go to David's house to see the wrecked truck but learned it was very muddy and would be impossible to see.  We then stopped to visit a 1st cousin and her husband (Verna and Menno).  Both of their daughters were there as well and one of the daughters did have some pictures of the accident site and truck.  Back to the Vernon Kramer house for a shower and off to bed.

10/16 - We got up at 2:15 am for departure to the airport at 2:45 am.  My United flight was out at 5:15 am.  Daniel's flight was at 6:05 am.  He dropped me off and then returned the car.  Daniel had a non stop flight so he arrived a little over an hour before I did.  I was flying to Chicago and now here is my trauma.  We were told at the gate that we would be about 15 minutes early arriving into Chicago so I was a little more relaxed since I had a 57 minute lay over and with United and Chicago I knew the gates could be very FAR away from each other.  When on the plane, they decided they needed to de-fog the plane which was basically de-icing the plane.  It took forever since they had a maintenance issue.  We finally took off and I was not sure if I would make the connection.  I just kept hoping that the arrival gate and departure gate would close together!  My flight out of Chicago was scheduled at 7:52 am.  We hit the tarmac at 7:09 am.  Of course getting to the gate took a long time.  I finally got off and stopped at the gate desk to ask the location of the departure gate to learned it was in another terminal!!  I arrived at gate C-18 and departure was at gate B-18.  I then asked the agent to please call the agent at B-18 and let her know I was on the way.  In Chicago United's B and C gates one has to go down an escalator, get on a people mover, up an escalator.  The escalator was located around C-8 so I thought I would probably have a long walk in B terminal but when I got up to the top it stated that B-18 was straight ahead.  I was so lucky.  As I started my walk, I was hoping for a cart to take me up there was none.  I also noticed that it was 7:17 am and they had started to board.  My only hope was that the agent had called.  When I got to the gate there actually was one person left who had some kind of problem and me.  I was just so glad to have made it.  Actually, a few minutes later there was actually one other person that boarded before we took off.  Daniel got in a little over an  hour before me so he was able to shuttle over and get the truck and wait for me in the cell phone lot.  We left Philadelphia soon after 11:00 am.  We stopped for a sandwich and headed for Milford, Delaware.  When we got here, I said "Hi" to Mary Ann, got my key for the RV and the computer.  She made this wonderful penuche fudge.  It was delicious. I got to the RV, took off clothes, turned on the heat and rested on the couch the rest of the afternoon and evening.  Finally, got a snack and off to bed.  I was so TIRED.

Today, I am getting unpacked, writing a few birthday cards, thank you note and then not much else!!

10/17/18 - On 10/12, we got a phone call and were told that Uncle Neal Kauffman from Jamesport, Missouri has passed away.  We also learned that the funeral was already scheduled on Monday, October 15!  I started to look for airline tickets and soon learned that they were extremely expensive so Mary Ann and I started to coordinate airlines and times so we could use accumulated miles or points.  We soon got a scheduled together.  I would fly United and Daniel would fly American.  We both are leaving from Philadelphia.  I left at 6:00 am and he left at 6:05 am.  I was flying to Washington Dullas and he was flying to Chicago.  I forgot the exact time of getting in to Kansas City, Missouri but knew I had about an hour and an half wait since he had a longer lay over in Chicago.  Plans had been to both be at the airport and have the rental car by 1:00 pm.  Well, in Washington things changed.  We boarded the plane, got buckled in, announcements were made and soon I thought we would be in the air.  Then came the announcement that there was no captain to fly the plane.  He did not report to work!!  We were to get our belongings and get off the plane.  When we got to the gate entrance, we learned the flight was cancelled!!  Boy, did that get my all upset!!  We were told to go to the customer service area and get re-booked.  Of course, the customer service counter was a distance away so I was the last one to get into a long line!!  While in line, I got a text that I was re-booked already and would have to go to Newark, New Jersey and then Kansas City and arrive at 10:52 pm.  Well, that was not going to work for me since my Daniel was there and we would have an hour and half to Jamesport so Daniel would just have to wait in Kansas City.  So then I got on the phone to United to tell them that schedule will not work and we have to do something else.  Finally, the agent found something from Washington to Denver and then Kansas City getting in at 6:15 pm!!  Of course, I fussed and fussed but he insisted that is all he could do.  I decided to stay in line to see what the service desk would do.  When I got there, she stated she would look around because things change all the time.  Soon, she had be going to Chicago and then to Kansas City arriving at 5:25 pm.  I finally gave up and accepted that schedule.  I got a lunch voucher and was told to go to the United web site to get some compensation so will do that today as well.

Daniel did have a delay and got in an hour later but still had a lot of time before I got in so we decided he should go to the hospital in Kansas City to visit a first cousin (David) that was in a car accident and had many injuries and a serious head injury.  I was also in touch with a niece and her husband (Katie and Galen) who were traveling from Nebraska to Jamesport to attend the calling hours that afternoon. Katie informed me that they would plan to come a little later so at least we could see them before they headed back to Nebraska.  They informed me they had arrived to Jamesport about the same time that I arrived to Kansas City.  Daniel was waiting in the cell phone lot for me.  We drove to Jamesport and arrived at 7:20 pm.  We met Katie and Galen outside since they wanted to start home.  We had about a 15 minute visit.  It was so good to see them.  It was so cold so I said my good byes and went inside to warm up.  I then met the family, learned where my brother and I would be staying for the night and so said our good byes and left for a Vernon Kramer's house.
We visited a few minutes, got acquainted with the surroundings and off to bed.  What a day.

10/12/18 - On 10/11, We packed all of our things since we were leaving right after lunch for Delaware.  We went to visit Aunt Lovina Beachy before leaving for the funeral which was scheduled at 11 am.  We attended the funeral and then had some lunch and soon were on our way to Delaware.  The first half of the drive went well but then the latter half of the drive was horrible since we got into some traffic, lots and lots of rain and of course it was dark as well.  We did arrive home at about 10:45 pm.  We were between rains so I was able to get my stuff out of the car and into the RV before it started to pour.  We had a thunderstorm to begin with and then it rain really hard most of the night. 

Today, I did not do much at all.  I had to run into town to pick up my mammogram results to fax to the primary care and mail some birthday cards.  Otherwise, not much is going to happen today.  It is cold and windy.  We did learn we had an uncle that is not doing well and went into a coma today so now we are kinda on hold regarding that issue. 

10/12/18 -  On 10/6, Daniel, Mary Ann and I left for Sugarcreek, Ohio to visit their son Raphael and his family.  We had a nice trip and met Raphael and his family and Lemuel (Daniel's son) and his family at a restaurant for dinner.  We had a good evening.

10/7, Daniel, Raphael and Lemuel left for Cincinnati, Ohio to attend a Bengals game since that was one of Daniel's Christmas presents.  They had a great time since the Bengals won the game.  In the meantime, we took the rest of the families to the park so the children could play.  Regina (Raphael's wife) made a great dinner of chili, salad and bread.  The guys came home around 8:30pm and by a little after 9:00pm Lemuel and his family left for home which is in Washington, D. C.  They travel at night since they have a 10 month old little girl and she is able to sleep most of the way.  We got a text that they were home at a little after 2:00am.

10/8, Daniel and Raphael had plans to trim some trees and bushes around their back yard.  They  had a good start on the trimming when Daniel got stung by a yellow jacket.  Since he is highly allergic to any type of sting, we were looking for an epi pen but did not have one.  Regina had some benadryl  so we gave that to Daniel and then all he wanted to do was sleep which was probably good but that ended the tree trimming except Raphael decided to see if he could have the nest and destroy it.  He had to actually saw down the part of the stump and bush to get to the nest.  We then did alot of spraying so kill all of them.  We also learned that a cousin of ours had passed away and Daniel had worked with this gentleman for almost 10 years so really wanted to attend the funeral but we did not have any information.

10/9, Daniel was feeling much better and since we did not have any information regarding the funeral in Plain City, Ohio, we decided to head back to Delaware.  We did some shopping of fudge, cheese and bologna before leaving the area.  I then discovered I had left my jacket at Raphael's house and since we were driving by there on our way out, Regina met us at the car.  We were soon on the way.  I am not sure how far we got toward Pittsburgh when I got information from my facebook about the funeral.  We stopped off the side of the road, made some phone calls to Delaware to see if we could just turn around and head for Plain City.  It was soon determined that we would do that.  I then called Uncle Allen and his wife Connie to see if we could stay at their place and that we would be in town late afternoon.  We had planned to take them out for dinner but instead they already had plans for a senior citizen dinner at the church and of course we got invited.  So they had a carry in dinner and a young couple share their honeymoon vacation trip to France, Italy and Switzerland.  They did a hiking tour and it should was interesting.  Back to Uncle Allen's and off to bed.

10/10, Connie had to work so Mary Ann made a cherry delight dessert for her since she was suppose to take something for the lunch after the funeral, Daniel and I took their recycling up to the township for pick up.  We then took Uncle Allen out for lunch.  The visiting hours were from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm and Daniel and I decided to go to both since there would be different people at the different times.  We were able to visit with a lot of relatives and friends.  Connie had made some chili so we had that for dinner.

10/01/18 - On 9/19, Mary Ann made a huge dinner for the small group from her church since one of them had a birthday.  I think there was about 14 of us. 

9/20, Mary Ann made another huge dinner and invited Weston (nephew) and his family, Christina (niece) and her family over for dinner.  I think there was 12 of us.  I soon learned that it was another birthday dinner for me.  After dinner, Deborah (niece) handed me a stack of birthday cards.  I was so shocked and surprised.  I later learned that Deborah had written all of my nieces and nephews and requested a card shower and if possible to put in $10.  I had been sending birthday cards for many years to sisters, sister-in laws, brother,  nieces, nephews, great nieces, nephews.  I would include a $5 gift if under 10 years of age and a $10 gift 10 years of age and older.  The family has gotten so big that this year I finally decided to not include any unmarried nieces or nephews, great nieces or nephews over 21.  Almost everyone responded to Deborah's request.  I was quite amazed.  What an evening of surprises.

9/23, I left for Norton, Massachusetts to visit my friends Marilynn and Joe.  It was 387 miles and a long drive since it included New York City.  The first 3 hours of the drive included constant rain.  Upon my arrival, we had a great chili and cornbread dinner.  It had been two years since I had been there so we had a lot of catching up to do. 

9/24, The guest bedroom is in the basement so it is quite dark so I slept very, very late this morning.  Finally got up and showered and dressed.  It was a rainy day and Marilynn had physical therapy that morning but we just took the afternoon to catch up with all kinds of news and happenings the past two years.  Oh, yes she had knee placement earlier in the summer.

9/25, Slept late, very rainy, Marilynn back from dentist appointment and relaxed the rest of the day.

9/26, Marilynn had doctor's appointment so I decided to go with her.  We also went shopping at a consignment shop and she found a really nice blouse.  I learned that certain Dunkin Donuts also serve ice cream cones so we stopped and had one!!  Marilynn made wonderful stuffed red peppers for dinner.

9/27, We went out for mexican food and it was delicious.

9/28, It rained absolutely all day.

9/29, It was a beautiful day and they took me to visit a soda factory that still makes sodas and bottles them in glass.  We took a tour of the factory and it was really interesting.  The tour included seeing the actual spring water hole.  It is called Simpson Springs.  They also bottle pure spring water.  I gor a root beer soda and made a float then for an evening snack.

9/30, I left Norton, Massachusetts at 9:33am and had a nice day for traveling back to Delaware.  I did get into a lot of traffic just east on the Connecticut border and all the way thru New York.  It finally cleared up when I got on the New Jersey turnpike. I had a great week with my friends.  I got back to Delaware, chatted with Daniel and Mary Ann for a few minutes, sat out with Deborah by the fire pit and then got a few things unpacked.  I needed to get laundry together since Mary Ann was doing laundry.  Off to bed.

09/18/18 - On 9/17, I had a quiet birthday with Mary Ann making a wonderful liver and onions dinner with mashed potatoes.  She had to cook other food for the rest of the family since it is only Mary Ann and I the love liver and onions.  Later, Daniel and I stated a two sided puzzle and I had never done one before so we both found it a huge challenge to even get the edge pieces together.  We had a good start but then Deborah (niece) came home and helped us.  I started part of the inside of the puzzle but it was late and needed to get home. 

09/16/18 - On 9/14  My sister- in law Ruby from Harrisonburg, Virginia came to Delaware for granparents day and we went to her grandson's soccer game.  They won the game and after that we went to a seafood restaurant and I shared fish and chips with lots of malted vinegar.

9/15 - Ruby and I went to Dover because she is a great shopper and if we find something that I like she then can tell me if she can shorten the item.  She was able to find me two pair of jeans and one needs to be shortened but the other ones fits perfect.  We also found a navy blue pair of pants and a long sleeve shirt that she needs to shorten as well. We stopped for lunch and then got back to my nephew Weston's house where we did some final fittings.  Later in the afternoon, they planned a birthday party since both of his sons and himself had birthdays within about two weeks of each other.  Stephanie (his wife) made a wonderful cheesecake for dessert.  It was so good to see additional friends and family.

Today, Daniel stopped by with a package for Ruby to take back to Virginia and gave three cinnamon rolls that Mary Ann had just made.  They looked delicious but I kept them for a snack after I got back to the RV this evening.  I went to church with Ruby, Weston and his family and then we went out for lunch after church.  Ruby left for Virginia and I came home to watch some football and Christina and Deborah started a new puzzle so of course I had to help.  Off to bed.

09/13/18 - Well, I haven't blogged for a while since I was having key board problems and so I have been going over to Mary Ann's to use her computer.  Tonight, I turn on the computer and it stated it was doing an update and all of a sudden my key board is working.  I am so excited.   Mary Ann has been picking lima beans and I have been helping to shell those and I did the last picking of green beans.  They still have tomatoes and I have been eating them like crazy.  It has been raining off and on for almost a week now and now there will be more since they predicate that we will get some rain and wind from Hurricane Florence.  Time will tell. 

09/03/2018 - I have not blogged for a while so need to get started.  I am sure that I am not going to get the dates right but will try.

08/21 - The two families got together and froze 1400 ears of corn  There probably was at 12 to 13 of us.  It was a good day and we got everything done. During some of this time, Mary Ann has canned pizza sauce, tomato juice, and hot dog relish. 

08/31 - We were expecting my nephew Lem, Jessica and little Stella for the week end but the weather did not cooperate so they stayed at home. 

9/1 - Mary Ann picked a lot of lima beans from the garden and she had a neighbor over so we sat and shelled beans while during the neighbor's visit.  Later, Daniel, Deborah and I picked green beans and Daniel and I snapped them while watching college football and Deborah got things ready to freeze them.

9/2 - Mary Ann made a huge roast beef, mashed potato meal and invited family and friends.  There were 13 of us for dinner.  It was delicious.  Later in the evening, Mary Ann got out all of her crafting stuff since we worked on getting a scrapbook page ready for my sister Rachel and her husband Ivan.  This month they are celebrating 50 years of marriage.  Hopefully, we can get the pages off to niece, Miriam sometime this week.

08/17/18 - I sure have an awesome brother.  On Wednesday, he tackled the problem in the shower and after a while, I have a new shower.  I am so excited.  I also decided to include a picture of the RV sitting on his property.

                        Now I have a little people shower and an average size person shower

                                             All set up at my brother's place in Delaware

08/14/18 - On 8/13, Daniel and I ran some errands which included parts for the repair of my shower.  They did not have the exact part but Daniel is of the opinion that he might be able to manipulate the part to fit.  In the afternoon, Daniel, Deborah and I went back behind the chicken house where two row of trees (I think they are a form of a pine tree) since Daniel discovered that two trees were damaged from bag worms and the fastest way to get rid of them is to pick them off the tree and burn them.  They are inside of the shape of a pine cone so you don't feel them while picking them off the tree. We later learned more trees were infected so we picked them off quite a few of the trees.  I have attached a picture of our collection before the burning!!

                                                                        Bag Worms

Today, Daniel, Mary Ann and I went with a senior group to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to a Sight and Sound Theatre.  The play was on the adult life and ministry of Jesus.  It was an excellent play.  We then had a buffet late lunch/early dinner before returning home.  It was a nice day.  I then worked a little on the 2000 piece puzzle and we are almost finished with it.  Now time to get to bed.

08/10/18 - I have been in Delaware for four days now and it has been great just able to sit and relax.  My nieces Christina and Deborah love to put puzzles together like I do and we have done a few 750 pieces but now Christina has brought over her 2000 piece puzzle so that will take some time.  I did work on it this afternoon and I have not gotten too far.  My brother Daniel took a look at my shower and was able to get the broken piece out and so I need to go tomorrow and try to find the  part.

08/09/18 - This post is just information for myself during my traveling from Phoenix, Arizona to Milford, Delaware.  This is the first time, I actually wrote down miles between cities and decided to put on blog in case I lose the paper.

6/14 - Phoenix, Arizona to Gallup, New Mexico - 316 miles
6/15 - Gallup, New Mexico to Las Vegas, New Mexico - 290 miles
6/16 - Las Vegas, New Mexico to Colorado Springs, Colorado - 242 miles
6/17 - Colorado Springs, Colorado to Carpenter, Wyoming - 181 miles

7/12 - Carpenter, Wyoming to Kearney, Nebraska - 309 miles
7/13 - Kearney, Nebraska to Des Moines, Iowa - 317 miles
7/14 - Des Moines, Iowa to Morris, Illinois - 297 miles
7/15 - Morris, Illinois to Bristol, Indiana - 155 miles

7/29 - Bristol, Indiana to Plain City, Ohio - 223 miles

8/5 - Plain City, Ohio to Somerset, Pennsylvania - 262 miles
8/6 - Somerset, Pennsylvania to Milford, Delaware - 278 miles

Total miles - 2870

08/07/18 - On  8/6, I left Somerset at 9 35 am.  I had a hard time trying to find a place for lunch and there was a truck parking only space but when I got there it was completely full so went on and then I found a park and ride area but I really never found it but saw an empty lot that I could turn around in so had lunch there.

 I arrived at my brother Daniel's houe at 3 45 pm.  We went into the house to relax a minute before parking and getting settled in.  Soon a rain storm came up and it really poured for about 20 minutes so then we had to wait some more.  I took off the car while Daniel went to search for some wood since most of my wood had split.  We then parked the RV and Daniel got the electric and water hooked up but we decided to make sure I could get satellite before actually leveling the RV.  Well, we finally gave  up and moved the RV about 5 feet out from under the trees so I could get satellite.  Finally, we got everything done.  Daniel was very kind and looked at the microwave that was very loose and also the vent.  Soon the vent was working and then he learned I needed new screws to be able to attach the microwave.  Anyway, he went for the screws and I went to Walmart to pick up some prescriptions that I needed.  When I returned the microwave was soon repaired.  Thank goodness for a wonderful brother who seems to be able to repair anything!!  When I was getting ready to take a shower, I discovered the shower head and hose was on the floor and sometime between Sunday and Monday night it decided to break.  So I called Mary Ann (sister-in-law) and asked if I could come over and get my shower.  I was so tired that I just could not make myself sit and write the blog.  Off to bed.

Today, I didn't get up until around 10 00 am and got a letter ready to mail and soon learned that I missed the mailman so I drove into Milford and got the letter mailed.  When I returned, Deborah (my niece building the house) was on her way over to the house via a golf cart so I decided to go with her and get a tour of the house.  It is really going to be very nice.  She told me today it is alittle over 2000 square feet.  We came back, I made lunch and decided time to get this blog written.  Otherwise, nothing on my agenda today.  It just feels wonderful to be off the road.

08/05/18 - On 7/30, I finally connected with Connie and we decided to go to the grocery store.  Otherwise, I did nothing.

7/31, I went to the Der Dutchman Restaurant and met up with some 2nd cousin Yutzys that meet there every Tuesday evening.  It was a nice surprise and I had a great time.  I also went to Edgewater Assisted Living and visited with my Aunt Ada Beachy and learned that she had Parkinson Disease.  She is making dolls and doll clothes to pass her time which is wonderful.

8/1, I went back to the Der Duchman Restaurant and surprised fellow high school classmates that were meeting for breakfast/brunch.  There were 7 of us and we had a great time.  I stayed around since I was meeting an acquaintance from Northern Ohio for lunch.  Since I had a late breakfast, I got a cup of soup, had a few bites and then took it home.  We went to visit one of her 1st cousins, back to the RV since she wanted to see it and then she left for Northern Ohio again.  A good day but busy.

8/2,   Uncle Allen and Connnie, Uncle Paul, Aunt Martha went to Goshen, Indiana to see Aunt Kay for her 91st birthday.  I did laundry in the forenoon and then went to visit with Aunt Lovina in the afternoon.

8/3, Uncle Allen and Connie invited all of the Yutzys that were locate to come over and meet at their house for a wiener roast and then others brought side dishes.  There were 28 of us and we had a wonderful evening.  It was so good to see everyone.

8/4, In the morning, I went with Uncle Allen and Connie to the Yutzy Farm Market appreciation day.  We had more hot dogs, corn on the cob, and garden tea.  There I met some more relatives and had a good time.  In the afternoon at 3 30 pm, I went to my 1st cousin's wedding.  It was a beautiful wedding and quite a few people had been invited and so I of course saw more relatives!! 

Today, I got things put away, unplugged and Uncle Allen and Connnie took me way back to their farm and I was able to fertilize his field with both my black and gray water!!  We then hooked up the car and I left at 10 15 am.  I had a good day of traveling.  Stopped the Pennsylvania Welcome Center for lunch and got a neat Pennsylvania map.  I also had to stop for gas and got to the Walmart in Somerset, PA at 4 30 pm.  Time for bed.

07/29/18 - On 7/28, Aunt Esther and I got Indian food and celebrated Aunt Kay's birthday a week early since we are not going to be there next week.  We had some flowers and a balloon for her as well.  It was a good day but a little hard to say "good bye".

Today, Aunt Esther could not sleep so was up earlier than planned but I got up around 7 45 am.  We then started to get things ready to leave Bristol, Indiana.  We did empty out both gray and black water tanks before leaving the campground.  We had everything ready and I pulled out around 10 15 am.  I mostly had two lane highway and drove through a lot of little towns but traveling went well. Got to a rest stop a little after 1 pm and had some lunch and rested awhile.  I got to Uncle Allen's house in Plain City, Ohio at 3 45 pm.  We talked for a while and then decided to get busy and take the car off the RV.  When trying to park the RV against the house, there were some tree branches in the way, so Connie had to cut them off.  Got parked, plugged in and leveled.  They then decided that they were going to Mc Donald's for a sandwich so I tagged along.  I am off to bed and planned to do NOTHING tomorrow except maybe go to the grocery store!  Off to bed.

07/24/18 - On 7/19, I spent the day with Sue.  We did a lot of shopping because I was looking for two different type of step stools since I broke one in Wyoming and then left one at a rest stop on my way to Indiana so was down to one and it was small and really did not do the job.  We did find some but then found better ones so then we had to return some.  It was quite the day by the time I was satisfied. We had India food for lunch.  A good day.

7/20, We went for breakfast at Anna's Bread.  Was really an interesting little coffee shop. We went to a german store and got some german lunch meat.  We also stopped at an Asia market and I got some chinese sausage.  In the afternoon, we stopped to buy ice cream for the family wiener roast and stopped for some fresh garden tomatoes.  Then we went to Sue's brother David's house but due to the rain, the picnic was moved inside.  I met some of the family that I had not met before and was a nice evening.

7/21, I went in to have lunch with Aunt Kay.  She was not feeling very well so soon lunch, she went down for a nap and I decided to come back to the RV. 

7/22, We met at Sue's apartment, went to a movie and then had Japanese food for lunch.  We then decided to stop by a park with a nice hiking trail and pond.  It was a little windy but nice.  We then got some ice cream and decided to come back to the RV and start a fire since Sue had gotten me some wood to burn in the fire pit.  Later, we learned that Aunt Esther was on her way in and should be here around 4 or 5 pm.  Aunt Esther came later because she did stop off to see Aunt Kay but was not there very long.  She came out to the campground and my phone was not working and she waited and waited for me to give her the pass to get in. She finally followed someone in.  I never got her texts and then when she tried to call, my ringer was off.  I was so upset but we finally got it together.

7/23, I met up with Sue for lunch and Aunt Esther went in to spend the day with Aunt Kay.  Aunt Esther was very late getting back to the RV because the hospice aide did not come in to put Aunt Kay to bed so finally the staff at Greencroft put her to bed.  I was home all afternoon and then decided to make a fire in the fire pit.  Picture attached

Aunt Esther came home and we enjoyed an after dinner drink and she ate some left overs we had.  We a nice evening

07/18/18 - Today, I packed a lunch and sliced a fresh tomato to take with me and went to Goshen to see Aunt Kay.  I  had planned to get there before she left her room for the dining room for lunch but it took longer to get there than I had planned.  When I got there, she was seated in the dining room and getting her menu together.  We then had lunch and she loved the fresh tomato.  Aunt Kay then decided to sit outside for a while since it was a beautiful day.  While outside, she requested her nails to filed and then polished.  I then wheeled her back to her room and she requested help to go to the bathroom and then she was going to take a nap so I left.  I then went to another Walmart to see about a step stool but did not have any luck.  Back to the RV and Sue is stopping by for the evening.  We had a quick dinner of egg salad sandwich with fresh tomato, potato chips and then later did have some popcorn.  Sue brought out some wood and we had a nice fire in the fire pit. Was a great evening.  Off to the shower house (since I don't have sewer hook up) and off to bed.

07/17/18 - On 7/16, I started early in the morning calling several mobile RV repair people to hopefully get the leveler repaired.  The first call was an answering service yet they stated they were back from vacation.  I called Sue and asked her if she could go by the shop to see if they were closed so I could try someone else.  Sue called me back and yes they were in the office but were booked out until 8/6.  The gentleman then gave me a few other names and I went to the office and got a few more cards.  So I continued to call and leave messages.  One gentleman called me back and informed me that my leveler should never be separated and I would have to purchase a whole knew unit and I needed to call Winnebago and order the part.  I got on the computer but did not learn very much but got a phone number and called and left a message.  Then someone told me that I should call the manufacturer of the leveling system and I got a number.  When I called, the gentleman was not sure of what the actual problem was so asked me to send some pictures so he could see what parts I needed for the repair.  The gentleman called back and informed me that it looked like the separation could be put back together and informed me how to do it and let the repairman know because I really did not need the part.  What a relief so I called the gentleman back and told him I had instructions on how to repair it and I would like an appointment.  He set me up for Thursday at 2 00 pm.  In the meantime, I got a called from one of the other mobile RV repair people I had called and explained the situation.  He sounded so much more confident in trying to help me than the gentleman I had the appointment with on Thursday.  We ended the phone call with "if I needed him, I could call".  I thought long and hard but went to bed.

Today I got up and decided that I had to go with my gut feeling so I called Mike back and asked if he would put me on his schedule because I just felt better about his knowledge and confidence that I just did not sense from the other guy.  Mike informed me that he could actually stop this afternoon.  I was delighted.  He stopped by, we assess the situation, he got some tools out and within about 20 minutes I was repaired and the RV was leveled!!  What a relief and only $175 later.   I then called and left a message to cancel my appointment on Thursday.  I spent the evening with Sue and we made liver, onions and mashed potatoes.  It was very good.  We went to Walmart to see if I could purchase a step stool but they did not have what I wanted.  Will check around.  Off to bed

07/15/18 - I left Morris, Illinois at 8 35 am and had about 155 miles to Bristol, Indiana where I am going to park for two weeks. I  had a good trip and got to the campground at a little after 12 30 pm.  I am so disappointed in the campground since I wanted full hook up but the only spaces have water and electric.  Plans are to take the showers in the shower house just behind me.  Things were going well until I learned one of the levelers was completely off it base.  So now I am not very level so will call someone to tomorrow to see if they can come and help me.  I am hoping it will be an easy fix but who knows.  It is very humid today so feels uncomfortable.  I did start the air conditioner but it could not handle it very well while the sun is out  There is no breeze but things have cooled down a little and with the fan, I am doing fine.  I am off to bed early and so nice to know I don't have to drive tomorrow. 

07/14/18 - I got up at a little before 8 00 am.  I put stuff away, got the car ready and left the parking lot at 8 55 am.  I had a good day of traveling.  Stopped at a really nice rest area and spent about an hour and half since I would be too early to park at Walmart.  I got to the Walmart parking lot in Morris, Illinois at 4 00 pm.  Drove the parking lot and decided to park at the very end.  Now there are signs to the left of me that state no truck parking but no signs where I am so not sure if they will leave me alone!!  It is quite muggy and my weather states there should be rain but there is no wind so things are a little uncomfortable right now.  It is suppose to cool off to 70 degrees so should be able to sleep.  I now have driven a little over 900 miles.  Sure will be ready to park at the campground tomorrow.

07/13/18 - Oh my, Friday the 13th. I had a good traveling day.  Got up at 7 45 am.  It had rained some during the night but is drizzling this morning.  I left the Walmart at 8 55 am.  Soon it started to rain some but then cleared off.  I had a nice rest stop for lunch and took my time since I left a little earlier than planned and would have gotten to the Walmart in Des Moines too early.  I also need to fill up some jugs with water so was about a hour and half for lunch. After lunch, I drove in rain most of the way.  It was a light rain but the roads were wet.  When I got to the Walmart in West Des Moines, Iowa, I checked out the parking lot and there was very little opportunity and then I got to a sign that said "truck route" so turned there and now there is lots of room to park but there are signs posted every where "no truck parking" and "will tow". Now I am in the Sam's Club parking area.  I parked and pondered a while and then decided to be smart and go asked someone.  This guy tells me straight across is also Sam's parking lot and I can park there because no signs are posted so that is what I did  Now I can sleep without worry.  While I had the generator running, I made tea for tomorrow and used up a lot of water so will have to get more at the next rest stop when having lunch.  Oh, it just started to rain.  That is good because then it will cool off things.

07/12/18 - On 7/11, Philip, Virginia and Rosie left around 2 30 am for the Denver airport since they were going to New York to visit family.  Around 11 00 am, Virginia sister Mary and her Mom left for the Denver airport since they were going to Pennsylvania for the week.  It was so nice to just be alone and get things done.  I did some things around the RV, did laundry and then since I was sitting on the edge of a field of just weeds, I decided to drain the gray water since no one was home.  I made some macaroni and cheese to eat when traveling. 

This morning, I could not sleep so I got up a little before 7 00 am and took my time with morning chores.  I then started to unhook things and since I was using a hose that they also use to water the garden, I had several things to unhook and then hook up.  The connection leaked last night and so I was in some mud to get things re-connected.  I took my water regulator off and went into the house to make sure everything was locked up and of course left it so now I have asked Susie (Virginia's sister) to please drop it in the mail for me since I really need it.  I then put the hoses on a pile and wrapped up the electric cord as well.  Finally, I was ready to lift the levels and get out the wood underneath.  The ground was so sandy that I could not budge the wood.  So now I am taking a wrench and digging a hole to get underneath the wood to remove it.  I only had to do one because I figured out how to pull out of the spot with driving over the other two.  I moved the RV and then was able to get the other wood out!!  I then hooked up the car and finally pulled out of the driveway at 9 35 am.  I had a nice rest stop for lunch, then stopped for gas and arrived at the Walmart in Kearney, Nebraska at 5 08 pm.  I lost an hour since I am now in the Central time zone.  It was rather warm here (96 degrees) when I arrived but opened windows and had a good breeze.  It is now cooling off.  Off to bed.

07/10/18 - On 7/4, we had a great chicken barbecue with family and friends of Philip and Virginia.  It was a great evening.

7/5 - I did some laundry, made some phone calls to get quotes for insurance for the RV and car, got a prescription ordered and started to pack for my trip to Delaware.  I went to bed early. 

7/6 - Got up at 3 30 am, finished packing and left for the Denver airport at 4 30 am.  I had a good trip, parked the car, a shuttle to the airport and off to Philadelphia where I was picked up by my brother Daniel and his wife Mary Ann.  We had a good trip to their house in Delaware.

7/7 - We got up early to leave for Mt. Joy, Pennsylvania for a wedding of my great niece, Cynthia. It was a little over a 2  1/2 drive.  The wedding was at 10 00 am.  It was a fairly large wedding and we had a great time since there were other family there that we had not seen for quite sometime.  We left the reception and headed back to Delaware.  We stopped off at Mc Donald's for a snack and we think Daniel might have gotten some food poisoning since he did not feel good and ended up with a lot of diarrhea.  Off to bed.

7/8 - We decided to relax a little and only went to church and not Sunday School.  Had a great lunch and did some relaxing.  We took the golf cart and went over to see the beginnings of Deborah's new house.  We learned that the little calf of Daniel's discovered the electric fence was not working so we got him back in.  In the evening my brother made a fire in the ring and we had some s'mores and Jesse, Christina join us with the neighbor Chris.  It was a nice evening.

7/9 - Daniel and I took the golf cart and rode the fence to find the problem and now the electric fence is working again.  Mary Ann and I went to her sister's house to cut some spearmint tea for me to take back to Wyoming.  Since we were never sure of traffic, Daniel and I left early for the airport in Philadelphia.  We had great traveling and got there quite early but that is better than sit in traffic and worry whether one is going to make the flight.  Daniel also had a good trip back to Delaware which I was happy about.  Our flight was very full and I ended up in the middle seat so I was not very happy.  It was a non stop and a little over 4 hours so I was not too happy.  We actually got in early to Denver and that was great.  By the time I got to the shuttle, shuttle to car and out of the parking lot it was almost midnight.  I had a good trip back to Philip's house.  I got to bed at a little after 2 am!!

Today, I slept in. Virginia called and stated that they had some visitors over night that would like to see the RV before they left.  I then did some chores around the RV and then Rosie and I ran errands in Cheyenne.  I picked up my new glasses. I definitely need to get use to them and I felt I should be able to see further than I can but now think I just need to get use to them.  I will give them a chance before I do too much complaining.  Also got some groceries to get ready for my next traveling.  I had dinner with Philip, Virginia and Rosie.  Rosie also came out to the RV and washed my window shield both in and out.  It was wonderful.  They leave early in the morning for New York.  Off to bed

06/29/18 - On 5/23, I left Philip's house around 9 40 am and headed for Denver, Colorado to visit dear friends of mine.  It is just a little over 2 hours and I had a good trip.  We got settled in at their house (Annie and Boj (nickname for John) and then decided to do an early dinner which was a great Mexican place. 

5/24, Boj, Annie and I drove to Pueblo (a little over 2 hours) for a baby shower.  I was just very lucky to be in the area at the time the baby shower was scheduled.  It was great surprising a few people and visiting with old friends who are like my family.  We then helped clean up alittle and left for Denver around 4 30 pm.  Annie had started a cold and was not feeling very well so we stopped to get some cold medication for her.  Back in Denver, we did not do much but was a nice evening just catching up.

5/25, I left Denver around 10 00 am for Pueblo since I was staying for a couple of days because Annie was scheduled to work but because of the cold she did not go to work.  I got to Pueblo around noon to John and Deb's house to learn that John was in a meeting and Deb was called into her office since one of her employees could not come into work.  John gave me the code to get in through the garage and I got my stuff and made myself at home.  Deb had a lot of salads left from the baby shower so I helped myself to some lunch.  John came home and was busy smoking a pork loin out on the grill.  We had pork loin, baked potato, roasted carrots, left over salads for dinner.  There were 7 of us.  We had a great evening. 

5/26, Deb and I went to see Bob and his new house in a new community.  It was really nice.  We toured the house and then we all went to lunch at the Gold Rush.  We met up with Mary Pat who is Bob's sister.  We had a delicious lunch and great conversation.  Mary Pat had to leave early for an appointment and then we took Bob home.  Deb decided not to go to work so we sat and had a great conversation.  I decided to leave around 4 00 pm.  I needed to stop for gas and got into some traffic so called Annie and told her not to wait for me for dinner.  It took almost 3 hours but was a good trip.  Annie is still not feeling well so did not go to work.

5/27, Slept in late, went for lunch at a delicious Chinese restaurant and otherwise just stayed around the house which was great.  For dinner, we had tuna salad sandwiches and ice cream sundae.  Was wonderful.  Boj decided to make rhubarb crunch.  We did watch a cute movie.

5/28, Slept in late, went to lunch at a pizza/Italian place.  We had pizza and a salad.  Plans were to leave at 4 00 pm but then learned another acquaintance was stopping by so decided to wait so I could see him.  We had a great visit but did not leave until 5 45 pm.  I did get into some traffic but travel went well and I got back to Philip's house at 7 15 pm.  Everyone was gone so I settled into the RV.  Philip got home, got some dinner and came over to the RV to chat and eat his dinner.  Virginia came home later and also stopped off at the RV.  She had made some cinnamon rolls and we each had one.

Today, I had the optometrist for my distance vision glasses.  He stated that the lens implants were looking great and my eyes were healthy.  Now, just waiting for glasses.  I am going over to Philip's house for the rest of the afternoon.

05/20/18 - On 5/18, I did very little and I was so glad to be off the road.

5/19 - I did some computer work, made some airlines reservations and did a lot of printing.  Otherwise, the day was quiet.

Today, went and got gas for the car, Virginia, Rosie and I went to the post office in Carpenter to see if any mail was being held since Philip did not get my birthday card.  No mail was held but Virginia learned from the postal clerk that someone is stealing the mail in the area.  On the way back to the house we did find some mail along the side of the road so we picked it up.  Virginia and Rosie took it back to the post office and I went with Philip to watch him split wood for a while.  He has a wood splitter so he could do a lot in a short period of time.  It was interesting.

06/17/18 - This morning I was awakened by a continuous knock on the door.  I finally realize something was going on so I got a housecoat and answered to learn he stated he was from Walmart but I am not sure if that is true but stated that we could not do overnight parking.  This Walmart was listed in my book at RV friendly and there were no signs posted in the parking lot.  There were 4 of us and he told me that Cracker Barrel allowed overnight parking and I should go over there which was about .2 of a mile.  By the time, I got the car ready, put some things away, got some clothes on it was 1 00 am.  Before long, all 4 of us were parked in a much smaller parking lot and of course took me a long time to settle down again.  I just could not get comfortable with the situation so soon was awake again at 6 50 am.  I got up and did my daily routine and  decided to leave even though I would get to my nephew's house earlier than expected.  I was delayed in Denver because of an accident and they blocked the complete freeway and had just exit off.  Of course, now I did not know where I was going and how to get back on the freeway so decided I would make a left and go to the next parking lot available and try to find something via the GPS.  The light changed at the end of the ramp and as I was waiting for the light to change, they opened up the ramp to get back on the I-25!!  I was so lucky.  I did stop for gas and arrived at a parking lot to wait for my nephew.  We found each other and when we got to his house we decided where to put the RV but some of the family was here for lunch so we did not hook up until after lunch.  Since my small pump is not working, Philip set me up with water as well as electricity.  I then visited with the family and decided to come over and blog because I am waiting for family members to leave so I can take a shower and go to bed.  I need to put an extra blanket on the bed since it will be down to 52 degrees tonight.

06/16/18 - Today when I was filling up my 3 1/2 gallon jugs with water a maintenance man came by and offered to fill with the a hose instead of me trying to get them full from a drinking fountain. I left North Las Vegas, New Mexico around 9 35 am.  Soon after being on the road, it got really windy so slowed me down to 50 miles per hour.  At some point, I heard some noise and in my mirror, I saw something flopping in the wind.  I pulled off at an exist to check it out and it got so windy that the very back bumper area (I guess that is what you call it) was getting loose so I got my electric tape out and taped it together.  It has held very nicely the rest of the day.  Plans were to make a stop for lunch around a 100 miles and there was suppose to be a rest area but on the other side of the highway.  There was a sign that stated it was coming up in two miles but then the exit I thought where the rest stop was turned out to be only a very short distance so I slowly drove by to learn that was the rest stop.  Of course, now there is nothing for miles.  I had some crackers and chips as a snack so was not starving.  So then my next stop was suppose to be for gas but I learned that I did not need it so continued to drive.  I got very tired but did make it to the Walmart in Colorado Springs.  I got to Walmart earlier than I usually do and the parking lot was rather full and busy.  I couldn't really see much parking except on the side I came in and it was rather downhill.  I parked and walked the parking lot to see if there was a better place to learn that they are resurfacing the parking lot and alot of it was blocked off and then all the equipment was parked in the area as well.  So came back and decided I had to use the levelers since it really was quite hilly.  I rested awhile and then decided I needed to get a few things from Walmart so when I closed the door to the RV, I got suspicious that it did not close right but yet I was able to lock it.  I then tried to open it and of course I couldn't.  I tried several times and then gave up and was walking to ask for help when I found these three people in the parking lot working on securing items on a trailer and asked for their help.  The gal and guy came over and sure enough the gal was able to open it.  I then greased it all up and we are working.  Did my shopping, had dinner, ran generator for an hour to charge both computer and phone so will play on computer for a short time and then off to bed.

05/15/18 - I had a good sleep and got up this morning at 8 15 am.  I got things put away and took off for Las Vegas, New Mexico.  This is about 86 miles south of the Colorado border.  The driving went well and just before getting into Albuquerque I wanted to stop for lunch but for some reason, I did not see the rest area and the next thing I knew I was going from I-40 to I-25 and then I had a ways to go before another rest stop so lunch was not until 12 45 pm.  I did take my time since I did a lot of the driving already  I had a few hills to climb and all of a sudden the engine decided to get hot so I pulled over and let it cool for a while.  I then learned if I drive between 53 and 54 miles per hour the engine stayed cool and could make the hills but then of course it took longer to get here.  I finally got to the overnight rest area at 4 10 pm. At this rest stop there was a drinking fountain so I was able to fill up a few 1/2 jugs so I could make tea and flush the commode.   Of course, took care of the car, ran the generator so I could charge the phone and computer.  Warmed up spaghetti for dinner and will finish this blog and off to bed. 

06/14/18 - Got up this morning at 6 20 am since I was unable to sleep knowing that I was leaving Phoenix.  I finished some things on the inside and then dismantled the water, sewage, and electric.   By the time, I got the car hooked up it was already 100 degrees and 8 20 am.  I noticed that a light was on the stated I still had a jack down (leveler) so went to check and everything was all tucked in so decided to take off .  I didn't even get out of the park before something started to beep and when I hit a bump I thought it stopped but no it had to keep going but I knew everything was OK.  Well, I listened to that beep for 167 miles and some of it was slow since I had to climb 7000 feet to Flagstaff.  The engine did try to overheat but I have learned to downshift to cool her down and also just follow the semi trucks and go slow.  We made it just fine.  I then stopped at a rest area for lunch and worked on trying to find out why my little water pump on demand does not want to work.  I also decided to put all the levelers back down on the payment until I was ready to leave to see if the beeping would stop.  Well, the beeping stopped (thank goodness) but the water  pump is still not working.  I also stopped for gas.  Since I lost an hour and it was 316 miles, I decided to stop at Gallup, New Mexico for the night.  I just got parked when a rain storm came in with a little wind but  did not last long.  It is 85 degrees with a breeze!  No more sweating for me.  Now, I need to run the car a little, go to Walmart to see if they will let me fill a container for water for the night.

06/13/18 - On 6/10, I went to church with Aunt Ada and had lunch with Aunt Ada and Robyn.  We talked about it and tried to find some glasses on Amazon for a little distance to help in my travels but we did not have any luck.  In the afternoon, Aunt Ada and I worked on a puzzle.

6/11, I had my last appointment with the ophthalmologist and everything is great.  He did inform me that I can have any optometrist do the testing and give me the glasses which was wonderful news.  I spent the afternoon with Aunt Ada and we finished the puzzle.  I said my "good byes" since I am leaving Phoenix at the end of the week.

6/12, Left some items at Aunt Ada's so went to  pick up and to Robyn's house to tried another pair of glasses that failed and said my "good byes".  Then to Walmart to pick up a few groceries and a prescription.

Today, did some more work around the RV before it got up to 100 degrees and had AAA come out and check the air in my tires to make sure everything is in good shape.  I will start to put some more things away so I have less to do in the morning since I want to leave before it gets too hot.

06/05/18 - It has been kinda quiet because I had to wait to take it easy until 5/31 when I could finally bend over and sleep on both sides of my body and not sleep with a shield. 

6/1, had a post op eye appointment and everything is looking good.  I spent the rest of the day with Aunt Ada.  I made some hamburger stroganoff for dinner and Robyn joined us for dinner on her way home from work. 

6/8, I went to the dentist office to see if a very small hole could be repaired in the upper denture. The dentist took a look and stated that the lab person could do the repair so I needed to be scheduled.  In the evening I went to dinner with my friends, Jim and Josh.  We had great Italian food.

6/9, Back to dentist office to meet up with lab person.  Yes, he can repair and also put new rubber things in the bottom denture.  Well, turned out he only had one of the rubber things so I told me I would do with the one.  He failed to tell me and I failed to ask how much it would be since I had gotten quotes the day before for the repair of the upper and 4 of the rubbers for the bottom.  Well, when I got to the desk to settle with just one rubber, I was looking at a reduction and she informed me that my quote didn't matter if it was one or four.  Well, I told her that the lab person needed to come and take it out because I didn't want to pay for something I didn't get.  She informed me I was paying for the time and not the rubber thing!!!  Finally, we agreed on a discount because of the misunderstanding from the quote but I was still out $475 but the uppers look great and the bottoms do feel better.  Tonight went to dinner with my friends Neal, Ronny and Kim.  It was a very nice evening.

05/27/18 - On 5/22, I left all my dirty clothes from the cruise in the suitcase to take over to Aunt Ada's.  Aunt Ada offered to do the laundry since I would not be able to do it for another whole week.  I then did some other packing since I was going to be at Aunt Ada's house for the next three days due to my second cataract surgery.  I arrived at Aunt Ada's around 5 00 pm.  After taking everything in the house, we had dinner together. Started eye drops for surgery.

5/23, Robyn picked me up around 8 00 am and we headed for the surgery center.  I needed to check in at 9 30 am for 11 00 am surgery.  Surgery went well.  Robyn and I then went to her office for the afternoon since she had some meetings and classes to teach.  I made some lunch, read my book and played games on the phone.  After Robyn's private meeting with a student, we went back to Aunt Ada's.  We had dinner and off to bed.

5/24, I had my follow up appointment.  Everything is well.  We went home and I did some computer work, had lunch and then started a puzzle.

5/25, Aunt Ada and I ran some errands and worked on the puzzle.

5/26, I packed up all my stuff and went back to the RV around noon.  I then put everything in the RV but forgot what a mess I had left from the cruise stuff and now things would go much slower in getting things put away because I am not allowed to bend over for a week.  So have only done things that did not require any bending!!  Good to be back home.

Today needed to run some errands which included washing the car and buying some groceries since there was nothing left in the house.  The RV will remain a mess until I can bend over which is not for three more days!!

05/26/18 - On 5/18 we docked in Sitka.  We had a cruise to see sea otters, sea lions and bald eagles.  It was an interesting cruise and we saw lots of bald eagles and sea otters all along our way.  I tried to take a picture but one really can't see the otter.  It is just a black dot on my picture.

                                              Sea Otter on right of middle of picture

5/19 - Sailing day so was very lazy day

5/20 - Docked at Victoria, Canada and we took a shuttle into town and got off  and walked a busy street that was definitely set up for tourist.  Aunt Esther and I  had a gelato ice cream and then back to the ship.  This afternoon, we started to pack since we had to have luggage out by midnight.

5/21 - We got up early to have breakfast before disembarking.  I was scheduled at 8 20 am and Aunt Esther at 9 00 am.  We were separated because we had different luggage requirements.  I was trying to get out of Seattle earlier than 3 38 pm so had to take my luggage with me.  Aunt Esther was able to have her luggage tagged from ship to pick up in Cleveland.  I did get to change the flight for an extra $25 but left at noon.  Aunt Esther left at 1 30 pm so we did get to meet up again at my gate before I left.  It was a great trip and always good to spend time with Aunt Esther.  Got home at 5 00 pm since I took the light rail which took a little over an hour.  My suitcase was a little heavy and my neighbor observed I was struggling a little so soon I heard this voice behind that he wanted to help.  That was nice.  I did very little unpacking.