Had a date tonight. My guy pick me up about 5:30 we drove to the historic old town Albuquerque, strolled the many shops added to my Christmas collection. Then we headed to St. Clair's Winery and Bistro. I had the grilled chicken with a cream sauce served over Penna pasta. Harry's choice the shrimp with cream sauce over Penna pasta. YUMMY YUMMY !!!! We were here back in April and took our friends Jay and Stella. I do think they enjoyed this find cuz Jay and I got the OMG onion soup to die for.

After the dinner we headed to Santa Ana Star Casino lounge for some 50's and 60's music. As we entered the building we where over whelmed with cigarette smoked so intense. Yet we forged forwarded to check things out. Headed to the lounge and was told it was not open till weekend so off to the player clubs service desk to get our cards. I ask a few question and was told the table was alcohol free tables. I was O K with that but golly jeez the smoke was more than I could inhale. They had a let it ride tables for three dollars and blackjack tables 3 dollars. Really wanted to play but the smoke was too much, I had a instant headache really tried to be a sport, the air sucked.

We came back to our home had a few drinks and just watched a little TV, a perfect date.

We have plans again this evening, going to visit with some special friends who now resides here in Rio Rancho NM. We plan to take them to dinner, and visit.

Saturday we head to Creede CO. Steve and Pat are waiting for us.

They are so excited to have us they are having a BBQ in our honor. Yummy.

Be safe XXXOOO

Juju

Cannoylands Sunset

Mother nature in all her glory, all her beauty she has to share you will never be disappointed or bored. We have purple mountains majesty, amber waves of grain, America America God shed his grace on thee and crown they good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea. We enjoyed the Canyon Lands sunset the big orange sun behind a few clouds but bright enough for its ray to shine in all directions. I have been fortune enough to see many sunset over the oceans, through the windows of a plane, train, car, and bus. Somehow seeing the sun slowly disappear in the horizon in the mountains watching colors change from deep red to red to terracotta to orange the hue is endless. The finale of the day is gone but the end will be anew. Anyway our National parks and State parks are for all to enjoy so don't miss out, get out there and see America. She is a beauty.

Admiring the rock formation the many shapes leave your imagination to run a mock. You might think you see Java the Hut, The Blob, The Spinx, maybe an Indian arrow heads or dinosaur feet. Rocks that are perfectly balanced, and then some with just a slight breeze will tumble down.

Well today was a shopping day had to stock up, needed some crown, and wanted some Grey Goose. The price is right here in New Mexico, the old saying want not waste not. With a gallon and half of whiskey and half gallon of vodka will have plenty to share with our friends and be happy campers.

Here is a little trivia can you name these states The Big Sky Country, The Evergreen State, The Golden State, Famous Potato, The Beehive State, The Grand Canyon State, The Land of Enchantment, The Silver State, Lone Star State.

I finally got me a new do. This stylist did a great job on my cut. Very hard to found a hair dresser that you can trust and listen to what you want.

Spoke with my grand boys and they are well Ryan is playing football and Cody has chosen Soccer.

My parents will celebrate 60 years of marriage Aug. 31. My sisters and brother are giving them a small reception after church Sunday.

Well OK I have said enough.

Be safe XXXOOO

Juju

MOAB UT.

Arches National Park, our Sunday drive after a good morning breakfast. Really glad I chose to cook because we sure needed the fuel. This is by far the most beautiful. Just unbelievable sight. Natures gallery is so awe-inspiring, made by God hands is spiritual.

Water and ice, extreme temperatures, and underground salt movements are responsible for the sculptured rock scenery at Arches National Park. The sky being a clear blue, it is difficult to image such violent forces, that created the erosion. We drove through the park stopping at all photo opts, and walking the foot trails to the many features. You are able to see a lot from the car, but please you must get out to appreciate the special aura of time, the silence, and the scale may elude you unless you walk.

We hiked to Delicate Arch 0.8 mi easy trail through lose gravel. Just a spectacular arch. Balanced rock was easy accessible from the truck. We could not get a parking spot, the trail looked rather easy. Sand Dunes, Skyline, Devils Garden, Broken Arch, Tower Arch, Landscape Arch. A lot of those hikes have some elevation gain and a gravel surface. So worth the effort, just take your time [you are not 18.]

We drove through the camp sites, only for dry camping, but have a few sites that will accommodates large rigs. You must make a reservation, how sweet a treat to be in the park at night, how many stars could you count, shooting stars, meteors, listening to nature. For one or two nights it would be doable. We hope to put on our to do list next year. Leaving the park looking at all the formations you almost can envision a city of skyscrapers. Our plans for Monday is Canyon Land National Park.

We did spend some time in the Reno, Sparks, Tahoe area. We drove to Virginia City, which is about 6,000 ft in elevation. We strolled down main street sidewalks made of wood planks, dusty and dry, we mosey into the Bonanza Saloon for some good cowboy grub, and a drink for our parched body. Yes I knew the Cartwright boys would come in have a bite, and a brew. Little Joe and Hoss up to their silly shenanigans maybe a street brawl, but guess they were on the Ponderosa mending the fence. Maybe next year.

Next to Lake Tahoe 7000 ft in elevation, another pretty amazing lake. Many boating, skiing, swimming, sun bathing. Elevation of the lake is 6500 ft. deep. The lake was formed by active volcanoes ,fault lines, glaciers chiseled granite boulders. The water so clear you can see 75 ft deep in some places. Year round water temp. is 68 in summer and winter a brisk 39. The lakes does not freeze warm water rise, and the cool water sinks. I thought I might get a glimpse of the God Fathers home, but was made an offer I did not want to refuse. Did not want to sleep with fishes or Ferdo. I do have to say the town reminded me of the Woodlands, lot of Pondersoa pines, many strip malls, just like home.

We will have company when we get to Creed the Henderson are coming to play. That only means trouble. Les don't forget pictionary.

As we were driving to Tahoe we notice a nice motor coach but what caught our eyes the idiot was driving with his bedroom slide out. I can only assume it might have been Robin Williams making a sequel to RV.

Here are a few good parks to add to your list.

Desert Rose RV park in Fernley NV. they are Passport America Park great savings. Pull through 50 amps. We also met a couple from CA. who just bought them a Carrie Lite Emerald just like ours and they also are full timers. You just meet such fun people on the road.

Spanish Trail RV Park in Moab UT. No discount here but close to the parks.

Sites are pull through 50 amps picnic tables.

Be safe hugs and kisses XXXOOO.

JUJU

Redwoods

Redwood National and State Park. You just can't believe the size of these trees. So awe-inspiring the trees stretch to the sky, ma drone, red alder, big maples leaf, allowing thin rays of sunlight to shine through. We strolled though this extremely beautiful place. On the coast, Highway 101 skirts the edge of the continent between the coast range and the Pacific Ocean. You have a spectacular views of the rocky coastline, lighthouse, and crashing surf. Deb knowing my love of Lighthouses she pointed out to me the St. George Reef lighthouse. It is situated on a tiny, wave-swept rock, about six miles off the coast. The day was some what hazy, Paul saved the day with a pair of binoculars. There are a 101 things to do in Southern Oregon and Ca. I only have done a few so "I'LL BE BACK"

Friday and Saturday evening we hung out at Debs place played cards a few drinks and some good meals.

Sunday Harry and I went to church and afterwards Deb and Paul had a great lunch awaiting for us. Homemade waffles, bacon, sausage, and coffee. Again I over ate, gosh they can cook.
Then the hard sad part, saying good-bye. Never gets easy. Deb, I love you thank you for all your warm hospitality. Miss you. You must keep me posted on Big Brother LOL

We are leaving on our next leg, heading to Tahoe NV. New territory to explore. I hoping to see the Corleone house, The Godfather. Anyway we shall be there a few days. After today's hot of 88 we need to be in the cool mountains.

Enjoy the pictures. To all XXXXXOOOOO

Be Safe
Juju

America America

Monday evening we went to the theatre. The play was speelling (oops) Spelling Bee. A cast of nine and 4 guest contestants from the audience and one being Harry Hartley. Yes Harry made his debut on stage, he has had several acting jobs over the years. Just glad he never quit his day job.

We had 2 bottles of wine, laughed till our jaws were sore. During intermission Harry, Paul and myself choose a chocolate desert Deb choice was a raspberry cheesecake. Delicious !!! Harry did make two rounds of correct spelling, the third I was laughing too hard so I can't tell you what he misspelled.

Tuesday we continued to take in natures art work. Our scenic drive to Crater Lake National Park. The lake is a intense blue a color you will awe at the beauty. However it is a blue you will never forget. The lake is 5 miles wide and ridge by many cliffs. Crater lake is filled with rain and melted snow is the deepest lake in the U S and one of the deepest in the world.

Along the ridge are many pull outs for viewing and picture taking. We wondered through a few trails lined with Douglas's fir trees. Breathing the fresh pines scents reminds you of Christmas trees before the days of artificial trees and fake pine spray. Walking a bridge over the rushing water of the river. The spray from the river cools the body thirst and soothing sympathy of the river calms the soul. Taking advantage of fabulous weather
awesome scenery we had a picnic in the park. After our relaxing lunch we continue with our personal guides. Having friends that are locals has it's perks. Paul and Deb have a wealth of info and love to share their experience. They to are veteran campers enjoying the outdoor life. They also do lots of traveling. Deb is planning next year itinerary.

We came back to our place for cocktails and diner I put a pork loin in the crock pot, made a pot of rice, green beans. After a gourmet dinner we finished with a simple desert fresh peaches over a slice of pound cake with whipped cream. { All who know Juju, knows she will save some whipped cream for later fun. I can hear it now OMG TMI } Oh well !!!
I am sure I have asked you guys before if you watch the show WIPE OUT. it airs wed. at 8:00 p. m. central. If you have had a a tough day then this would be the show to help you make it through the night. You would not believe the idiot's competing for 50 grand. The obstacles course is a time trails. You must be the first to complete an obstacles course the fasts.
Hilarious yes America is a museum of awesome.
We are headed to the coast and Redwoods Thursday.
Have a good day all be safe XXXOOO

Love Juju

Rogue River Ride

This is one of the jet boats.

Just had to take a picture of this guy.

Juju, Harry, Deb and Paul at the O K Corral

What a day we had. So much fun. Deb made reservation for us to ride a jet boat and have a brunch. Let me tell you this is absolute to do when you are here in Medford Or. It was a blast. The appropriate attire a bathing suit. You shall surely get soaking wet. Our driver quite the show-off with 360 turns and then comes to a dead stop as a wall of water creams you. Top speed 100 mph, You are flying across the Rouge River. If you are a fan of roller coaster then this is the ride for you. AWESOME. We had a fantastic brunch at the O K Coral Lodge perched up a hill, just a few short feet from the river. You are sitting on a large redwood log covered porch. The first course awaits for your pleasure champagne, apple cider, coffee, orange juice, and water. Guess what I had to drink!!!! A huge platter of fresh fruit strawberries, grapes, pineapple, kiwi, watermelon and cantaloupe. The sweet nectar of the season best arousing the taste buds. Then the main course {all homemade} biscuits, gravy, sweet breads, western hash browns, crispy thick slice of bacon, sausage links, fluffy scramble eggs with cheddar cheese. Served family styled, do not be bashful it is all you can eat and drink. Our waitress was at our beckon call. If you go away hungry, you are to blame. After a full belly it is back to your boat, where the fun begins

again. I am told they have dinner cruises and sight seeing cruise no matter your choice, you will not be disappointed. I am ready for a do over.
We came home to change to dry clothes and relax before dinner with Deb and Paul. We had Paul's leftover homemade meatballs and spaghetti that we indulge upon our arrival Friday. Monday we get to see a play and afterwards they serve coffee and dessert, bread pudding a chocolate pie, fresh fruit just to name a few. Yes life is good!!!

On our last day in Lincoln City I needed to do a little Christmas shopping {Hmm what am I shopping for !!!!} Well as walked the beach front looking out into the Pacific Harry notice a spray of water. Looking closer it is what we have be waiting to see. A large whale swimming, jumping out of the water then diving back in with his tail fin waving at you. What a beautiful site to see. We stood there for such a time watching in awe. He finally went down deep for feeding and moving on.

Lunch time you can always tell Harry tummy talks to you. We drove down the rode a few miles. Found a place that has steamed crabs. Seafood no need to twist our arms. We ordered our crabs sat at a picnic table and our barbarian side came out. The sweet juice of crabs trailing down our arms, tearing the crabs apart and cracking the shell for the precious meat, dipping in butter and down the hatch. I hope your hungry, cuz we ate till we were plump as a butterball. We have had crayfish boils and shrimp boils, but a crab boil that's good eats.

Todays temp was a balmy 88. Please send a air conditioner. We are at Cypress Grove RV park. This is a keeper put on your favorite website: cypressgrovrvpark.com Gotta go for now another busy day.Be safe to all and to all xxxxoooo

Juju

Another day in Oregon

Happy Birthday to Coleena, Connie and Justin. Yes my lil sister's are old #$rts. Justin is 2 years he is Connie grandson, he is such a cutie. At 2 years of age, well need I say more. He is a happy lil boy, always laughing and a big grin.
Tuesday Harry and I took a long ride on the north Oregon coast. My oh my taking advantage of the pull outs for viewing. Just so unbelievable the beauty. The beaches scattered with sunbathers, families playing Frisbee, building sandcastle, having picnics. Friends having volleyball games.
You can sit for hours people watching or watching the clear green waves rush the beaches. What ever your pleasure, you will have inner peace. Totally relaxed spiritually.
Across the famous 101, homes that are moderate and of course there are the mansions. No matter the size they all have large picture windows. The inside is brought in. Many have decks for sipping a glass of wine enjoying the beauty of a Pacific breeze and sunsets. The perfect ending of a day.
Hydrangeas, the many hues of blues flowers as larges as a cantaloupe. Azaleas vibrant pinks. Daisies snow white and yellow as bright as the sun. The many contrast of colors so appealing to the eyes. Relaxing with a large glass of ice tea on the front porch. Admiring the many hours of labor digging in the rich volcanic soil, and inhaling the sweet smell of fragrance of the flowers.
We had a picnic at one of the many rest stops feeding our belly's and fueling our souls. After a leisurely lunch we made our way to a winery. Bought a Blanc and a Cabernet. Also a stop at the fresh seafood market, a fruit stand for plump sweet cherries. Tonight's dinner crispy fried oyster, and cool crisp bottle of white wine. Juicy cherries for desert. Harry gets lucky again!!!!
FYI we are staying at Devils lake RV Resort. The park is pleasant, quite and about five blocks from the ocean. Spaces are small. The sites are paved asphalt. The sites are very unlevel, you need to have extra blocks to level.
Another RV park Premium Park closer to town and just a block from the Pacific. Sites are cement. You need to have reservation. The many coastal cities have several R V Parks. I really could not tell you which is the best or worst. So for an over nighter or a week not to shabby.
The coast has great seafood and lots of shopping. Antiques, clothing, crafts,
or souvenir's for yourself. It is all good.
Ms Kerry just a few short weeks and I will be in TX to play. So enjoy your trip to FL. We shall have a few bottles of wine to compare notes.
Love to all be safe
Juju

Juju and Debs weekend

Perfect weekend. Deb drove up to Lincoln City to spend the weekend with us. Deb being a local, we had our personal tour guide. Friday we spent the day along the coast. We made several stops along the 101 scenic highway cities. Lighthouses perched upon the cliffs, protecting the Mainers of a simpler time. The day being foggy gave you a true sense of the propose of the lighthouse. Walking the beaches admiring the sea lions sunbathing upon the rocks. A quick dive in the icy cold Pacific to cool and play.
Cape Perpetua watching tide pools and the spouting horns (check out the video at the bottom of the blog). The best view is atop the cape which is the highest place on the Oregon coast you can drive.
The Devil's Churn a deep cleft in the basalt where the storms waves rush in and crash over each other creating white, frothy foam.
Saturday off to the Columbia River Gorge stretching from Troutdale to the Deschutes river area. Breathtaking river canyon. Marks the border of Washington and Oregon, the gorge is 80 miles long, its canyon walls rising 4,000 feet above the river. Multnomah Falls is Or. most popular visitor attraction. I must agree, not able to find a parking spot, we only had a glimpse of the 620 feet, the second tallest year round waterfall in the nation, fed by undergrounds of springs. The 2 hour drive inland was not a lost. Deb took us to a very good Mexican restaurant. Yummy, my craving finally satisfied. Heading home Deb, gave us a heads up on points of interest. Which if we have the opportunity we will try and explore. If not there is always next year.
Sunday was an R & R day we vowed to stay in jammies and no make up.
I made southern biscuits and gravy with crumbles of cooked bacon and chopped boiled eggs. A pot of creamy coarse style grits. We pigged out.
Later we had our girl time. She is a huge Astros's fan now you can understand why we are a match. Deb and I have bonded many many years ago and with all the elapsed time we still have a true connection. They say you can't go back, that may be true, we've preserved our past and look forward to many new adventures.
Love you Deb!!!!!!!!!!!!
Deb had to leave today Monday. We will reunite Friday and she has a full week plan for us. I shall have many pictures to share and much to chat about. Tomorrow is Tuesday and Harry and I plan to marvel the Northern Coast.
What a land of diversity!!!!!!!!!!! Check tomorrows blog for more exciting Hartley's adventures.
Be safe and love to all
Juju