tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46945434176680060882024-03-14T07:11:07.599-04:00Yogi and Boo Boo's AdventuresBill and Shelly's TravelsYogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-18528862879290500892013-03-05T17:12:00.001-05:002013-03-05T17:12:26.810-05:00February 2013<p><strong><u><font color="#9b00d3">Feb. 1st thru 4th in Imperial, California</font></u></strong> - Pre-Rally to prepare for trip to San Felipe, Baja Mexico</p> <p>Camping at the Imperial Valley Expo Center. Kind of of muddy, but full hook-up.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZNGfMq-XzGc/UTZq09RWAFI/AAAAAAAACUE/1mvdYh6NePA/s1600-h/Pre-rally-El-Centro-CA-43.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pre-rally El Centro, CA (4)" border="0" alt="Pre-rally El Centro, CA (4)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aze6Pi5xiv8/UTZq13pLwgI/AAAAAAAACUM/sCfTO94il1g/Pre-rally-El-Centro-CA-4_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Informational Meetings, learn what to expect with our trip into Mexico, like insurance needs, charity in San Felipe , meet travel groups that will travel together and basic Spanish classes. This is the group of about 70 people that went to Mexico with the Mexican Connection escapee group.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DG9FwRveTKQ/UTZq23-Zk0I/AAAAAAAACUU/fOuO9bmBsTA/s1600-h/Pre-rally-El-Centro-CA-63.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pre-rally El Centro, CA (6)" border="0" alt="Pre-rally El Centro, CA (6)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AmrX9FyOA-I/UTZq4IB8DlI/AAAAAAAACUc/lluu13r1JnQ/Pre-rally-El-Centro-CA-6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><u><strong><font color="#9b00d3">Feb. 4th thru 14th San Felipe, Baja Mexico</font></strong></u></p> <p>Day of departure, we all had our groups of 5 or 6 RV’s with CB’s to keep in contact with each other. It was a real caravan. There was 6 groups that left at 15 minute intervals.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RF5E53DgOoI/UTZq7rqBcfI/AAAAAAAACUk/IBFNIjk03RU/s1600-h/2-4-13-Take-off-for-Mexico-133.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Take off for Mexico (13)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Take off for Mexico (13)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mxLwHAIOr_M/UTZq9C3fMnI/AAAAAAAACUw/0h-qpe1mVUI/2-4-13-Take-off-for-Mexico-13_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Going thru the Mexican border town of Mexicali.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fais-tE9fVA/UTZrFXegjgI/AAAAAAAACU4/fZKaVKeevXA/s1600-h/2-4-13-Mexico-Border-23.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Mexico Border (2)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Mexico Border (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O18WzGVutJ8/UTZrGcC3aJI/AAAAAAAACVA/rPhRjyGLP7Q/2-4-13-Mexico-Border-2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Road to San Felipe…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sEfG7oGZBUY/UTZrHOZ3sJI/AAAAAAAACVI/m-wINORCwFY/s1600-h/2-4-13-Road-to-San-Felipe-Mexico-43.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Road to San Felipe, Mexico (4)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Road to San Felipe, Mexico (4)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ti8dFY7QuIs/UTZrIAtk_iI/AAAAAAAACVQ/XgqoJlBNCoM/2-4-13-Road-to-San-Felipe-Mexico-4_t.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Stop at a Mexican Security checkpoint. These guys have automatic weapons, but friendly. They came into the RV, I think just to check out the RV, not us.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--U9ttxyzLrM/UTZrItI1quI/AAAAAAAACVY/pRwNeI4Y9RY/s1600-h/2-4-13-Road-to-San-Felipe-Mexico-93.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Road to San Felipe, Mexico (9)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Road to San Felipe, Mexico (9)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Aq5rCC3hUmc/UTZrJO5mfyI/AAAAAAAACVg/2iVWFv30keU/2-4-13-Road-to-San-Felipe-Mexico-9_t.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Next Stop Pete’s Camp where we’ll be camped for the next 10 days.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8rZIEoOCsA8/UTZrKGIXL4I/AAAAAAAACVo/Ci-dNxxSvqo/s1600-h/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (2)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0dLSItxKutM/UTZrLJBu9UI/AAAAAAAACVw/msxBKeGTge0/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7tIMJ7WPCSU/UTZrM74749I/AAAAAAAACV4/ltBa04v1prw/s1600-h/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (5)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (5)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TUH9LU8uwWk/UTZrN6jcSuI/AAAAAAAACWA/lMVxG_6fnio/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-btWNczWSDdw/UTZrOhRJrnI/AAAAAAAACWI/2oeWdZyq9mY/s1600-h/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (6)" border="0" alt="2-4-13 Pete's Camp San Felipe Mexico (6)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jTDeJjKdbZQ/UTZrPksn2iI/AAAAAAAACWQ/Ggt935j39tI/2-4-13-Petes-Camp-San-Felipe-Mexico-%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gic4XTm7DYk/UTZrQcWuRLI/AAAAAAAACWY/eIyNdxRllQ4/s1600-h/0113.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="011" border="0" alt="011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n_jaEBxUVZI/UTZrRgxWOaI/AAAAAAAACWg/J60Rhpfy89I/011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Miles the beach bum.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eyt0r3WLOrI/UTZrSivPtCI/AAAAAAAACWo/aNvifiBAWA8/s1600-h/0797.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="079" border="0" alt="079" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GcBMEHhpSQs/UTZrTV1zZYI/AAAAAAAACWw/w6AlNLAnQEs/079_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Happy Hour everyday with the Mexican Connection team. Weather was cool the second week, due to high winds.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1xk3lD_1VKU/UTZrZeJVAXI/AAAAAAAACW4/MDl__cX5f2Y/s1600-h/0883.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="088" border="0" alt="088" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qnusLUuroKU/UTZraQF19LI/AAAAAAAACXA/YniwBa2zzl0/088_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Charity auction, one of the main purposes of the chapter 8 is to give to the local community. Our group collected close to six thousand to give to local charities.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jzBw5uiXhlQ/UTZrbHRtYNI/AAAAAAAACXI/i6INciZWEdc/s1600-h/1013.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="101" border="0" alt="101" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r1DxruUWS3E/UTZrbzZdfMI/AAAAAAAACXQ/qMBZVz23MrU/101_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This the view from our campsite looking out at the sea of Cortez.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n6F9QaOY52Q/UTZrc4A_igI/AAAAAAAACXY/nCCM2ySNT14/s1600-h/0773.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="077" border="0" alt="077" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bOPf2tYQt50/UTZrdlP8QHI/AAAAAAAACXg/4Vq5Lhyanfg/077_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Every morning we would walk the beach for miles.The tide here is the third highest tide in the world.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-u6sr0L5dUuM/UTZreoBzWYI/AAAAAAAACXo/1fJfjIywh_k/s1600-h/0153.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="015" border="0" alt="015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CsmNiOe4rVE/UTZrffdhv7I/AAAAAAAACXw/7klED5I7p_g/015_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>San Felipe is a small fishing town in Baja, Mexico on the sea of Cortez. </p> <p>This is main street in San Filipe. The boardwalk here is called the Malecon.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-i5rrdGztoys/UTZrgEGKAAI/AAAAAAAACX4/AsZYnpU__J4/s1600-h/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (26)" border="0" alt="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (26)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C2g0qkmawZc/UTZrg31EReI/AAAAAAAACYA/FTYQBI5rVmg/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="562" height="328"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_gUv2YxAdhs/UTZrhqdb1KI/AAAAAAAACYI/WBrBd665_d4/s1600-h/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (10)" border="0" alt="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (10)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QCVa0Sr4HKY/UTZriQf8e-I/AAAAAAAACYQ/rAOMWpropeI/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Not only did we hang out on the beach we took some trips. One of the trips we took was to the “Valley of the Giant Cactus”. Some of these cactus are more than 1500 years old and 50ft high. They were brought over from Spain when the Spanish came to Mexico.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nVCYqNtHzhI/UTZrjH8V89I/AAAAAAAACYY/dGRfo_WuMQY/s1600-h/0627.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="062" border="0" alt="062" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qExtayzwYN0/UTZrkLDizbI/AAAAAAAACYg/tDESjAMjgJo/062_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lpoBdfZ_kFI/UTZrkx2GZHI/AAAAAAAACYo/RKhZVIwK1Z0/s1600-h/0523.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="052" border="0" alt="052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-51Hdju2eptU/UTZrmNj-FpI/AAAAAAAACYw/KsIyEDe3OQo/052_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-35dkXqp0vY8/UTZrnJc89YI/AAAAAAAACY4/MrRkvIA6iDc/s1600-h/0363.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="036" border="0" alt="036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j2JfuW-z6vE/UTZroAQV81I/AAAAAAAACZA/wDv6pCaJ3KA/036_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Eg3ieqYWuXs/UTZrpOOeC2I/AAAAAAAACZI/yiO5VAGw_0U/s1600-h/0283.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="028" border="0" alt="028" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_qaWH1y7Hmg/UTZrp89lprI/AAAAAAAACZQ/6C1ycv6wwrA/028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p>Went fishing with 4 others. We rented a local to take us out in his Panga boat. We caught about 100 fish, mostly Calico sea bass,also some flounder and trigger fish. This area of the sea of Cortez is pretty well fish out. Commercial fishing is not allowed here. while fishing we seen seal and whale around the boat. When the seals showed up the fish disappeared. The whales come here to have their young because of the buoyancy of the water. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FbosqWmppbk/UTZrqyT9naI/AAAAAAAACZY/Qqjm13Cqrlk/s1600-h/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (20)" border="0" alt="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (20)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mkoirWoMd6g/UTZrrlFasdI/AAAAAAAACZg/5sFf-CoT7jE/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8ouZ5-EDyMo/UTZrseUb--I/AAAAAAAACZo/vkIQVbR9OoU/s1600-h/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (6)" border="0" alt="Bill's Fishing Trip from San Felipe, Mexico - Charlie Shaefer, Lisa Shaefer, Larry Brown, Doug Smith (6)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-syOA9xQpccY/UTZrtA5qTZI/AAAAAAAACZw/J7m8_5wpvZA/Bills-Fishing-Trip-from-San-Felipe-M%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>There was a trip to Puertecitos to see the hot springs, we got there,but never did see the springs, but it was a beautiful place.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KJmyAuAhqlU/UTZrukGQfXI/AAAAAAAACZ4/pCvWaw4-z0A/s1600-h/0823.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="082" border="0" alt="082" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1qurQ0hXa-8/UTZrvTGe13I/AAAAAAAACaA/nuZcIJmC4uc/082_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sfjfkXBZrBg/UTZrwDtmXzI/AAAAAAAACaI/SWIWOot8dd0/s1600-h/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (7)" border="0" alt="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (7)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_NmQ4wvvv0U/UTZrw4PqWXI/AAAAAAAACaQ/_zHefucaKJw/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We were in San Filipe during Carnival. This is their celebration that coincides with the beginning of lent. The celebration went on for three days. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t1JyIIcyf6E/UTZrx24L0cI/AAAAAAAACaY/MvlTTtRQa1Q/s1600-h/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (60)" border="0" alt="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (60)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RIOvTgsKQhM/UTZrzU84TbI/AAAAAAAACag/MhqT997glQw/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LlNyQCtF_pY/UTZr0HCha_I/AAAAAAAACao/7wWX1GpHzoA/s1600-h/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (56)" border="0" alt="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (56)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--ckQdwBxqy0/UTZr1ljJp0I/AAAAAAAACaw/L7klYwrVjk0/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>It was cold and windy during the carnival, but our group enjoyed our celebration dinner at an outside restaurant.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8DSN6y0aS1U/UTZr3hpSSOI/AAAAAAAACa4/Yzy5L1aumTk/s1600-h/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (38)" border="0" alt="San Felipe, Puertiecitos, El Dorado Ranch, Carnival (38)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VBpr0CWy1v8/UTZr46yUwXI/AAAAAAAACbA/PXzOxi3xk4Q/San-Felipe-Puertiecitos-El-Dorado-Ra%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Trip out of Mexico, going through U.S. customs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EvGJN4W0tdM/UTZr5zXxG4I/AAAAAAAACbI/zt2DVvODewc/s1600-h/san-felipe-mexico-0213.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="san felipe mexico 021" border="0" alt="san felipe mexico 021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HRz5RaJE9Mo/UTZr682da8I/AAAAAAAACbQ/3y0RJxC_7ug/san-felipe-mexico-021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WAUygsoe-oI/UTZr8CWdwVI/AAAAAAAACbY/C50NCxoS2Vc/s1600-h/san-felipe-mexico-0223.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="san felipe mexico 022" border="0" alt="san felipe mexico 022" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mr4OZp4R-Hw/UTZr9KJhfbI/AAAAAAAACbg/xY8Rj64xqxY/san-felipe-mexico-022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><font color="#9b00d3"><u><strong>February 15th thru 18th Lake Havasu, AZ</strong></u></font></p> <p>The fireworks at Lake Havasu, AZ “24the Winter Blast”. This event is sponsored by the Western Pyrotechnic Association as a display of the newest firework products available for sale. This was the best firework display that we have ever seen. Went on for four straight hours.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uqLfNLwo-hs/UTZsAVwAQUI/AAAAAAAACbo/dJVfRmF_FA0/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0213.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 021" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 021" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dDrc3uxWgIk/UTZsBd-1VMI/AAAAAAAACbw/eFHhaci4X_c/Lake-havasu-021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MQ1ksPYGIJQ/UTZsCWhypLI/AAAAAAAACb4/a0sMJ-PN6Zw/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0253.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 025" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 025" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--EkdlualpOs/UTZsDfKOBsI/AAAAAAAACcA/ytV32jbPfEo/Lake-havasu-025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-06xA7Wt4Dd4/UTZsFIJWh9I/AAAAAAAACcI/FIpQ7XWFpeg/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0313.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 031" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 031" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lApAXzFxKKU/UTZsGAixbOI/AAAAAAAACcQ/IADKZLc7DAU/Lake-havasu-031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We stayed on BLM land called “the steps” just south of Lake Havasu, AZ. This spot is a favorite for campers. At one time this area was going to be developed into a campground but never finished. So the area went back to the BLM (Bureau of land management) It’s hard to find a flat spot to camp but here it’s all been terraced. the Colorado river in background.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tt7elZJS1uo/UTZsHdQEBHI/AAAAAAAACcY/i_oiMaHnfHA/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0513.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 051" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 051" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t_cWFiBs0ZM/UTZsIubGrkI/AAAAAAAACcg/luGUNk1rVi4/Lake-havasu-051_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GYC31AoI3AA/UTZsJuYzWlI/AAAAAAAACco/FizJinZlczI/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0543.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 054" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 054" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-c1W8Q7j4z5w/UTZsKXa385I/AAAAAAAACcw/OC5coI3fHP8/Lake-havasu-054_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Hike to Picnic Table Mountain with Ed and Jan Biller and of course “mountain dog Miles”. The view from here is spectacular.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JoU0X2Y5u-Y/UTZsLneR1WI/AAAAAAAACc4/rb6R5QW3bfA/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0773.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 077" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 077" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ne-vezZeweg/UTZsNNkJJWI/AAAAAAAACdA/v9ljOZKFFG4/Lake-havasu-077_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lpd6YTj2ANM/UTZsOF1EuHI/AAAAAAAACdI/ZIep8oCOZHA/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0724.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 072" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AB1KgYMPeek/UTZsO7MK0zI/AAAAAAAACdQ/AqO8Ng5QoiE/Lake-havasu-072_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="507"></a></p> <p>We also did a hike through “The Crack” which is a slot canyon.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pAEXhlgUvJo/UTZsQATbW9I/AAAAAAAACdY/wM-YklLVYpM/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0893.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 089" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 089" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pabIwXwjvDQ/UTZsVPvawcI/AAAAAAAACdg/knVLOHVDoOU/Lake-havasu-089_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p>That’s the Colorado River…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Cfy3KUROYvk/UTZsV4_ugxI/AAAAAAAACdo/8LJHmC_gE44/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0803.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 080" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 080" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-M2V9uOdoPng/UTZsXCkz73I/AAAAAAAACdw/G_2Rs3UwAzs/Lake-havasu-080_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Tour of the town of Lake Havasu has to include a look at the London Bridge. The London Bridge is Arizona’s second biggest visitor attraction, second to the Grand Canyon. The original bridge was designed in 1799 and spanned the River Thames in London, England. But by 1924 it was evident that the bridge was sinking, so London put it up for sale. This is a photo of the original bridge in London.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DK5mDx0cO2I/UTZsYPvH-9I/AAAAAAAACd4/W0T4scCMChs/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-1023.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 102" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 102" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NE2UiPvQu8M/UTZsaYAud3I/AAAAAAAACeA/U3xcV27QBXw/Lake-havasu-102_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><br clear="all"></p> <p>This is a photo of the bridge today. In 1968 Robert McCulloch bought the bridge for $2,460,000. Each block was numbered before the bridge was disassembled. The blocks were then shipped overseas to California and then trucked to Arizona, where the the bridge was reconstructed and rededicated in 1971. This is the bridge today in Lake Havasu.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yxFRbXQ5FWY/UTZsdK-ELWI/AAAAAAAACeI/-jzNfyO2sdw/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-1053.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 105" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 105" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HQWVkzeNvqw/UTZsd8dej0I/AAAAAAAACeQ/VL-WhaKAB8A/Lake-havasu-105_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><br clear="all"><br clear="all"><br clear="all">Lake Havasu is a nice town on the Colorado River. This is a fountain that was located at the bridge with a shopping center and tourist attractions.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SbCmsM3QLqk/UTZsheHVfkI/AAAAAAAACeY/YW2pn_TyvtQ/s1600-h/Lake-havasu-0973.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lake havasu 097" border="0" alt="Lake havasu 097" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wyh-kFfB1Z4/UTZsi6-iMGI/AAAAAAAACeg/Akcw5yBD66I/Lake-havasu-097_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><br clear="all"></p> <p>Left Lake Havasu and headed to Emerald Cove Campground in Earp, CA to stay a couple of days with our friends, Andy and Diane Hitzel. Full hook-ups and great meals at the clubhouse.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IaIidgR9qI8/UTZsjk9qEcI/AAAAAAAACeo/-iEg2KbBkOU/s1600-h/0013.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="001" border="0" alt="001" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kYcuPfaAyaY/UTZskyoWYxI/AAAAAAAACew/DvLAJgt9iqQ/001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><u><font color="#9b00d3">February 25th thru 27th near Laughlin, Nevada</font></u></p> <p>Stayed at the Avi casino. Free dry-camping in the parking lot. Took some great side trips when we were there.</p> <p><u>Kingman, AZ</u></p> <p>Powerhouse Route 66 Museum – tells the story of Route 66</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nrzgGiMlUFg/UTZsl_z7deI/AAAAAAAACe4/JxvO31XPe9w/s1600-h/2013-02-25-Kingman-AZ-Route-66-Musue%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-25 Kingman, AZ Route 66 Musuem (2)" border="0" alt="2013-02-25 Kingman, AZ Route 66 Musuem (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZnlIti7oUDA/UTZsnF2yt0I/AAAAAAAACfA/ewKVXD6TAwA/2013-02-25-Kingman-AZ-Route-66-Musue%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1CGRKazm35E/UTZsolSOBoI/AAAAAAAACfI/ayKSAylpS3Q/s1600-h/2013-02-25-Kingman-AZ-Route-66-Musue%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-25 Kingman, AZ Route 66 Musuem (1)" border="0" alt="2013-02-25 Kingman, AZ Route 66 Musuem (1)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4XRilTYTAWQ/UTZsp9eRDpI/AAAAAAAACfQ/cu9tfvc6CPI/2013-02-25-Kingman-AZ-Route-66-Musue%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Mohave Museum of History & Arts in Kingman, AZ – provided a look into the Wild West and local history, including mining ranching and local heroes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jyTaT5_LH7I/UTZsquEvV9I/AAAAAAAACfY/HHNlpo6cRn0/s1600-h/2012-02-26-Old-Route-66-and-Kingman-%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-02-26 Old Route 66 and Kingman Musuem (8)" border="0" alt="2012-02-26 Old Route 66 and Kingman Musuem (8)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WKn-shoDr2Y/UTZsrl06d5I/AAAAAAAACfg/T8ecN8d0Fxw/2012-02-26-Old-Route-66-and-Kingman-%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ueSgIr6G17A/UTZswkpDdiI/AAAAAAAACfo/JNEa7dSuz9A/s1600-h/2012-02-26-Old-Route-66-and-Kingman-%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-02-26 Old Route 66 and Kingman Musuem (11)" border="0" alt="2012-02-26 Old Route 66 and Kingman Musuem (11)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nlAUTC_kHEU/UTZsyfUQrQI/AAAAAAAACfw/YjWrn4Lqzws/2012-02-26-Old-Route-66-and-Kingman-%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><u>Oatman, AZ</u></p> <p>Was a booming gold mining town from 1906 to 1942. Now a living ghost town with a collection of shops and restaurants. The town is on the national historic site list.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dT1a2LNWSug/UTZszVDJ0LI/AAAAAAAACf4/2IG8BLbOYxU/s1600-h/2012-02-25-Oatman-AZ-23.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-02-25 Oatman, AZ (2)" border="0" alt="2012-02-25 Oatman, AZ (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-51pMA1-bk5I/UTZs0ON9IZI/AAAAAAAACgA/CqtCACgtG7Q/2012-02-25-Oatman-AZ-2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Very popular little town, famous for it’s wild burros which are said to be descendants of the working animals from the mining days.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vdPWqo1PTIs/UTZs0wSVDbI/AAAAAAAACgI/-I1M1R1CdCg/s1600-h/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-113.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (11)" border="0" alt="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (11)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-poHxrp5kUBs/UTZs6R0aFlI/AAAAAAAACgQ/50fUR9N1O14/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-11_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Miles was very curious.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0u3iBVBLlEo/UTZs77NJ6yI/AAAAAAAACgY/aEBx1YgRfNg/s1600-h/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-163.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (16)" border="0" alt="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (16)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O-TBnaF8JSg/UTZs9Ci6V6I/AAAAAAAACgg/OFwvbkyqRxk/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-16_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This was just before the burro let Miles know he wasn’t welcome with a kick of his front hoof.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-99qHqMP6rsE/UTZs-HcKH6I/AAAAAAAACgo/FyvbZ-yTLoE/s1600-h/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-243.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (24)" border="0" alt="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (24)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-v_nzng3G7as/UTZs_NtPDQI/AAAAAAAACgw/G6oAccE8NnI/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-24_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Some of the stores sell feed for the burros so they follow you everywhere.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZVR7tkf_z_M/UTZs_mVFbQI/AAAAAAAACg4/WZmpQcxbDPg/s1600-h/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-253.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (25)" border="0" alt="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (25)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TeaxUbLL8Dw/UTZtAhL7ZxI/AAAAAAAAChA/9tGt38kJXRw/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-25_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>And everyday at noon and 3:00 there is a shoot out on main street.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bgVXbAES0so/UTZtBZYP88I/AAAAAAAAChI/qTXvK6gwaMs/s1600-h/2012-02-25-Oatman-AZ-83.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-02-25 Oatman, AZ (8)" border="0" alt="2012-02-25 Oatman, AZ (8)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZSrTTxOPI80/UTZtO2wxJ8I/AAAAAAAAChQ/cT9MirHw4Iw/2012-02-25-Oatman-AZ-8_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p>As we left town, a couple of burros headed into town for lunch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pN5OxhhU3GM/UTZtP23yzaI/AAAAAAAAChY/2LcW7KswHqE/s1600-h/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-63.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (6)" border="0" alt="2013-02-26 Oatman, AZ (6)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W35vPKC_chM/UTZtRVWXn1I/AAAAAAAAChg/B0oX1uPUFQQ/2013-02-26-Oatman-AZ-6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Took a hike to Grapevine Canyon, which has Native American petroglyphs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VmMzmdYnlvQ/UTZtSlyEAeI/AAAAAAAACho/eHWsWhFY6_c/s1600-h/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 007" border="0" alt="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pENaIa3dWEE/UTZtUYKx4sI/AAAAAAAAChw/6in0aiy4feA/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gdF1XM1MDsM/UTZtbQrbYEI/AAAAAAAACh4/mTVIXZcdsYk/s1600-h/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 010" border="0" alt="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MpOpUU8FiA4/UTZteBNAu3I/AAAAAAAACiA/2EB3j3yRjM0/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Great hike, except the mountain climbing parts.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HNjWSUHtm84/UTZte0QLK5I/AAAAAAAACiI/yF5_KcoYG10/s1600-h/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 013" border="0" alt="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VobRmIXW35k/UTZtf3Ak53I/AAAAAAAACiQ/6bKzSMvcr8s/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-f-AoUNElS-k/UTZtkghSvKI/AAAAAAAACiY/1E1EpP0rRtU/s1600-h/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 019" border="0" alt="2-27-2013 Laughlin, NV Grapevine Can, Christmas tree pass 019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xj50_YDUwMg/UTZtlwEt_nI/AAAAAAAACig/yv6S3aoMZhQ/2-27-2013-Laughlin-NV--Grapevine-Can%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p><font color="#9b00d3"><u>February 28th Mojave National Preserve in California</u></font></p> <p>This is the Kelso Depot Visitor Center which began operation in 1924 and served as a train station, restaurant and employee housing for the Union Pacific Railroad.In it’s hay day there were over 2000 workers here. There are exhibits that describe the cultural and natural history of the preserve and a restaurant. The train still runs by the center, but doesn’t stop.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QR8VzAZZ0_o/UTZtmnKrx8I/AAAAAAAACio/RR488do8sLg/s1600-h/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-0043.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mojave Desert National Preserve 004" border="0" alt="Mojave Desert National Preserve 004" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lPXnFJzHtyk/UTZtntf54_I/AAAAAAAACiw/dCgXOpXu67s/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-004_.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We found a great campsite in the desert, no hook ups, but wow what a site. We stayed for 3 days.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6fM9ZJt2KD8/UTZtpK9lysI/AAAAAAAACi4/hjYoFsiiAZo/s1600-h/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-0113.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mojave Desert National Preserve 011" border="0" alt="Mojave Desert National Preserve 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K5ZdPMRafYU/UTZttTLOc2I/AAAAAAAACjA/ZFobwjrqt6o/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-011_.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is the view of the Kelso sand dunes right where we camped.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7Vc-xKsjflc/UTZtuE6ofqI/AAAAAAAACjI/zqJVHpRvtuk/s1600-h/B-Mojave-Desert-0017.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="B Mojave Desert 001" border="0" alt="B Mojave Desert 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ahGoIskQD9o/UTZtu8JsTGI/AAAAAAAACjQ/9KPZ2Jfbwkk/B-Mojave-Desert-001_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Beautiful sunsets.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RZ58ZaL1JsA/UTZtvqHvgrI/AAAAAAAACjY/UCjpSjPDn2Y/s1600-h/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-0183.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mojave Desert National Preserve 018" border="0" alt="Mojave Desert National Preserve 018" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fOvPUJxtidQ/UTZtxyWDvuI/AAAAAAAACjg/DAz_cazKRE0/Mojave-Desert-National-Preserve-018_.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>February was a great month, we loved Mexico and have meet some great new friends and got to connect with some old friends. Looking forward to discovering some of California and then heading east. </p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-70125638037898849882012-10-01T23:04:00.001-04:002012-10-01T23:04:27.705-04:00September 2012, North Dakota, Williston, Fort Union, Fort Buford, Teddy Roosevelt Badlands National Park, Medora,Wyoming- Yellowstone NP, Grand Teton, NP and Arches NP, Utah<p><u><font color="#ff0000">From Bemidji, MN to Williston, ND 461 miles</font></u></p> <p><u>Williston, ND</u></p> <p>Went to Williston to look around at all the Bakken oil activity. It has changed a lot since we were there 3 years ago. This is a perfect example of a boom town. It’s hard to describe. There are thousands and thousands of trucks on the road transporting everything imaginable. They create a constant dust storm in every direction you look. The restaurants close up during the day because there out of food. Motels are running $800. a WEEK. Land is being developed by the hour, new roads, new buildings, new stores, You name it it’s all happening at once.Lot’s of money to be made. </p> <p>We stayed with our friend Abe Owens, just west of town. This is his house. (his house is attached to one of his barns) nice huh!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gl7usqNBAuU/UGpRzbXSdKI/AAAAAAAAB8o/WPVrTjDa6S4/s1600-h/north-dakota-0468.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 046" border="0" alt="north dakota 046" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-z-UYZLceGM0/UGpR2SgA4ZI/AAAAAAAAB8w/uiWhNvOGtCc/north-dakota-046_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>He had us park in one of his new barns. Abe has a couple of wells and has a hard time getting rid of money as you can see. He gets two new combines every year.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-djyJu_LDS6k/UGpR4xEyN9I/AAAAAAAAB84/iLjlu1hCszo/s1600-h/north-dakota-0024.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 002" border="0" alt="north dakota 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lLxTqx-wvKs/UGpR7D30kmI/AAAAAAAAB9A/Yqzz8-8DkiM/north-dakota-002_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>These old tractor trailers are set as living quarters for oil employees. They call them” Man Camps “</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rF-BRyg1ydI/UGpR9AHUBjI/AAAAAAAAB9I/5zCvFdtM5pQ/s1600-h/north-dakota-0354.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 035" border="0" alt="north dakota 035" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5PpthedDElo/UGpR_ZQ6qMI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/NpdoySz5w6Y/north-dakota-035_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is what a well looks like once completed. Typically there around 18,000 feet deep and than a horizontal around 15’000 feet. They average around $9 million to complete. The tanks hold oil and and salt water. They are working on putting in pipe lines to collect the oil, but till there done all the oil is trucked out.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5x_Kd-fKOuY/UGpSCE2gGbI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/mUzkEL5YJvw/s1600-h/north-dakota-0108.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 010" border="0" alt="north dakota 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vu3X71Qge9c/UGpSEmmYlSI/AAAAAAAAB9g/ZKsCKn1oVCo/north-dakota-010_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>This is a picture of the original house in Westby, Mt.just across the state line from Williston, S.D.. where my grand parents home steadied in 1911. That’s my grandfather with the horses and my uncle Stanley on my grandmothers lap. This is actually the second house on the farm, the first one was a sod house. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2Zv3jV53IgE/UGpSG9cBsvI/AAAAAAAAB9o/fVC5Xj2GMF4/s1600-h/DOMINEK_D_14.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DOMINEK_D_1" border="0" alt="DOMINEK_D_1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ugaJbImBf7Y/UGpSI61FOCI/AAAAAAAAB9w/eBUIrAHojT4/DOMINEK_D_1_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="620"></a></p> <p>Here is a photo taken in the 60’s. Today all the buildings are gone. There are not to many people that live on the farms out here any more. Most live in a nearby town and drive out to work the farm. You can see Lake Dominek in the back ground.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3UxqfKg_Z5I/UGpSLWa7KRI/AAAAAAAAB94/qaxR1B5Ueoc/s1600-h/DOMINEK_F_18.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DOMINEK_F_1" border="0" alt="DOMINEK_F_1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MqH4IApYpP0/UGpSOBzE15I/AAAAAAAAB-A/FAySytLi-s0/DOMINEK_F_1_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="945" height="772"></a></p> <p>This is Dominek lake on the homestead. Usually it’s almost dry but this year and last year was some record rain fall. Now a days the homestead is set up in wild life refuge and not farmed anymore.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aTQDWgYvQMk/UGpSQ6VfkqI/AAAAAAAAB-I/WmAsv-ZRlik/s1600-h/north-dakota-0314.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 031" border="0" alt="north dakota 031" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rG2Q_nmiv34/UGpSTYqDwoI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/tuA_v_PRDOk/north-dakota-031_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a> </p> <p>Near Williston is a State Historical Site, called “Writing Rock”, which is an ancient Indian Holy site.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-23KKraicYdI/UGpSVNYc8-I/AAAAAAAAB-Y/ibj7stDQxHM/s1600-h/north-dakota-0144.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 014" border="0" alt="north dakota 014" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KXSV5WBl77k/UGpSXSCOXgI/AAAAAAAAB-g/NY1PkQVHOXs/north-dakota-014_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Petroglyphs carved into two granite boulders that date back to A.D. 100 to A.D. 1500. The meaning of the carvings is unknown. Indian legend says the inscriptions could once predict future events.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jwIrhqavUQM/UGpSaEPmyGI/AAAAAAAAB-o/y4URiRhBfR8/s1600-h/north-dakota-0219.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 021" border="0" alt="north dakota 021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oOO8WX7OuFQ/UGpSa89tkCI/AAAAAAAAB-w/cgEC2Wz-Qfs/north-dakota-021_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="222" height="260"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3aN0gTvQsg0/UGpSczuaFXI/AAAAAAAAB-4/c5XcEvLowwM/s1600-h/north-dakota-0228.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 022" border="0" alt="north dakota 022" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--FWDxn4J37Y/UGpSd0w9RfI/AAAAAAAAB_A/RRSGy5LtB3A/north-dakota-022_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" height="264"></a></p> <p>Even though this small historic site was located out in the middle of nowhere, there was a log book that indicated that there have been visitors to the site everyday for quite a few years.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UNgoY9tYWGo/UGpShD_7WnI/AAAAAAAAB_I/gTQHDGF6B9E/s1600-h/north-dakota-0264.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 026" border="0" alt="north dakota 026" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CkGcPJ5ZiR0/UGpSjwUueTI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/_gV4pKpL1MQ/north-dakota-026_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>There was also a nice picnic area and a very old, but very cool merry-go-round with some Crazy lady on it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KRC2qn8xTik/UGpSplldaQI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/6kgzHmNX9x4/s1600-h/north-dakota-0284.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 028" border="0" alt="north dakota 028" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ANq0QNqTHtk/UGpSvNdU4NI/AAAAAAAAB_g/sEjiAyMrpgQ/north-dakota-028_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p><u><font color="#ff0000">From Williston, ND to Fort Union and Fort Buford, ND 24 miles</font></u></p> <p>Fort Union, which is a National Historic Site, was the most important fur trading post on the upper Missouri, 1828-1867. It was owned and managed by the American Fur Company on the upper Missouri River. Here is where the Indian tribes traded buffalo robes and other furs for trade goods. This building was called the Bourgeois house. The fort has been totally rebuilt by the National Park System.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y1KwYTCccRY/UGpSyDgIlVI/AAAAAAAAB_o/GFGlhGhTRsg/s1600-h/north-dakota-05410.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 054" border="0" alt="north dakota 054" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rj1VCkv3CNo/UGpS2UTcGwI/AAAAAAAAB_w/M_wqg4CxJSE/north-dakota-054_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zv3rAo8Xybw/UGpS5hyUzSI/AAAAAAAAB_4/_dUe38rJosg/s1600-h/north-dakota-0614.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 061" border="0" alt="north dakota 061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XJIZxCFhUGc/UGpS8Gww3lI/AAAAAAAACAA/TLIVg0jtNx8/north-dakota-061_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is the inside of the Bourgeois House.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WCXqLWwavWE/UGpS-br5EqI/AAAAAAAACAI/z53gpTI88zw/s1600-h/north-dakota-0604.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 060" border="0" alt="north dakota 060" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pc_SZf7og8M/UGpTBl8FQRI/AAAAAAAACAQ/am_xz-nAp0I/north-dakota-060_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is the trade room, which contained replicas of items that would be traded during the forts’ operation.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zEaZ4YxFdK0/UGpTEwH8kgI/AAAAAAAACAY/E3kfv5rFA_8/s1600-h/north-dakota-0574.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 057" border="0" alt="north dakota 057" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dz_hUyMbj5o/UGpTHrGnwTI/AAAAAAAACAg/iwqspAVua2w/north-dakota-057_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is the “wicket” where the fort clerk would conduct trade with the Indians without allowing them into the fort.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RLf6bfiJ3h0/UGpTMlppzMI/AAAAAAAACAo/pjrFXvSra7s/s1600-h/north-dakota-0554.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 055" border="0" alt="north dakota 055" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q7a9k4aHiUw/UGpTQ3UzfoI/AAAAAAAACAw/Y_3SRZyuqH8/north-dakota-055_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We camped at the Fort Buford State Historic Site which is located at the point where the Missouri and Yellowstone meet. Established in 1866. This fort was a military fort and was built from material that were obtained from Fort Union (previous fort), after it closed.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a-XkBexE0OU/UGpTTizgsTI/AAAAAAAACA4/l1R6tqxQde8/s1600-h/north-dakota-0638.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 063" border="0" alt="north dakota 063" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fBjRDqgsh2Q/UGpTWOk-RtI/AAAAAAAACBA/cBQF_YW9PRw/north-dakota-063_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>There were 3 original military buildings and a reconstructed barracks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1L0coIdVdmk/UGpTY6CQmmI/AAAAAAAACBI/GLWqpbm_WoE/s1600-h/north-dakota-0704.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 070" border="0" alt="north dakota 070" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-28aGinn3sU4/UGpTb6siVpI/AAAAAAAACBQ/9eiFHKJqyyE/north-dakota-070_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There was a nearby military cemetery.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-l11MebmNl2k/UGpTe3VGBPI/AAAAAAAACBY/valOhhKy_gQ/s1600-h/north-dakota-0744.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 074" border="0" alt="north dakota 074" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tUyKqX0L4A8/UGpTiQ43tSI/AAAAAAAACBg/FHvrOdrc-HY/north-dakota-074_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>This was a very interesting cemetery, the names were on the headstones along with cause of death. The remains have all been removed and reburied in a national cemetery. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--0Bs_KucQr0/UGpTk9uPK5I/AAAAAAAACBo/P2AZHO1Mo2E/s1600-h/north-dakota-07210.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 072" border="0" alt="north dakota 072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4AmlZhENtJk/UGpTl7GmQ4I/AAAAAAAACBw/HnKePLeOXxc/north-dakota-072_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="128" height="295"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gkyq1Z38X1k/UGpTophH0XI/AAAAAAAACB4/SwB9oRtoIs0/s1600-h/north-dakota-0759.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 075" border="0" alt="north dakota 075" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RpG3eyxKQmU/UGpTpiDzYCI/AAAAAAAACCA/5OpTH8FicQw/north-dakota-075_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="144" height="276"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HxYYajmOHzk/UGpTsOk5_VI/AAAAAAAACCI/2v0dW49UEe4/s1600-h/north-dakota-0768.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 076" border="0" alt="north dakota 076" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--tXzFXWtlN4/UGpTtDViPzI/AAAAAAAACCQ/aceib03ppK0/north-dakota-076_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="265"></a></p> <p><u><font color="#ff0000">From Ft Union, ND to Teddy Roosevelt NP and Medora, ND 133 Miles</font></u></p> <p>Headed south to the Theodore Roosevelt national Park, North Dakota. We camped at the North Unit. Only stayed one night, but went for a hike in the morning. The rock which has been created by erosion from ancient rivers and glaciers.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jvkxzBUKaCc/UGpTvjXvU3I/AAAAAAAACCY/G0HfgX9a1JE/s1600-h/north-dakota-0814.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 081" border="0" alt="north dakota 081" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4Wq9zhx5T6k/UGpTxr-IqtI/AAAAAAAACCg/yazK2KPPOE8/north-dakota-081_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BjBIHQ1PwwA/UGpTztBvNKI/AAAAAAAACCo/Wn_WkgQh-c8/s1600-h/north-dakota-0804.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 080" border="0" alt="north dakota 080" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dxKCVI3zitk/UGpT1w-c4hI/AAAAAAAACCw/OwkLUdeOcR4/north-dakota-080_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is a picnic structure that was built by the CCC. (Civilian Conservation Corps, formed by FDR during the Great Depression). Looks like it will be standing for many more years.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B-UKOXExYm4/UGpT4kb4-SI/AAAAAAAACC4/AtLhW5pfgPE/s1600-h/north-dakota-0794.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="north dakota 079" border="0" alt="north dakota 079" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-stczsqPXcHk/UGpT7MT60EI/AAAAAAAACDA/l9GzKq89CPI/north-dakota-079_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Medora, ND</p> <p>The town was founded in 1883 by a French nobleman, the Marquis de Mores. He named the town for his bride, Medora.</p> <p>This the the view overlooking the badlands from atop a bluff at the Tjaden Terrace. There happened to be a balloon festival going on the time we were there.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-417dXufB6JQ/UGpT9bHZRcI/AAAAAAAACDI/p1AKLXggVQg/s1600-h/medora-1611.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="medora (16)" border="0" alt="medora (16)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WGtWIiYnv9M/UGpT_qOK_aI/AAAAAAAACDU/dAZofzqUQeQ/medora-161_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>This is where we had our Pitchfork Steak Fondue, which is served every night from June – Sept. This is the way they cook the rib eye steaks on pitch forks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4KiDrXxK7kA/UGpUBLawCBI/AAAAAAAACDc/TUJDg5wvpiU/s1600-h/medora-111.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="medora (1)" border="0" alt="medora (1)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OZk1f0Yn4qI/UGpUDFw3JZI/AAAAAAAACDk/VS2VWIZmE_M/medora-11_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>You also get all the fixings and then get to sit outside overlooking the beautiful badlands.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Q1d3gnNT5dU/UGpUGz3nJvI/AAAAAAAACDs/9t4UrqYPJ1w/s1600-h/medora-231.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="medora (23)" border="0" alt="medora (23)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6ZyAZGd_B0c/UGpUJ2t4w-I/AAAAAAAACD0/WND5tMt1G4s/medora-23_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="439"></a></p> <p>This is the Medora Musical stage, it is a professional variety show performed outdoors in Burning Hills theater.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E9UXC_tEb8c/UGpUMZK7DTI/AAAAAAAACD8/r42gwFHb9vE/s1600-h/medora-179.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="medora (17)" border="0" alt="medora (17)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mTwQ8lKr35s/UGpUPNF0g_I/AAAAAAAACEE/tZv2YnD_n6I/medora-17_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="544"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gezn_V65vVI/UGpUQ_kBWjI/AAAAAAAACEM/dmsC6tj_lug/s1600-h/medora-sd51.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="medora, sd" border="0" alt="medora, sd" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f9_H9ueI8Gs/UGpUTvwYttI/AAAAAAAACEU/V9NeUzjG-tY/medora-sd5_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Medora, ND to Rapid City, SD is 251 miles</u></font></p> <p>We stayed near this town, in Box Elder, where are mail is delivered, it is kind of of our hometown. Box Elder is a suburb of Rapid City, SD which is a very nice town with nice parks and a beautiful downtown area. The square is designed around a central water fountain.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j1Myeu22hHE/UGpUWaiw1qI/AAAAAAAACEc/J7eHjEKXzVA/s1600-h/Rapid-City-SD-611.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Rapid City, SD (6)" border="0" alt="Rapid City, SD (6)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Xcq8g5mQ62w/UGpUacyy8GI/AAAAAAAACEk/dem4SLNFy84/Rapid-City-SD-61_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>It is called the “City of Presidents” playing of the town’s closeness to Mt Rushmore. There are bronze statues of all 42 past presidents located all around the downtown area. This was John Adams.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-x3WZ6TEP4oo/UGpUeNfF8II/AAAAAAAACEs/1h5MSq2lWY8/s1600-h/Rapid-City-SD-24.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Rapid City, SD (2)" border="0" alt="Rapid City, SD (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tE7-MyD5yLg/UGpUhun7bUI/AAAAAAAACE0/Y6kkpSus13c/Rapid-City-SD-2_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>They have taken graffiti to a higher level, all the alleys are decorated with local “art”, I guess they feel that they can’t stop it they might as well promote it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Kp0O2PJCKZk/UGpUkUbYO3I/AAAAAAAACE8/Axf2NROgmbQ/s1600-h/Rapid-City-SD-44.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Rapid City, SD (4)" border="0" alt="Rapid City, SD (4)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WVbM-354kCQ/UGpUpK78imI/AAAAAAAACFE/RY5FHIWKl2A/Rapid-City-SD-4_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Rapid City, SD to Belle Fourche, SD is 60 miles</u></font></p> <p>Belle Fourche, SD is situated in the Center of the Nation. A granite monument in a pleasant riverside park has a monument to indicate that this town is geographically the center of the nation’s 50 states.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dgRU6jYWAzk/UGpUtLjnXgI/AAAAAAAACFM/CIZEYZWCviM/s1600-h/belle-fourche-sd-94.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="belle fourche, sd (9)" border="0" alt="belle fourche, sd (9)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NGFFhII6NtA/UGpUv3kNAlI/AAAAAAAACFU/ll7rOuqpx2I/belle-fourche-sd-9_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>There was a good visitor center with an interesting museum with local history.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m3VYcy6TPLE/UGpUyBV4bvI/AAAAAAAACFc/2Uo0CRMb_P0/s1600-h/belle-fourche-sd-74.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="belle fourche, sd (7)" border="0" alt="belle fourche, sd (7)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L1f84SY0om8/UGpUzzvgXYI/AAAAAAAACFk/5MwmqwR1g0M/belle-fourche-sd-7_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Belle Fourche, SD to Keyhole Wyoming State Park near Gillette, WY is 112 miles</u></font></p> <p>Keyhole State Park - This park was north of US 90. Found it by accident but ended up staying 3 nights. It was a beautiful park on a reservoir which was created by an earthen damn. This was our campsite.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6qUzlZFkqFs/UGpU4K8heVI/AAAAAAAACFs/5H646_RcQEE/s1600-h/Keyhole-State-Rec-CG-4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Keyhole State Rec CG (4)" border="0" alt="Keyhole State Rec CG (4)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E-sQCINoFW4/UGpU6aDG7II/AAAAAAAACF0/l3CmcPmvH20/Keyhole-State-Rec-CG-4_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We did some hiking around the park and saw a herd of antelope. Very unusual, they were very calm and did not run when we approached.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UzvU8EswOU0/UGpU9Zzh6KI/AAAAAAAACF8/gixksjOBhwM/s1600-h/030.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="030" border="0" alt="030" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FUFbtXgsios/UGpVAaaqk8I/AAAAAAAACGE/IH9hdF8Nk-0/030_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Of course, Miles had to go investigate and chased them for quite awhile and got in a lot of trouble. Thank goodness he came back, then he had to go for a swim.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8g3nOetw8_E/UGpVDdN71DI/AAAAAAAACGM/mNbLhI6U8y0/s1600-h/Keyhole-State-Rec-CG-24.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Keyhole State Rec CG (2)" border="0" alt="Keyhole State Rec CG (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KYFeHMj980A/UGpVFyS8EJI/AAAAAAAACGU/5PPTFX5ZNrY/Keyhole-State-Rec-CG-2_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>The reservoir was beautiful. The campground was almost empty, but we were told that it gets busy during the summer with people enjoying the water. This is part of the earthen damn.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h639bxOnAqw/UGpVIgM_YxI/AAAAAAAACGc/RIdDHcNrRFM/s1600-h/0104.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="010" border="0" alt="010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U3wcMC-xaXQ/UGpVLqFydNI/AAAAAAAACGk/FJ7MSrhvpLs/010_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Keyhole Wyoming State park to Buffalo Bill State Park in Cody, WY is 308 miles.</u></font></p> <p>Once again, we stumbled upon a great state park called “Buffalo Bill State Park” along US 16. The park is located next to the Buffalo Bill Reservoir, surrounded by the Rattlesnake Mountains. This was the view from our campsite.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gdkpUTkd05Q/UGpVNUZiV6I/AAAAAAAACGs/7dHj5fyYfq0/s1600-h/9-2012-wyoming-0068.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-2012 wyoming 006" border="0" alt="9-2012 wyoming 006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e-d6QI5A5Xo/UGpVQtnPzBI/AAAAAAAACG0/mwP7a0Jerk8/9-2012-wyoming-006_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>The sunsets were beautiful every night. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EretUJ-rwp8/UGpVSsvG8VI/AAAAAAAACG8/Y6khjWnSSv8/s1600-h/9-2012-wyoming-0484.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-2012 wyoming 048" border="0" alt="9-2012 wyoming 048" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pJ1vyPjd3To/UGpVVp31aGI/AAAAAAAACHE/bKryXtRvy-M/9-2012-wyoming-048_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>There are several things to see and do in the town of Cody, Wyoming.</p> <p>The Buffalo Bill Dam – It was originally named the Shoshone Dam and in 1946 was changed to Buffalo Bill. It is situated about 295 feet above Shoshone River. The dam was made of 83,000 cubic yards of concrete and took 5 years to build. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JsRRp7MLcbE/UGpVb1m1KEI/AAAAAAAACHM/UmfpKhGRpSY/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-24.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (2)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aALbhmf03WQ/UGpVhSNkRyI/AAAAAAAACHU/2rEC447U4vI/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-2_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>The visitor center allows you view the ragged canyon on one side.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SAmBgm_HTBE/UGpVk92MUnI/AAAAAAAACHc/R9aOqarFoZE/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-64.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (6)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (6)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t5bqA3X-WwQ/UGpVoe0T8cI/AAAAAAAACHk/f_VuQhT7YYA/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-6_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>And the beautiful reservoir on the the other side.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nieUHaySKww/UGpVq-cjObI/AAAAAAAACHs/QL4pzYjve2U/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-359.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (35)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (35)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vyivy0CO0d4/UGpVto_25hI/AAAAAAAACH0/jIr24ZCLb5I/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-35_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>The most fantastic thing to see in Cody, WY is the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. The center tells the stories of the history, nature and culture of the American West. It was huge, in fact, it took 2 days to see everything, but it was worth it.</p> <p>The firearm display is the largest that Bill has ever seen. (and He’s seen a lot of firearm displays) There were 1000’s of fire arms starting from when the Spanish came on thru the Pursing gulf war. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lCrMjhDWFsg/UGpVwAF7rdI/AAAAAAAACH8/nCjrkjH7MvE/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-344.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (34)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (34)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E4nemDTiqdM/UGpVxVlDEGI/AAAAAAAACIE/B4zpdZIcKug/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-34_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aIJ6MHR2AQQ/UGpVy019kfI/AAAAAAAACIM/jdpEPWZhKlk/s1600-h/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525284%252529%25255B1%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (4)" border="0" alt="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (4)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vJ5wp_lY4xY/UGpV0VooqRI/AAAAAAAACIU/Mm4Q8PDVGo0/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525284%252529%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="364"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jTOGZDDxXys/UGpV40Z9jbI/AAAAAAAACIc/95YnGj0fxvw/s1600-h/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525282%252529%25255B1%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (2)" border="0" alt="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nJm3PnJqduo/UGpV62cUj0I/AAAAAAAACIk/uq5sI_h5yd8/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525282%252529%25255B1%25255D_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="364"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7-wIVVxHQEw/UGpV9txQOiI/AAAAAAAACIs/R_BwlQEHtiw/s1600-h/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525281%252529%25255B1%25255D%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (1)" border="0" alt="9-2012 Cody Buffalo Bill musuem guns (1)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--jCRuZCdqd4/UGpV_RG8E-I/AAAAAAAACI0/D5i1ux3kJ78/9-2012%252520Cody%252520Buffalo%252520Bill%252520musuem%252520guns%252520%2525281%252529%25255B1%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="364"></a></p> <p>There were Native American culture, nature and a fantastic art exhibit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0qELKjEbjOI/UGpWBVvdaJI/AAAAAAAACI8/4iZMeiKDrSw/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-1710.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (17)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (17)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hhuc9kdf1sE/UGpWCHK4CEI/AAAAAAAACJE/3BC8fi11c60/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-17_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" height="163"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jzr4J5rbH8Y/UGpWFKjfFoI/AAAAAAAACJM/0qpW8miRKzk/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-215.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (21)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (21)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bmbAOo2he8w/UGpWGFeEXiI/AAAAAAAACJU/RR-MTch8eX8/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-21_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="126" height="139"></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RgdcRROz7qc/UGpWIbnUeRI/AAAAAAAACJc/agNgQI9WNtQ/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-2313.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (23)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (23)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-msegcbinlI8/UGpWJHzJyQI/AAAAAAAACJk/Uh8z6NgULTI/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-23_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="151" height="153"></a></p> <p> <p> </p> <p>We were getting ready to leave town and saw this little place and decided to stop. What a pleasant surprise and it was free.</p> <p>This is Tecumseh’s Mini-village. The village is 7,000 square foot diorama. The old west lives on at the village through thousands of 2.5 inch high figures that trace the history of Wyoming and Montana from the 1600’s to the late 1890’s. The indoor village and diorama was created by the owner Jerry Fick and he started building it when he was a child. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-niZrqY-mTdw/UGpWM8ld2PI/AAAAAAAACJs/9d4VdpLODfE/s1600-h/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-84.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (8)" border="0" alt="9-17-2012 Cody, WY (8)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RTxlMuLyq8g/UGpWQypMVoI/AAAAAAAACJ0/dIsXwJ8_lu0/9-17-2012-Cody-WY-8_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Can you see the rock on the right where the buffalo are being forced off the hill to their death by the Indians so that they can be eaten. See the buffalo suspended as they fell. Pretty cool….</p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Cody, WY to Yellowstone NP is 77 miles</u></font></p> <p>Yellowstone is the oldest National Park, dedicated in March 1, 1872. The park has the majority of the world’s active geysers. The most famous is “Old Faithful”. It erupts about every 93 minutes and lasts from 1 1/2 to 5 minutes, expels 3,700-8400 gallons boiling water and reaches a height of 106-184 feet. It’s probably the biggest attraction in the park even though is not the biggest or most regular geyser in the park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ytmkgh_ntSQ/UGpWTX36YNI/AAAAAAAACJ8/JwYmhmX2jpU/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-6711.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (67)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (67)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QcBx7OKjQhw/UGpWV0maP_I/AAAAAAAACKE/_hVc5TRD6RI/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-67_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="706" height="529"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-i82KLGzXvJ0/UGpWXRDlEZI/AAAAAAAACKM/9pJ30kBMlbw/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-7614.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (76)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (76)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SwgdDguIudQ/UGpWZFTx62I/AAAAAAAACKU/bHJWOZ-tMlY/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-76_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="675" height="478"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EV8yU-FSf4k/UGpWa17vTYI/AAAAAAAACKc/ntt6zayF1Hg/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-7411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (74)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (74)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QeVT64EMDIg/UGpWc4eUDlI/AAAAAAAACKk/R0M29wKfC-Y/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-74_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vmp4llNEOgc/UGpWfDYgm8I/AAAAAAAACKs/Khu7q6T_A-I/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-623.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (62)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (62)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8E6r5lxKWs0/UGpWiw-FI6I/AAAAAAAACK0/unQ_KEGKGWE/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-62_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>There are also many hot springs and mud vents.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-awdBBY-OBlc/UGpWp5hryXI/AAAAAAAACK8/Shywdokiui4/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-973.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (97)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (97)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zVv-nNDuhmE/UGpWv7uRvvI/AAAAAAAACLE/5GV5u_dES_A/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-97_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZWcp-yBXh6I/UGpWyw0FEhI/AAAAAAAACLM/q8S7ZyvzysI/s1600-h/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252883%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (83)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (83)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IAwPTMXcf1w/UGpW1Lwp2bI/AAAAAAAACLU/Io6PbrQIz7o/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252883%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>This is the Old Faithful Inn, a National Historic Landmark built in the early 1908.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NLw_oA7THD4/UGpW3wp4WmI/AAAAAAAACLc/EwzGYYWQFts/s1600-h/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%252528101%252529%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (101)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (101)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aCgeeKdyVy8/UGpW7Kt7PWI/AAAAAAAACLk/4lRviLAhg40/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%252528101%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>This is lobby of the Old Faithful Inn, I guess it takes a reservation made 6 months to get a room here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XHsU-k82a7I/UGpW9np2bdI/AAAAAAAACLs/UlsHaAzhuug/s1600-h/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252864%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (64)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (64)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zawfGjfUGbU/UGpXA25fkCI/AAAAAAAACL4/R3b798Ay27k/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252864%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p>The best thing in Yellowstone is the wildlife. The road thru the park is usually bumper to bumper with people stopped taking photos of wildlife.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nd-aaeFFlF8/UGpXCy9A9QI/AAAAAAAACMA/mRfZVv7SfZo/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-63.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (6)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (6)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rHZitrDN-Ew/UGpXFeyUaoI/AAAAAAAACMI/qtPVCBefWGM/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>It really is worth it to be able to see….bison this close.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HZsbGNLHutw/UGpXJtih-vI/AAAAAAAACMQ/7kyp7zrGXz4/s1600-h/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252836%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (36)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (36)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kRBfF33ieJQ/UGpXNn4v4mI/AAAAAAAACMY/7JktqwRxOSk/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252836%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="688"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4kAeibHeYvA/UGpXREcdxeI/AAAAAAAACMg/Y3dIotWp_q0/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-353.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (35)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (35)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xugWEwJCX5Y/UGpXVYmgM0I/AAAAAAAACMo/9vG1SIfjQ_8/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-35_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fNGyFyqoDNs/UGpXcYNpNtI/AAAAAAAACMw/oTY0ReSegFY/s1600-h/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252856%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (56)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (56)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NiHKry35pQQ/UGpXgz3k0YI/AAAAAAAACM4/FHtAZvvOCfM/9-20-2012%252520Yellowstone%252520NP%25252C%252520WY%252520%25252856%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Elk…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7nx_dYAsohI/UGpXkGRgChI/AAAAAAAACNA/1yyOFyy8IMc/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-603.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (60)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (60)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Moi2IvFaFL0/UGpXnsTsYFI/AAAAAAAACNI/5moqj0sYUdE/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-60_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>And really one of the most interesting pair of ravens, I called them Heckle and Jackel. These guys sat there forever watching the traffic holdup for bison. I think they were thinking we were all crazy.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BVEIpA8AJiM/UGpXp70AEnI/AAAAAAAACNQ/5XNVw8ix8XA/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-513.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (51)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (51)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_1Tky4fH6x0/UGpXtC842KI/AAAAAAAACNY/rJe4fv0lbbc/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-51_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>When you’re in Yellowstone you can’t forget to talk about the Yellowstone Canyon and the falls.</p> <p>About 640,000 years ago a huge volcanic eruption occurred in Yellowstone, which formed Yellowstone Canyon and Yellowstone Falls.</p> <p>The lower falls are 308 feet.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2-_dKGv3hiQ/UGpXvJKkGUI/AAAAAAAACNg/wNrgF6MzQQg/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-1273.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (127)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (127)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d80m7R4ylLY/UGpXw58LWrI/AAAAAAAACNo/krA8jJv9JzA/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-127_thum.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p>The upper falls descend 109 feet.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fpQV0BH2730/UGpX0Ip6ZtI/AAAAAAAACNw/S9Y78UhnYM0/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-1743.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (174)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (174)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GLrW4-rOf7s/UGpX3HTm2PI/AAAAAAAACN4/-G_hQVZ_Fk8/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-174_thum.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>The canyon is…words can’t describe it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fvGEiHuDn3k/UGpX5b3aqzI/AAAAAAAACOA/Zfv4Ay7ZrvU/s1600-h/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-1383.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (138)" border="0" alt="9-20-2012 Yellowstone NP, WY (138)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PDQhR9PbuU8/UGpX92r2yzI/AAAAAAAACOI/bVunO_BOnHE/9-20-2012-Yellowstone-NP-WY-138_thum.jpg?imgmax=800" width="516" height="772"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Yellowstone NP to Grand Teton National park is 88 miles</u></font></p> <p>This is the Teton Mountain Range </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RzJYewtEkSw/UGpYAQeEABI/AAAAAAAACOQ/uB16jc1ORYo/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-0453.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 045" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 045" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oS9aGO8zDOM/UGpYCvcrPeI/AAAAAAAACOY/dU4Lj_iw9Jc/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-045_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>We were unable to get the best photos of the Grand Tetons, because of smoke from fires in Idaho and clouds. This mountain range is different from most mountains in North America.with no foothills to obstruct your view, the jagged peaks and deep canyons of the Teton Range rise abruptly from the valley. The cottonwood trees had all changed to yellow.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o6ELwmiUGvY/UGpYFFBS8sI/AAAAAAAACOg/uiOv0A68gfI/s1600-h/9-24-2012-gr-tetons-logan-pass-and-s%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 gr tetons, logan pass and salt lake city 004" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 gr tetons, logan pass and salt lake city 004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7d0q32gsu0g/UGpYJBHB8OI/AAAAAAAACOo/I24UMc6RizM/9-24-2012-gr-tetons-logan-pass-and-s.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>Then there is moose…these two guys were right in front of the rv. They really looked like they were going to fight each other, they were digging their antlers in the ground and smelling each other. Must have been over a girl, but she wasn’t here to choose for herself. (Note: moose are solitary animals, you usually don’t see together, except during mating season and of course, female and calves.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dM56USAmgQM/UGpYMkJcXuI/AAAAAAAACOw/0I_epxFMKX8/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-0883.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 088" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 088" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gxkFT22Nh90/UGpYP3d-L6I/AAAAAAAACO4/3hBbjXmmF-g/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-088_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Seeing the moose was very exciting, but the crazy part is how people drive all over town to find animals to photograph. These moose were right in front of our rv, but once the word got out that they were there, people came racing to the campground. This guy was only about 10 feet away from these two bull moose….crazy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YcwXaOk87XE/UGpYU5180AI/AAAAAAAACPA/USXMKU6fdJU/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-0813.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 081" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Grand Teton NP 081" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bXVO5hPouFU/UGpYad_oEII/AAAAAAAACPI/lBTZuNe88Bk/9-24-2012-Grand-Teton-NP-081_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Teton National Park is just north of Jackson Hole, WY, and is a tourist town for the park visitors. Between the park and the town is the National Elk Refuge, actually right next to our campground. During the winter, elk migrate to this area and the community keep track of the numbers and make sure that they are feed and safe. We did not see any elk but there was evidence of elk antlers in the town.These arches are on every corner. (Don’t worry, elk lose their antlers every year. In fact, the Boy Scouts collect them and sell them for a fundraiser).</p> <h4></h4> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nEKWnApUKSk/UGpYeCf2dLI/AAAAAAAACPQ/ermi6rC5YNs/s1600-h/9-24-2012-gr-tetons-logan-pass-and-s%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 gr tetons, logan pass and salt lake city 010" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 gr tetons, logan pass and salt lake city 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NI40i2a0h3I/UGpYjXD1XrI/AAAAAAAACPY/39Z1CH82jwQ/9-24-2012-gr-tetons-logan-pass-and-s%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>From Teton NP near Jackson Hole, WY to Salt Lake City, UT 88 miles</u></font></p> <p>We had to head toward to Salt Lake City to get the rv repaired, we had a broken leveling jack. Our journey from Jackson Hole, Wyoming to Salt Lake was along I89 which is a scenic route called Logan Pass and oh boy was it scenic. The leaves on the trees on all the mountains had turned red, it was spectacular.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3fWSgPC6Exk/UGpYmsgDFwI/AAAAAAAACPg/fkk3aQQ2XJI/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (32)" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (32)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_iTNe7B30p0/UGpYpAJdyuI/AAAAAAAACPo/2UmRN1pLFkk/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="579"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E0_ZG2D7Wx0/UGpYr9uzovI/AAAAAAAACPw/VFpKjPssayE/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (6)" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (6)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5yrCMg5-RTk/UGpYvlzhSUI/AAAAAAAACP4/gRc4UYar4kA/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="579"></a></p> <p>This is Bear Lake, on the Logan Pass, just across the Utah state line. The water in the lake has a great deal of calcium, which gives it this Caribbean blue color.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LEx_tVf4jsE/UGpYyMnqwMI/AAAAAAAACQA/ffUzuwiInow/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-salt-Lake-C.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and salt Lake City (2)" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and salt Lake City (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-71g3ZgultrA/UGpYzjpPGcI/AAAAAAAACQI/JCRE6jNkKP4/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-salt-Lake-C%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>While we were waiting for the rv to get fixed, we visited Salt Lake City, specifically the area called Temple Square, which is the center of Mormon religion in Utah. Beautiful buildings and gardens, especially the Mormon Tabernacle.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ooRng49qQ4g/UGpY1WXllwI/AAAAAAAACQQ/bOty1_PEt0I/s1600-h/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (13)" border="0" alt="9-24-2012 Logan Pass and Salt Lake City (13)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YH49C3REj-Y/UGpY3HqrngI/AAAAAAAACQY/c5cr9qWaG1Y/9-24-2012-Logan-Pass-and-Salt-Lake-C%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000"><u>Salt Lake City, UT to Arches NP in Moab, UT is 263 miles</u></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nBCO5GGUMzc/UGpY5U66CLI/AAAAAAAACQg/uj2ti9ObB88/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 001" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tZUmbcLV-Yc/UGpY708IQ2I/AAAAAAAACQo/ubRO7-kK3jE/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Well, here’s a brief explanation about how the arches are formed. The park lies atop an underground salt bed that is responsible for the arches, spires, balanced rocks, sandstone fins and eroded monoliths. Over time water seeped into superficial cracks, joints and cracks, expanding and the rock, breaking off bits and pieces forming fins. These fins developed potholes that became arches. These are fins.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-s9Wo8EYJiHE/UGpY-OjTfMI/AAAAAAAACQw/UzCmAjTanho/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 028" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 028" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--UTP9mGWThY/UGpZBtQhNvI/AAAAAAAACQ4/u7LD8ceJaTI/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>And then came the arches…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sLGJw03f4HM/UGpZFRW9l_I/AAAAAAAACRA/z9t7pf-3Xjc/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 055" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 055" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9ZR3IGCoC1Y/UGpZK78A5iI/AAAAAAAACRI/n_QfNoHlJqw/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Words, can hardly express the magnitude and beauty of this place. To really appreciate it we hiked into the park to see some of the most famous arches, such as, Delicate Arch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sa-KTRqv97U/UGpZMm-mWWI/AAAAAAAACRQ/gEAtVX_vOIA/s1600-h/9-29-2012-arches-national-par-0053.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-29-2012 arches national par 005" border="0" alt="9-29-2012 arches national par 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nbNkqUtOcuY/UGpZOYdGN_I/AAAAAAAACRY/iRZc5-fpWHQ/9-29-2012-arches-national-par-005_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="772"></a></p> <p>This was a tough hike up the side of this mountain, called “slick rock”…can you see those people way-way up there, that is the trail to the arch it was only 3 miles, but we felt it the next morning.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PVi5aWRkaT8/UGpZSdr8mNI/AAAAAAAACRg/AvNswO5f3QQ/s1600-h/9-29-2012-arches-national-par-0023.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-29-2012 arches national par 002" border="0" alt="9-29-2012 arches national par 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I420a48CBSo/UGpZVQr8DMI/AAAAAAAACRo/5BNhLzDOVd0/9-29-2012-arches-national-par-002_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="580"></a></p> <p>We saw many natural rock sculptures, the story goes, whoever sees something first and names it gets to decide what the name will be. See if you agree and see the same things that determined the names.</p> <p>Here are some of them…</p> <p>Courthouse Towers</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-N71kQmSD-zI/UGpZXtSOgkI/AAAAAAAACRw/cN-b_WCsHHc/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 012" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 012" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WbN4o5_4Uok/UGpZZwtEhgI/AAAAAAAACR4/OcfuO72tb9k/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B18%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Three Gossips</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DGaB5nPLz8Y/UGpZcZSEMYI/AAAAAAAACSA/pZ1DtInPL7E/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 005" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 005" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wCR7ASH0Zww/UGpZfND5qZI/AAAAAAAACSI/cwya-855J38/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B19%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Balancing Rock</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oW6SQvu6KZE/UGpZht8AaSI/AAAAAAAACSQ/WQI3HlnkJ3c/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 047" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 047" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bHMxRyS_KSk/UGpZlHEdH-I/AAAAAAAACSY/pj_NVmfaRIU/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Window Arch. (North and South)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mceyPYEYui8/UGpZohdiUCI/AAAAAAAACSg/SP-Dj3fEb9o/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B20%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 099" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 099" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QWJSr9hALn4/UGpZqpjkh6I/AAAAAAAACSo/XFDKBYuTkjw/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Landscape Arch..we think that this one should have been called the Delicate Arch, because it recently had a big section fall off and looks pretty thin.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XXbI-uF_Edg/UGpZsEYjrAI/AAAAAAAACSw/zuUVETUuYlY/s1600-h/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 069" border="0" alt="9-28-2012 arches national park, moab, ut 069" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nzK8AGt6m84/UGpZt9ZmYcI/AAAAAAAACS4/krNWs_QEtQ0/9-28-2012-arches-national-park-moab-%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Traveled a lot further this month, 1,373 miles but had a great time..next stop Canyonland National Park.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-51774295458916696832012-08-16T19:52:00.000-04:002012-08-31T20:17:25.842-04:00August 2012– MICHIGAN: Higgins Lake, Black Lake, Rogers City, Cheboygan, St Ignace, Fayette State Historic Site, Escanaba, Marquette, Negaunee, Baraga, and the Porcupine Mountains<p>Well, Bill and I had a good time during the month of July, as campground host at the North Higgins Lake State Park. It was great to spend time with family and friends. Here is the host campsite. Things were real quiet this July, we had a easy time being the hosts, but it was fun, met some great people.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1UNBb_R0Xng/UEFRMYp_X6I/AAAAAAAABqM/Cwy9IkBWln8/s1600-h/2012-northern-mi-002.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 northern mi 002" border="0" alt="2012 northern mi 002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AZGOyQ1NsfU/UEFROvM2arI/AAAAAAAABqU/wlOUsdskvQQ/2012-northern-mi-002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>On August 1st we headed north toward the UAW Black Lake Campground in Onaway, Michigan. </p> <p>Higgins Lake to Black Lake – 94 miles</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-otK5687Af3Q/UEFRPt5onVI/AAAAAAAABqc/FdvhbAvGm4M/s1600-h/August-2012-onaway-mi-003.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 onaway, mi 003" border="0" alt="August 2012 onaway, mi 003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RBqlLSHEwd8/UEFRRNLAZTI/AAAAAAAABqk/LNXA42SnF4Y/August-2012-onaway-mi-003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>This is the lodge on the beach that you can rent a room for about $100 a night, very rustic, but beautiful on Black Lake.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oFyebaG7TXA/UEFRSh_TSzI/AAAAAAAABqs/b4aNv53dJxM/s1600-h/August-2012-onaway-mi-004.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 onaway, mi 004" border="0" alt="August 2012 onaway, mi 004" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OXZLXtWNtOE/UEFRUU-Z4SI/AAAAAAAABq0/yj5oEYk0vyE/August-2012-onaway-mi-004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There is a steel manufacturing company in Onaway, called Moran Steelworks. The owner, Tom Moran, presents a total surprise each 4th of July of the most fantastic sculptures that he has made. The are huge and located all over the town of Onaway.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PkSmj8dpyVE/UEFRVe_ACiI/AAAAAAAABq8/6PuTp9ZCW-Y/s1600-h/2012-northern-mi-011.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 northern mi 011" border="0" alt="2012 northern mi 011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2AyonVy_FGM/UEFRWcUw_TI/AAAAAAAABrE/nml43JSSAEA/2012-northern-mi-011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="438" height="538"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6qw62575wvA/UEFRXdTMYTI/AAAAAAAABrM/ouLWu88D9Ow/s1600-h/August-2012-onaway-mi-001.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 onaway, mi 001" border="0" alt="August 2012 onaway, mi 001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mqQbY1sxFQU/UEFRYTtHoxI/AAAAAAAABrU/mDp5qDcyZgU/August-2012-onaway-mi-001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="733" height="610"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_ZbDFABWhsI/UEFRZf-u4sI/AAAAAAAABrc/lQIqELf5IXE/s1600-h/August-2012-onaway-mi-002.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 onaway, mi 002" border="0" alt="August 2012 onaway, mi 002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ljG0WXq0VDk/UEFRaR2yBVI/AAAAAAAABrk/r9Fo7YQ_jZw/August-2012-onaway-mi-002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="755" height="646"></a></p> <p>Great bike and hiking trails like the North Eastern State Trail, which is part of an extensive trail system. Bill and I had an opportunity to walk this trail a couple of days. Wish we could have biked it, but need to give Miles a walk, or he is too full of energy….</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Z9sCnjJManQ/UEFRb0R8KXI/AAAAAAAABrs/53LoSZV3o_I/s1600-h/2012-northern-mi-0201%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 northern mi 020" border="0" alt="2012 northern mi 020" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EdjeHhXtiD4/UEFRdSt2psI/AAAAAAAABr0/i2Mgn3x4J90/2012-northern-mi-0201_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>On the 2nd, we woke up to rain so we decided to head toward Cheboygan, this is the Cheboygan River.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hAI9lQ75liQ/UEFReb2sWdI/AAAAAAAABr8/ZcMh-KqNs6U/s1600-h/2012-northern-mi-016%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 northern mi 016" border="0" alt="2012 northern mi 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HN4NVG_j2M4/UEFRgPxRztI/AAAAAAAABsE/fdTm0HHhynw/2012-northern-mi-016_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>This is the Boat House Restaurant that we had lunch at, as you can see, the rain has disappeared. had a white fish sandwich, yum. Northern Michigan is known for their white fish, very light and tasty.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jX7kFfcO0Co/UEFRhN7zI1I/AAAAAAAABsM/lFKDkXux9AY/s1600-h/2012-northern-mi-0141%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 northern mi 014" border="0" alt="2012 northern mi 014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A9j_HPSGJ2I/UEFRiiYwZ1I/AAAAAAAABsU/CYjK63FN9hU/2012-northern-mi-0141_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Black Lake to Rogers City – 28 miles</p> <p>On Sunday, 8/5/12 we headed toward Rogers City and P.H. Hoeft State Park. This park is one of our favorites Great campground, this is the trail to the beach, on Lake Huron.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GHjz-_Qd9To/UEFRjvz2pJI/AAAAAAAABsc/VNLVjhmZ5Zw/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-0061%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 006" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LffW6csPR68/UEFRk6iTWqI/AAAAAAAABsk/7HavqLZ6fts/August-2012-Rogers-City-0061_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rQcyS0_99Zw/UEFRlwEl32I/AAAAAAAABss/zlzc7r1qCzE/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-003.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 003" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 003" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PXNT92KBTLE/UEFRm3Z6aII/AAAAAAAABs0/2kfyiRUHZHE/August-2012-Rogers-City-003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There is a great bike trail north and south from the campground to the Forty Mile Point Lighthouse Park and the town of Rogers city. The Lighthouse was closed, but we walked around and took some photos.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bNrzqnMWmMI/UEFRoTsL07I/AAAAAAAABs8/B17YPbBU1Dc/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-019.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 019" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 019" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fX07SMomnfw/UEFRp1gDNJI/AAAAAAAABtE/k-o5HSs6kOE/August-2012-Rogers-City-019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BXoLKKYGJrs/UEFRrO7gCzI/AAAAAAAABtM/OAtZ1ohOv7E/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-015.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 015" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O9iiWdsfbgU/UEFRsJUxzdI/AAAAAAAABtU/mrXs8Ambdbw/August-2012-Rogers-City-015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484"></a></p> <p>There was also a restored pilot house from the freighter, the “Calcite” which carried limestone, the ship was built in 1912 .</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3LQcuN8COuo/UEFRtjeWJHI/AAAAAAAABtc/-CeqSiS1Soo/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-011.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 011" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iepPavHVpXc/UEFRuu2c6ZI/AAAAAAAABtk/OmL-XYYwyRU/August-2012-Rogers-City-011_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>There is also 12 mile round trip bike trail from the campground to Rogers City, so one day we rode to Rogers City. This is another one of the iron sculpture by Moran.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O1n-4ioYHds/UEFRvhz5c_I/AAAAAAAABts/C_J47nFe-2o/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-022.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 022" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 022" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mf6n1rHp5JA/UEFRw7uBGzI/AAAAAAAABt0/lWOZ-sXeSM4/August-2012-Rogers-City-022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772"></a></p> <p>Rogers City has a festival every year called the “Nautical Festival”, as all town fairs go it is a very big deal to all the locals. The Calcite company owns there own ships and back in the storm of 1929 lost 2 of there ships in lake Huron. All crew was lost. That was about half the male population of Roger city. If you ever go their they have a fabulous nautical museum there to visit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KqR0V6uaNx0/UEFRyHWMCtI/AAAAAAAABt8/gRL9ll0aJB4/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-02411.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 024" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wuwIiPtYBAY/UEFRzSZLc2I/AAAAAAAABuE/1Pw3WfcDCLE/August-2012-Rogers-City-024_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>During our stay we also went to the Cheboygan County Fair to check out the fair and to go to a “Gordon Lightfoot” tribute concert. We both thought is was <u>really</u> going to be Gordon Lightfoot, but after we got to the fair and the stage was set up in the middle of the demolition derby track and it was free, we realized that maybe Gordon didn’t make it to Cheboygan this year. lol</p> <p>The musician's name is Mike Fornes and he did a great job imitating Gordon Lightfoot, with all his songs, including “The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald”.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JJwjno-V1F4/UEFR0kCkE0I/AAAAAAAABuM/wiqEXWhI2zQ/s1600-h/August-2012-Rogers-City-0254.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012 Rogers City 025" border="0" alt="August 2012 Rogers City 025" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lurfB1765EA/UEFR1yU7aCI/AAAAAAAABuU/W7gnHRXVtdQ/August-2012-Rogers-City-025_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Rogers City to St. Ignace – 63 miles</p> <p>On 8-10-12 we drove across the Mackinac Bridge and arrived at St Ignace, which was settled in 1671 by the French. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lowN781aRrU/UEFR3QuUcVI/AAAAAAAABuc/EqOk42qz2Dc/s1600-h/August-2012-st-ignace-2.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012, st ignace (2)" border="0" alt="August 2012, st ignace (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-w-NCMAyPMq8/UEFR4aBmYMI/AAAAAAAABuk/X-dg1SJg_ng/August-2012-st-ignace-2_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="890" height="772"></a></p> <p>We stayed at the Kewadin Casino and got 3 nights of free camping and both won at the casino (wow). We walked the village, very nice town, always something going on like hockey championship with 36 states involved, winter carnivals, and a tractor ride across the Mackinac Bridge, and not to forget the Labor Day walk across the the Mackinaw bridge.</p> <p>The town has an interesting boardwalk around the bay with a display of freighter memorabilia.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ABbyyq_whAU/UEFR5RHdAQI/AAAAAAAABus/r_r_sI_vKB8/s1600-h/August-2012-st-ignace-48.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012, st ignace (4)" border="0" alt="August 2012, st ignace (4)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fVKhPxkg4ng/UEFR6axky0I/AAAAAAAABu0/Y0QQ42x_79s/August-2012-st-ignace-4_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772"></a></p> <p>Our friends, Joe and Barb from Cadillac who were coming back from their motorcycle vacation to Yellowstone stopped by and spent the night, we had a great time. We were sorry that we didn’t get a picture of them on their Harley.</p> <p>While we were in St Ignace, I discovered that my Indian name was “Crabby Ass”, Bill thought that it should be “ Falls Down A lot”!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3u6NzddQR8Y/UEFR7p-pDjI/AAAAAAAABu8/LZAjMUtutMk/s1600-h/August-2012-st-ignace-74.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="August 2012, st ignace (7)" border="0" alt="August 2012, st ignace (7)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AnSNYyOY9QE/UEFR9GKGdMI/AAAAAAAABvE/L_y7MvdfpJ0/August-2012-st-ignace-7_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>St Ignace to Fayette – 121 miles</p> <p>After St Ignace, we headed west on U.S. 2, and decided to take a short detour to Fayette Historic State Park. The park is located on the historic town site of Fayette on the garden peninsular with big bay De noc on one side and Little Bay De noc on the other side. It was the site of a productive iron-smelting operation. Fayette grew up around two blast furnaces several charcoal kilns after the Civil War. The towns existence was short 1865 to 1891</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C-30fhrrwig/UEFR-ZHEAaI/AAAAAAAABvM/5HUzznejtTo/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0254.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 025" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 025" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3OXqcStHDhw/UEFR_utK1qI/AAAAAAAABvU/pgkm3OxFdMQ/august-2012-michigan-u.p-025_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1NH9iErpCbg/UEFSAlGNi4I/AAAAAAAABvc/u8lJ5Ho1Ffk/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0475.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 047" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 047" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U0ESSe67G58/UEFSCRbCa5I/AAAAAAAABvk/BLo8oHH2j9o/august-2012-michigan-u.p-047_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Nearly 500 residents—many immigrating from Canada, the British Isles, and northern Europe—lived in and near the town that existed to make –pig iron. This is one of the workers’ homes, which has been completely restored.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4r3tBKPk4Z0/UEFSDurhO7I/AAAAAAAABvs/lxAa52AZRz4/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0044.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 004" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RWBEq6_bU5c/UEFSFIbTHpI/AAAAAAAABv0/iw2ZgNQ32nA/august-2012-michigan-u.p-004_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wNZOhzdSDas/UEFSGddgtgI/AAAAAAAABv8/RPA9Biyx2U4/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0064.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 006" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 006" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EWCB4FSABUk/UEFSHvbGlkI/AAAAAAAABwE/FT_HqmcihPs/august-2012-michigan-u.p-006_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>During the 24 years of operation, Fayette’s blast furnaces produced a total of 229,288 tons of iron, using local hardwood forest for fuel and quarrying limestone from the bluffs to purify the iron ore. The operation closed in 1891. </p> <p>There were additional historic displays all around the restored town. The state park system did a fabulous job with this park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1vMx7Y9Nfqk/UEFSIyAGWpI/AAAAAAAABwM/sayhowQjML0/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0358.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 035" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 035" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5h0luCHxtKU/UEFSJ_J26mI/AAAAAAAABwU/rZiWKR1y_xU/august-2012-michigan-u.p-035_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>This is the building that housed most of the historical information, it was the Jackson Iron Company building.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tES5eNSxagQ/UEFSLE3UYdI/AAAAAAAABwc/XncqS2GHD3Y/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0034.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 003" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 003" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UAtV0Br6s1U/UEFSMmgji3I/AAAAAAAABwk/Bpp-YhaQiO8/august-2012-michigan-u.p-003_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>This was the hotel, that originally housed the single employees. It was later turned into a hotel for the tourist business, after the company left the area.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wdv02geIetk/UEFSNqC0bRI/AAAAAAAABws/hYBYebjxayY/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0348.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 034" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 034" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JWCGvb4LKJA/UEFSO0L013I/AAAAAAAABw0/G3JcPcg3UeA/august-2012-michigan-u.p-034_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Snail Cove where the historic site is located is a beautiful, deep natural harbor.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6955bvKfT1E/UEFSP-K1OjI/AAAAAAAABw8/NTRUenVSxIo/s1600-h/august-2012-michigan-u.p-0494.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="august 2012 michigan u.p 049" border="0" alt="august 2012 michigan u.p 049" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CJbuWRGjOGI/UEFSRin_LCI/AAAAAAAABxE/pUs5V3RAbxs/august-2012-michigan-u.p-049_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>Fayette to Escanaba – 54 miles</p> <p>Well, next stop Escanaba and the Upper Peninsula Michigan State Fair. We were really amazed that this fair was so huge, with all kinds of rides, displays and of course great “fair” food.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cHN9SrxR2RM/UEFSST3tz-I/AAAAAAAABxM/TY96E31DJaU/s1600-h/740003391_2638210488_07.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="740003391_2638210488_0" border="0" alt="740003391_2638210488_0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_rZo9qzTyBk/UEFSTARWGzI/AAAAAAAABxU/e9k7PA4sEpM/740003391_2638210488_0_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="355" height="269"></a></p> <p>It is also a 4H fair so there were numerous judging events going on.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r5v_yqPydVk/UEFSUOo77UI/AAAAAAAABxc/FkWksxyP5rQ/s1600-h/740003749_2638211689_06.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="740003749_2638211689_0" border="0" alt="740003749_2638211689_0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jrg9iOS5H5Q/UEFSU4zq_DI/AAAAAAAABxk/OLXXnBkGGac/740003749_2638211689_0_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="355" height="269"></a></p> <p>Escanaba to Marquette – 67 miles</p> <p>Next stop Marquette. Lake Superior and Ishpeming railroad iron ore dock, known as the Presque Isle Dock. It was built in 1912. After being mined, the ore is crushed and the iron separated out. The iron is combined with a binding agent and rolled into small balls. Each year approximately 8 million tons of iron are shipped from Marquette’s dock. They come via railcar and are dumped into steel “pockets” or bins beneath the track. To load the ship, a chute is lowered to the open cargo hatch and a door at the bottom of the pocket opens, allowing the pellets to run into the ship.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GNuNqnuXNSE/UEFSWM4lqSI/AAAAAAAABxs/wqHQTdGsv_E/s1600-h/marquette-michigan-005-6.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="marquette, michigan 005 (6)" border="0" alt="marquette, michigan 005 (6)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_7iTtMHPfnI/UEFSXSybg1I/AAAAAAAABx0/5WJDlc04e4Y/marquette-michigan-005-6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>We stayed 3 days at a very nice city park, called Marquette Tourist Park. Northern Michigan University is located here and there are many great restaurants, bike trails and a beautiful beach on Lake Superior. </p> <p>Marquette to Ishpeming and Negaunee – 28.4 miles</p> <p>Next stop Ishpeming and Negaunee. We stayed at the Van Riper State Park near Ishpeming. We arrived on Friday and they had free live music in the clearing behind our camper. It was raining, but the music played on, mostly folk singers, but they were good.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zDoBuORO46A/UEFSYlIx2OI/AAAAAAAABx8/ent8DTPC6-Y/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-002.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 002" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HD9B3fXy0_E/UEFSafFsGNI/AAAAAAAAByE/IHyMg0hAmVY/8-12-escanaba-marquette-002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Miles’ new favorite thing to do is raid fire pits for food morsels. Thank goodness we weren’t having a fire.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xSdSnMEnb28/UEFSbRW8RxI/AAAAAAAAByM/gBuvMBKJ5bI/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-010.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 010" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CYhWGWPD7F0/UEFScgTjMXI/AAAAAAAAByU/EbVeA_KaeBo/8-12-escanaba-marquette-010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="701" height="562"></a></p> <p>Had a rainy day so we visited the Michigan Iron Industry Museum in Negaunee. It is located on the Carp River which was the site of the first iron forge in the Lake Superior region. The museum had audiovisual programs depicting the large scale capital and human investment that made Michigan an industrial leader.</p> <p>There were displays that explained the operation of mining and processing the ore.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CSTaQuPV8OQ/UEFSdlqKv4I/AAAAAAAAByc/QhfEVVqP2tI/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-019.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 019" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bevtOwj0gGo/UEFSeyCcJyI/AAAAAAAAByk/_NwPUzPpC60/8-12-escanaba-marquette-019_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Near by is the city of Ishpeming which is famous for the Yoppers’ Tourist Trap, (a Yopper is a Michigan Upper peninsular person, people that live in lower Michigan are called Troll’s because they live below the bridge) which is crazy place with a bunch of unusual sites located on US41.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tEvh6yteU9c/UEFSgXp0UmI/AAAAAAAABys/4HinMqE9rys/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0365.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 036" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BH_tjn6oPLk/UEFShARKylI/AAAAAAAABy0/jCc-CfbRbr0/8-12-escanaba-marquette-036_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="145" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4FQL6S1QeVw/UEFSiS-coII/AAAAAAAABy8/2ALSpttNeBo/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0376.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 037" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 037" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o9A1hphRC1k/UEFSi1_BqzI/AAAAAAAABzE/juL5Hit4jTU/8-12-escanaba-marquette-037_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="146" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Xv3H6uMuOyo/UEFSkeWaWZI/AAAAAAAABzM/dkoae6MLNUg/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0384.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 038" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 038" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L8br8HTUid4/UEFSlN-UBzI/AAAAAAAABzU/XdN-uXKeOGk/8-12-escanaba-marquette-038_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-z8jX3JImy1w/UEFSneSKZUI/AAAAAAAABzc/LkDZI8aDwaM/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0474.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 047" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 047" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lTBSsphDoxY/UEFSoE_pxlI/AAAAAAAABzk/7RiYM93sW4Q/8-12-escanaba-marquette-047_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="184"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-epGu7NmnOSc/UEFSpgu9xCI/AAAAAAAABzs/U8AHXBhLchs/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0503.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 050" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 050" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-55TtJ1gm1xs/UEFSqbsoQBI/AAAAAAAABz0/KIhl5zFmvzk/8-12-escanaba-marquette-050_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>This is a bench outside the store where Bill waited for me, while I was walking around the inside at the usual t-shirts and funny local stuff.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6lvXAdNcvmQ/UEFSrQ8n9dI/AAAAAAAABz8/gvYnaNqSoqA/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-0414.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 041" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 041" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FHwYUqdjdJ4/UEFSsrQ6JkI/AAAAAAAAB0E/_oFuDIoD5MY/8-12-escanaba-marquette-041_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Negaunee to Baraga – 43 miles</p> <p>Next stop Baraga, we stayed at the Ojibwa Casino campground for a couple of days. Found that we had a leak in our diesel fuel tank, always something.</p> <p>We did get a chance to visit the highest point in Michigan, which is Mt. Arvon at 1,979.238 feet above sea level. For years, Mt. Curwood also in Baraga County was recognized as the highest point. However in 1982 the U.S. Department of Interior’s Geological Survey team discovered that Mt. Arvon was about 1 foot taller.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-l4V28zZHVas/UEFSuX_ZJLI/AAAAAAAAB0M/7gDWgmjkBHA/s1600-h/8-12-escanaba-marquette-054.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-12 escanaba, marquette 054" border="0" alt="8-12 escanaba, marquette 054" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gP6MhpCKd7w/UEFSwQvnqgI/AAAAAAAAB0U/AN9VXysNFEE/8-12-escanaba-marquette-054_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Baraga to the Porcupine Mountains – 71 miles</p> <p>Last stop in Michigan was the Porcupine Mountains State Park. The the native Ojibwa people, claimed that this chain of mountains rising from the waters of Lake Superior reminded them of the porcupine. It is a beautiful place.</p> <p>There are many places to hike, but we were there for just a couple of days so we just had an opportunity to visit a couple of the more spectacular spots.</p> <p>Like “Lake of the Clouds Scenic Area” which is a view of the Carp River Valley from top of the Porcupine Mtn range above the “Lake of the Clouds” which is nestled 300 feet below. This is from above…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oNFlZWOUnbY/UEFSxceww3I/AAAAAAAAB0c/VZBQvVpo4Os/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0024.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 002" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sWLRzHUNVxg/UEFSyrSk_dI/AAAAAAAAB0k/8VJwVcMbFJA/porcupine-mtns-002_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a><br></p> <p>Then we hiked down to the lake. It was a killer hike..not sure if you can see it, but the white pole with the description was were we started in the picture above.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Rf0iStyx0us/UEFS0en4YrI/AAAAAAAAB0s/s5gneigQL6I/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0059.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 005" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dWveASID1us/UEFS2wuAvZI/AAAAAAAAB00/DLwlGORURT8/porcupine-mtns-005_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Next day was rainy but we decided to go to the “Presque Isle Scenic Area” to hike to see the water falls. There are numerous falls along the Presque River in the park, we were able to see 3 on our hike. The Presque River is the largest river in the Porcupine Mtns..</p> <p>These are the Navido Falls – Ojibwa word for spirit falls.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O-dt-JF97lg/UEFS4Jvp4RI/AAAAAAAAB08/834KIX_seYs/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0104.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 010" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nQbq7gQ5bAU/UEFS5TOMR8I/AAAAAAAAB1E/MDoK0SshSb0/porcupine-mtns-010_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>These are the Manabezho Falls – Ojibwa word for god.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MtdXJDbWOAk/UEFS7Iix8aI/AAAAAAAAB1M/bNIC6kpr_5Y/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0324.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 032" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 032" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oIVooa9ap6A/UEFS9EsSGUI/AAAAAAAAB1U/4kXT0I5zc-k/porcupine-mtns-032_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>These are the Nawadaha Falls – Ojibwa word for “in the midst of vapors” – During the spring nearly 12,000 gallons a second flow through these falls.</p> <p>Wish we would have taken a swim too, but we weren’t sure how far we still had to hike.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9DqSxLB9aiM/UEFTAuzw5gI/AAAAAAAAB1c/9x5mLqEQbZs/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0394.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 039" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 039" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GMNveokP3tE/UEFTDT6rQ6I/AAAAAAAAB1k/fs-kYSiKKoI/porcupine-mtns-039_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Miles didn’t care though, he loved the falls, kept running around and getting wet. We were both scared that he would jump over the falls, then we would have to go in, or at least Bill would, the water was very cold.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jd4lHbkHBiI/UEFTFOcpYQI/AAAAAAAAB1s/QEWfUEZ4INE/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-0164.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 016" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DeZe1j-86bM/UEFTGg0_F6I/AAAAAAAAB10/z4TnclpZnAc/porcupine-mtns-016_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Next hiked to the mouth of the Presque River on Lake Superior.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5pvXopFxggI/UEFTIVIve6I/AAAAAAAAB18/G48KsOlKpd4/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-049.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 049" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 049" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4jVO0rfQNAM/UEFTKZ5gRwI/AAAAAAAAB2E/qaoO5Kthl-k/porcupine-mtns-049_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Final destination, Lake Superior….</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CfG63zueAwQ/UEFTLhjGB0I/AAAAAAAAB2M/V-FhB-HN9w0/s1600-h/porcupine-mtns-05010.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="porcupine mtns 050" border="0" alt="porcupine mtns 050" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YGk6cQmfWkM/UEFTNAB4opI/AAAAAAAAB2U/ORPOz-UdlfQ/porcupine-mtns-050_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>It is now August 24th, and we are leaving Michigan after 23 days and about 570 miles and headed toward Wisconsin. We really enjoyed our time in Michigan, it is a beautiful state, and the best part is… it will always be “home” to us because of our friends and family.</p> <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" width="400"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="400"><strong><font color="#0000ff" size="4">Ashland, WS, Two Harbors, MN, Grand Portage, MN and Isle Royale National Park, MI</font></strong></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>One of our goals for coming this way across US2 is that we wanted to get up to Isle Royale National Monument, we found out that the boat from Minnesota only runs 3 days a week and the last boat was 8-30-12. So we decided to leave the Porcupine Mountains on the 24th and head toward Grand Portage where the boat departs.</p> <p>Porcupine Mtns to Ashland, WS – 85 miles</p> <p>8-25-12 Our first stop is a campground in Ashland, WS this campground was recommended to us and it was great. It was right on Lake Superior, the weather was great and we actually went swimming. This is looking out from our campsite..</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RFiSAB_RO6o/UEFTOLxCfAI/AAAAAAAAB2c/FjtyETqr0FY/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--1%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (13)" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (13)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jnFQWan6G1k/UEFTPeHZSjI/AAAAAAAAB2k/JC6k8Zf-rb0/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>While we were there we took a ride up to Bayfield, WS to visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. </p> <p>Here is Bayfield, looks like a little New England town.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K-keoegMVtw/UEFTQf5FIfI/AAAAAAAAB2s/pUjtqI7Jb0o/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RPgHxmDtFuA/UEFTRkS7PQI/AAAAAAAAB20/4un32-Me76U/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>We took the ferry out to the Apostle Islands, There are 21 islands in Lake Superior. The sizes go from 1 mile to 7 miles. Most are uninhabited, but there are a few private homes that were located on the islands before the National Park bought them. </p> <p>There were some great sandstone formations.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ytqbNN4JeYg/UEFTS0PKLfI/AAAAAAAAB28/gnF8Lv1lhdY/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--3.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (3)" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (3)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qkl35IYq57E/UEFTUG6qrKI/AAAAAAAAB3E/eKz4xcAAm8g/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--3%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>On a calm day kayakers paddle through the tunnels.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-A4nGGBu4NQc/UEFTVCHgfzI/AAAAAAAAB3M/QLmHdmwlycg/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (30)" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (30)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zUF0cz1Qc48/UEFTWHSCPII/AAAAAAAAB3U/TLqCrbGv58M/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--3%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There were a couple of lighthouses on the tour. This one is the restored Raspberry Island lighthouse, if you take a water taxi or your own boat out to the island the park service will give you a tour.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Xg8zYscOybU/UEFTXSoQ2LI/AAAAAAAAB3c/yKW1XGVM--U/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-I-MN-Isle-Royale-%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle I, MN, Isle Royale, MI 039 (37)" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle I, MN, Isle Royale, MI 039 (37)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MNL0-v4t-qo/UEFTYruJ7eI/AAAAAAAAB3k/KOrSERparf8/Ashland-WS-Apostle-I-MN-Isle-Royale-%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a> </p> <p>The other lighthouse is located on Devil’s Island, which is the northernmost point of land in Wisconsin. It is currently being restored. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--maJtPlNRN4/UEFTZViZK7I/AAAAAAAAB3s/1nvar-ikGJc/s1600-h/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--7%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (7)" border="0" alt="Ashland WS, Apostle Island tour, MN, (7)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hk02oyPn5N0/UEFTaGCp0mI/AAAAAAAAB30/4uMdL2pPCP4/Ashland-WS-Apostle-Island-tour-MN--7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772"></a></p> <p>Ashland, WS to Two Harbors, MN – 65 miles</p> <p>Next stop, Burlington Bay Campground in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Campground located just north of Two Harbors on Lake Superior.</p> <p>Iron Ore has been shipped from the Iron mines in Minnesota out of the port at Two Harbors since 1884, headed through the great lakes and some are ocean bound.</p> <p>We walked from the campground to the waterfront and watched an ore ship being loaded. These ships can carry 8-12 thousand tons of iron pellets called taconite.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xR9L2tZk7PI/UEFTbCkpClI/AAAAAAAAB38/SW3HFz1--jI/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (4)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (4)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3T04IVVL_Tc/UEFTcdQW95I/AAAAAAAAB4E/iYsVoESgmvs/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Two Harbors Lighthouse (a bed and breakfast), is the oldest operating light station on the North Shore of Lake Superior.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QBBj6tQBRzI/UEFTd-KBKsI/AAAAAAAAB4M/AhleRIZymIs/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (15)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (15)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9Jkv5FLDzyg/UEFTfANCsHI/AAAAAAAAB4U/hFabBHugm7w/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="895" height="772"></a></p> <p>The 229 Mallet, a coal burning locomotive, which was used to haul iron ore from the Vermilion Iron Range, about 80 miles west of here. Currently diesel engines do this job.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XCBen7znlKA/UEFTgpJVZRI/AAAAAAAAB4c/Ie50Gln88Lw/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B27%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (27)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (27)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z1wg5QpxD6I/UEFTif0I5_I/AAAAAAAAB4k/iLZ9g-MP1A0/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B19%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Two Harbors, MN to Grand Portage, MN – 120 miles</p> <p>On 8-28-12 we headed north on 61 toward Grand Portage to pick up the ferry to Isle Royale National Park. This town also has the Grand Portage National Monument.</p> <p>More than 200 years ago, the North West Company, (a fur trading business out of Europe) operated out of this area. The National Park system has reconstructed this facility.</p> <p>The Great Hall with a kitchen and warehouse.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LotyG3hoxDY/UEFTjmRSxBI/AAAAAAAAB4s/Hlg_TS_VsTQ/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (38)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (38)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OMKyoYp_ST0/UEFTldEvvNI/AAAAAAAAB40/RfPSgyvNkv4/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-STceftprjRw/UEFTmfWJb3I/AAAAAAAAB48/NPpdQAGr0NA/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (36)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (36)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FxvG58LCWzY/UEFTn4os77I/AAAAAAAAB5E/wMcedXZWYHM/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There were volunteers dressed up in period appropriate clothing to give presentations. This is the cook giving a demonstration on an open backed tin cooker and a cast iron pot. Yummy – smelled good.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vSvCph2FFHw/UEFTpWd0orI/AAAAAAAAB5M/NGQMLrz96bY/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B34%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (41)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (41)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HYHSXxXtYx0/UEFTqt3JOUI/AAAAAAAAB5U/e55uQyC3rsA/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B20%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>A canoe warehouse with demonstrations on how birch bark canoes are built.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Lr4CsekNuiY/UEFTsAqOyoI/AAAAAAAAB5c/NPSTpmE_wJ0/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (35)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (35)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-la5tJ-2tmnE/UEFTtlsMfXI/AAAAAAAAB5k/p-x2XvqHymM/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B31%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Today is my 60th birthday, so we are headed toward Isle Royale National Park to spend the day. Isle Royale National Park has the least amount of visitors than any national park, but people usually stay longer. This is the boat that took us out to the island.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-10aHguOceK0/UEFTu1aoIaI/AAAAAAAAB5s/v0r4Yn4H2yw/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (44)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (44)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PzwLtyBW-HE/UEFTwOGHc7I/AAAAAAAAB50/gxtaNwy2U9M/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>It was a beautiful day, warm and no wind, so the boat ride was very smooth. Took about hour and a half to get there, which is so much better than from the Michigan side, which is a 5 hour trip.</p> <p>Park ranger met us on the dock and told us about different talks they give and a couple of hikes that were possible with our time restrictions (4 hours on the island).</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dezeuRViK2s/UEFTxWx_74I/AAAAAAAAB58/mL4rVLYSFrs/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B24%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (46)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (46)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2lfud65M2ro/UEFTyjWhNQI/AAAAAAAAB6E/Ay8r3HXHMig/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B32%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>We landed at the Wendigo area. It is named after the Wendigo Mining Company which operated from here from 1890-1892. They were mining for cooper, but a workable deposit of copper was never found. This is the visitor center with displays about the wildlife on the island, which is basically moose and wolf. Sometime in the 1900s moose immigrated to the island. They probably swam from the Canadian mainland. With abundant food and no predators, their numbers grew. But by the 1930s the moose had destroyed their own food supply, but after a fire and there was new growth their numbers increased, and then crashed when their food ran out. After that it would increase and then decrease as food supplies changed.</p> <p>During a very cold winter in 1948 an ice bridge formed between Canada and the island and a small pack of Eastern timber wolves crossed it to the island. Since then they have helped to maintain a healthy moose population.</p> <p>They have been studied extensively since they seem to control their own populations. Now there are only 9 wolves and about 700 moose. Looks like the moose are winning.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xhbC2DLsTSM/UEFT0akYNhI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/S3cDwJa5mB0/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (47)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (47)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5y6IW7mu5V8/UEFT1_IdQpI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/05byrd_iBcE/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B23%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>There are over 165 miles of hiking on the island so Bill and I decided to take a 4 mile hike up to Feltmann Lake. No site of moose or wolf, but we did see their skat on the trail.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LsKlmet0rLY/UEFT3b8SDdI/AAAAAAAAB6g/7MSvOda6IIs/s1600-h/sunset-asland-WI-Isle-Royal-NP-0164.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="sunset asland, WI, Isle Royal NP 016" border="0" alt="sunset asland, WI, Isle Royal NP 016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kX2qJLf33QE/UEFT40nKhJI/AAAAAAAAB6o/rqWn_KIjiSc/sunset-asland-WI-Isle-Royal-NP-016_t.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="687"></a></p> <p>The lookout was beautiful. We stopped there and had our lunch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vPS4bTk3zu4/UEFT6TKLz_I/AAAAAAAAB6w/dls8lhQ-Hg4/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B36%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (52)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (52)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6NsFnFdnSvE/UEFT8O_r72I/AAAAAAAAB64/x96gQ1sZ-cQ/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B30%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>Headed back to catch the boat back to Grand Portage. On the way back we were able to see the Rock of Ages Lighthouse. Built in 1908. It is now automated. It stands in a crop of rock about half way between the main land and Isle Royal.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ftAh-qeY00U/UEFT87rFYbI/AAAAAAAAB7A/Fjo6UgBbsUU/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B26%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (54)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (54)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mOZPF1j7E_k/UEFT-N7k7BI/AAAAAAAAB7I/R8gFOScacZk/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B25%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E3tcOLMiJHY/UEFT-zqAmsI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/0hsqd3pw_o8/s1600-h/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B22%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (57)" border="0" alt="MN, Two Harbors, Grand Portage and Isle Royale NP (57)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QzTeNnow3tg/UEFT_go86BI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/4ZyV9np8mGo/MN-Two-Harbors-Grand-Portage-and-Isl%25255B38%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772"></a></p> <p>8-30-12 – We took a short ride up to Grand Portage State Park, which is about 3 miles from the Canadian border. This park has a beautiful visitor center and info about Minnesota.</p> <p>There is a 1 mile hike to High Falls, these falls are the reason that this area got it’s name. “Grand Portage”. Goods from the northwest could not be transported completely down the Pigeon River, they had to be portaged (carried) over these falls and other ones which in order to get them to ships in Lake Superior and eventually the world.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pYPLyPNhWLQ/UEFUA32xvDI/AAAAAAAAB7g/FaozgP_unoY/s1600-h/8-30-12-Grand-Portage-State-park-011.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="8-30-12 Grand Portage State park 011" border="0" alt="8-30-12 Grand Portage State park 011" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qanhRlbtyJo/UEFUCPI106I/AAAAAAAAB7o/7FKKXex_K-M/8-30-12-Grand-Portage-State-park-011%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772"></a></p> <p>This was our great campsite in Grand Portage at the casino.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hSTmLP7cYGU/UEFUDTE7fNI/AAAAAAAAB7w/hBpaiViXUL4/s1600-h/grand%252520portage%252520campsite%252520005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="grand portage campsite 005" border="0" alt="grand portage campsite 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HymSaaBB1A8/UEFUE-9NfTI/AAAAAAAAB74/2Q6P1ItPMdM/grand%252520portage%252520campsite%252520005_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="1028" height="772"></a></p> <p>August was a great month, we traveled 770 miles, through 3 states, met new friends, and experienced a great deal. </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#008040" size="4" face="Bookman Old Style"><strong>Just remember…</strong></font></p> <p><font color="#008040" size="4" face="Bookman Old Style"><strong>“People that wander, are not always lost”</strong></font></p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-79580207754069571422012-04-29T20:34:00.001-04:002012-04-29T20:34:14.367-04:00April 2012–Wildwood and Ocala, FL; Brunswick, Jekyll & Simons Island, GA and Charleston, SC<p><u><strong>Wildwood, FL</strong></u></p> <p>Left Ft Myers, headed north, to Bushnell and Wildwood, Florida to get some work done on the RV.</p> <p>While we were in Wildwood we stumbled upon an International Harvester museum. Bill was in heaven.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Y0uPbeKcd5Y/T53dno8I-eI/AAAAAAAABjE/-1CkJQGcjSs/s1600-h/2012-Florida-0794.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 Florida 079" border="0" alt="2012 Florida 079" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J_Fx3Y_g_48/T53doKvqrlI/AAAAAAAABjM/IDfnj3pLfNY/2012-Florida-079_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This beautiful 806 is just like Bill’s</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tJWcm0cjMmY/T53dordclPI/AAAAAAAABjU/XthcYVvVY0g/s1600-h/4-14-12-Wildwood-FL-International-Ha.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-14-12 Wildwood, FL International Harvester Mus (9)" border="0" alt="4-14-12 Wildwood, FL International Harvester Mus (9)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-u-XUUQKfaqE/T53dpJjmLMI/AAAAAAAABjc/33QV-CqkCzk/4-14-12-Wildwood-FL-International-Ha%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8FGkl6u9Nzo/T53dpQWk71I/AAAAAAAABjk/ZJP9pJ1dwZM/s1600-h/2012-Florida-0554.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012 Florida 055" border="0" alt="2012 Florida 055" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FoAaed3sk5w/T53dp8nLrKI/AAAAAAAABjs/-mPtUePHK0g/2012-Florida-055_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Took some great hikes on the Withlacoochee State Trail, which is the longest paved rail trail in Florida. In fact, it is 46 miles and runs from Citrus Springs to Trilby. We walked the Inverness Trail, which is about 20 miles west of Wildwood. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-I0_S-X5lWQ8/T53drjFzOvI/AAAAAAAABj0/UdtwMfP8w0w/s1600-h/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-00211.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 002" border="0" alt="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9mYYE94scYo/T53dsNqVV7I/AAAAAAAABj8/aUEVOSQYqI0/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-0021_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>We walked this trail about 4 of the 7 days that we were at the RV repair place. It was a paved trail, through forest and around lakes, with occasional wildlife, like this turtle.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zyCcGM8UIhc/T53dsnQ04WI/AAAAAAAABkE/8T1vGswLJTU/s1600-h/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-00111.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 001" border="0" alt="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-si8qAWtSnYc/T53dtDjPKeI/AAAAAAAABkM/G_6nOW3YBvw/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-0011_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>One day we drove up to the Ocala National Forest, north of Eustis, FL. It was a good 8 mile hike through the woods,</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vl7f5vIt5yk/T53dtppFTUI/AAAAAAAABkU/e_oU9G9tpjo/s1600-h/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-0114.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 011" border="0" alt="4-2012 Wildwood, Inverness FL 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Q9aAv66CcNE/T53duE_zXeI/AAAAAAAABkc/pAzxgfC7Izs/4-2012-Wildwood-Inverness-FL-011_thu.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <blockquote> <p>the only problem was…ticks. <img src="http://www.arthursclipart.org/insects/insectscol/Tick.gif" width="91" height="44"> Yuck…</p></blockquote> <p>The RV was <u>finally</u> finished and on Friday, 4-20-12, we headed up to Salt Springs, which is in the Ocala National Forest to camp for a few days. </p> <p><u><strong>Jekyll Island, GA</strong></u></p> <p>Camped near Brunswick, Georgia, which is near the Jekyll Island, which is a barrier island. This is the bridge that goes to Brunswick.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p08P17oCQv4/T53dupLDSPI/AAAAAAAABkk/VxynqvBsHEc/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B32%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 025" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 025" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9vzp3dW0lyQ/T53dvCnSjrI/AAAAAAAABks/-CJCrGNFX7Y/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Jekyll Island – Georgia Sea Turtle Center – this center’s missions is to rehabilitate injured and sick turtles, to educate the public about their life cycles and to teach preservation. The center treats all types of turtles such as the 200 lb. sea turtles and the smaller local Terrapin turtles.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qrx0m0LUb9I/T53dvYTXS8I/AAAAAAAABk0/2spur8AybKY/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B28%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 001" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EQEU9_4CfnY/T53dv1PwMDI/AAAAAAAABk8/X8lqfjRH5QI/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B25%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This is the in hospital where they treat injured turtles.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-irKuXOXzVXM/T53dwacYf1I/AAAAAAAABlE/SlN2SXgL7Tc/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 003" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3DHQvA0xAqw/T53dwhqwI_I/AAAAAAAABlM/QPSvsiyUSp0/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This is a turtle that has a problem diving, so they put Velcro weights on his back. This turtle is improving and should be able to return to the ocean soon.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-b_2LgOmct4I/T53dxADPxGI/AAAAAAAABlU/mkWH5C3Um8o/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 004" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nxT7pzA5Zvw/T53dxhZNDYI/AAAAAAAABlY/b83K-Jbqmi4/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B27%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p><strong><u>Jekyll Island National Monument Historical Area</u></strong></p> <p>In 1886 a group of very wealthy people, desiring a place to escape from their busy lives in the cities up north, formed the Jekyll Island Club. The members included J. P. Morgan, Rockefeller and Vander built to name a few. </p> <p>In 1888 a clubhouse was constructed, which is currently a hotel.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kttbTeQHU9A/T53dyBx6ZwI/AAAAAAAABlk/AmhGo3YtW2M/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 007" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 007" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fdvR335CL_g/T53dyUm3WCI/AAAAAAAABls/oasTlkphOe0/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B20%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>The clubhouse was set up to house the members during their visits to the island to hunt or to vacation. Eventually the families decided to join in and the members built “cottages” for their families. Such as these…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CMR0a_2Cp0g/T53dy6e7wSI/AAAAAAAABl0/WByxmcEEVM8/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 017" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 017" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zApaoCVgCe4/T53dzxJtXsI/AAAAAAAABl8/vuYvrY0cfKw/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SiksxRF-eCQ/T53d0ZB3pHI/AAAAAAAABmE/v8zlXdjvNBQ/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B31%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 006" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 006" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gfA2l6tqzpU/T53d0yUzptI/AAAAAAAABmM/n6Vrzv9uWsw/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B26%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>It is a beautiful well kept area on the river with gardens, shops and horse-drawn carriages.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Uqp9Sf2mOes/T53d1d6BaLI/AAAAAAAABmU/PzfhEY_Mjmw/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 020" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 020" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oLU49aymZ3k/T53d1_tshtI/AAAAAAAABmc/KY68WRM7DbU/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B30%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>After WWII the island was sold to the state of Georgia and the state made it into a state park.</p> <p><u><strong>Fort Frederica National – St Simons Island, GA</strong></u></p> <p>In 1736, James Edward Oglethorpe, a British soldier and politician built a town and a fort on the shores of St Simons Island, to protect the area from the Spanish. The town and fort was about one square mile and only a few ruins remain. This is the fort, which was made of a local material called “tabby”, which is a combination of oyster shells, sand and calcium.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LfvvbkNTwjI/T53d2N9L-MI/AAAAAAAABmk/ws_OqwQ2EJI/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 032" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 032" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1WHnzW4SrLQ/T53d23uTDSI/AAAAAAAABms/INSGdbzo7Gg/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This is close up of the tabby material, note our little friend.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--z8zTu5pRNg/T53d3ehSvBI/AAAAAAAABm0/JKaxka_QKUQ/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 035" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 035" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JznTCsfwGtU/T53d381hOXI/AAAAAAAABm8/AKJ_qIE3YS8/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This is the ruins of the soldiers’ barracks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bHhlH72BdvQ/T53d4RGuvOI/AAAAAAAABnE/9sWbCueBhU8/s1600-h/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B24%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 038" border="0" alt="4-23-12 Georgia, Jekyll and St Simone Island 038" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6tT8Qfg6xzI/T53d4wDfdDI/AAAAAAAABnM/n4lZA8Frnsw/4-23-12-Georgia-Jekyll-and-St-Simone%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484"></a></p> <p><u><strong>Fort Sumter National Monument, Charleston, SC</strong></u></p> <p>South Carolina had seceded from the Union, yet Union soldiers still occupied Fort Sumter at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. The South demanded that Fort Sumter be vacated, the North refused but later surrendered. So, on April 22, 1861 the South fired upon Fort Sumter, this action was the official start of the Civil War.</p> <p>The fort can only be reached by water, so we took the boat out to the fort.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rDkgqZKOcDo/T53d5Erx5kI/AAAAAAAABnU/_UJkNV4ovQs/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0034.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 003" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C6PBtq8J3Vo/T53d5nXUppI/AAAAAAAABnc/Nd7DrN3gGl4/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-003_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Y3o3vrckuec/T53d51JJnwI/AAAAAAAABnk/o7fjzaq_8yc/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0178.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 017" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 017" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vIGvgzUMstw/T53d6TuuIlI/AAAAAAAABns/WZitk7AQMfk/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-017_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Fort Sumter was reduced to rubble during the Civil War. Of the original 3 levels today there remains only the first level.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SiXlPf8ZrRc/T53d6tI_z6I/AAAAAAAABn0/vK1KJAND__s/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0045.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 004" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zUoJ_RHu_rk/T53d7CmDNWI/AAAAAAAABn8/GryqiaouMw8/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-004_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>This is the museum, that is full of artifacts and a very interesting timeline. Look at the size of those cannonballs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-21h5-g2cee4/T53d7hnf7QI/AAAAAAAABoE/9UTnsvuqjYE/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0074.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 007" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BDmrBWc5m6c/T53d8HnN31I/AAAAAAAABoM/0n8MiuyNIUs/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-007_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>There was a good collection of confederate cannons.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KTBmEEvSGQY/T53d8ucNtmI/AAAAAAAABoU/HlI1fG1b-1U/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0154.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 015" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 015" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PfIVUS2JWR4/T53d9C5l6LI/AAAAAAAABoc/0p9jmiBo160/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-015_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--IUKwDNQf1k/T53d9Y2bCSI/AAAAAAAABok/b8kxT57tzmo/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0144.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 014" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VRTnQOtQSy8/T53d95Ao7_I/AAAAAAAABos/HPk_5XMbQnk/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-014_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484"></a></p> <p>The day was very hot, so when we got back to the RV we took Miles for a walk down by the river which was in the Givans Ferry State Park. We had a surprise, he jumped in the water and had a great time. Up to this point, he was very leery near water.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RHOTfbBLMX0/T53d-AeWpPI/AAAAAAAABo0/DMZxAZoKD2s/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0215.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 021" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WRIaoFmu244/T53d-rBqPyI/AAAAAAAABo8/RwLvC8d5Lu0/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-021_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="518" height="484"></a></p> <p>We are happy that now we have a water dog, not a water wimp. Maybe he just likes rivers.</p> <p><u><strong>Charleston, SC</strong></u></p> <p>Took a drive into Charleston, SC to go for a walk around the city. Very nice city, on Saturday, they have a farmer’s market..</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j2nPSF94FTg/T53d_OtKJHI/AAAAAAAABpE/BehJEjINL_w/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0304.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 030" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 030" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ALs-vwzM2Bc/T53d_a6W3ZI/AAAAAAAABpM/wdQA-nHmW9k/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-030_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Also a city market that has been held in the building “The Daughter’s of the Confederacy” museum, since the 1700’s. The market is narrow, but runs for about 5 blocks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lxlJypN34Z0/T53d_9OtP_I/AAAAAAAABpU/aKxBXMdSWTM/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0385.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 038" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 038" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IhI_XWjpTL8/T53eAamOPFI/AAAAAAAABpc/55Dv4EglhJg/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-038_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="510" height="484"></a></p> <p>Had a great time in Charleston, it’s a beautiful city with many things to do and see.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QRqSILb2i-w/T53eA5XoIpI/AAAAAAAABpk/WP6l9Gxt9lY/s1600-h/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-0364.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 036" border="0" alt="4-27-12 Charleston, SC 036" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S4tRDFbSd9A/T53eBXlUckI/AAAAAAAABps/_mEd1_GIcJE/4-27-12-Charleston-SC-036_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Next stop Myrtle Beach, SC.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-1185032611335042502012-04-15T18:23:00.001-04:002012-04-15T18:23:50.820-04:00March 2012– Ft Myers, Florida 60th Birthday Party!!!<p>Well, I’ve been very bad about not keeping up with the blog, so we’re a couple of months behind. So I hope that you don’t mind getting them all at once.</p> <p>March 1st, we headed toward Ft. Myers Beach for the big 60th Birthday party with all our friends from Michigan. In fact, these are all friends that I have known since high school.</p> <p>We rented a duplex in Ft Myers Beach for the week. Bill and I slept in the motorhome parked in the driveway. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Pf_X2dMP_Ik/T4tKCALpWaI/AAAAAAAABhE/4FwTkq4pnTI/s1600-h/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%2525286%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (6)" border="0" alt="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (6)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pizi5pXKpVk/T4tKECoBPPI/AAAAAAAABhM/pDXTg0qOeCk/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%2525286%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p> It was a great time… </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LV8Egj1lvtE/T4tKFh5JwtI/AAAAAAAABhU/YWrnDPXb9CE/s1600-h/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252825%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (25)" border="0" alt="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (25)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CXgEha3moKE/T4tKHSMkvtI/AAAAAAAABhc/vCWofe5dRTc/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252825%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>……….volleyball in the pool </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UwCMR_TIuQg/T4tKK7jFGXI/AAAAAAAABhk/A83092fTO1I/s1600-h/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252817%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (17)" border="0" alt="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (17)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BgSLk78fjp4/T4tKNb7R2SI/AAAAAAAABhs/vH29-sVh7fI/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252817%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>…..a lot of partying,</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HPyXFvNTdgk/T4tKOtXJqXI/AAAAAAAABh0/942KgZuyWCA/s1600-h/IMG_5301%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5301" border="0" alt="IMG_5301" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CJ2dgVRTRVc/T4tKP3b3hhI/AAAAAAAABh8/R2QaIHz2pZ4/IMG_5301_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>Even the guys were wild and crazy….</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EsnUNDzrPS4/T4tKRJsHzgI/AAAAAAAABiE/rxBWqlN5hF4/s1600-h/IMG_5306%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5306" border="0" alt="IMG_5306" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rz1B3nbRD5E/T4tKScYU4dI/AAAAAAAABiM/JhsG_RqgVFU/IMG_5306_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="712" height="539"></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LCegUUolNIM/T4tKT_kbq6I/AAAAAAAABiU/gWVuhPEq4xE/s1600-h/IMG_5308%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5308" border="0" alt="IMG_5308" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O5lBRkKSZ5A/T4tKVB5QsmI/AAAAAAAABic/tFSHLN1S380/IMG_5308_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="694" height="509"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3ktWXtQUjj0/T4tKWeQIpTI/AAAAAAAABik/gAKNCv8DaI4/s1600-h/IMG_5309%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5309" border="0" alt="IMG_5309" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BFbZaKoGk3o/T4tKYDgAgWI/AAAAAAAABis/spbmGCzgX8o/IMG_5309_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="688" height="499"></a></p> <p>We had so much fun and the weather was perfect and we were sad to see the week end.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KYb5WGFeG-c/T4tKZvnrFMI/AAAAAAAABi0/JOoko1uaKx0/s1600-h/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252841%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (41)" border="0" alt="60th birthday party ft myers beach 3-12 (41)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ehIXPc6xhDY/T4tKcdvoa_I/AAAAAAAABi8/849GxUMv-yg/60th%252520birthday%252520party%252520ft%252520myers%252520beach%2525203-12%252520%25252841%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>We stayed around Ft Myers for the rest of the month. We spent Easter with Judy and Eleanor, Bill’s sisters and after that headed north to be in Michigan by the end of May.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-24750427021832132442012-04-15T17:53:00.001-04:002012-04-21T16:03:20.312-04:00February 2012–Traveling East to Florida<p>Left Arizona headed toward Ft Myers Beach, Florida and the big 60th birthday party.</p> <p>Spent a couple of nights at rest stops and then…El Paso, Texas.</p> <p>Franklin Mountains State Park</p> <p>Bill and I spent the night near El Paso, Texas at the Sunland Casino. Not much luck at casino, but we went for a great hike at the Franklin Mountains State Park. This park is the largest urban wilderness in the nation. The park encompasses an entire Chihuahua Desert mountain Range.</p> <p>Took the “Schaeffer Shuffle” hike, which was mostly uphill and around 5 miles.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fbU4SnOyfnM/T4tCj1YisnI/AAAAAAAABcE/6PLcQnFXf9I/s1600-h/2-2-12-El-Paso-TX-63.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-2-12 El Paso, TX (6)" border="0" alt="2-2-12 El Paso, TX (6)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A47f8H5tMjI/T4tCksZ6cEI/AAAAAAAABcM/TDtmJ3mFfZI/2-2-12-El-Paso-TX-6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><u>Battleship Memorial Park, Mobile, AL</u></p> <p>As were driving east on US 10, Bill spots a battleship in the Mobil, Alabama harbor and we made a quick exit. He said that he’s always wanted to tour a battleship, so we did.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kV4MlY67AYI/T4tCmcZhQfI/AAAAAAAABcU/_3ThaVPpBp0/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-123.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (12)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (12)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-81afY6VKMts/T4tCnIpo7zI/AAAAAAAABcc/JqsNX_Fiz28/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-12_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><u>Tour of the Battleship USS Alabama</u> </p> <p>Alabama was commissioned 8-16-42 as a WWII battleship. The ship was 680 ft long and 108 ft wide. Here crew was 127 officers and 2,205 enlisted.</p> <p>On the deck</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-e2YmPuk-aJ4/T4tCo6yKzZI/AAAAAAAABck/kLEwHLhHXiU/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-153.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (15)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (15)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xTW7fJzciuw/T4tCqF_WiKI/AAAAAAAABcs/Lliryiva8JI/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-15_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YHjadF8SeAw/T4tCrTUljFI/AAAAAAAABc0/l6VeH0pH5yU/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-243.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (24)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (24)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F6WYtnYQfMo/T4tCsLFAQmI/AAAAAAAABc8/LfnBe9lbnVk/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-24_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Below the deck, officer’s quarters/</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KkpbmOHypnw/T4tCxlF-caI/AAAAAAAABdE/-Ya5-zaT6bQ/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-203.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (20)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (20)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9CJgG_eqEyc/T4tCyUuweWI/AAAAAAAABdM/hUy_sUtgg9A/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-20_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Enlisted men’s quarters.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CuFlzD5CS6E/T4tCzhenaYI/AAAAAAAABdU/QeF8U5RIZlM/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-183.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (18)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (18)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_afD5cF9DuI/T4tC0VoiVfI/AAAAAAAABdc/3nLZEGLSBD0/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-18_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><u>Tour of the Submarine USS Drum</u></p> <p>The Drum was commissioned 11-1-41 as a WWII submarine. The ship is 311 ft long and 27 feet. The crew consisted of 7 officers and 65 enlisted men.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N7t1LUVPJJM/T4tC2i_rccI/AAAAAAAABdk/AliyLZ-8TU8/s1600-h/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-293.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (29)" border="0" alt="2-7-12 US Alabama, Mobile, AL (29)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rvTuFgj_Od8/T4tC3mM27pI/AAAAAAAABds/9j5xkJ_fR3w/2-7-12-US-Alabama-Mobile-AL-29_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Next stop, Gulf Shores National Seashore, we have a campsite there for 6 days. Weather has been cool, but we got one day in at the beach before it got real cold. (in the 50’s and windy)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Q7EcshBzmiE/T4tC4_q_JII/AAAAAAAABd0/DHpEQZKqKEI/s1600-h/2-8-12-Gulf-Island-National-Seashore%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-8-12 Gulf Island National Seashore-Ft Pickens near Pensacola, FL (3)" border="0" alt="2-8-12 Gulf Island National Seashore-Ft Pickens near Pensacola, FL (3)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GGFHhVO5VWA/T4tC6eWa4lI/AAAAAAAABd8/tYOXWH1YN7U/2-8-12-Gulf-Island-National-Seashore%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><u>National Islands National Seashore</u></p> <p>Congress established this National Park in 1971, it is 160 miles long and stretches from Cat Island, MS to Walton Beach, Fl. The national seashore is made up of islands of sugar white beaches, that are long and narrow. Interesting part of this National Park is that it has a huge fort (Fort Picken) and numerous historical artillery sites.</p> <p><u>Fort Pickens</u></p> <p>Fort was built to defend Pensacola Bay and its navy yard. It was built in 1834 and used until 1947. Ironically, the only real action the fort saw was during the civil war.. In 1861, Union forces at Fort Pickens faced Confederates holding the mainland. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hIuBvQszJvY/T4tC7W4nEZI/AAAAAAAABeE/hShDgrJEd2s/s1600-h/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (11)" border="0" alt="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (11)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pxNUrXASzGg/T4tC8DlrzTI/AAAAAAAABeM/sVaxrJK47Pg/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MObfDwM1Yv8/T4tC9XRbS3I/AAAAAAAABeU/__eF-psY4nE/s1600-h/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (4)" border="0" alt="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (4)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t1B7ujfIgYc/T4tC-L0n0QI/AAAAAAAABec/rMru3SZx2iM/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eQjswH8KE2M/T4tC_r_MUOI/AAAAAAAABek/fNcSmzvrL28/s1600-h/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (9)" border="0" alt="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (9)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qfiPI7AyAbg/T4tDAS1pbmI/AAAAAAAABes/x1wirAsE1Qc/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>This is the section of the fort that was blown away in 1899 during a fire that started in a warehouse and reached a black power magazine containing 8,000 lbs of power.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_VtWjas7adM/T4tDBbgoq4I/AAAAAAAABe0/5RBIrgTfaKM/s1600-h/2-8-12-Gulf-Island-National-Seashore.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-8-12 Gulf Island National Seashore-Ft Pickens near Pensacola, FL" border="0" alt="2-8-12 Gulf Island National Seashore-Ft Pickens near Pensacola, FL" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LTv_awBKyTE/T4tDCLTcPmI/AAAAAAAABe8/6txzSDRuH58/2-8-12-Gulf-Island-National-Seashore%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Casements which held the gun emplacements. Fort Pickens was designed to hold about 200 guns.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8oMVJmhntWo/T4tDDTCEp9I/AAAAAAAABfE/P-ROCvX-kfo/s1600-h/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (6)" border="0" alt="2-8-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens (6)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZG_hukWlMYw/T4tDEXh53ZI/AAAAAAAABfM/WdaiCHBHPhY/2-8-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashore.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>One of the most interesting guns was called the “Shoot and Duck”, this gun was called this, because after it shot it folded back and disappeared behind the wall. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aO3jp4GH-d0/T4tDFp1gNgI/AAAAAAAABfU/7j6BONTneoc/s1600-h/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (15)" border="0" alt="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (15)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8qi0hLMnw0k/T4tDGTsv0VI/AAAAAAAABfc/UYCBDDV_GcI/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>As you drive the park road you see other concrete batteries (emplacement for two or more pieces of artillery) on the western end of Santa Rosa Island, which is part of the Gulf Island National Sea Shore.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7XzzENMarm8/T4tDHmpGJeI/AAAAAAAABfk/Bv5llpkT1vk/s1600-h/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL" border="0" alt="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Vz6bpCPf72I/T4tDJfxez8I/AAAAAAAABfs/CmNkRP3zeBU/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cwoJ2JMMMJA/T4tDKr6YIXI/AAAAAAAABf0/orGJCaQD3i0/s1600-h/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (17)" border="0" alt="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (17)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uxx7rg56BLw/T4tDMDI2p9I/AAAAAAAABf8/-RKbhWkxwZI/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>After the Civil War the U.S. government turned its military against the native peoples of the West. Tribes were forced to give up their traditional lands and were forced to live on reservations. One of the most notorious Apace chiefs that fought this action was “Geronimo”, he was imprisoned at Ft Pickens in 1886.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jaFsA0s7cPk/T4tDNnnQDnI/AAAAAAAABgE/_xzNXW_Mm34/s1600-h/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (7)" border="0" alt="2-10-12 Gulf Shores National Seashore - Ft Pickens, FL (7)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vWv4ofEGHyo/T4tDOzDPjaI/AAAAAAAABgM/6MvvZAG3g-M/2-10-12-Gulf-Shores-National-Seashor%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="175" height="244"></a></p> <p>National Naval Aviation Museum</p> <p>Sunday 2-12-11, very cold windy day so we decided to go to the naval base in Pensacola which included the National Naval Aviation Museum.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-89A4ilMyUi8/T4tDRKaBWYI/AAAAAAAABgU/-IcUG-LJ7QQ/s1600-h/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas" border="0" alt="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VK4CivV4BQY/T4tDSuuwiGI/AAAAAAAABgc/1ApVKKtVrmo/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>This was a great collection of all types of navy aircraft and the military’s use for various wars from the beginning of Naval aviation thru the present.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cf-GFW05BsQ/T4tDTxyI7hI/AAAAAAAABgk/zBf6NLPeVCg/s1600-h/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas%252520%2525288%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas (8)" border="0" alt="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas (8)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zEr_UKyn5gA/T4tDU4WOR-I/AAAAAAAABgs/Y4IA5hkeKIY/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas%252520%2525288%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>After that we visited Fort Barrancas which is also located within the Navy base. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OqacneF324M/T4tDWPP6YFI/AAAAAAAABg0/em-cu2IlpCk/s1600-h/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas%252520%25252811%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas (11)" border="0" alt="2-12-12 Pensacola, Fl National Navy Air Musuem and Ft Barrancas (11)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cB8UZOcWoX4/T4tDWvc0xBI/AAAAAAAABg8/I3cKmTQVulw/2-12-12%252520Pensacola%25252C%252520Fl%252520National%252520Navy%252520Air%252520Musuem%252520and%252520Ft%252520Barrancas%252520%25252811%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>Fort Barrancas which was in 1839. The fort was an important part of the cost defense system until 1947. Fort Barrancas symbolizes the lock on the gate that protected Pensacola Bay and its navy yard from potential invaders.</p> <p>We then headed toward Ft Myers Beach, Florida for the big 60th Birthday party. </p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-58116107301083055342012-02-02T19:45:00.001-05:002012-02-02T19:45:33.557-05:00January 2012–Arizona<p><u>Casa Grande</u></p> <p>Celebrated New Years Eve at the Club House at Rovers Roost, in Casa Grande.  This is an Escapee Park (which means it is included in a group of parks that we can live in for a discounted price).  Most of the Escapee parks are located in the west, but there are a few in the east.</p> <p><u>Saguaro National Monument</u></p> <p>This park is near Tucson, and has the largest collection of Saguaro Cactus, which only grow in Arizona.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0JqSecNtgJ4/TystIeEUkwI/AAAAAAAABVA/MOBbfX8oj2k/s1600-h/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520055%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 055" border="0" alt="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 055" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5pcHMqPxVdQ/TystJUs6W-I/AAAAAAAABVI/G9UzOZUYNxA/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520055_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="325" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A10S4DVDR7o/TystK0vmkVI/AAAAAAAABVQ/G25xSObaGh0/s1600-h/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520009%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 009" border="0" alt="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 009" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JjN3_jD2Azk/TystMP_1FII/AAAAAAAABVY/u9Epb0_TFFU/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a></p> <p>Went with our friends, Diane and Andy from PA.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CPj0xRuoSKE/TystNc3R08I/AAAAAAAABVg/Y0trVgSsXLA/s1600-h/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520064a%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 064a" border="0" alt="01-02-12 Saguaro National Park - West 064a" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-87ndBI5igd0/TystOSBDpLI/AAAAAAAABVo/fyKqj6BEzn0/01-02-12%252520Saguaro%252520National%252520Park%252520-%252520West%252520064a_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a></p> <p><u>Desert Museum</u></p> <p>Went to the Desert Museum near Tucson with friends from Michigan, Dave and Karin Kasperski.   The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum a world-renowned zoo, natural history museum and botanical garden.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rp6ggLmiPJM/TystPhul_bI/AAAAAAAABVw/LchcNeoiw_w/s1600-h/IMG_1267.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1267" border="0" alt="IMG_1267" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vwkfX8h99eI/TystRB3fIHI/AAAAAAAABV4/1eT2NLoWZpA/IMG_1267_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Arrived just in time to see a demonstration about Gila Lizards and Rattlesnakes.</p> <p>Gila Lizard</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fbQKiLa33Q4/TystRxN8pXI/AAAAAAAABWA/9ZYg_eGpf3Y/s1600-h/IMG_12467.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1246" border="0" alt="IMG_1246" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-grnXQnGhptI/TystTfD7JwI/AAAAAAAABWI/hFhMlf_HyXs/IMG_1246_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xmmDAi0hK7g/TystUNXau0I/AAAAAAAABWQ/z5b1wzRWVxo/s1600-h/IMG_12484.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1248" border="0" alt="IMG_1248" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zni6jVgL6Mk/TystVP6PTZI/AAAAAAAABWY/OuVHjJV5gO0/IMG_1248_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Next was a  Raptor Free Flight exhibition.  The four wild Harris Hawks just flew in on queue for the show.  I’m sure that food was the reason they came, but it sure was cool.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9uOAhugF2gk/TystWqo7DLI/AAAAAAAABWg/w_jRTvEQSMM/s1600-h/IMG_12594.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1259" border="0" alt="IMG_1259" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1B1v-6PJcD0/TystXmCiJJI/AAAAAAAABWo/jwFY7D5GeY4/IMG_1259_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xwI5DL-FL5A/TystYj9HasI/AAAAAAAABWw/rMfZ0cYkprY/s1600-h/IMG_12614.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1261" border="0" alt="IMG_1261" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Xuck5Ta6w1Q/TystZRdhiVI/AAAAAAAABW4/KAH89n8FSUg/IMG_1261_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Big Horn Sheep</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aB9BmcdpExc/Tystapd8JJI/AAAAAAAABXA/R0R3L7FtNLc/s1600-h/IMG_12524.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1252" border="0" alt="IMG_1252" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KPgKkex0ofU/TystbaZhZzI/AAAAAAAABXI/ZVWLZ4wmojI/IMG_1252_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Hummingbird Aviary Exhibit </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4UfKsJx7evQ/TystcmDsC2I/AAAAAAAABXQ/MiMiIEjyS98/s1600-h/IMG_12434.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1243" border="0" alt="IMG_1243" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-54BraNB8vCc/Tystdvd2K-I/AAAAAAAABXY/bQdZuMAsbsM/IMG_1243_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Afterwards, we went out to dinner at the “Guadalajara Grill” in Tucson.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QH-It60mQXE/Tyste3IdQwI/AAAAAAAABXg/_SBNr37mK-8/s1600-h/IMG_1277%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1277" border="0" alt="IMG_1277" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rAl99fHZSGo/TystgOiAVlI/AAAAAAAABXo/9PJVK_zHFZ4/IMG_1277_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><u>Yuma, Arizona</u></p> <p>Stayed for a week with our friends Andy and Diane at Yuma Lakes RV park in Yuma.  Yuma is a farming community, the vegetable farms are beautiful because there is extensive irrigation from the Colorado River. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aAAuiBtlgdQ/Tystia7dlHI/AAAAAAAABXw/gQpJbbLflTg/s1600-h/IMG_12824.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1282" border="0" alt="IMG_1282" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RI4jw1matl4/Tystjf5HDsI/AAAAAAAABX4/48VaXGjIYhM/IMG_1282_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><u>Quartzite</u></p> <p>Quartzsite is a rock hunter’s paradise. Quartzsite is located west of Phoenix at the junction of I10 and U.S. 95 near the Colorado River. The community has a Sonoran Desert setting. The nearby Kofa, New Water and Plomosa Mountains provide topographic relief. The town was established in 1867 on the site of old Fort Tyson, a privately built structure constructed for protection against Indian raids. Named Quartzsite because quartz was occasionally found in the area. In the summer the population of about 3000 but in the winter the population rises to over a million, all RV’ers.</p> <p>Arrived in Quartzite on 1/16/12 to our campsite far out in the dessert. This is a boon docking site with no services such as water, sewer and electric. This is real fun camping, especially since we are with a bunch of about 130 other rigs.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-S1aGYj0Likw/TystkjdcF1I/AAAAAAAABYA/Adfnj_ydLLE/s1600-h/01-18-12-Boomerville-0104.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-18-12 Boomerville 010" border="0" alt="01-18-12 Boomerville 010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5f38n6bmPRo/TystlyXd70I/AAAAAAAABYM/cm9pkR_-rg8/01-18-12-Boomerville-010_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="432" /></a></p> <p>This is a view from our camping area into the valley.  All those white spots are RV’s, in the summer the town goes back to dessert.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-E1zKTBLKsPQ/TystnZs_VPI/AAAAAAAABYU/PqUZxPXf0tM/s1600-h/IMG_13764.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1376" border="0" alt="IMG_1376" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Dbm_J0-JEJ0/TystokE_chI/AAAAAAAABYg/ssdh-Co9nPA/IMG_1376_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Everyday we had a happy hour at 4:00 to talk about the activities for the next day and welcome any new arrivals.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bsIJB4xA2pU/Tystp2geyKI/AAAAAAAABYo/zRhtOd9Q7dI/s1600-h/IMG_12884.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1288" border="0" alt="IMG_1288" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iLcy7lgwklI/Tystq-L4MiI/AAAAAAAABYw/qL5W18eqSec/IMG_1288_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>One of the activities was a chili cook-off.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bXp0WX2i2VI/TystsVkD93I/AAAAAAAABY4/JgF3q0yml7c/s1600-h/01-20-12-A-Chili-Cookoff-in-Q-0034.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-20-12 A Chili Cookoff in Q 003" border="0" alt="01-20-12 A Chili Cookoff in Q 003" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r1cz7R5bqFY/TysttXUGeoI/AAAAAAAABZA/mUhS1Bjcno8/01-20-12-A-Chili-Cookoff-in-Q-003_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>And believe it or not, Bill won 2nd place (that’s him in the red apron and big hat).</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-z0MtT9C6nBY/TystupgnotI/AAAAAAAABZI/Q-9vqhe-2J0/s1600-h/01-20-12-A-Chili-Cookoff-in-Q-0148.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="01-20-12 A Chili Cookoff in Q 014" border="0" alt="01-20-12 A Chili Cookoff in Q 014" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RcYzG8Qgs3Y/Tystvf0st7I/AAAAAAAABZQ/y9jzC1J-_oU/01-20-12-A-Chili-Cookoff-in-Q-014_th.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="199" /></a></p> <p>Another activity was a trip to the dessert bar.</p> <p>The Desert Bar the Nellie E. Saloon. The Desert Bar is situated in the Buckskin Mountains on land that was an old mining claim, called the “Nellie B.” Copper was mined here and then taken to the smelter and sold for gold. The bar is only open on Saturday and Sunday, high noon to sunset from Labor Day to Memorial Day. They are not open in the summer. Too Hot!!</p> <p>Ken is the owner and he opened the bar in the late ‘80’s. Everything is powered by solar, stored in batteries and run through inverters.</p> <p>Everything is made out of all sort of metal, the church, the bar, and the ladies restrooms.</p> <p>This place is a great example of “Build it and they will come”, about 7 miles off the main highway on very bad dessert roads.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SaAvxmm2-4E/Tystw47n6CI/AAAAAAAABZY/mGKTARlwDJw/s1600-h/IMG_13254.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1325" border="0" alt="IMG_1325" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CN1mBbEZ5ic/Tystx10r6sI/AAAAAAAABZg/BRs3jXzc4Rw/IMG_1325_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the worlds thinnest church all made out of 3/8th plate steel. a lot of people get married here.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3VVGYjLBthg/Tystyy3SbOI/AAAAAAAABZs/yVFhhVH_lMY/s1600-h/IMG_13154.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1315" border="0" alt="IMG_1315" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Pbi0_kY_viA/TystzwkCPlI/AAAAAAAABZ0/NEvaNqMtZdw/IMG_1315_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the ladies bathroom, no mirror over the sinks, just this fabulous view.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6-vINE7NLig/Tyst1GNMQGI/AAAAAAAABZ8/dNQAN9VdmXs/s1600-h/IMG_132017.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1320" border="0" alt="IMG_1320" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1f5Sb1qyaow/Tyst1-7UhEI/AAAAAAAABaE/SoE12C2iTdU/IMG_1320_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Another activity was a 4x4 trip with our new jeep.  Bill, Andy and Bruce went up to “Dripping Springs” a 4 hour trip with 6 other Jeeps.  Put the Jeep through it’s paces.  Went through mountainous area and narrow washes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C-XiGdWnM9s/Tyst3nMOraI/AAAAAAAABaQ/rL7KdcvPgUE/s1600-h/IMG_13504.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1350" border="0" alt="IMG_1350" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3cB8mZNgK-c/Tyst4teOhaI/AAAAAAAABaY/Cs0AATEJPGk/IMG_1350_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KVutwKjaSuo/Tyst6dCHA2I/AAAAAAAABag/RZZWXP1vvnU/s1600-h/IMG_13534.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1353" border="0" alt="IMG_1353" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lCzt-zvecL4/Tyst7dOl-WI/AAAAAAAABao/OMcg_E8V2nE/IMG_1353_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Saw some petroglyphs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9rY0Vii2Okk/Tyst9a6xfOI/AAAAAAAABaw/JTfiMkwS4Vs/s1600-h/IMG_13644.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1364" border="0" alt="IMG_1364" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mkaakWZhlBQ/Tyst_gl1CdI/AAAAAAAABa4/orFw0jkIX2k/IMG_1364_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>And a miner’s stone cabin.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0h5Kbq8pZ_4/TysuBNpF3LI/AAAAAAAABbA/Yv6t3_IbPOQ/s1600-h/IMG_13434.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1343" border="0" alt="IMG_1343" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-moUhS1Yxc30/TysuCTJZDXI/AAAAAAAABbI/O2WmzpniA_8/IMG_1343_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Well, the thing that Quartzsite is famous for besides the rock and gem show in the “Flea Markets”.  There’s not just one but several, it depends on what you’re looking for from good stuff to junk.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_4X7RRESPRs/TysuDv4eU8I/AAAAAAAABbU/6iT0ClKJ3UQ/s1600-h/IMG_13294.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1329" border="0" alt="IMG_1329" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QLB5iJEHyk4/TysuFlnbLTI/AAAAAAAABbc/iqqJnbEYNtg/IMG_1329_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>It’s hard to describe this place to anyone. </p> <p>It’s like an alien movie, where aliens somehow got into 1 million people’s brains and told them to drive to a small town in Arizona and buy stuff.  First of all they had to be people with:</p> <ol> <li>RV’s – which means any vehicle that a person could sleep in, if they had to.  Which could be a big motorhome or an old car, anything that they can sleep in. </li> <li>Usually over 55 years old. </li> <li>Money to buy crazy stuff, that they really believe they need, but since they live in an RV have no where to put it. </li> <li>Best of all, most of these folks have dogs that they either carry around on their chest with baby carriers or in dog strollers. (don’t think that Miles would go for this)<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Wr36opXL0I4/TysuGk2_RKI/AAAAAAAABbk/tU_9OgPY0pY/s1600-h/IMG_13739.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1373" border="0" alt="IMG_1373" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7pzq6tI2OQE/TysuHoRvk4I/AAAAAAAABbs/xG4KWMbEJc8/IMG_1373_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="484" /></a> </li> </ol> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oE2W8IIb5JQ/TysuIiDpl0I/AAAAAAAABb0/tOycFbbNgGI/s1600-h/IMG_13714.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1371" border="0" alt="IMG_1371" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TlcBnVeozKI/TysuJuQEv2I/AAAAAAAABb8/M1gwJODh3R4/IMG_1371_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>We had so much fun, can’t wait to come back next year.</p> <p>We left Quartzsite on the 28th headed toward Florida for our big 60th Birthday party with all our buddies from Michigan.</p> <p>Will update in February.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-14023495660703457682011-12-31T11:13:00.001-05:002011-12-31T11:13:33.826-05:00December 2011–Arizona<p>We arrived in Casa Grande on December 7th.  This is an Escapee campground (an organization that we belong to).  We wanted to be here for Christmas to be with our friends Diane and Andy for Christmas.</p> <p>This is our RV site in Casa Grande, AZ</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lmylbD2nvi8/Tv80FXG6OAI/AAAAAAAABQM/UywToQI4Nyw/s1600-h/IMG_5255%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5255" border="0" alt="IMG_5255" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hSvFdncAcns/Tv80GLDJg7I/AAAAAAAABQU/oGxajIi9F_E/IMG_5255_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Hiking near Casa Grande, AZ.  This is a Saguaro cactus.  This cactus is over 60 years old.  They don’t sprout limbs until after there that old.  Some only grow an inch every 5 years, depends on the moisture.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5FkEZIxfluk/Tv80HGnLQQI/AAAAAAAABQc/4OB06cm28ns/s1600-h/IMG_12054.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1205" border="0" alt="IMG_1205" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OOWbuNYzKEI/Tv80Hz-kC7I/AAAAAAAABQk/hpoWkK8xXIQ/IMG_1205_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Northeast of Phoenix is State Road 88 called the “Apache Trail” and the travels through some of the Sonoran Desert.  This is the route that we took to the Tonto National Park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8tBOPpr-PB4/Tv80I6O0mbI/AAAAAAAABQs/RNqd3A7Ne3U/s1600-h/IMG_51838.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5183" border="0" alt="IMG_5183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6JkOEmoGfqc/Tv80JkhxEII/AAAAAAAABQ0/aOzxx1Edrns/IMG_5183_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qJfoxd5J-rc/Tv80K61gQmI/AAAAAAAABQ8/l3nQBPKYaB0/s1600-h/IMG_51494.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5149" border="0" alt="IMG_5149" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WT_28mHoGy4/Tv80LwLY5EI/AAAAAAAABRE/O1Tt8EULL8g/IMG_5149_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Saguaro cactus Forest.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-T5gM1rgWqDs/Tv80Mx_VPMI/AAAAAAAABRM/Yz2nkQvBCsU/s1600-h/IMG_52374.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5237" border="0" alt="IMG_5237" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-scX6NR9JUgU/Tv80NrwgPII/AAAAAAAABRU/ZfVTcPuyRVw/IMG_5237_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tzqDmEVrVe4/Tv80Oz2ewgI/AAAAAAAABRc/zAJPQeUHScM/s1600-h/IMG_52078.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5207" border="0" alt="IMG_5207" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mM3ti5GDKUU/Tv80P3I2vuI/AAAAAAAABRk/RqK8SdPWe5Y/IMG_5207_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lYtxg3TWcyE/Tv80QwPM8OI/AAAAAAAABRs/xPJ0rimUqVQ/s1600-h/IMG_51588.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5158" border="0" alt="IMG_5158" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sA2jqU5TBvI/Tv80SLVIURI/AAAAAAAABR0/5ttbBTYk2ss/IMG_5158_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IrKwV0pZVTo/Tv80TgyPkfI/AAAAAAAABR8/JqJZd0cc__4/s1600-h/IMG_51884.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5188" border="0" alt="IMG_5188" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Yg-wNgs1kLs/Tv80UUgqKlI/AAAAAAAABSE/CU2yBmZhJOI/IMG_5188_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5QyIUQ7k0gU/Tv80VvBm75I/AAAAAAAABSM/AC8xDrh0Mgc/s1600-h/IMG_51944.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5194" border="0" alt="IMG_5194" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_RDFvkMfaJI/Tv80WkCsNqI/AAAAAAAABSU/ejg97DebnH8/IMG_5194_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nfYgGZdV16A/Tv80X1ZhmAI/AAAAAAAABSc/10Y46-yhYek/s1600-h/IMG_51634.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5163" border="0" alt="IMG_5163" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uO6Y8hnFThM/Tv80ZJ2dTpI/AAAAAAAABSk/OyVCHmEdDcA/IMG_5163_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Most interesting part of this area is there is a great deal of moisture so, there are more different kinds of trees and actually grass, green is not a color that is seen much in the desert during the winter.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Icfu30r0QLY/Tv80aHW1PNI/AAAAAAAABSs/Y236zwUEYkk/s1600-h/IMG_51934.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5193" border="0" alt="IMG_5193" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sKL5i1b6l3A/Tv80a33706I/AAAAAAAABS0/i16dqEIxUAc/IMG_5193_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Theodore Roosevelt Dam-This was the first big Bureau of Reclamation project in the country.  Completed in 1911, President Roosevelt considered this his second greatest achievement (his first was the Panama Canal).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1ysuKUjwwbo/Tv80cKVXB5I/AAAAAAAABS8/Gz-3YKnIiEY/s1600-h/IMG_52195.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5219" border="0" alt="IMG_5219" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hYZQqpAeJUU/Tv80c-0VAXI/AAAAAAAABTE/OQ9xOWIIpTQ/IMG_5219_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Roosevelt Bridge over the Roosevelt Lake.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z43kz1mDIgo/Tv80dxBw6qI/AAAAAAAABTM/Fk-oqBFpNcs/s1600-h/IMG_52275.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5227" border="0" alt="IMG_5227" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XhTx35Td58A/Tv80exCPaBI/AAAAAAAABTU/l8qn7TjxbWo/IMG_5227_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Bill and Miles walking around visitor area near dam.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9djBYL82kb0/Tv80f8eMJ5I/AAAAAAAABTc/6Vzi6Ad13eM/s1600-h/IMG_51748.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5174" border="0" alt="IMG_5174" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lHOEDTDb-NA/Tv80gpTPbhI/AAAAAAAABTk/VLF4Y4626LE/IMG_5174_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_JxwzdBX_tc/Tv80h3Vub4I/AAAAAAAABTs/B6_6e9nXcWk/s1600-h/IMG_51768.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5176" border="0" alt="IMG_5176" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UyHIVJIaUN4/Tv80inKqCUI/AAAAAAAABT0/5vSlQrlk6hQ/IMG_5176_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Tonto National Park Cliff Dwellings.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ofB6lRqH6eQ/Tv80j3d25gI/AAAAAAAABT8/4rAA5451rrA/s1600-h/IMG_5240%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5240" border="0" alt="IMG_5240" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_FxLK8_ySNo/Tv80kxDQouI/AAAAAAAABUE/tZb-RGnlDG8/IMG_5240_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-057mw4Igc6k/Tv80mChQ65I/AAAAAAAABUM/RCEd0m3jaNY/s1600-h/IMG_5246%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5246" border="0" alt="IMG_5246" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hrok0Z718nA/Tv80nNrH4_I/AAAAAAAABUU/Ji1Hb-QvRbI/IMG_5246_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aBdAvs0u4OI/Tv80oduZYLI/AAAAAAAABUc/52U386kC3Z0/s1600-h/IMG_5248%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5248" border="0" alt="IMG_5248" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zNfRFFlJrA8/Tv80pV4st9I/AAAAAAAABUk/i3rYLvVzlxM/IMG_5248_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Mi5c-m9o-R8/Tv80qFhw4FI/AAAAAAAABUs/mpjJCSxtkik/s1600-h/IMG_5252%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5252" border="0" alt="IMG_5252" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gGbY9i-bpSc/Tv80rP-hylI/AAAAAAAABU0/2svq8XilcaA/IMG_5252_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="484" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4" face="Bazooka"><font style="background-color: #ff0000" color="#0000ff" size="7">HAPPY NEW YEAR!</font>  </font></p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-22215963627940389192011-11-18T20:24:00.001-05:002011-11-18T20:24:39.552-05:0011-14-11 thru 11-18-11 LUBBOCK TEXAS<p>As we continue our month long trip through Texas, we decided to stay a week in Lubbock and were pleasantly surprised.  Lubbock is easy to get around and explore and the town contains many interesting places to visit.</p> <p><font color="#555544"><strong>Buddy Holly Center</strong></font>-  dedicated to the life and music of Buddy Holly and showcases unique memorabilia donated by the family, friends and fans.  </p> <p>Buddy Holly was born on September 7, 1936 in Lubbock, Texas.  Buddy Holly and his band “Crickets” influenced some of the greatest British bands and artists, including the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Elton John.  Buddy’s short career ended on February 2, 1959 in a plane crash in Iowa on his way to a concert.  His black framed glasses were his trademark.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jED09_MGECo/TscEP-OSvgI/AAAAAAAABMo/6ZvoidMavfY/s1600-h/IMG_10204.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1020" border="0" alt="IMG_1020" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IAo9-6QGOuA/TscESCyzZGI/AAAAAAAABMw/NmTFH2Vpv5Q/IMG_1020_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><strong><font color="#555544">Silent Wings Museum</font></strong> - This museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to telling the story of the military glider program used during WWII.  The museum is inside of the renovated and expanded old Lubbock airport terminal.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nch-bY9xIpI/TscEURxFHqI/AAAAAAAABM4/D4osGZ42bdU/s1600-h/IMG_10224.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1022" border="0" alt="IMG_1022" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qwZw2xhl3Rg/TscEVhRwZqI/AAAAAAAABNA/qtokd2iY7DY/IMG_1022_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Great exhibits of restored plans and one of the few fully restored World War II gliders in existence.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C2NbT9AauTs/TscEYqhKtGI/AAAAAAAABNI/3WBcpFe37vc/s1600-h/IMG_10314.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1031" border="0" alt="IMG_1031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JXj2CptvUp0/TscEaZXl5xI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Zx4jGIry-8c/IMG_1031_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><strong>Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark</strong> - This natural history preserve is an active archaeologist site that documents extinct mammals such as the ancient bison and mammoth.  The visitor center had displays of native peoples and their hunting practices around the sites that the bones were found.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-o9dGRoBpQAs/TscEdzsAzvI/AAAAAAAABNY/rta1VFXkuPI/s1600-h/IMG_10094.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1009" border="0" alt="IMG_1009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gZ0jgy3JFcU/TscEgOUcZFI/AAAAAAAABNg/73usFjpDwag/IMG_1009_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DHsBB6_KwR0/TscEj0CAW1I/AAAAAAAABNo/hCBnHulTA5w/s1600-h/IMG_1008.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1008" border="0" alt="IMG_1008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KYDtF46C5Kw/TscEnFI9s6I/AAAAAAAABNw/AAMboz2Uhe8/IMG_1008_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>There were 4 miles of outdoor trails around active excavations during the summer time.  We went on a great hike.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9bVs4pnVlyQ/TscEsLiWoyI/AAAAAAAABN4/7ieZsTCX1yw/s1600-h/IMG_1011.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1011" border="0" alt="IMG_1011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-c6Tu1QAPyWA/TscEuhpC7JI/AAAAAAAABOA/5E640_pJ7kU/IMG_1011_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><strong>National Ranching Heritage Center</strong> - Museum and historical park comprised of 48 authentically restored dwellings and ranch structures from some of the country’s most historic ranches, from the late 1700s through the 1950’s.  <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KAgbagwhxkQ/TscEzi4dWoI/AAAAAAAABOI/4sIJ8ID-B0c/s1600-h/IMG_10404.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1040" border="0" alt="IMG_1040" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YlMbG_03gNA/TscE2zvmFJI/AAAAAAAABOQ/ag-2whxxPys/IMG_1040_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-74l6oI4_wkM/TscE4o-q7gI/AAAAAAAABOY/qJLa1IdR-K4/s1600-h/IMG_10444.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1044" border="0" alt="IMG_1044" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ug1JUiP_vXM/TscE6arVd3I/AAAAAAAABOg/0twv3VMTKPs/IMG_1044_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Also this museum has a fabulous display of private collections of historical ranching artifacts.  This is just part of a huge beautiful spur collection.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0VS0xlwwMVo/TscE9BPXyrI/AAAAAAAABOo/__xT_50d9KE/s1600-h/IMG_10364.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1036" border="0" alt="IMG_1036" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QqaVwvUueKc/TscE-WbdogI/AAAAAAAABOw/ecnDySp9p8k/IMG_1036_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3Xjuc492AYo/TscFBwh22wI/AAAAAAAABO4/9Uc5VQdi6Ow/s1600-h/IMG_10374.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1037" border="0" alt="IMG_1037" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-x3UWS94FsbE/TscFEWSGsUI/AAAAAAAABPA/5W2lo4z-6r4/IMG_1037_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><font color="#555544"><strong>American Museum of Agriculture</strong></font> - Museum displays agricultural machinery and artifacts from years past.  Bill loved the tractors especially the ones that were used for cotton harvesting like this one.</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pQdakl1iz9I/TscFIuqaKsI/AAAAAAAABPI/TAwja6sQYi8/s1600-h/IMG_10554.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1055" border="0" alt="IMG_1055" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-K4PiZgAD1eM/TscFLYSLEgI/AAAAAAAABPQ/DubocTiSs4s/IMG_1055_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><strong><font color="#555544">American Wind Power Center - </font></strong>Over 100 historic windmills are displayed inside.  These windmills cover the entire history of the American water-pumping windmill from 1860s to current production.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BHB6iusAGv0/TscFPxrwGKI/AAAAAAAABPY/o5VrNzCrFKI/s1600-h/IMG_10654.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1065" border="0" alt="IMG_1065" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Sw6m51envfM/TscFRgBR48I/AAAAAAAABPg/2E2zbh8L_tg/IMG_1065_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the first windmill built in N. America was in 1621 on the Flowerdew Hundred Plantation in Virginia.  This windmill was used to mill grain.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jNY9hIGgIUc/TscFT-chZ9I/AAAAAAAABPo/Ll0A5b3DAxM/s1600-h/IMG_10584.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_1058" border="0" alt="IMG_1058" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DlToRegCF3g/TscFVWrJnRI/AAAAAAAABPw/Nk2A7k98Nl8/IMG_1058_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Well, next stop Amarillo, Texas for Thanksgiving with Bill’s aunt, Linda.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-80514327760300565932011-11-17T11:37:00.001-05:002011-11-17T11:37:31.935-05:0011-7-11 San Antonio Texas and the Alamo<p>Got to a campground west of San Antonio and decided to go to the Alamo on Monday.  </p> <p>Originally the Alamo was home to missionaries and their Indian converts for nearly seventy years.  Construction began on the present in 1724.  </p> <p>In the early 1800s the Spanish military stationed a cavalry unit at the mission.  The Alamo was home to both Revolutionaries and Royalists during Mexico’s ten-year struggle for independence.  The military—Spanish, Rebel, and then Mexican, continued to occupy the Alamo until the Texas Revolution.</p> <p>This is the time that most people know about the Alamo.  On the morning of March 6, 1836, a band of 32 volunteers along with two hundred Texans tried to defend the Alamo.  They felt that the Alamo was the key to the defense of Texas and they were ready to die rather than surrender to the Mexican army of over 6000.  The battle ended by sunrise the next day and the Mexican army entered the Alamo to survey the scene of their victory.  </p> <p>Only the Long Barrack Museum remains of the original Alamo site.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zWNf-5bl9sQ/TsU3-F_6KuI/AAAAAAAABLo/_ITIkPr3Ph4/s1600-h/IMG_09634.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0963" border="0" alt="IMG_0963" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vBDvAfVEtZo/TsU4AIRQxiI/AAAAAAAABLw/gZ495yM2FBs/IMG_0963_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The Shrine, is the building that most identify with the the Alamo, was built after the date and is dedicated to the memory of the men who died.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-izgGYdxW1dg/TsU4E5nbdHI/AAAAAAAABL4/AcI_au29__4/s1600-h/IMG_09644.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0964" border="0" alt="IMG_0964" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v11QUo256pg/TsU4GVvB22I/AAAAAAAABMA/T20KqDHdbJo/IMG_0964_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>San Antonio is a large city with a very nice downtown area called “Riverwalk”.  This area is very close to the Alamo State Historical site.  Lots of nice restaurants and shops</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z0Qnouvi9Yo/TsU4JsPvNiI/AAAAAAAABMI/OVMk842gCAg/s1600-h/IMG_09664.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0966" border="0" alt="IMG_0966" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6eLN0VgR18w/TsU4MAFwxtI/AAAAAAAABMQ/i5LtpQP_5mE/IMG_0966_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lCeIfCRCXPI/TsU4QY2N2XI/AAAAAAAABMY/9cr9lgIkukI/s1600-h/IMG_09714.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0971" border="0" alt="IMG_0971" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sZTk7gTpLfg/TsU4Ss-2VeI/AAAAAAAABMg/LLAO1hZ1Muc/IMG_0971_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Great town, glad we decided to stay a couple days.  Next stop San Angelo Texas.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-30002477021825913872011-11-09T18:50:00.001-05:002011-11-09T18:50:36.132-05:0011-1-11 thru 11-6-11 PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE<p>The Padre Island National Seashore is located near Corpus Christi, Texas on the Gulf of Mexico.  We arrived at the Malaquite campground in the afternoon, got a great site right on the ocean.  There are several campgrounds, but this is the one that accommodates larger RV.  No services, but they do have a dump and a place to put on water.  This is looking out our front window.  Nice!!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HQ_lsANyKuc/TrsRculnljI/AAAAAAAABJI/sR476MubVR8/s1600-h/IMG_09284.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0928" border="0" alt="IMG_0928" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--rhnksStDT8/TrsRdfy_GXI/AAAAAAAABJQ/FoASMXiUSy0/IMG_0928_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Padre Island National Seashore protects the longest undeveloped stretch of barrier island in the world.  It is 70 miles of beach, windswept dunes, seemingly endless grasslands and tidal flats.  We were amazed that as far as you can see there was beach and sand dunes, not a condo in site.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JipCYXSEumw/TrsRea41upI/AAAAAAAABJY/LDH92oL79lY/s1600-h/IMG_09314.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0931" border="0" alt="IMG_0931" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XC9IVhgFHKM/TrsRfWv8m4I/AAAAAAAABJg/WRq4iQeML_E/IMG_0931_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0AUu3BeiTn8/TrsRgabiAPI/AAAAAAAABJo/ZtloJual9lg/s1600-h/IMG_51134.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5113" border="0" alt="IMG_5113" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-igFlACEDOVs/TrsRhX2EUCI/AAAAAAAABJw/VR6-iqEweLc/IMG_5113_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>There are oil drill platforms out in the gulf, but not much more on the horizon.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zThzS0hlRqs/TrsRiRuKrHI/AAAAAAAABJ4/C7QVrXhWask/s1600-h/IMG_51078.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5107" border="0" alt="IMG_5107" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K5ZxdCy2Q9A/TrsRjIcTa4I/AAAAAAAABKA/8FBUclIppa4/IMG_5107_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>This area is the most important U.S. nesting beach for endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle and for migrating birds.</p> <p>You can drive along the beach and see many birds.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nCieh14ePwk/TrsRkU9i4cI/AAAAAAAABKI/TYohS29umo8/s1600-h/IMG_51044.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5104" border="0" alt="IMG_5104" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IR6CHdIc6Hw/TrsRlhVyhwI/AAAAAAAABKQ/TrYE1Q2f6rY/IMG_5104_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-31EODrARk4U/TrsRmxmG68I/AAAAAAAABKY/EtFwLwumvv8/s1600-h/IMG_51224.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5122" border="0" alt="IMG_5122" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qBvJ5_xkG94/TrsRoPyK_CI/AAAAAAAABKg/BMWow9TwZiM/IMG_5122_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-URieoQ2ditE/TrsRpj31pzI/AAAAAAAABKo/tRIjOHADxmg/s1600-h/IMG_51264.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5126" border="0" alt="IMG_5126" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wmWdTNPY5a0/TrsRqdVqBOI/AAAAAAAABKw/pjSUZa2Rt4E/IMG_5126_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>And even deer.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lZ10nOHc9h8/TrsRrqhQdLI/AAAAAAAABK4/8Wzun-Bre_s/s1600-h/IMG_51104.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5110" border="0" alt="IMG_5110" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3I70jXWmx4U/TrsRseZwq4I/AAAAAAAABLA/94bF8ktclos/IMG_5110_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>When we arrived the weather was great and we enjoyed our long walks on the beach, so did Miles.  There is a great deal of plastic litter on the beach, due the currents and winds coming in from the gulf. He enjoyed chasing the birds, but learned quickly that he had more fun chasing moving plastic bottles.  They encourage everyone that walks on the beach to pick up litter.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PRaXUgZBpQg/TrsRtrv0D3I/AAAAAAAABLI/qqn35r2mUPw/s1600-h/IMG_09464.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0946" border="0" alt="IMG_0946" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J1B8yyiFG88/TrsRvNvxPGI/AAAAAAAABLQ/YViwc5iaJWY/IMG_0946_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Unfortunately our visit was cut short.  Becau<font color="#555544">s</font>e of <font color="#ff0000">Red Tide</font><font color="#666666">.  In the gulf, <font color="#ff0000">Red Tides</font> are caused by high concentrations of a microscopic alga.  These high concentrations may discolor the water, causing it to appear red, light or dark green or brown.  This condition produces a toxin that can affect the central nervous system of fish, birds, mammals and other animals.  In fact, there were quite a few dead fish on the beach.  It can be fatal if dogs ingest fish killed by <font color="#ff0000">Red Tide. </font>So we had to be careful with Miles, since he eats about everything he finds.</font></p> <p><font color="#666666">For people the toxins produce breathing issues. </font><font color="#666666">Bill and I could not go outside because we couldn’t breath and kept coughing.  We tried wearing particle filter masks, but they were not really effective.</font></p> <p><font color="#666666">So we left Padre Island headed back up north to San Antonio, Texas.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3IDH5pqIMTE/TrsRwm_dJAI/AAAAAAAABLY/3uoeAgniV80/s1600-h/IMG_09514.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0951" border="0" alt="IMG_0951" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OTJ_XlNdEXE/TrsRytNP3CI/AAAAAAAABLg/GzKwZOaDsW0/IMG_0951_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-67722210157408503702011-11-09T13:46:00.001-05:002011-11-09T13:52:28.380-05:00My MSN<p>10-31-11 LBJ NATIONAL PARK AND RANCH – JOHNSON CITY, TEXAS</p> <p>Well we finally got back on the road with our new RV.  So we headed south in Texas.</p> <p>First stop Johnson City, at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.  The Hill Country of Texas, has been the home of the Johnson family for more than a century.</p> <p>LBJ was the 36 President of the US, 1963-69.  LBJ is a president that Bill and I have both come to admire, for his ability to withstand a great deal of turmoil during those years of civil unrest and the Vietnam war.  He was instrumental in passing more legislations than any other president, including civil rights laws, Medicare and developing the National Public Radio system which we enjoy so much during our travels.</p> <p>The National Park has LBJ  reconstructed birthplace, the school he attended and the grandparent’s farmhouse.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Rp-VuOWtKec/TrrKKWecJLI/AAAAAAAABG4/qcVOEr-0lUc/s1600-h/IMG_0893%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0893" border="0" alt="IMG_0893" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_ft0Y7rQKcI/TrrKLl8jjpI/AAAAAAAABHA/GoZm8cpRI_o/IMG_0893_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Boyhood home.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gTiHqfsjhnY/TrrKNVdCTzI/AAAAAAAABHI/4EdquYPEXkU/s1600-h/IMG_0908%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0908" border="0" alt="IMG_0908" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LoloQ5tt0cU/TrrKPiwOU8I/AAAAAAAABHQ/j4i0zUPbN1Q/IMG_0908_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3LyGL7Qk45w/TrrKQ9efLCI/AAAAAAAABHY/pPakJlxSrsE/s1600-h/IMG_0905%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0905" border="0" alt="IMG_0905" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UgrWcbKIcEQ/TrrKSmHUCvI/AAAAAAAABHg/HUYBjeSk74o/IMG_0905_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The Junction School.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qH5Ld-9405s/TrrKT8uJT_I/AAAAAAAABHo/aUK24Vi13TQ/s1600-h/IMG_0917%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0917" border="0" alt="IMG_0917" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Z0HTVwrT5O4/TrrKUwqgvBI/AAAAAAAABHw/BuvI1JZ5T6o/IMG_0917_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Lyndon was 5 when his father moved the family into the comfort of the town.  Lyndon’s mother and father had a profound influence on him.  His parents impressed on them the necessity of education and compassion for human needs.  His father was in state politics and his mother was one of the few women in Texas that was college educated.</p> <p>At the LBJ ranch there is a family cemetery and LBJ and Lady Bird  are buried there.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vwNDvWO7bkg/TrrKWvTCZxI/AAAAAAAABH4/ffnU3axBeus/s1600-h/IMG_0920%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0920" border="0" alt="IMG_0920" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cChsmFSxyUQ/TrrKYPmFOEI/AAAAAAAABIA/-eQiT5c9prE/IMG_0920_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c5hnRjveohw/TrrKarC9nkI/AAAAAAAABII/2AAasGQNtFA/s1600-h/IMG_0921%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0921" border="0" alt="IMG_0921" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lotvXlm9nrs/TrrKcdwkDRI/AAAAAAAABIQ/MX2Z7FugWR8/IMG_0921_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The LBJ ranch was called the Texas Whitehouse</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-483-LSY1BMo/TrrKeNFQ1uI/AAAAAAAABIY/9lTHF721jkY/s1600-h/TWHPanoramaSprouse%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="TWHPanoramaSprouse" border="0" alt="TWHPanoramaSprouse" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BeaC7R1oC70/TrrKfObUBfI/AAAAAAAABIg/IjXlQJ9Zjxw/TWHPanoramaSprouse_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="249" /></a></p> <p>LBJ donated this part of the ranch to the National Parks with the stipulation that it would remain a working ranch and not a “sterile relic of the past”.  So there are longhorn cattle roaming around and barns.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7qtdFQATMic/TrrKhnFAigI/AAAAAAAABIo/ZAADuunekmE/s1600-h/IMG_0924%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0924" border="0" alt="IMG_0924" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bSfaxIdUogc/TrrKjWTkN1I/AAAAAAAABIw/_gCY_dxz2zI/IMG_0924_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>There is also a runway where his small US 1 would land and park while he was here.  Found out that any plane that the president flies in becomes “US 1”</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JshiK95Cm2Q/TrrKkgX6O8I/AAAAAAAABI4/H1NVuDpbpZs/s1600-h/IMG_0926%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0926" border="0" alt="IMG_0926" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YZCBx4sFLv8/TrrKl_K6iuI/AAAAAAAABJA/7R9-huevWvY/IMG_0926_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Next stop Padre Island National Shoreline.</p> <p><a href="http://my.msn.com/default.aspx?mypg=1">My MSN</a></p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-45131637311168538552011-10-23T15:55:00.001-04:002011-10-23T15:55:56.132-04:009-27-11 thru 10-11-11 Albuquerque, New Mexico and the Balloon Fiesta<p>This is some photos of the Enchanted Trails Campground, where we stayed for a couple of days before going into the Balloon Fiesta campground.  These antique campers where part of the campground and you could reserve them for the night.  Aren’t they cool?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H_fodccxTLM/TqRwZEQtIlI/AAAAAAAAA_I/qzuyaKmtdOo/s1600-h/IMG_0303.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0303" border="0" alt="IMG_0303" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lGcWhiQnoD0/TqRwaPFn1nI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/s7oJh1j2IKg/IMG_0303_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W1O6tmsWilo/TqRwbTHsMeI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/rOuHqqBR5GI/s1600-h/IMG_0304.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0304" border="0" alt="IMG_0304" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7px3N3GFWEs/TqRwcgu016I/AAAAAAAAA_g/MKneTCt1csQ/IMG_0304_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>We arrived in Albuquerque and meet up with our friends. When we got to the Fiesta Campground we all went out to dinner at a Chinese Buffett. Don’t they look like a fun group???</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-aKtARTaUtBs/TqRwgw7Rw9I/AAAAAAAAA_o/UZGFyyedWlQ/s1600-h/IMG_0309%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0309" border="0" alt="IMG_0309" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tJ85Kp8Jlo4/TqRwh6vcrZI/AAAAAAAAA_w/QW4aGGk-zQQ/IMG_0309_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>On Friday the last day of September, the Balloon Fiesta organizers have an event called “Albuquerque Aloft”.  This is where they have the balloon pilots  go to local schools and inflate balloons for the kids and give them a chance to see how it’s done up close.</p> <p>This is a some of our group helping the pilot get his balloon ready.  One of the balloons inflated and took off. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4liWcAEvcAo/TqRwi0xAJfI/AAAAAAAAA_4/xCc9ApQainA/s1600-h/IMG_0323.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0323" border="0" alt="IMG_0323" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jujWCfIeNrU/TqRwkP6znCI/AAAAAAAABAA/9oaHKD-I9lM/IMG_0323_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rsaVG93Ie20/TqRwkhcYRUI/AAAAAAAABAI/bA-EMljePu8/s1600-h/IMG_0333.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0333" border="0" alt="IMG_0333" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m9E2s0Qy_Hg/TqRwluQ6ZJI/AAAAAAAABAQ/wauwKVlcmuY/IMG_0333_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zQmUoAz7eJg/TqRwmbPoVXI/AAAAAAAABAY/O3ckd2U96JI/s1600-h/IMG_0345.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0345" border="0" alt="IMG_0345" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oj87NHUK80Q/TqRwnFepreI/AAAAAAAABAg/yOFufSo7N8c/IMG_0345_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The other balloon inflated but stayed on the ground.  The pilot let all the kids ask questions and even get in the basket and pull the burner blast valve.  They were all very excited.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_AMsqczY8H0/TqRwoCTBGbI/AAAAAAAABAo/zxW_18XPp_c/s1600-h/IMG_0358.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0358" border="0" alt="IMG_0358" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yOAgmh9RVtc/TqRwpItKpaI/AAAAAAAABAw/nl8njAsJv3w/IMG_0358_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is what the Balloon Fiesta field looks like before all the activities.  It is beautiful grass. It must be very hard to maintain in this area of New Mexico, which is very arid and desert like.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aDHoqPM5QrY/TqRwqBvqiSI/AAAAAAAABA4/GEQRWFVHhTE/s1600-h/IMG_0313.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0313" border="0" alt="IMG_0313" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uuQpbZE11UA/TqRwrCrRMFI/AAAAAAAABBA/nUg2Yq91fQg/IMG_0313_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is what the field looked like for the Balloon Fiesta.  There were estimates of over 500,000 people attended this Fiesta, which was the 40th Anniversary Fiesta.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5ai2nkQ5myA/TqRwsH_qHdI/AAAAAAAABBI/YX3vL4ZihfM/s1600-h/IMG_0804.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0804" border="0" alt="IMG_0804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TxIi37_ags4/TqRws54nWVI/AAAAAAAABBQ/jf5Yrox8DoM/IMG_0804_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The first morning of the Fiesta was beautiful, but cool.  This is the dawn patrol. Dawn Patrol balloons participate in a pre-dawn show that also helps the pilots determine winds aloft conditions.  This is like the pre-takeoff crew.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jtPknavN234/TqRwtpInlcI/AAAAAAAABBY/_dP1EdswHZE/s1600-h/IMG_4612%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4612" border="0" alt="IMG_4612" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sjdVC0jWSJw/TqRwuTdyqTI/AAAAAAAABBg/vUv4o0kPLuo/IMG_4612_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>During the “Mass Ascension” when hundreds of balloons take off.  In fact, there was a record broke where they launched over 300 in one hour.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ura78sxtSHI/TqRwvB1m6YI/AAAAAAAABBo/L_vL8shzStQ/s1600-h/IMG_4867%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4867" border="0" alt="IMG_4867" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ap7JRLOnBG8/TqRwv9o8-wI/AAAAAAAABBw/X6PUvKpU_IQ/IMG_4867_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>This is a very difficult task and has to be coordinated.  The people that instruct the pilots when to take off are called “zebras” and they are dressed in black and white and all kinds of outfits.  Here is one.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-T17w-RjaY3g/TqRwxM-IrpI/AAAAAAAABB4/9k7PI4Oioxk/s1600-h/IMG_4761%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4761" border="0" alt="IMG_4761" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A614dRbxIgo/TqRwx-LlDhI/AAAAAAAABCA/xfE6gsh15Qo/IMG_4761_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Just before dusk, balloons are tethered and inflated.  The balloonmeister (guy who runs the show) orders an ignition and the burners fill the balloons and the sky with beautiful colors and shapes, while the spectators are allowed to walk around the balloons. This is called a Glow.  The balloons light up all at the same time with their propane burners, but never take off.  Very beautiful.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hBhE19ywMPE/TqRwygWFEOI/AAAAAAAABCI/byy8Imwcrt4/s1600-h/IMG_0586%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0586" border="0" alt="IMG_0586" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gUGzlMGxy8Q/TqRwziKE3QI/AAAAAAAABCQ/Pw36Wq5X1QE/IMG_0586_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MJASGwGhZCU/TqRw0c_gMBI/AAAAAAAABCY/QF51iUPk12g/s1600-h/IMG_0822%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0822" border="0" alt="IMG_0822" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bIvBaRf0mk4/TqRw1R2OmII/AAAAAAAABCg/vX9dLgJ0g_4/IMG_0822_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>We took a zillion pictures, but some of the most interesting are the special shape balloons.  </p> <p>The pig.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sKT3Ig_SFD0/TqRw2ET32GI/AAAAAAAABCo/SYPtAzQF0Fk/s1600-h/IMG_4717.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4717" border="0" alt="IMG_4717" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nrnqhWgem9w/TqRw2yTEQEI/AAAAAAAABCw/Hn3q9x94R-g/IMG_4717_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>The gigantic Wells Fargo stagecoach.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vUF2qZGge2o/TqRw3gXDwvI/AAAAAAAABC4/RFK_260hkwY/s1600-h/IMG_4735.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4735" border="0" alt="IMG_4735" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-olOnxnbVYpg/TqRw4dtyD6I/AAAAAAAABDA/7hgG0B7hg5A/IMG_4735_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Spider-pig</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dHAZFgVjv7Q/TqRw5DT00XI/AAAAAAAABDI/lSVZdGj7Btg/s1600-h/IMG_4745.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4745" border="0" alt="IMG_4745" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NQfIbSGCtSY/TqRw530X01I/AAAAAAAABDQ/jp41bN5oWBk/IMG_4745_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Bud Select only 55 calories.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-icYhjBrYx8Q/TqRw6rCK2MI/AAAAAAAABDY/5SPS969F3LA/s1600-h/IMG_4780.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4780" border="0" alt="IMG_4780" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7IxbzqrAPXg/TqRw7ZO-x8I/AAAAAAAABDg/jXXXmdGiRgo/IMG_4780_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Peek-a-boo from some blue guy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OZEabbkX4XQ/TqRw8BrqLOI/AAAAAAAABDo/lQbjixrzP4Y/s1600-h/IMG_0769%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0769" border="0" alt="IMG_0769" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7kOtt6zoHzs/TqRw81PmsvI/AAAAAAAABDw/C8OC2uCyc8s/IMG_0769_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>These are my favorite.  Here is the birth of the bees.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JsqptBdx1zI/TqRw9xACH4I/AAAAAAAABD4/QkFmUEb8Chw/s1600-h/IMG_0791.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0791" border="0" alt="IMG_0791" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f3nPOkfhV1s/TqRw-qcWHTI/AAAAAAAABEA/5Zo6AO-7sIE/IMG_0791_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Mom and Dad bee.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Kq3V_cPdaEs/TqRw_QGf3uI/AAAAAAAABEI/vymx9wccJIM/s1600-h/IMG_4787.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4787" border="0" alt="IMG_4787" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tbddPnENBcc/TqRxAVrhHxI/AAAAAAAABEQ/tEu13ZU-LlQ/IMG_4787_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Mom, Dad and little bee.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jrvEVywy_Rc/TqRxBFbzr1I/AAAAAAAABEY/d_wM5l5cH10/s1600-h/IMG_4790.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4790" border="0" alt="IMG_4790" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--7xXOrLNRtI/TqRxB69rq1I/AAAAAAAABEg/PrimldSM0Vw/IMG_4790_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Looks are deceiving, these guys are big but lovable.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_zliC9XASAc/TqRxCl34qyI/AAAAAAAABEo/eSSr_f8eJqY/s1600-h/IMG_0807%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0807" border="0" alt="IMG_0807" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DQ_KQesj2Ng/TqRxDmPuZBI/AAAAAAAABEw/crE9rabTcBs/IMG_0807_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>One of the best things about camping across the street from the Balloon Launch grounds was that there were numerous landings around our RV.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2e7hA3KNJSQ/TqRxEgOxoVI/AAAAAAAABE4/JS57tvOiCuU/s1600-h/IMG_0596%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0596" border="0" alt="IMG_0596" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ruarv-AwDk4/TqRxFaXH41I/AAAAAAAABFA/vQW-SWJJwMA/IMG_0596_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mXjue_oyWtM/TqRxGCoSp_I/AAAAAAAABFI/S9hLSEAqDDY/s1600-h/IMG_0615%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0615" border="0" alt="IMG_0615" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NqqkhLQ44tk/TqRxHKE_pfI/AAAAAAAABFQ/nSTYSEdL-8o/IMG_0615_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-edegGUKXrxk/TqRxIBqiIGI/AAAAAAAABFY/FTsxVk7ZLmM/s1600-h/IMG_5038%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5038" border="0" alt="IMG_5038" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fSTkPizEceA/TqRxJHpXWSI/AAAAAAAABFg/M3iuyqginm8/IMG_5038_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>One morning there was snow on the mountains to the east, there was a “mass ascension” where 100’s of balloons took off.  It was a beautiful site with the mountains in the background.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FUb9TqMguHo/TqRxJ5MCdAI/AAAAAAAABFo/OCVFLKpbUFg/s1600-h/IMG_5073%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5073" border="0" alt="IMG_5073" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hzgeBhVyhVg/TqRxKotqSpI/AAAAAAAABFw/pYnkaVD4W74/IMG_5073_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="484" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vbAlL1cDz-8/TqRxLadRbbI/AAAAAAAABF4/IDGxilJTRks/s1600-h/IMG_4981%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4981" border="0" alt="IMG_4981" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-q3Ys8D4TK7U/TqRxMBZpsnI/AAAAAAAABGA/C_PhwdJOMgs/IMG_4981_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ClWbxk4Q8Gs/TqRxNKoNvrI/AAAAAAAABGI/m5P7LByvYJU/s1600-h/IMG_5019%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_5019" border="0" alt="IMG_5019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nCqIL8tjFWE/TqRxN0_huOI/AAAAAAAABGQ/fMnBPQ632UQ/IMG_5019_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Well, it was an unbelievable experience.  Maybe next year we will get to go on a ride.  We did go to the Balloon Fiesta Museum and I pretended to go on a ride. ha</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--l_Nrtzm3BA/TqRxPTl7JvI/AAAAAAAABGY/dcBycgnCLoM/s1600-h/IMG_0722%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0722" border="0" alt="IMG_0722" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WEkjYIPGInc/TqRxQG525SI/AAAAAAAABGg/Z9YP6nAVaCw/IMG_0722_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Miles didn’t like all the noise from the balloons and the fireworks, but as the week went on he got used to it and by next year he will be a pro.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F45G-WgUJI8/TqRxRNULMcI/AAAAAAAABGo/qvpdL3CfxDw/s1600-h/IMG_4560.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4560" border="0" alt="IMG_4560" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BCPbuHmuvDU/TqRxST5CcsI/AAAAAAAABGw/lrM4UAxlTeM/IMG_4560_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Next stop Texas.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-91264257761253811872011-09-25T16:21:00.001-04:002011-09-25T16:21:48.760-04:009-24-11 Fort Union near Las Vegas, New Mexico<p>To the readers of this blog: Sorry to generate all these blogs in the last two days.  I have been procrastinating and will try not to get so far behind next time.</p> <p>This fort is in ruins, none of the buildings have been restored.  It may be difficult, however, to look at these melted adobe walls and the few chimneys that rise above ground level and realize that this was the largest U.S. military installation on the 1800’s Southwest frontier.  </p> <p>Throughout the 1860s the troops from Fort Union continued to participate in operations against Indians.  It was a large supply depot for settlers headed west, until the Santa Fe Railroad replaced the need for a trail.</p> <p>The Santa Fe Trail ran right next to the fort.  Miles and I are supposed to be settlers looking for our wagon.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KRAD_4BvV7w/Tn-M1RE_uVI/AAAAAAAAA9w/ghbSODpgeSE/s1600-h/IMG_0267%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0267" border="0" alt="IMG_0267" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9aR7MlHOFEw/Tn-M2jlx_0I/AAAAAAAAA90/CtUiWxGArY8/IMG_0267_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qZgvPsZfyhM/Tn-M4OMa91I/AAAAAAAAA94/KonLtDlkcWc/s1600-h/IMG_0301%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0301" border="0" alt="IMG_0301" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--OfU8Prdc6A/Tn-M5eV3UjI/AAAAAAAAA98/ndyBk5nRGr4/IMG_0301_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This was the hospital, a very large building with 6 wards and a capacity of 60 or more patients.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H8k-e2rU7ac/Tn-M7fDWueI/AAAAAAAAA-A/iJYg0cypKiA/s1600-h/IMG_0265%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0265" border="0" alt="IMG_0265" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pvtsleUPXoY/Tn-M8pLTbuI/AAAAAAAAA-E/h_aLmMgoAT0/IMG_0265_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V8r5Q-2fBlw/Tn-M-VQkQLI/AAAAAAAAA-I/EddB3hr81G0/s1600-h/IMG_0283%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0283" border="0" alt="IMG_0283" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bJd8yq0Jgj4/Tn-NAfjq7tI/AAAAAAAAA-M/6TIsl0gqpFE/IMG_0283_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the Guard house.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vgFCNKpr2AE/Tn-NCGpsjSI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/Lkj_vaXwhrI/s1600-h/IMG_0270%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0270" border="0" alt="IMG_0270" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BThWa0kM8Hg/Tn-NDXlKXkI/AAAAAAAAA-U/OyAuq5RWK14/IMG_0270_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the Officer’s homes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uLmII1mMcoY/Tn-NEwlwz3I/AAAAAAAAA-Y/yiJ_ZvIdSMY/s1600-h/IMG_0289%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0289" border="0" alt="IMG_0289" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0x6LeKyI0zg/Tn-NGMRKa3I/AAAAAAAAA-c/cK2yaP4b5hs/IMG_0289_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6Mf9tD6vGJQ/Tn-NHSzHNoI/AAAAAAAAA-g/il20CX6p-gY/s1600-h/IMG_0292%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0292" border="0" alt="IMG_0292" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qAxEtBxDvIw/Tn-NJE-yg4I/AAAAAAAAA-k/AYALmyzAA2I/IMG_0292_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The Post Commander’s Home with the bigger chimney.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nwESydPJ-xk/Tn-NKuHwXcI/AAAAAAAAA-o/AMUicygwuXY/s1600-h/IMG_0287%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0287" border="0" alt="IMG_0287" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RUmMGh4gs5k/Tn-NLwQjSNI/AAAAAAAAA-s/bkUUoUEwg9c/IMG_0287_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is a photo of what the buildings looked like before the building supplies were taken by local settlers to use for their own homes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CC-s-LcSKp8/Tn-NNLQxW2I/AAAAAAAAA-w/GLIYYxVze_0/s1600-h/OfficersQuarters7_1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OfficersQuarters7_1" border="0" alt="OfficersQuarters7_1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rFeEp7DFR-E/Tn-NOGUr9UI/AAAAAAAAA-0/m6winnRRzMA/OfficersQuarters7_1_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="154" /></a></p> <p>The mechanics corral where wagons were repaired.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-r0bN94k3UwA/Tn-NQFV0c0I/AAAAAAAAA-4/dDepxuKTNa4/s1600-h/IMG_0276%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0276" border="0" alt="IMG_0276" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Xtheeal6QsQ/Tn-NR5BiFjI/AAAAAAAAA-8/GM08-SUq8G4/IMG_0276_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The fort was closed in 1891.  The military actually took the land from a private owner and had to give it back after it was closed. The National Parks attained the land in 1954.  It is a very interesting park, we were both amazed at the size of the fort.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ShXOtY2h3DI/Tn-NUIGb-2I/AAAAAAAAA_A/tm-fNhKVrtE/s1600-h/IMG_0286%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0286" border="0" alt="IMG_0286" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QQ9g4uRgqcE/Tn-NWRajF_I/AAAAAAAAA_E/Wx6-IBtLQmY/IMG_0286_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Next stop – Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque!!!</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-76636282912638597602011-09-25T15:38:00.001-04:002011-09-25T15:38:37.712-04:009-20-11–Rocky Mountain National Park<p>Got to Rocky Mountain National Park around 5:00 pm, stopped at visitor center and it was closed.  We then drove up to ranger station to see if we could get a camping spot.  No luck.  They don’t have very many big sites that can accommodate our rig.  The area was very crowded because of all the elk viewing.  This is the time of year when they are in rut, which is another name for mating.</p> <p>So, we went to a private campground right outside the park.  When we pulled in we had a great surprise the front yard of the campground was full of elk.  A large bull elk and about 8 cows eating the grass around the campground.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3vVttiQtZjQ/Tn-BtzYX2EI/AAAAAAAAA8I/TQbi9qgVm-w/s1600-h/IMG_4515%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4515" border="0" alt="IMG_4515" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ULD2OOdgOeE/Tn-Bx2PnWyI/AAAAAAAAA8M/opUg8r5c--k/IMG_4515_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>There was also another bull elk trying to cut in on the other bulls’ territory.  He was having a heck of time walking around the yard trying not to make the other bull mad.</p> <p>He rubbed his head on the stop sign.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WRQAE0uYSwo/Tn-B0HxdsoI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/h6t2Ee8xKU4/s1600-h/IMG_4497%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4497" border="0" alt="IMG_4497" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dUA19mUebwk/Tn-B2hjMjBI/AAAAAAAAA8U/mfzzlUgKeak/IMG_4497_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>He took the shortcut next to this truck.  We were standing right there and he was not afraid of people.  These guys are used to all the commotion.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FZqclOuOaXs/Tn-B4MtNZGI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/s_EwCjn-tys/s1600-h/IMG_4501%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4501" border="0" alt="IMG_4501" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2Oz_zW4-nGM/Tn-B5zev3jI/AAAAAAAAA8c/Z5MIzffxh0o/IMG_4501_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XfxGSICOePQ/Tn-B7uyoihI/AAAAAAAAA8g/3UrSjaeWmqE/s1600-h/IMG_4503%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4503" border="0" alt="IMG_4503" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z9xY6Lmngqg/Tn-B9Ot_fII/AAAAAAAAA8k/2HKjNZRaaEE/IMG_4503_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>He went to a rv and started to eat the plants and rub his head on the rv mirrors.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2aVQqjQS7y4/Tn-B-_QPtsI/AAAAAAAAA8o/hoy8O9MTV8g/s1600-h/IMG_4516%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4516" border="0" alt="IMG_4516" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N6eK1n8q-ZA/Tn-CAbKl5HI/AAAAAAAAA8s/kUxfRdaW074/IMG_4516_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NBjT-YrgQDA/Tn-CGi55XII/AAAAAAAAA8w/cN8nEBfdQSA/s1600-h/IMG_4518%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4518" border="0" alt="IMG_4518" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4s8le8HTSfk/Tn-CJbkzU1I/AAAAAAAAA80/rU-uUbHi19A/IMG_4518_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>After all his sneaking around the other bull scared him off.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gYLhQ_ew3Qo/Tn-CLF7dZ_I/AAAAAAAAA84/Ht4syacXrug/s1600-h/IMG_4509%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4509" border="0" alt="IMG_4509" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DVutBOLr1Os/Tn-C0AzqEXI/AAAAAAAAA88/ERBj1O6S53M/IMG_4509_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Stayed one night here and tried again to get a campsite in the National Park, but no luck.  It was a beautiful day, but rain was expected in the afternoon. So we decided to park the RV and go for a hike.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MQ7JNDxsJCM/Tn-C2RlZjHI/AAAAAAAAA9A/QcpRZjvP83o/s1600-h/IMG_4521%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4521" border="0" alt="IMG_4521" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EqgFHyddjVQ/Tn-C4xSl-9I/AAAAAAAAA9E/Kv0R5-GwOS8/IMG_4521_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7N3g-7aZqJQ/Tn-C9KAHfLI/AAAAAAAAA9I/z1TmrTKLQ3E/s1600-h/IMG_4520%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4520" border="0" alt="IMG_4520" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-15_RBzQtVJI/Tn-C_mcpF3I/AAAAAAAAA9M/vpGGMn_bw1E/IMG_4520_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>We took the shuttle bus up to Bierstadt and hiked to Sprague Lake and then to Glacier Gorge.  It was a 6 mile hike. </p> <p>Along the way we saw a elk cow up above us in the woods.  We could hear the bull, but never saw him.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7qBAbgmvX0s/Tn-DBACY-sI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/uY0dYhJV6tc/s1600-h/IMG_4531%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4531" border="0" alt="IMG_4531" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eIKRUi0ZOFY/Tn-DCZdsV9I/AAAAAAAAA9U/7oYn8C26INs/IMG_4531_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>We hiked to the up Glacier Gorge and saw these beautiful waterfalls.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5uthxdaMdMI/Tn-DE-jwXOI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/miFLkwSFMv8/s1600-h/IMG_4541%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4541" border="0" alt="IMG_4541" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9DMOovvoJs8/Tn-DF7GS-JI/AAAAAAAAA9c/QkSwoaQiK9U/IMG_4541_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0YMZKG3WIX4/Tn-DII8JuWI/AAAAAAAAA9g/OrHHcchW8No/s1600-h/IMG_4542%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4542" border="0" alt="IMG_4542" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C5JIjg0Xp-0/Tn-DKXH0ZhI/AAAAAAAAA9k/UZRxB6OcYxc/IMG_4542_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZhgeCZIfdFU/Tn-DM5E3xdI/AAAAAAAAA9o/YOXiyABAfCk/s1600-h/IMG_4544%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4544" border="0" alt="IMG_4544" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6_4nhs2f5Ys/Tn-DOe0TWEI/AAAAAAAAA9s/ZmdIbaP6Br8/IMG_4544_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Wow, this was beautiful country.  Didn’t get to see everything but next time….we will bring a smaller RV and camp in the park.</p> <p>Next stop New Mexico…</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-6858221499235571602011-09-25T14:26:00.001-04:002011-09-25T14:26:50.333-04:009/19/11 - Fort Laramie, Wyoming<p>Fort Laramie’s is a National Historic site near the town of Fort Laramie, Wyoming off of U.S. 26.  It sits on the Laramie River and looks much like it did when it was an active post dating back to 1849.  It survived intact because homesteaders bought and lived in the buildings after the army moved out and the National Park Service has worked very hard to restore the fort.</p> <p>It was built to defend the area from Indian attacks on settlers moving west.  It was also famous for its’ important role as host to several treaty negotiations with Northern Plains Indian Nations.</p> <p>This is the cavalry barracks.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5DZvI1-WAW8/Tn9yIyJhGRI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/gysE6Tk6OV4/s1600-h/IMG_0245%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0245" border="0" alt="IMG_0245" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gZVnMKBf1js/Tn9yKX6FVDI/AAAAAAAAA7U/efJ9BDQeZ8U/IMG_0245_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Inside the barracks, which housed approx.. 60 soldiers. (1874)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-33W83cNXMnQ/Tn9yLUzNUdI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/KtWhoXj77Qo/s1600-h/IMG_0246%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0246" border="0" alt="IMG_0246" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o6EbN3EJWqw/Tn9yMhzrAjI/AAAAAAAAA7c/qs9j5JPD54g/IMG_0246_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is the Burt House, which housed one of the officers.  There was a delightful woman who worked for the park serve.  She was in full period costume telling us about the history of the house and what the inhabitants daily activities may have been while they lived here at the fort. (1884)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-g4jM9pM8O4A/Tn9yN-IG4-I/AAAAAAAAA7g/DSfED3NG_28/s1600-h/IMG_0248%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0248" border="0" alt="IMG_0248" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0Bv_K6m9G8A/Tn9yPP_k_aI/AAAAAAAAA7k/O9dZHqJn2VM/IMG_0248_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is where the bachelor officers lived and his Wyoming’s oldest documented military building.  It was called “Old Bedlam” named after an insane asylum in New York, because all the wild activities of the single men. (1849)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DksjzwCusoY/Tn9yQWqunoI/AAAAAAAAA7o/1OSlPChxFKY/s1600-h/IMG_0251%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0251" border="0" alt="IMG_0251" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vf1JsSHdeQI/Tn9yRYwQUkI/AAAAAAAAA7s/0-81ty00r3M/IMG_0251_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Captains quarters, this building was purchased by a local woman and raised her 6 children here. (1870)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3-YwLYLkYeQ/Tn9yTvKQWzI/AAAAAAAAA7w/RqoiO7jdFbI/s1600-h/IMG_0253%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0253" border="0" alt="IMG_0253" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8KwZgU94G-8/Tn9yVLDGnfI/AAAAAAAAA70/kNK9VqCD-OQ/IMG_0253_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Old guardhouse. (1866)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Kw3GIQopjZ8/Tn9yW9__GeI/AAAAAAAAA74/CynwzVQ75CU/s1600-h/IMG_0255%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0255" border="0" alt="IMG_0255" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zZ6-hvulr-o/Tn9yYGyvPzI/AAAAAAAAA78/o4R8b5ilk0I/IMG_0255_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Not all of the buildings have been restored.  The National Park Service can only restore buildings that are still a certain percentage intact. This is officers’ quarters ruins. (1855) They were adobe buildings with wood second floors.  The wood was taken for building supplies when the fort was sold.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EWQAGx_nSXo/Tn9yZF1vfII/AAAAAAAAA8A/U2RREKWiMWg/s1600-h/IMG_0252%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0252" border="0" alt="IMG_0252" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xM8eliF-goI/Tn9yZw8Oq_I/AAAAAAAAA8E/xxhO6VG0Md8/IMG_0252_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The fort was abandoned and then sold at public auction in 1890.</p> <p>Next stop Rocky Mountain National Park.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-48310136299004526162011-09-25T13:42:00.001-04:002011-09-25T13:42:20.146-04:009-18-11– Chimney Rock, Nebraska<p> </p> <p>Chimney Rock is a famous, prominent rock formation in western Nebraska.  Rising nearly 300 feet above the North Platte River valley.  Chimney Rock is 4226 feet above sea level. During the middle 19th century it served as a landmark along the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, and the Mormon Trail.  It is visible for many miles from the east along US 26.</p> <p>The first recorded mention of “Chimney Rock” was in 1827.  Explorers had journeyed up the Platte River valley to the Salt Lake and the Rocky Mountains.  It was taller when it was first seen by settlers, but has been reduced in height since then by erosion and lightning.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-plbChJrFtfY/Tn9nzJLw3VI/AAAAAAAAA6s/jJqTr1sWXOs/s1600-h/IMG_4458%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4458" border="0" alt="IMG_4458" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K4oCtxj8ux0/Tn9n0bkKxVI/AAAAAAAAA6w/isprJSKC30k/IMG_4458_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>The pillar consists primarily of clay interlayered with volcanic ash and sandstone.  The harder sandstone layers near the top have protected the pillar from erosion.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-g2mWM1DPXAs/Tn9n2282gyI/AAAAAAAAA60/sGyIeykPc0M/s1600-h/IMG_4460%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4460" border="0" alt="IMG_4460" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ALTmujUcl5M/Tn9n4O3LMcI/AAAAAAAAA64/U_5izUdWoNQ/IMG_4460_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>It is a national historic site with a beautiful visitor center. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-19XYMQ9FL5g/Tn9n5s_A7XI/AAAAAAAAA68/aAe-VmtfLu0/s1600-h/IMG_4465%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4465" border="0" alt="IMG_4465" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X8BTwA_BSng/Tn9n6lU5iDI/AAAAAAAAA7A/f1bxCgLVNA0/IMG_4465_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p> You can’t walk up to the site, because it is private property.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VBVJBIF9Okw/Tn9n8vE-nYI/AAAAAAAAA7E/aq-OJ3aj03g/s1600-h/IMG_4454%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4454" border="0" alt="IMG_4454" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5WtnmSByp5E/Tn9n-lxCHcI/AAAAAAAAA7I/zTj9xsmJNvE/IMG_4454_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>Next stop Fort Laramie, Wyoming.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-86211043699966164152011-09-25T13:07:00.002-04:002011-09-25T23:22:22.411-04:009-8-11 through 9-15-11–Tyndall, South Dakota and the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South DakotaDrove about 450 miles from Iowa and got to Tyndall, South Dakota late in the day. <br />
We parked the RV in back of their house next to the alley.<br />
Bill and I and Stan went to the Gavin's Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium. It is located on the Missouri River near Lewis and Clark Lake and Yankton, SD. It is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Here is a giant turtle that really loved to have his picture taken.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dwhnzNPRCjg/Tn9ev3NTpdI/AAAAAAAAA5M/eDOvHVITeZ0/s1600-h/IMG_0162.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0162" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W1cqXtEuqck/Tn9exEIPDFI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/AKJusPdVrhs/IMG_0162_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0162" width="644" /></a><br />
The Hatchery’s primary responsibilities include raising endangered and threatened fish species, culturing other native and nonnative aquatic species and operating the aquarium. <br />
This is one of the fish tanks where they take baby rainbow trout and feed them as they grow and eventually put them back into the river system. They sell little bags of food so that the tourist can feed them.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tXjgdHXQOLg/Tn9eyWuNUpI/AAAAAAAAA5U/eCnfXtH0HUk/s1600-h/IMG_0165.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0165" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y_nNUSYnkR8/Tn9ezvDNfqI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/tGFcPHqLHnc/IMG_0165_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0165" width="644" /></a><br />
The Gavins Point Dam is a hydroelectric dam on the Missouri River in Nebraska. . It was built from 1957. It was built mostly for flood control. The dam has a hydroelectric plant and is located on the Nebraska-South Dakota border it creates the Lewis and Clark Lake.<br />
The water almost rose over the top of the dam this year with the high water levels because of the snow melt and rainy spring. It is still very high and you can see how the water is still pushing through.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0PhwRtZTKOk/Tn9e1P1ittI/AAAAAAAAA5c/0oxefmnctcU/s1600-h/IMG_0170.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0170" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-793tXwh6chc/Tn9e2a1fYxI/AAAAAAAAA5g/OYOdIfXj44g/IMG_0170_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0170" width="644" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HoU-Gqy21Co/Tn9fh6GDwXI/AAAAAAAAA5k/0MJo6pg4mGg/s1600-h/IMG_0175.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0175" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NTk02FwXoDY/Tn9fjFxRRHI/AAAAAAAAA5o/s1h27H2PNck/IMG_0175_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0175" width="644" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JLXY3nuJJUU/Tn9fkwSEaqI/AAAAAAAAA5s/_9fA6sU87rM/s1600-h/IMG_0178.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0178" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oCwdj8zN1yA/Tn9fpMJhy9I/AAAAAAAAA5w/Ir0DtQJTkGk/IMG_0178_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0178" width="644" /></a><br />
We also stopped by the beautiful Lewis and Clark Visitor Center.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bJ3rdaWqS70/Tn9fqQWN4OI/AAAAAAAAA50/HTj_DNJAStQ/s1600-h/IMG_0179.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0179" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-URkjKCHBdik/Tn9frA7pFXI/AAAAAAAAA54/qSE30igQhMI/IMG_0179_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0179" width="644" /></a><br />
Here is Lewis and Clark (really Bill and Stan).<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WMW80lyhRNE/Tn9fsf-B8UI/AAAAAAAAA58/lOvWBTWVn8Y/s1600-h/IMG_0183.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0183" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--N8dncdUndg/Tn9ftjhzvKI/AAAAAAAAA6A/ThHUFXx5J24/IMG_0183_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0183" width="364" /></a><br />
Kristin had to work for most of the time that we were there, but on Wednesday she had off and we went to Mitchell, SD, where the the world’s only Corn Palace is. The whole building is decorated with corn and other grains and native grains. Called the biggest birdfeeder in the U.S.<br />
<br />
The original Corn Palace was built in 1892. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DF0bvwDX98E/Tn9fvIxUYII/AAAAAAAAA6E/pgkYtyHgkno/s1600-h/IMG_0195%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0195" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IHkQxDBlHm0/Tn9fwYAyErI/AAAAAAAAA6I/XKUCojbeuXs/IMG_0195_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0195" width="644" /></a><br />
The present building was built in 1921. It was built of metal and brick which was much safer than the original wood structure.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jRYzuN_C93U/Tn9fyX3JzHI/AAAAAAAAA6M/reY5PjCzsKE/s1600-h/IMG_0187.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0187" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CjTPZE_GlQ0/Tn9fzu2_5vI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/8KLe-T0CXi0/IMG_0187_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0187" width="644" /></a><br />
All the murals, inside and out are made of corn. Murals are designed by local artists. A different theme is chosen each year. Ear by ear the corn is nailed to the Corn Palace to create a scene. The corn murals are stripped at the end of August and the new ones are completed by the first of October.<br />
Besides being a tourist attraction the main use of the Corn Palace is a basketball arena, considered to be the best in the upper Midwest area.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0wiTfbw6Prk/Tn9f1F9r2dI/AAAAAAAAA6U/yPhB9nYtPNw/s1600-h/IMG_0190.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0190" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XPzrYoGb5Q8/Tn9f2Pf6YFI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/pGCMIsJcfl4/IMG_0190_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0190" width="644" /></a><br />
This is inside the palace where the basketball auditorium is has more corn murals.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TDr1wFb5FJs/Tn9f39x57hI/AAAAAAAAA6c/IKY0HDOAH14/s1600-h/IMG_0193%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0193" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J0VR6TuJnHY/Tn9f4zsjbFI/AAAAAAAAA6g/-vJchPlFqWk/IMG_0193_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0193" width="644" /></a><br />
On the night before we left, there was a big fire in downtown Tyndall, several buildings burnt. Very sad for older gentleman that ran a repair shop in this building and the people in the house next door to his building.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-usVs0jHn1n0/Tn9f6MfnMrI/AAAAAAAAA6k/ewX5aDkhhxk/s1600-h/IMG_0202.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0202" border="0" height="484" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2_jM5S9I15k/Tn9f7DITzEI/AAAAAAAAA6o/0vzYmXIsqJI/IMG_0202_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_0202" width="644" /></a><br />
Next stop Chimney Rock, Nebraska.Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-55776726660916223132011-09-24T22:26:00.001-04:002011-09-24T22:26:59.713-04:00SEPTEMBER 2011 - OUR NEW PUPPY–MR MILES<p>In January of this year, our 14 year old dog Cricket, passed away due to cancer.  After many months of trying to adopt an older dog we decided to get a puppy.  This summer on June 27th we added a new member to our family.  We got a new Scottish Terrier Puppy.  His name is Miles, we struggled with coming up with a name, everyone had ideas and I’m not sure who came up with the name, but it is perfect for him, since he will be traveling many miles with us during his life.  He was born May 6, 2011.</p> <p>Here is a picture history of his growth since June.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bg8UT1t9C0I/Tn6QjXRr65I/AAAAAAAAA3k/UqiCTKXl1fs/s1600-h/JUNE%252520031%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="JUNE 031" border="0" alt="JUNE 031" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xODMwyIpl2g/Tn6QlIYF8eI/AAAAAAAAA3o/UrQvLuvRXWU/JUNE%252520031_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The day we picked him up.  This is William, our grandson, he held him all the way home.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WnS3cffQMbQ/Tn6QmiM9-oI/AAAAAAAAA3s/qKs9uaqBBAM/s1600-h/IMG_4747%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4747" border="0" alt="IMG_4747" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j91AcPBE6ik/Tn6QoJWvDDI/AAAAAAAAA3w/aS7zSskj9KM/IMG_4747_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>We were campground host at Higgins Lake and this is Miles first run around the campfire.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dUafkCSjrss/Tn6QpsQjSBI/AAAAAAAAA30/oW1e1mymzrs/s1600-h/IMG_4765%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4765" border="0" alt="IMG_4765" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ffxUo6qRPJQ/Tn6QrFr94tI/AAAAAAAAA34/kxJsyxCdiSY/IMG_4765_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Here he is on Bill’s lap.  You can start to see the Brindle markings on his nose.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RrLVCkWgOag/Tn6Qsg3sJ7I/AAAAAAAAA38/ewX3W4LjIZA/s1600-h/IMG_4783%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4783" border="0" alt="IMG_4783" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WL0GF8M6bCI/Tn6QwrwQ1xI/AAAAAAAAA4A/-ZCsvl6l26U/IMG_4783_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Here he is in July, check out the hair on his ears.  It almost looks like he could catch flies with those ear hairs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Porz5n7Tdyk/Tn6Qxy4hefI/AAAAAAAAA4E/YBGheClrnow/s1600-h/IMG_4432%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4432" border="0" alt="IMG_4432" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LzQ0Zk-h0OA/Tn6QzIIhshI/AAAAAAAAA4I/Oye_8n-q5NY/IMG_4432_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>This is how he sleeps.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-08jKk-AFqio/Tn6Q0OiZ7mI/AAAAAAAAA4M/U7ASN8s_9UQ/s1600-h/IMG_4802%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4802" border="0" alt="IMG_4802" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3LSANO2psRk/Tn6Q2niaBXI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/9NntRfCQlrI/IMG_4802_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is after his first bath.  He was not happy during the bath, but enjoyed rolling around after it was done.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-T5BqhCBNMwU/Tn6Q4RYmOQI/AAAAAAAAA4U/TuS5uMap3qU/s1600-h/Miles%252520first%252520bath%252520July%2525202011%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Miles first bath July 2011" border="0" alt="Miles first bath July 2011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-a68frib7Vdk/Tn6Q560QxKI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/UyMnyVj8GWk/Miles%252520first%252520bath%252520July%2525202011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>He loves to dig.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PjCG4bkyF2M/Tn6Q7nA_DQI/AAAAAAAAA4c/ciza4W2QEco/s1600-h/Miles%252520July%2525202011%252520%2525231%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Miles July 2011 #1" border="0" alt="Miles July 2011 #1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cJDOcd6XEIY/Tn6Q9I3k_II/AAAAAAAAA4g/WKH1R_QI_eg/Miles%252520July%2525202011%252520%2525231_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>He is not a lover of the lake, but will go in if he sees us in the water.  That’s how he got on the rock.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MR2-imQhvzs/Tn6Q-XfkGFI/AAAAAAAAA4k/L3j5gO8kjK8/s1600-h/IMG_4856%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4856" border="0" alt="IMG_4856" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--ijgXWTTFX4/Tn6Q_w-kzZI/AAAAAAAAA4o/lPHrPrLKt6o/IMG_4856_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Here he is jumping off of a rock into the water.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XDcSJnsqbto/Tn6RCIriSLI/AAAAAAAAA4s/BlfZT9oT_pM/s1600-h/Miles%252520Lake%252520Huron%252520Aug%2525202011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Miles Lake Huron Aug 2011" border="0" alt="Miles Lake Huron Aug 2011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LkX-Ky8xVrU/Tn6REvEgchI/AAAAAAAAA4w/YtodtBH15k4/Miles%252520Lake%252520Huron%252520Aug%2525202011_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>He thinks that the RV is his home and he is almost RV trained, but definitely not housed-trained.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mK9hRkv0wqc/Tn6RGWk02lI/AAAAAAAAA40/ER4iFb2dxos/s1600-h/IMG_4882%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4882" border="0" alt="IMG_4882" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z9I_6aAFd50/Tn6RIOMAbZI/AAAAAAAAA44/7WGsGqwlOcM/IMG_4882_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>He loves to play with other dogs, even though sometimes they are a lot bigger.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mjx58B1jdCM/Tn6RKGy0XZI/AAAAAAAAA48/-k6PwYTTMpI/s1600-h/IMG_0067%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0067" border="0" alt="IMG_0067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EiCrj_u3eKo/Tn6RMDkpaNI/AAAAAAAAA5A/LDq6doMq0yw/IMG_0067_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Well, all in all, he has been a fun and much loved addition to our family.  Especially now since he sleeps through the night.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UJkGBJCC-EE/Tn6ROfZtCiI/AAAAAAAAA5E/yCItcC6QVNc/s1600-h/IMG_4485%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_4485" border="0" alt="IMG_4485" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sEOO6uwlw9w/Tn6RcOMD3AI/AAAAAAAAA5I/YZFtfJLz4qA/IMG_4485_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431" /></a></p> <p>We love you Mr. Miles!</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-61677598449996409052011-09-24T21:30:00.001-04:002011-09-24T21:30:20.751-04:009-7-11–Coralville Dam– Idaho<p>After leaving Indiana, we headed toward Coralville, Idaho and stopped at a Corps of Engineer’s campground that we had visited two years ago.  This is one of our favorite campgrounds.  This is our campsite right on a cliff overlooking the lake that was formed when the dam was built in 1958. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0RsJfxSYm5w/Tn6D5NsRk1I/AAAAAAAAA2s/RJJPkF3rX4U/s1600-h/IMG_01208.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0120" border="0" alt="IMG_0120" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vo3N1KQY8Q4/Tn6D6NZRLfI/AAAAAAAAA2w/AlAoGbZV3zM/IMG_0120_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9BZYsLJOvmU/Tn6D7j-6V6I/AAAAAAAAA20/PMUIVX9bgLQ/s1600-h/IMG_01194.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0119" border="0" alt="IMG_0119" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2cECoo9dzgs/Tn6D80Yr3rI/AAAAAAAAA24/q8v7RXgemSI/IMG_0119_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>In June, 2008, because it was a very wet spring the water came over the spillway and down through the gorge.  Here is a overhead view of the overflow.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wNf-txHd3Dc/Tn6D9kO4awI/AAAAAAAAA28/JiO0VwfUHYs/s1600-h/240px-CoralvilleDamSunday15Jun08%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="240px-CoralvilleDamSunday15Jun08" border="0" alt="240px-CoralvilleDamSunday15Jun08" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xMaaf4ASyR8/Tn6D-drtZjI/AAAAAAAAA3A/ZS24m3AEDWQ/240px-CoralvilleDamSunday15Jun08_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>This flood washed away the limestone which revealed a large area of fish and plant fossil remains. This is the area.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CeaU1F-MaP0/Tn6EAHTLCsI/AAAAAAAAA3E/3YLhRD_ZHUk/s1600-h/IMG_01354.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0135" border="0" alt="IMG_0135" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--eN59jGocYc/Tn6EBlF1lqI/AAAAAAAAA3I/_5BSb8WNUY4/IMG_0135_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is one of the fossil remains.  Hard to see, but it was some sort of sea coral.  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hDPKfXTmVj8/Tn6EEEAnT6I/AAAAAAAAA3M/hNub3YEhgNI/s1600-h/IMG_013912.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0139" border="0" alt="IMG_0139" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XdipQPnEy1A/Tn6EGLrSN1I/AAAAAAAAA3Q/cgCSfDVWQjU/IMG_0139_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="580" height="772" /></a></p> <p>Since this time the water levels have declined considerably, there was a rise this year with all the flooding, but the water is still low.</p> <p>Here is the spillway.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Z_YYn9Npshg/Tn6EHhTmQRI/AAAAAAAAA3U/-x1p1P5RYAA/s1600-h/IMG_01444.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0144" border="0" alt="IMG_0144" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WpoevoWDeL8/Tn6EIg3aRaI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/Z4wnFNOkcXo/IMG_0144_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Here is the damn and the electric generating plant which has not been active for a few years because the water is so low.  See where the blue line is that is where the water is supposed to be to get the electric generator to operate.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E9adcJ66-KY/Tn6EJprWKRI/AAAAAAAAA3c/rATvNGH-tNc/s1600-h/IMG_01504.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0150" border="0" alt="IMG_0150" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kfEbMnNMavE/Tn6EKneOPqI/AAAAAAAAA3g/WApBQiFt1aY/IMG_0150_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484" /></a></p> <p>The weather was great so we stayed a couple of days.  Bill also had to fix the RV, one of the slides wouldn’t work.  Thank goodness the slides can work manually, but it sure is easier with a touch of a button.</p> <p>Next stop Tyndall, SD to visit Bill’s cousin Stan and his wife Kristin.</p> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4694543417668006088.post-15723816838524703042011-09-05T17:19:00.000-04:002011-09-20T21:27:28.187-04:00SHIPSHEWANA, INDIANA 9/1/11 THRU 9/5/11<div id="outer-wrapper"> <div id="wrap2"> <div id="content-wrapper"> <div id="main-wrapper">OK – WE ARE BACK BLOGGING!!</div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Left Michigan and are headed toward Albuquerque for the Balloon Festival the end of the month.  We are stopping in in S. Dakota to visit Bill’s cousin, Stan.</p> <p>We stopped at Shipshewana, Indiana to go to the Flea Market and all the Amish shopping and restaurants.  Forgot that the Flea Market is just on Tues and Wed.  But, we were lucky, it will be open on Labor Day, Monday.</p> <p>We are at a campground that is right next to the flea market.  This is what the flea market looks like when it’s empty.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-06Bwg_X1O04/Tnk9WjpWAEI/AAAAAAAAA2E/divJzWV6r14/s1600-h/IMG_00742.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="IMG_0074" alt="IMG_0074" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cV0qV8gtBd0/Tnk9XrsE67I/AAAAAAAAA2I/-OFkM9qQ0Qk/IMG_0074_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="480" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mkoHluQVdX4/Tnk9Y8sN5jI/AAAAAAAAA2M/QSAprqeTtd8/s1600-h/IMG_0075-211.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0075 (2)" border="0" alt="IMG_0075 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O7CO1qOtFzI/Tnk9Zu7-TKI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/SEkQ-2MrL1g/IMG_0075-2_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>This is what it looks like after it opens.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jmW0o_p7lGw/Tnk9aq8gyeI/AAAAAAAAA2U/pk3BINkLNLE/s1600-h/IMG_0090.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0090" border="0" alt="IMG_0090" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1pzu4OL2FA4/Tnk9brFcaLI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/U5iekjyYwpA/IMG_0090_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PuvmpDZN3Vg/Tnk9c6nNteI/AAAAAAAAA2c/ELyITMzrM1Q/s1600-h/IMG_0091.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0091" border="0" alt="IMG_0091" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-11_c3tqLTFI/Tnk9d0aY6QI/AAAAAAAAA2g/r2R2V8GQbtI/IMG_0091_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484" /></a></p> <p>We walked around the town of Shipshewana on Saturday.  There are a great deal of Amish people riding around on their bikes and horse and buggies.  They work at most of the businesses in town.   It is not against the law, but Amish people do not like to have their pictures taken, so sorry, this is the best I can do.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GYhG1vbDYrA/Tnk9e5XZnHI/AAAAAAAAA2k/16W71Tq2Kqc/s1600-h/IMG_0080.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0080" border="0" alt="IMG_0080" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o4BBaLryrxw/Tnk9ftI1LEI/AAAAAAAAA2o/_TVtqy1X634/IMG_0080_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="494" height="484" /></a></p> <p>Best thing about this location is the shopping is great, not to be shared with a guy (Bill) he sit outside of all the shops and stayed at the camper for most of the flea market.  Still had fun.</p> <hr /> Yogi and Boo Boohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14828913743671069040noreply@blogger.com0