What fun!
1st: my view! 2nd: campfire; and then the Train!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
The Great Experimental Camping Expedition..
Well, haven't written for awhile. A brief catch-up:
Calgary was fantastic; had a private concert in the Calgary Petroleum Club by the #1 C-W singer in Canada, lots of dancing and fun; a great trip.
Got back, did some more clean up and ranch work.
Went to Tucson, worked a week, as did Susan.
Susan comes up Thurs night, I work 'til Friday. Goal was to fly up Sat am early; plane didn't start, still wouldn't start after 24 hr battery charge, so gave up and just drove up yesterday. Susan moved cows around, and then got caught in a situation with a poor first time birther (a big British White). Calf wouldn't come, then died, then the cow got all septic, then they had to shoot the cow. What a tragic mess. Had a picture of Susan up to her arm pit in the cow trying to get that calf out...was offered a job by the local cow calving expert. Jeesh. I taught her all she knows...but, poor calf.
Ranch looks like a war zone: piles of straw on the pasture next door, 4 helicopters coming and going dropping huge piles of straw with seed/fertilizer on the burn areas. Gov't paying $550 per acre.
This am early Susan gets up and heads for Tucson. Goes through a flood in Alpine (made the news in Phx), and I headed out to Cortez and then Telluride CO. All to meet up with Paul and Ash and the kids. Well, I FOUND the campground, it's on the Delores River 40 mi south of Telluride. No cell service but there IS Wi-Fi! So, I'm sitting in my truck, in the rain, mom's in Topeka and I'm not drinkin' anything but if I were it would make a good country song for sure. I can see 21 R-V's, all w/in 100'. This will be interesting. Grand-pas will do anything for grand-children...But, it's nice and cool, they just drove up, and life is good!!! Love to all, Dad/UR
Calgary was fantastic; had a private concert in the Calgary Petroleum Club by the #1 C-W singer in Canada, lots of dancing and fun; a great trip.
Got back, did some more clean up and ranch work.
Went to Tucson, worked a week, as did Susan.
Susan comes up Thurs night, I work 'til Friday. Goal was to fly up Sat am early; plane didn't start, still wouldn't start after 24 hr battery charge, so gave up and just drove up yesterday. Susan moved cows around, and then got caught in a situation with a poor first time birther (a big British White). Calf wouldn't come, then died, then the cow got all septic, then they had to shoot the cow. What a tragic mess. Had a picture of Susan up to her arm pit in the cow trying to get that calf out...was offered a job by the local cow calving expert. Jeesh. I taught her all she knows...but, poor calf.
Ranch looks like a war zone: piles of straw on the pasture next door, 4 helicopters coming and going dropping huge piles of straw with seed/fertilizer on the burn areas. Gov't paying $550 per acre.
This am early Susan gets up and heads for Tucson. Goes through a flood in Alpine (made the news in Phx), and I headed out to Cortez and then Telluride CO. All to meet up with Paul and Ash and the kids. Well, I FOUND the campground, it's on the Delores River 40 mi south of Telluride. No cell service but there IS Wi-Fi! So, I'm sitting in my truck, in the rain, mom's in Topeka and I'm not drinkin' anything but if I were it would make a good country song for sure. I can see 21 R-V's, all w/in 100'. This will be interesting. Grand-pas will do anything for grand-children...But, it's nice and cool, they just drove up, and life is good!!! Love to all, Dad/UR
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Calgary Stampede!
Good Morning all:
First, thanks to Erica for a wonderful evening in Phoenix two nights ago at the Stockade! A fun time, great meal, really cool surroundings. Then to Ashley and Paul's house for desert and more great family time! Always a great time with Noelle, Addie, and Mateo. They grow so fast (but I doubt if Ash and Paul appreciate that right now..) Thank you for our time there.
Susan and I spent the night there, then up to Calgary, where we were met by Cathy and Brian Hallamore, our friends from last fall we met on the Rhine cruise, Plus a country band at the gate playing their hearts out for the Stampede. We got branded there as well by the "welcoming committee". The town seems to go all out, kind of like Tucson does in the winter for the Vaqueros rodeo!
Cathy and Brian's house is beautiful. Beautifully appointed, and they are great hosts. They have a beautiful view looking west into the Canadian Rockies where there is snow all ove the mountain tops. We will borrow their Volvo SUV today and drive up to a ranch for the Juice Plus meeting (tax deduction!!), and then they are having a party tonight here in their home to meet some neighbors and friends. Fun!
It looks like we have a very full week here, whew. Watched some on TV last night, the Chuck Wagon races, and that looks amazing: we'll see it in person Monday night.
Love to all, Dad/UR
First, thanks to Erica for a wonderful evening in Phoenix two nights ago at the Stockade! A fun time, great meal, really cool surroundings. Then to Ashley and Paul's house for desert and more great family time! Always a great time with Noelle, Addie, and Mateo. They grow so fast (but I doubt if Ash and Paul appreciate that right now..) Thank you for our time there.
Susan and I spent the night there, then up to Calgary, where we were met by Cathy and Brian Hallamore, our friends from last fall we met on the Rhine cruise, Plus a country band at the gate playing their hearts out for the Stampede. We got branded there as well by the "welcoming committee". The town seems to go all out, kind of like Tucson does in the winter for the Vaqueros rodeo!
Cathy and Brian's house is beautiful. Beautifully appointed, and they are great hosts. They have a beautiful view looking west into the Canadian Rockies where there is snow all ove the mountain tops. We will borrow their Volvo SUV today and drive up to a ranch for the Juice Plus meeting (tax deduction!!), and then they are having a party tonight here in their home to meet some neighbors and friends. Fun!
It looks like we have a very full week here, whew. Watched some on TV last night, the Chuck Wagon races, and that looks amazing: we'll see it in person Monday night.
Love to all, Dad/UR
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Off to California:
First, apologies to Mark; he's been in the dark; had the wrong email written down.
This note, however, will ignore the fire as we are trying hard to do. Tomorrow we will drive to Carlsbad for a week at the Mariposa Hilton Grand Vacat Club for some R and R. Last week and into Tuesday took a lot out of us with this unbelievably huge and fast growing fire. Old Dad/UR got a little air time to boot, going on 2 TV stations in Phx and Tucson. Kind of interesting..
For an update, we did not get "the call", so we assume our cabin has not burned. The fire line is just feet from our front door it seems by a good map of the fire, and our valley appears out of the flames. Hope it's accurate!! We've had friends/acquaintances lose homes, and there's bound to be some extensive smoke damage, but we can deal with that. Cows are separated in two different pastures miles apart, horses in a third, but I'm not going back up now (been up twice) until they let us back into the area. Don't know when that will be, so why stay in Tucson and sit and worry when we can worry in Carlsbad?
Anyone know anything particular to do in San Diego? Looks like it'll be Susan and I in a 2 bed room penthouse for the bulk of it, then Erica will join us for the last 2-3 days or so, or at least that's the plan!
But, we are safe, animals I think are safe, now it's wait and see what the mountains have yet to offer.
Check out www.wunderground.com, search for Alpine, look for "wundermaps" on the right side in small print, scroll down to see "fire" box and check it, uncheck "smoke" or it's hard to see. Keep exploding it and you can see the area where our little ranch is/was..is hopefully!
Love t all, Dad/UR
This note, however, will ignore the fire as we are trying hard to do. Tomorrow we will drive to Carlsbad for a week at the Mariposa Hilton Grand Vacat Club for some R and R. Last week and into Tuesday took a lot out of us with this unbelievably huge and fast growing fire. Old Dad/UR got a little air time to boot, going on 2 TV stations in Phx and Tucson. Kind of interesting..
For an update, we did not get "the call", so we assume our cabin has not burned. The fire line is just feet from our front door it seems by a good map of the fire, and our valley appears out of the flames. Hope it's accurate!! We've had friends/acquaintances lose homes, and there's bound to be some extensive smoke damage, but we can deal with that. Cows are separated in two different pastures miles apart, horses in a third, but I'm not going back up now (been up twice) until they let us back into the area. Don't know when that will be, so why stay in Tucson and sit and worry when we can worry in Carlsbad?
Anyone know anything particular to do in San Diego? Looks like it'll be Susan and I in a 2 bed room penthouse for the bulk of it, then Erica will join us for the last 2-3 days or so, or at least that's the plan!
But, we are safe, animals I think are safe, now it's wait and see what the mountains have yet to offer.
Check out www.wunderground.com, search for Alpine, look for "wundermaps" on the right side in small print, scroll down to see "fire" box and check it, uncheck "smoke" or it's hard to see. Keep exploding it and you can see the area where our little ranch is/was..is hopefully!
Love t all, Dad/UR
Friday, June 3, 2011
Leaving
Well, the Wallow Fire is indeed bearing down upon us, Alpine has fire,
and the order had come down to evacuate Nutrioso. They have us about 3
hrs notice, @ 8 pm. Cows loaded and taken to Springerville, came back
for the horses. Saving what we can, leaving some precious things
behind. And away we go. Here's hoping and praying we can come back
soon. It is a very big and large wildfire.
Love to all, UR/Dad
and the order had come down to evacuate Nutrioso. They have us about 3
hrs notice, @ 8 pm. Cows loaded and taken to Springerville, came back
for the horses. Saving what we can, leaving some precious things
behind. And away we go. Here's hoping and praying we can come back
soon. It is a very big and large wildfire.
Love to all, UR/Dad
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Day 4, June 2
Well, howdy from the ranch: lots of stuff going on for sure.
Fence is up and running, found out we do not have 2 bull calves, rather we have one bull and one heifer! That's good news!
Bad news, we think one of the chickens is a rooster...uh oh.
We do have a problem brewing. You may have heard about the Wallow Fire, about 20 miles south of us now, about 16 miles south of Alpine. Well, our valley is and has been filled with smoke for a couple of days, and the wind keeps blowing, and it's 0% contained. We can't even see Escudilla for the smoke. Ash and soot actually blowing in our windows!
Please follow it with us @ www.inciweb.org, and follow the prompts. You can see a map and news of evacuations. Have to admit the people around here are getting a little nervous! We just need rain so bad, and it won't come until around the first week of July. This is not a good place to come visit right now for sure.
We are here until Sunday am, Chipman's coming over for supper tonight, and maybe the winds today will at least blow out some of this smoke!
Love to all, UR/Dad
Fence is up and running, found out we do not have 2 bull calves, rather we have one bull and one heifer! That's good news!
Bad news, we think one of the chickens is a rooster...uh oh.
We do have a problem brewing. You may have heard about the Wallow Fire, about 20 miles south of us now, about 16 miles south of Alpine. Well, our valley is and has been filled with smoke for a couple of days, and the wind keeps blowing, and it's 0% contained. We can't even see Escudilla for the smoke. Ash and soot actually blowing in our windows!
Please follow it with us @ www.inciweb.org, and follow the prompts. You can see a map and news of evacuations. Have to admit the people around here are getting a little nervous! We just need rain so bad, and it won't come until around the first week of July. This is not a good place to come visit right now for sure.
We are here until Sunday am, Chipman's coming over for supper tonight, and maybe the winds today will at least blow out some of this smoke!
Love to all, UR/Dad
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Day 1
First full day at the ranch:
Long but uneventful trip up yesterday, picnic en route, ran into a neat old car show in Alpine.
John and Sara came up and met us shortly after our arrival! Good to see them!
Really windy today, but a fun night last night at Tal-Wi-Wi and got to listen to Sara doing kareoke!Then a quick visit at Derrick's house. Looks like lunch with Montalto's today, after I get the fence fixed...again.
Now,anyone heard from Kristin? They had some nasty storms go through Atlanta the other day; guess no news is good news!
Anyway, we're up here, looking forward to a fun week.
Love, Dad/UR
Long but uneventful trip up yesterday, picnic en route, ran into a neat old car show in Alpine.
John and Sara came up and met us shortly after our arrival! Good to see them!
Really windy today, but a fun night last night at Tal-Wi-Wi and got to listen to Sara doing kareoke!Then a quick visit at Derrick's house. Looks like lunch with Montalto's today, after I get the fence fixed...again.
Now,anyone heard from Kristin? They had some nasty storms go through Atlanta the other day; guess no news is good news!
Anyway, we're up here, looking forward to a fun week.
Love, Dad/UR
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Ranch
Home today.
Canero Lake was good to me yesterday, caught several nice rainbows,
brought home a couple of 15" ers for supper. Always hard to leave this
place but come back in 5 days!
As always, doors open, love to have company!
Say a little prayer for the folks in Reading, KS. Nasty tornado.
Love, Dad/UR
Canero Lake was good to me yesterday, caught several nice rainbows,
brought home a couple of 15" ers for supper. Always hard to leave this
place but come back in 5 days!
As always, doors open, love to have company!
Say a little prayer for the folks in Reading, KS. Nasty tornado.
Love, Dad/UR
Friday, May 20, 2011
Ranch
Who would have thought, needing a fire in mid May. It's beautiful up
here, just chilly. Horses are loving it! Do are we.
here, just chilly. Horses are loving it! Do are we.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Snow in May?
Got the word, there's snow @ the ranch, about 3", but at least it's melting rather quickly. Crazy.
Going up tomorrow with the horses, then will move a couple of the cows, then come snow or ice, I'm going fishing on Canero Lake with the kayak.
Staying until Sunday, then coming home to (ugh) work.
Any takers? Come on up, bring fly rod...
Going up tomorrow with the horses, then will move a couple of the cows, then come snow or ice, I'm going fishing on Canero Lake with the kayak.
Staying until Sunday, then coming home to (ugh) work.
Any takers? Come on up, bring fly rod...
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Utah
Sitting in the airport, heading home, after a really nice few days. Fishing could have been better, but the water is really high after 130% snow pack this year in Utah. It is really pretty around here as the snow lingers on the mountain tops, ice still on some of the lakes.
Home today, where it's 90 degrees.
Love to all, Dad, UR
Home today, where it's 90 degrees.
Love to all, Dad, UR
Friday, May 13, 2011
Day 2, Utah
Today we fished the middle Provo: beautiful scenery, worked Very hard
and covered a Lot of nice river, but No fish.... bummer!
On the other hand, Karen and Brian had a healthy 7 lb 7 oz baby boy!
Congratulations to Karen and Brian!! Wonderful news!
Love to all, UR/Dad.
and covered a Lot of nice river, but No fish.... bummer!
On the other hand, Karen and Brian had a healthy 7 lb 7 oz baby boy!
Congratulations to Karen and Brian!! Wonderful news!
Love to all, UR/Dad.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Park City/Utah Trout trip
Howdy all, greetings from Park City, Utah! Came up here at the invite of a friend from Tucson to stay in his condo with a few of his old med school friends. We flew commercial into Salt Lake, then rented a van (there's 5 of us) and drove up. It snowed here last night and it's still chilly, but it's great to be up here! The high mountains are beautiful and can't wait to get to those fast flowin' rivers!
Staying here until Sunday mid morning, then returning to Tucson to meet with Wayne and Anna Symmonds. They will stay with us from Monday eve (at least that's the plan) until Wed am. Thursday am I plan on taking the horses back up to the ranch, and meeting a guy who has bought one of our heifers to help transport.
In the mean time, here's to big Browns and tasty Brookies! Love to all, UR/Dad
Staying here until Sunday mid morning, then returning to Tucson to meet with Wayne and Anna Symmonds. They will stay with us from Monday eve (at least that's the plan) until Wed am. Thursday am I plan on taking the horses back up to the ranch, and meeting a guy who has bought one of our heifers to help transport.
In the mean time, here's to big Browns and tasty Brookies! Love to all, UR/Dad
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Ranch Stuff
Waiting for a guy to bring Magic home finally, after a 6-7 mo absence.
Getting TIRED of 19 deg temps in the mornings, and highs in the low
50's w winds that can knock you over..packing up and heading to the
desert floor and maybe a golf course tomorrow!
Getting TIRED of 19 deg temps in the mornings, and highs in the low
50's w winds that can knock you over..packing up and heading to the
desert floor and maybe a golf course tomorrow!
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Oops:
OK, fine; wrong blog. sorry. This is me and Gen'l Custer, taken in 1867 on the Washita. sorry.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Wed 27 April
Greetings from Elk Ridge:
Came up today, brought the horses and i cow, picked up from ranch down just past Patagonia yesterday, after I worked @ Sells. But, here we are!
It's cold; last night temp was 19 deg of all things and I guess we should be expecting that as well tonight, then it warms up. Poor horses might actually relish going back to Tucson.
Everything looks ok up here, except the fencing, always the fencing. Don't know if the elk really mess things up, or if the bull calves do, but the the two little ones are hilarious just in the short time we've watched them. Tomorrow the work starts, tonight a nice steak and maybe an attitude adjuster.
We plan on driving home Sunday.
Love to all, Dad/UR
Came up today, brought the horses and i cow, picked up from ranch down just past Patagonia yesterday, after I worked @ Sells. But, here we are!
It's cold; last night temp was 19 deg of all things and I guess we should be expecting that as well tonight, then it warms up. Poor horses might actually relish going back to Tucson.
Everything looks ok up here, except the fencing, always the fencing. Don't know if the elk really mess things up, or if the bull calves do, but the the two little ones are hilarious just in the short time we've watched them. Tomorrow the work starts, tonight a nice steak and maybe an attitude adjuster.
We plan on driving home Sunday.
Love to all, Dad/UR
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Apology
Well, looks like I sent a note to the wrong blog! I do two of them,
one for family, and one for a few friends who share my interest in
the Indian Wars period who liive remote, and who are coming to AZ
next fall or spring for a mini-conference led by moi to see some
Apache sites!
Sorry for the inconvenience!
Love,, Dad/UR
one for family, and one for a few friends who share my interest in
the Indian Wars period who liive remote, and who are coming to AZ
next fall or spring for a mini-conference led by moi to see some
Apache sites!
Sorry for the inconvenience!
Love,, Dad/UR
Adobe Walls
OK. One more thing.
Driving down the Juornado del Muerto, down the Rio Grande valley from
ABQ, in the pre dawn hours. One of the plainsmen there using a Sharps
was a Shepherd, such as my cousins family. They've been here for
generations, and it's entirely possible he has that DNA. But that's
not what's occupying my mind.
That onslaught by that stone-age culture trying to hold on, led by a
half breed, a product of a previous murder and abduction, and then
child rape, occurred only 137 winters ago. 72 seasons before I was
born. I would say 90% of the area is totally unchanged in that remote
place. Neither, I suspect, has basic human nature. I think I need to
get home, get the black tie dinner party and Easter with the grand
kids behind me, saddle up, and go for a long lonesome ride!
Driving down the Juornado del Muerto, down the Rio Grande valley from
ABQ, in the pre dawn hours. One of the plainsmen there using a Sharps
was a Shepherd, such as my cousins family. They've been here for
generations, and it's entirely possible he has that DNA. But that's
not what's occupying my mind.
That onslaught by that stone-age culture trying to hold on, led by a
half breed, a product of a previous murder and abduction, and then
child rape, occurred only 137 winters ago. 72 seasons before I was
born. I would say 90% of the area is totally unchanged in that remote
place. Neither, I suspect, has basic human nature. I think I need to
get home, get the black tie dinner party and Easter with the grand
kids behind me, saddle up, and go for a long lonesome ride!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Kansas plains
Up date from Kansas plains/Indian wars walk-about Drive about..
Found Adobe Walls very pretty and even haunting.
Got to my and my cousins farms north of Emporia and shot 6 evil Tom turkeys.
South from Wichita the flat yet gentle rolling farmlands are green
and beautiful . Remember; One Kansas farmer feeds 128 of you inner
city Easy to imagine thousands of buffalo.
Somewhat disappointed in Medicine Lodge. I don't think the locals
appreciate the history there.
I will see what's left @ Camp Supply in the OK Terr.
Found Adobe Walls very pretty and even haunting.
Got to my and my cousins farms north of Emporia and shot 6 evil Tom turkeys.
South from Wichita the flat yet gentle rolling farmlands are green
and beautiful . Remember; One Kansas farmer feeds 128 of you inner
city Easy to imagine thousands of buffalo.
Somewhat disappointed in Medicine Lodge. I don't think the locals
appreciate the history there.
I will see what's left @ Camp Supply in the OK Terr.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Honeymoon Blog Day 6
Day 5/6-
Wahoooo!
Jeff here. Wahoo is a local fish in GCM; not only is it local, but it is also delicious. The night started with Erica's announcement that we should dine somewhere casual and "beachy." Of course that sounded perfect to me. The selected spot seemed to fit the bill: beach, tables, menus. However, they were much more interested in serving shots than dinner. A conversation with a server steered us to a cab ride to the end of the island and a spot called Morgans.
The hurricane six years ago really devastated many of the "real" locals but they take it in stride. Our cab driver explained to us that she lost everything except for the things that mattered, her photo album and china. Luckily, a government grant of $15k permitted her to rebuild her house, along with purchasing household appliances.
Morgan's had a great table right on the harbor and friendly staff. "Blackened Wahoo with risotto" was the servers suggestion. "We'll take two." Wahoo is a slender fish that resembles a barracuda, and as previously stated, is delicious. Erica exclaimed "the best meal I've ever had" several times in the last 24 hours.
Sunday (today) was brunch. By far the best bargain we've found on the island. $50 for everything from crab to eggs, roast beef to caviar, kangaroo to alligator; and all the champagne you can drink. One drawback: the local drinking age is somewhere around 18. So, "kids" that can loosely be referred to as locals, most likely college students at some nearby easy entry college, treated the champagne like it was spring break in Mazatlan. Nevertheless, we had a wonderful time and a great meal that ended with paddle ball on the beach at sunset.
A call today confirmed the fishing charter we had signed up with had found two other clients to share in the charter cost. So, we leave at the crack of 8am for some reef fishing. Can't wait!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
The Semi-Walk-about.
First: Love the info coming out of Grand Cayman!!! Thank You Jeff for playing along, joining in! Sounds like you guys are having a great time. I'm hoping it may whet the appetites for some P.V. time next spring!
my little journey: well, it's beautiful, good to have some down time, and the site was just amazing.
Up at 4:30 in Holbrook, saw the false and true dawn coming from AZ into New Mexico. The colors on the rocks/mesas were beautiful.
Along The Staked Plain in the Panhandle of Texas, imagination runs wild. Stopped in Amarillo for a museum and welcome center, stopped in Borger TX another museum, of course found some guy there traveling from Kansas and we have friends in common. Of course.
Got a map, finally made it to the Adobe Walls site. It's in a beautiful river valley that comes out of no-where. Very desolate and lonely, wind swept, came across a herd of mulies. Perfect.
I'm tired; turning in @ Liberal KS. What a town, nothing good here for sure. Ah, the stories.
Tomorrow up early, see my cousins, murder turkeys, maybe.
Be careful in the ocean; I know you guys down there must be really having a great time, shoring up some lifelong wonderful and fun memories. Thank you Both for letting us all be a part of it. And I mean All of Us, from California to Georgia to Alaska! Wheee!
Love to all, DAD/UR
my little journey: well, it's beautiful, good to have some down time, and the site was just amazing.
Up at 4:30 in Holbrook, saw the false and true dawn coming from AZ into New Mexico. The colors on the rocks/mesas were beautiful.
Along The Staked Plain in the Panhandle of Texas, imagination runs wild. Stopped in Amarillo for a museum and welcome center, stopped in Borger TX another museum, of course found some guy there traveling from Kansas and we have friends in common. Of course.
Got a map, finally made it to the Adobe Walls site. It's in a beautiful river valley that comes out of no-where. Very desolate and lonely, wind swept, came across a herd of mulies. Perfect.
I'm tired; turning in @ Liberal KS. What a town, nothing good here for sure. Ah, the stories.
Tomorrow up early, see my cousins, murder turkeys, maybe.
Be careful in the ocean; I know you guys down there must be really having a great time, shoring up some lifelong wonderful and fun memories. Thank you Both for letting us all be a part of it. And I mean All of Us, from California to Georgia to Alaska! Wheee!
Love to all, DAD/UR
RE: Honeymoon Blog Day 3-4
Day Five: Rum Punch, Two Punch, Three Punch, Four:
Ok, just kidding, but that's about what it took for me to brave Sting Ray City and snorkeling at the reef right after. BTW, it was amazing...pictures to follow.
Last night we went to Royal Palm where we dined on more wonderful local fare and stared at the sea. Not long after dinner, a Carribean band came out and we danced for a few hours. Then, my Capital One card got declined. I was less than pleased, especially after paying a sizebale protion of the wedding bill and securing off-coast purchases last Monday. After a few more dances in our lobby while the pianist played I called Captial One and gave our friend, Tony (lead manager), a what-for. By the time it was over, Captial One gave me a $100 credit towards purchases...whew, that will help.
At any rate, this a.m. we took it easy and caught up on some local tv before hitting our boat excursion. Local TV is New York City and they have had a pretty high murder rate this week. We were a few minutes late, but luckily the "bus" came back for us. We then catamaraned (sic) to a beautiful crystal-clear sand bar where we FED and HELD huge stingrays in waste deep water. My hand was literally sucked up in one and it took some effort to break loose. They were all over, including our in between our legs, around our wastes and shoulders. It was the most amazing thing I've ever experienced. After that, we rode a short distance to a small reef and jumped overboard to snorkel.
Jeff had already jumped in right off the side of the boat as the other tourists were waiting to walk down the stairs. After his coaxing, I was building the moxy to jump off the side when a 10-year old boy was right behind me. I (politely) asked the boy to go first...he was hesitant (scared) and said "ladies first!" I couldn't believe it. So, I held on to my top and plunged overboard, mask and flippers and all. What an amazing experience. The reef was beautiful and we took about two underwater cameras full of pictures. Can't wait to show you all. We didn't see any sharks (except for the one in the corner of my eye/imagination). By the time I became nervous, it was time to board to head back, so that was great timing. Jeff was an excellent trouper and made me feel very comfortable in the water.
After we were back at the hotel, we hit the pool and met a nice couple from Detroit. Now, we get ready for dinner and a nice Saturday night out. Everyday is better than the last. It is the most amazing trip. Might snorkel some more tomorrow if I can brave it.
Love and miss you all!
Love,
Erica
Ok, just kidding, but that's about what it took for me to brave Sting Ray City and snorkeling at the reef right after. BTW, it was amazing...pictures to follow.
Last night we went to Royal Palm where we dined on more wonderful local fare and stared at the sea. Not long after dinner, a Carribean band came out and we danced for a few hours. Then, my Capital One card got declined. I was less than pleased, especially after paying a sizebale protion of the wedding bill and securing off-coast purchases last Monday. After a few more dances in our lobby while the pianist played I called Captial One and gave our friend, Tony (lead manager), a what-for. By the time it was over, Captial One gave me a $100 credit towards purchases...whew, that will help.
At any rate, this a.m. we took it easy and caught up on some local tv before hitting our boat excursion. Local TV is New York City and they have had a pretty high murder rate this week. We were a few minutes late, but luckily the "bus" came back for us. We then catamaraned (sic) to a beautiful crystal-clear sand bar where we FED and HELD huge stingrays in waste deep water. My hand was literally sucked up in one and it took some effort to break loose. They were all over, including our in between our legs, around our wastes and shoulders. It was the most amazing thing I've ever experienced. After that, we rode a short distance to a small reef and jumped overboard to snorkel.
Jeff had already jumped in right off the side of the boat as the other tourists were waiting to walk down the stairs. After his coaxing, I was building the moxy to jump off the side when a 10-year old boy was right behind me. I (politely) asked the boy to go first...he was hesitant (scared) and said "ladies first!" I couldn't believe it. So, I held on to my top and plunged overboard, mask and flippers and all. What an amazing experience. The reef was beautiful and we took about two underwater cameras full of pictures. Can't wait to show you all. We didn't see any sharks (except for the one in the corner of my eye/imagination). By the time I became nervous, it was time to board to head back, so that was great timing. Jeff was an excellent trouper and made me feel very comfortable in the water.
After we were back at the hotel, we hit the pool and met a nice couple from Detroit. Now, we get ready for dinner and a nice Saturday night out. Everyday is better than the last. It is the most amazing trip. Might snorkel some more tomorrow if I can brave it.
Love and miss you all!
Love,
Erica
Friday, April 15, 2011
Honeymoon Blog Day 3-4
Day 3-
We still revel in the story of finding my ring in the ocean so be prepared to hear more about it upon our return. I think the mask/snorkel/fins contribution in finding the ring has allowed Erica to open her heart to underwater sea life and snorkeling. Today, we rented a two man kayak and paddled out to a local reef teaming with angel, trigger, parrot, blue tang, and scorpion fish, as well as a sting ray with a few hanger-on friends. She seems to have caught the bug so maybe a scuba certification is on her horizon.
Our trip to the local market paid off for today's in-room happy hour (GCM is great but it is very expensive). Champagne looking over the ocean; it makes you wonder why you toil away at a daily job. We then hopped a cab with a cranky driver (very rare for GCM) to a nearby harbor for our sunset catamaran sail to Rum Point. Wind is a premium here so they hoist the sail as a symbolic gesture and run on outboards the entire time. The sea was terrific as was the view. Erica, for the 3rd time, said this was her favorite night yet. The restaurant on Rum Point was set right on the sea and had an amazing view and even more amazing food. I have traveled quite a bit and nowhere have I had better food than GCM. The entire country seems to consist of ex-pats from all over the world. Our bartender formally worked in Dubai and served Tiger and "The Roger Federer." We spent the trip back on the front nets of the catamaran relaxing and recapping the meal and the day we just had.
Day 4-
The Bus:
Walking the streets since we've been here, I've noticed constant short car honks. I thought maybe everyone knows each other, or, maybe they are honking at Erica. It turns out the bus drivers honk at anyone walking in the direction they are driving in a "polite" attempt to ask if they would like a ride. The term "bus" should be revised to 7 person Volkswagen van but it is actually a great way to get around the island. We took it into the capital, Georgetown, for some shopping and sightseeing. I, of course, detoured us to Fidel Murphy's, the only Irish pub on the island (more pub than Irish).
Erica made a third foray into the sea and this time entirely on her own. Tomorrow we sail to sting ray city and another reef trip so she will finally see why so many people love sea life. Time to get ready for dinner. Hope all is well back home.
More to come on days five and six later...
The Pharmacy:
Jeff here. With ailments stacking up, our morning started with a trip to the local pharmacy in hopes of relief via modern medicine. It was mostly a success although my ears remained plugged going into day 4 now.We still revel in the story of finding my ring in the ocean so be prepared to hear more about it upon our return. I think the mask/snorkel/fins contribution in finding the ring has allowed Erica to open her heart to underwater sea life and snorkeling. Today, we rented a two man kayak and paddled out to a local reef teaming with angel, trigger, parrot, blue tang, and scorpion fish, as well as a sting ray with a few hanger-on friends. She seems to have caught the bug so maybe a scuba certification is on her horizon.
Our trip to the local market paid off for today's in-room happy hour (GCM is great but it is very expensive). Champagne looking over the ocean; it makes you wonder why you toil away at a daily job. We then hopped a cab with a cranky driver (very rare for GCM) to a nearby harbor for our sunset catamaran sail to Rum Point. Wind is a premium here so they hoist the sail as a symbolic gesture and run on outboards the entire time. The sea was terrific as was the view. Erica, for the 3rd time, said this was her favorite night yet. The restaurant on Rum Point was set right on the sea and had an amazing view and even more amazing food. I have traveled quite a bit and nowhere have I had better food than GCM. The entire country seems to consist of ex-pats from all over the world. Our bartender formally worked in Dubai and served Tiger and "The Roger Federer." We spent the trip back on the front nets of the catamaran relaxing and recapping the meal and the day we just had.
Day 4-
The Bus:
Walking the streets since we've been here, I've noticed constant short car honks. I thought maybe everyone knows each other, or, maybe they are honking at Erica. It turns out the bus drivers honk at anyone walking in the direction they are driving in a "polite" attempt to ask if they would like a ride. The term "bus" should be revised to 7 person Volkswagen van but it is actually a great way to get around the island. We took it into the capital, Georgetown, for some shopping and sightseeing. I, of course, detoured us to Fidel Murphy's, the only Irish pub on the island (more pub than Irish).
Erica made a third foray into the sea and this time entirely on her own. Tomorrow we sail to sting ray city and another reef trip so she will finally see why so many people love sea life. Time to get ready for dinner. Hope all is well back home.
More to come on days five and six later...
Texas/Kansas
Now in Casa Grande, finishing up a work week, then heading north and east. End of week always finds me tired out, especially now after the famous Last Week-End. It's been busy with ups and downs, but it's Freedom for a whole Month!
Points of travel include up to Flag, east to Lano Estadilo, down to Amarillo area, up to Canadian (Adobe Walls), north into Kansas.
waiting for an update from the Grand Caymans!
Everyone, have a great week-end! Love, DAD/UR
Points of travel include up to Flag, east to Lano Estadilo, down to Amarillo area, up to Canadian (Adobe Walls), north into Kansas.
waiting for an update from the Grand Caymans!
Everyone, have a great week-end! Love, DAD/UR
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Honeymoom Blog...
Hi All - Here are a few tidbits of the honeymoon thus far....
Day One: Red Eye Adventure
We hopped on 1st class red eye to Grand Cayman, connecting through Charolette. For my b-day, Jeff gave me US Airways Club passes, so we spent the 3-hour layover resting in style. No other way to go, I must say. Before reaching Charolette, I watched "Gigi" on the plane. What good memories it brought back. I could "hear" Boo on the "it's a bore" song and many others. :) Wonderful time.
When we reached the island, there was a band playing Neil Diamond to great us. We made it through customs with no problem and then checked in. The room is AMAZING. We have a pool and ocean view and lovely patio. It is also nicely air conditioned, which helps in this humid weather. The sea is lovely. Crystal blue. It's also not very crowded, nice and quiet and relaxing. We spent the afternoon walking up and down the beach while I tried to psyche myself up to get in the water. We also hit the concierge (sic) to make various reservations for land and sea excursions.
When we made it back to the room, a bellman knocked on our door with a bottle of champagne, a lovely note to "Mr. and Mrs. Krobot" and strawberries. It was wonderful. We managed to hold off on the champagne and are about to pop it now...a day later. :) We went to a casual dinner at a local sportsbar and watched the D-backs beat the Cardinals.
Day Two: The Krobots 1; the Sea 0
Today, Wed., we walked up/down the beach. Before doing so I asked if we should put our rings in the safe and, since Jeff was wearing his, I decided I'd wear mine, too. After all, it's warm and humid and my fingers look like marshmellows, so I figured we were good. While we were walking back to our hotel, we decided to go for a dip. About 5 minutes in, I asked Jeff to make sure his ring was on...he said "yes" and then, "no." It was gone. I figured it was gone forever and tried to tell myself it was ok, b/c Ashley said he has had to buy a few for Paul. Like the rain at the wedding, I kept saying it would be ok. Jeff told me to stay put and he went to rent snorkle/mask/fins. As he came back, a tour group came through with their snorkles. Great, I'm thinking, they will find the ring and there will be no way to convince them it's ours. Jeff announced to the group to keep an eye out for the ring as he contiued to search, at which point, I also left to get a mask. Some time passed, years it seemed. In reality, probably 45 minutes. While snorkling, I saw a beautiful silver fish swim right by me. I thought it was a good omen. At that point I hear "E!!!!" and I looked up and there was Jeff with ring in hand. He found it in water about 15 feet of water, half burried in the sand. It was a miracle. We instantly decided (learned) to keep rings in the safe while we swam. The remainder of the day was spent celebrating the miracle of finding the ring in the sea. I'm hesitant to call out the score of us "1" and Sea "0" (given we are snorkling in a few days on a reef), but am so grateful Jeff was determined to find the ring.
After securing the rings safely in the room's safe, we snorkled some more. We found a graceful stingray with a little fish in tow. We followed it for some time, alerting swimmers off/on of its presence. It was beautiful...another good sign, I'm sure!
Now, we rest and catch up on social networking and will enjoy our champagne delivered to the room yesterday. Tonight, a nice dinner and out for fun. We are having a blast and meeting nice couples who both travel here frequently. It's a beautiful place.
More to come in the next few days...we're looking forward to swiming with the sting rays in sting ray city and snorkling on the reef. We also plan to kyak tomorrow and more snorkling. Who knew what fun it would be! No shark sightings yet and I'm actually comfortable in the water, especially with the "good fortune" of finding the ring...it must have been that good luck from the rain on our wedding day?
Yay!!!
Miss you all, love you,
Erica
Day One: Red Eye Adventure
We hopped on 1st class red eye to Grand Cayman, connecting through Charolette. For my b-day, Jeff gave me US Airways Club passes, so we spent the 3-hour layover resting in style. No other way to go, I must say. Before reaching Charolette, I watched "Gigi" on the plane. What good memories it brought back. I could "hear" Boo on the "it's a bore" song and many others. :) Wonderful time.
When we reached the island, there was a band playing Neil Diamond to great us. We made it through customs with no problem and then checked in. The room is AMAZING. We have a pool and ocean view and lovely patio. It is also nicely air conditioned, which helps in this humid weather. The sea is lovely. Crystal blue. It's also not very crowded, nice and quiet and relaxing. We spent the afternoon walking up and down the beach while I tried to psyche myself up to get in the water. We also hit the concierge (sic) to make various reservations for land and sea excursions.
When we made it back to the room, a bellman knocked on our door with a bottle of champagne, a lovely note to "Mr. and Mrs. Krobot" and strawberries. It was wonderful. We managed to hold off on the champagne and are about to pop it now...a day later. :) We went to a casual dinner at a local sportsbar and watched the D-backs beat the Cardinals.
Day Two: The Krobots 1; the Sea 0
Today, Wed., we walked up/down the beach. Before doing so I asked if we should put our rings in the safe and, since Jeff was wearing his, I decided I'd wear mine, too. After all, it's warm and humid and my fingers look like marshmellows, so I figured we were good. While we were walking back to our hotel, we decided to go for a dip. About 5 minutes in, I asked Jeff to make sure his ring was on...he said "yes" and then, "no." It was gone. I figured it was gone forever and tried to tell myself it was ok, b/c Ashley said he has had to buy a few for Paul. Like the rain at the wedding, I kept saying it would be ok. Jeff told me to stay put and he went to rent snorkle/mask/fins. As he came back, a tour group came through with their snorkles. Great, I'm thinking, they will find the ring and there will be no way to convince them it's ours. Jeff announced to the group to keep an eye out for the ring as he contiued to search, at which point, I also left to get a mask. Some time passed, years it seemed. In reality, probably 45 minutes. While snorkling, I saw a beautiful silver fish swim right by me. I thought it was a good omen. At that point I hear "E!!!!" and I looked up and there was Jeff with ring in hand. He found it in water about 15 feet of water, half burried in the sand. It was a miracle. We instantly decided (learned) to keep rings in the safe while we swam. The remainder of the day was spent celebrating the miracle of finding the ring in the sea. I'm hesitant to call out the score of us "1" and Sea "0" (given we are snorkling in a few days on a reef), but am so grateful Jeff was determined to find the ring.
After securing the rings safely in the room's safe, we snorkled some more. We found a graceful stingray with a little fish in tow. We followed it for some time, alerting swimmers off/on of its presence. It was beautiful...another good sign, I'm sure!
Now, we rest and catch up on social networking and will enjoy our champagne delivered to the room yesterday. Tonight, a nice dinner and out for fun. We are having a blast and meeting nice couples who both travel here frequently. It's a beautiful place.
More to come in the next few days...we're looking forward to swiming with the sting rays in sting ray city and snorkling on the reef. We also plan to kyak tomorrow and more snorkling. Who knew what fun it would be! No shark sightings yet and I'm actually comfortable in the water, especially with the "good fortune" of finding the ring...it must have been that good luck from the rain on our wedding day?
Yay!!!
Miss you all, love you,
Erica
Monday, March 21, 2011
Gone Again...
This is the 21st, my Grandson's 2nd birthday!
I'm up at the ranch in front of a warm fire, drinking hot chocolate, up here for some clean up and to drain one of the ponds. It's still cold up here and there's a smattering of snow.
1st: Yea for U of A!! Outstanding surprise. Last PAC-10 team standing but we knocked of a Big-12 power. Now for Duck. i mean ducke, duke? Anyway, it's good for another 72 hours, then on to baseball for a couple of months anyway.
Tomorrow it's start to lay out the hoses, fire up a pump, and start the drain process. Also will clean some stalls, get some more hay down from the loft, hope the Subaru starts (had to jump it @ the airport with Chip's car), and then home to Tucson on Wednesday eve/night.
Horses will be shod Thursday, photos for Obstetrix, then Thursday night is OPEN! Friday I'm invited to play some golf and I can't wait to show off my new skills...as it were. Just hoping what happened in Mexico didn't all stay in Mexico!
Hope all is well; I'm SOO looking forward to seeing everyone in must a couple of weeks. Anyone getting cold feet? Love, DAD/UR
I'm up at the ranch in front of a warm fire, drinking hot chocolate, up here for some clean up and to drain one of the ponds. It's still cold up here and there's a smattering of snow.
1st: Yea for U of A!! Outstanding surprise. Last PAC-10 team standing but we knocked of a Big-12 power. Now for Duck. i mean ducke, duke? Anyway, it's good for another 72 hours, then on to baseball for a couple of months anyway.
Tomorrow it's start to lay out the hoses, fire up a pump, and start the drain process. Also will clean some stalls, get some more hay down from the loft, hope the Subaru starts (had to jump it @ the airport with Chip's car), and then home to Tucson on Wednesday eve/night.
Horses will be shod Thursday, photos for Obstetrix, then Thursday night is OPEN! Friday I'm invited to play some golf and I can't wait to show off my new skills...as it were. Just hoping what happened in Mexico didn't all stay in Mexico!
Hope all is well; I'm SOO looking forward to seeing everyone in must a couple of weeks. Anyone getting cold feet? Love, DAD/UR
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Puerto Vallarta
Good morning! Here it is another cloudless day early in the morning. We can see egrets flying down along the misty river and the resort is starting to wake up. The sprinklers are going down on the golf course (can see it from our 7th story) and that's where I'm heading this morning!
Forgot to mention our trip in Puerto Vallarta a couple days ago. A fun bus ride on a fairly modern bus down to the local WalMart, then switch to a local bus for the rest of the 20 minute trip into the center. That bus I'm almost certain is fresh out of the jungles of Nicaragua or the like, but you just get in and hang on. Once down town we strolled around, shopped a little bit, and had a little bit to eat on the beach. While sitting at the beach we saw whales, and one large one must have breached clear out of the water because just as I looked up there was this huge splash. Following that even from probably about 1/3 of a mile or so you could clearly see a smaller little whale jumping out of the water, 2 or 3 times, with a smaller splash but clearly having fun. After a stroll along the mercado we caught the old blue school bus, then the better bus, then had dinner along the way home. Getting brave here.
Tomorrow we head home; this is one of more relaxing vacations we've had, for sure. Susan has had a few spa days and I've played the golf. All that's included in our weeks so except for the club rental it's all included. Nice. Home tomorrow via Phoenix but then on to Long Beach for a couple of days the finally Tucson on Sunday.
Love to all, DAD/UR
Forgot to mention our trip in Puerto Vallarta a couple days ago. A fun bus ride on a fairly modern bus down to the local WalMart, then switch to a local bus for the rest of the 20 minute trip into the center. That bus I'm almost certain is fresh out of the jungles of Nicaragua or the like, but you just get in and hang on. Once down town we strolled around, shopped a little bit, and had a little bit to eat on the beach. While sitting at the beach we saw whales, and one large one must have breached clear out of the water because just as I looked up there was this huge splash. Following that even from probably about 1/3 of a mile or so you could clearly see a smaller little whale jumping out of the water, 2 or 3 times, with a smaller splash but clearly having fun. After a stroll along the mercado we caught the old blue school bus, then the better bus, then had dinner along the way home. Getting brave here.
Tomorrow we head home; this is one of more relaxing vacations we've had, for sure. Susan has had a few spa days and I've played the golf. All that's included in our weeks so except for the club rental it's all included. Nice. Home tomorrow via Phoenix but then on to Long Beach for a couple of days the finally Tucson on Sunday.
Love to all, DAD/UR
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Blog
Hello all: just heading out to catch a bus for a day visit to P.V. Will of course try to find a bar to catch Selection Sunday! Not that bars will be too hard to locate in that town. Still, it's about a 1/2 hour ride by public bus.
Just revamped/corrected some addresses:
If you are reading this and want to keep it coming, just reply Go Cats! I know that will be hard for Some, but I have faith.
If you are NOT reading this and want to get it, reply Try Again. That will be a little more difficult I understand....try to read my mind then.
If you are reading this and don't want to, just reply Go Jayhawks. (I only get 10 addresses to go to automatically).
Hope everyone is having a great day!
Go 'Cats! Love DAD/UR
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Puerto Vallarta
Howdy from the Grand Luxxe, P.V. It's occurred to me I haven't described the place..
but first: the golfing is really fun. They only have 15 holes open right now, but even during our stay here they've put in a whole new fairway. When one plays, one just kind of finds 3 additional holes and then play on for full 18. Watch for crocodiles and iguanas. You have to have a golf cart and caddy, and the course is amazing with palm trees, the appropriate water hazards, sand, etc. It seems to be a rather forgiving course, but then it gets hard. But, I've broken 100 twice! With a couple of mulligans of course, but, still, that's News.
About the company; the new name is Gruppo Vidante, and we have the ownership in the Grand Luxxe part, a "Villa". We have 1 bedroom now with a big living room and ktichen, and have access to 2 more separate bedrooms and can sleep a bunch more. All with very nice amenities. From the "bottom" up, there is the Sea Garden, the Mayan Palace, and the Grand Mayan. The "hierarchy" is defined by the size and quality of furnishings, and amenities included. Then there is the Grand Bliss and the Grand Luxxe which are REALLY nice, spacious, with big decks and our own bubbly little deck pool, etc. The amenities that come with this level include 12 rounds of "free" golf, 2 massages per week, and we can make reservations 12 months in advance. We love it and I Am enjoying the golf! We just really look forward to having some family with us, maybe next year(??), to play and enjoy the pools and golf courses and beaches. How fun that would be.
Era left today from her own ownership suite, and we come back to the US next Thursday.
Hope all is well around the country; Love Dad/UR
but first: the golfing is really fun. They only have 15 holes open right now, but even during our stay here they've put in a whole new fairway. When one plays, one just kind of finds 3 additional holes and then play on for full 18. Watch for crocodiles and iguanas. You have to have a golf cart and caddy, and the course is amazing with palm trees, the appropriate water hazards, sand, etc. It seems to be a rather forgiving course, but then it gets hard. But, I've broken 100 twice! With a couple of mulligans of course, but, still, that's News.
About the company; the new name is Gruppo Vidante, and we have the ownership in the Grand Luxxe part, a "Villa". We have 1 bedroom now with a big living room and ktichen, and have access to 2 more separate bedrooms and can sleep a bunch more. All with very nice amenities. From the "bottom" up, there is the Sea Garden, the Mayan Palace, and the Grand Mayan. The "hierarchy" is defined by the size and quality of furnishings, and amenities included. Then there is the Grand Bliss and the Grand Luxxe which are REALLY nice, spacious, with big decks and our own bubbly little deck pool, etc. The amenities that come with this level include 12 rounds of "free" golf, 2 massages per week, and we can make reservations 12 months in advance. We love it and I Am enjoying the golf! We just really look forward to having some family with us, maybe next year(??), to play and enjoy the pools and golf courses and beaches. How fun that would be.
Era left today from her own ownership suite, and we come back to the US next Thursday.
Hope all is well around the country; Love Dad/UR
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Puerto Vallarta
Greetings from P.V.: it's been a week it appears since I've written anything! The time sure flies down here it seems. We've had a real nice visit thus far. The weather is beautiful, the beach is a very nice powdery texture and the resort keeps it very clean. We've had a couple of wonderful dinners right on the beach and have eaten in the room a couple of times.
Today I played golf for the 3rd time, and Era and Susan went off on some bus ride to somewhere up the coast to explore. They've been into town together and Susan's been able to get a massage while I've spent some time on the golf course! Three times, in fact, and I'm sure I'm getting ready for the tour! OK, I have some bad days, and a good day, or close to it, but it's fun down here and I've met some fun people.
The pools are relaxing and really nice, and all in all this is a really nice resort.
I think Susan and Era are heading up north close to where Pita (Paul's sister) got married several years ago, in fact.
Other than that, it's just been a real nice relaxing vacation and we are enjoying it a lot.
We've been here a week already, home in another 6 days. Love, Dad/UR
Today I played golf for the 3rd time, and Era and Susan went off on some bus ride to somewhere up the coast to explore. They've been into town together and Susan's been able to get a massage while I've spent some time on the golf course! Three times, in fact, and I'm sure I'm getting ready for the tour! OK, I have some bad days, and a good day, or close to it, but it's fun down here and I've met some fun people.
The pools are relaxing and really nice, and all in all this is a really nice resort.
I think Susan and Era are heading up north close to where Pita (Paul's sister) got married several years ago, in fact.
Other than that, it's just been a real nice relaxing vacation and we are enjoying it a lot.
We've been here a week already, home in another 6 days. Love, Dad/UR
Friday, March 4, 2011
Arrival, Puerto Vallarta
Well, here we are! Easy trip, smooth as silk. Didn't take long either: and I've got to say, this is the most elegant place we've ever stayed. The suite is spacious, the bedroom is large with large flat screens in each room, and the kitchen is ultramodern. We have "free" internet in the room plus poolside. There is a docking station for the iPod. There is an assigned concierge that brings us coffee every morning. I am impressed...the place sleeps 4 and we're here for 2 weeks so Come on Down! yea, right; I know.
Anyway, have some pictures already, and if the Droid will work as well w the internet maybe I can get some off sooner than later.
Anyway, we're alive and well, and looking forward to a relaxing 2 weeks! Love to all, Dad/UR
Anyway, have some pictures already, and if the Droid will work as well w the internet maybe I can get some off sooner than later.
Anyway, we're alive and well, and looking forward to a relaxing 2 weeks! Love to all, Dad/UR
On the road again..
Greetings from the Tucson airport! This am we're on the way to Puerto
Vallarta, via Phoenix! Plan is to come back on about the 18th or so,
then head direct to Long Beach for a JP conference, then home! We've
entrusted the care of our animals to our good friends Chip and Penny
Chipman from Nutri and, with Autie's help and guidance everything will
be great! Thank you Penny and Chip!! Love to all, Dad/U R
Vallarta, via Phoenix! Plan is to come back on about the 18th or so,
then head direct to Long Beach for a JP conference, then home! We've
entrusted the care of our animals to our good friends Chip and Penny
Chipman from Nutri and, with Autie's help and guidance everything will
be great! Thank you Penny and Chip!! Love to all, Dad/U R
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
At the Cabin:
Today is the 21st of Feb. And it is Real cold up here in the mountains; not much snow anymore since I guess it's blown off a bit.
Barn cat is fat and sassy, Autie took the drive in good shape, cows look good, and it doesn't seem we had any damage done due to the extreme cold spell they had when we were gone. Just lots of clean up to do and re-stock the hay supply, etc.
Plan is to drive home Thursday, maybe via Phx to squeeze the grand-kids! It's been too long.
Love to all, DAD/UR
Barn cat is fat and sassy, Autie took the drive in good shape, cows look good, and it doesn't seem we had any damage done due to the extreme cold spell they had when we were gone. Just lots of clean up to do and re-stock the hay supply, etc.
Plan is to drive home Thursday, maybe via Phx to squeeze the grand-kids! It's been too long.
Love to all, DAD/UR
Monday, February 21, 2011
Snapfish
After several trial and errors, think I got most if not all of pics uploaded to snapfish. Check it out when send the link. If they don't have your current email address, i.e. Mark, just try to get to www.snapfish.com and look for my name or something. I named it Panama Canal cruise.pe
Hope all is well around the country! Love DAD/UR
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Panama Canal, day 14.
Just a quickie today: this is our 2nd consecutive day at sea, going to interesting lectures, reading, and, on occasion, eating. (burp). Actually, starting to do fine on that department getting a little more self discipline..
Had some rougher waves yesterday which made the sail interesting, but today it has been nice and smooth. We rounded the tip of Haiti which was clearly visible in the not-so-far distance and saw some fishermen in their boats. No whales/dolphins for some time now.
Right now it is raining; first rain we've had and it is a nice variation! We will probably start to pack this eve, but for sure tomorrow. Home soon; Hope all is well, Love to All, Dad/UR
Had some rougher waves yesterday which made the sail interesting, but today it has been nice and smooth. We rounded the tip of Haiti which was clearly visible in the not-so-far distance and saw some fishermen in their boats. No whales/dolphins for some time now.
Right now it is raining; first rain we've had and it is a nice variation! We will probably start to pack this eve, but for sure tomorrow. Home soon; Hope all is well, Love to All, Dad/UR
Friday, February 11, 2011
Panama Canal, Day 13
Tonight is 11 February: a couple of milestones!
Addison is 4! wow. Here's hoping Ash and Paul can give her a hug and a kiss from Grandpa and Grandma Dickson! We have been thinking about her.
We just left seeing Mark! We got to the pier in Cartegena, Columbia, a couple of hours earlier than planned and had the opportunity to see a couple of the local sights around the docks...taxi drivers that would NOT leave you alone, hawkers of various junk stuffs that would follow you everywhere, and then we met up with Mark! Was great to see him, spent several really fun hours together, and saw old town Cartegena up one side and down the other. Visited a couple of museums inside the old walled city, hired a guide for the Inquisition Museum which dated from 1622, all the good stuff. Finally got back to the ship by a little after 11 before the gang-way went up. Now we're under power already, leaving the harbor. Thank You Mark for a really good time in Cartegena!! The weather, incidentally, was wonderful, but was too hot and steamy for this desert rat. Reminded me of Charleston SC in June-August!
Now we have 3 days at sea, heading North by North-East, for Miami. Get there early morning on Tuesday I think, then to airport, then to Houston, then to Tucson. whew.
Love to all, thinking about each and every one of you guys, DAD/UR
Addison is 4! wow. Here's hoping Ash and Paul can give her a hug and a kiss from Grandpa and Grandma Dickson! We have been thinking about her.
We just left seeing Mark! We got to the pier in Cartegena, Columbia, a couple of hours earlier than planned and had the opportunity to see a couple of the local sights around the docks...taxi drivers that would NOT leave you alone, hawkers of various junk stuffs that would follow you everywhere, and then we met up with Mark! Was great to see him, spent several really fun hours together, and saw old town Cartegena up one side and down the other. Visited a couple of museums inside the old walled city, hired a guide for the Inquisition Museum which dated from 1622, all the good stuff. Finally got back to the ship by a little after 11 before the gang-way went up. Now we're under power already, leaving the harbor. Thank You Mark for a really good time in Cartegena!! The weather, incidentally, was wonderful, but was too hot and steamy for this desert rat. Reminded me of Charleston SC in June-August!
Now we have 3 days at sea, heading North by North-East, for Miami. Get there early morning on Tuesday I think, then to airport, then to Houston, then to Tucson. whew.
Love to all, thinking about each and every one of you guys, DAD/UR
Thursday, February 10, 2011
The Canal
Today is Thursday, the 10th of February: right Now we are traversing the locks of the Panama Canal! This is a very cool experience. They've given lots of history of the building of the canal, and it's an amazing place. WE've watched the process starting on the forward deck sipping our morning coffee and just watching the tug boats assist, the locks open and close, and the "locomotives" that act as mules to help stabilize the ship as it sits in the locks. It seems they have an active Web camera that continuously broadcasts the activity, so I'm pretty sure we were famous for about 15 seconds..What an experience!
Next we go into the huge man-made lake, Gatun Lake, then it's on to the the Gatun Locks, then a shorter canal voyage to the Caribbean. The whole process takes about 9 hours. We have about 15 miles to go before we get to the Lake itself.
Love to all, I'll be in touch..after this we travel to Columbia, then after an afternoon and night there (leave at midnight), the it's a 3 day sail to Miami. It's going fast!
Love, DAD/UR
Next we go into the huge man-made lake, Gatun Lake, then it's on to the the Gatun Locks, then a shorter canal voyage to the Caribbean. The whole process takes about 9 hours. We have about 15 miles to go before we get to the Lake itself.
Love to all, I'll be in touch..after this we travel to Columbia, then after an afternoon and night there (leave at midnight), the it's a 3 day sail to Miami. It's going fast!
Love, DAD/UR
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Panama Canal Cruise, Day 10 ?
Day 10, I'm pretty sure.
We are just leaving Punctarenas: lots of adventures the last few days.Looks like I've been absent a bit.
On day 7 we were at sea all day, trying our best not to starve; more like trying our best not to miss anything even remotely edible. Susan was still sick, I was at 75%, getting better. Was a good day reading on deck, lounging by the salt water hot tub up front, and went to a couple of real interesting lectures. One guy is traveling with us and talks about the forensic use of DNA going back to the mid-90’s. He’s a professor somewhere specializing in cold cases and he has some great stories.
On day 8 we docked in Nicaragua. Now THAT’s an interesting but poor country. We got off the boat, each was assigned a machete and/or AK-47, and plunged into the jungle. Well, not exactly but close. We had a great tour leaving the coast and went deep into the country. We arrived at Lake Nicaragua, fairly large, and it has about 300 small islets around the shore, very tropical with a big central island of active volcanoes. We took a little boat tour in and around the islets, seeing some primitive homes and some really nice ones. We saw beautiful flowers, birds, and monkeys, and how some of the islet people fished and lived.
Everyone seems to have a close eye on the next election, at least our guide does, and hopes the “Ortegan’s” do not regain power. We didn’t run into any Contra’s or Sandinistas this time, but they are out there I guess. After the boat tour we traveled into a little town called Granada. This is the oldest town established on the western hemisphere, North or South America, and was started exactly Dec 8, 1522. That’s where we had lunch, and then started the long and bumpy bus ride back to the ship. We did have a good guide, lots of great discussions, and scenery is beautiful. After we got back we cleaned up, and came back into the American 21st century. We had signed up for a wine-pairing special dinner that night, and it was even more spectacular that what we’ve had thus far. The Cruise Director joined us, we had about 6 courses, each accompanied by a special wine. What a treat.
Today we got up early, found ourselves in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, and had another fun day. We had to travel 3 hours in a bus on little, narrow, twisting mountain roads, through jungles, deep into the country in the mountains, crossing a couple of mountain ranges. The area is punctuated by several volcanoes, still active. There is a resort "way up there" that has diverted a naturally hot little stream into a series of waterfalls and pools and it is an amazing place. We had our swim suits and in we all went! Beautiful flowers, hot flowing mountain/volcano water, etc. Had a nice lunch up there, just got back, and we are ready to go “out”. What a wonderful couple of days, and can’t wait to show the pictures and hope we get the opportunity in near future. Tomorrow we will wake up entering the Panama Canal, take the day to travel that into the Caribean, then head for Cartegena and Mark! What fun!!! Now it’s off to eat Escargot, Cornish hen/pheasant breast/duck combo. It just seems to go on and on. Tomorrow I diet….Love to all, UR/DAD
We are just leaving Punctarenas: lots of adventures the last few days.Looks like I've been absent a bit.
On day 7 we were at sea all day, trying our best not to starve; more like trying our best not to miss anything even remotely edible. Susan was still sick, I was at 75%, getting better. Was a good day reading on deck, lounging by the salt water hot tub up front, and went to a couple of real interesting lectures. One guy is traveling with us and talks about the forensic use of DNA going back to the mid-90’s. He’s a professor somewhere specializing in cold cases and he has some great stories.
On day 8 we docked in Nicaragua. Now THAT’s an interesting but poor country. We got off the boat, each was assigned a machete and/or AK-47, and plunged into the jungle. Well, not exactly but close. We had a great tour leaving the coast and went deep into the country. We arrived at Lake Nicaragua, fairly large, and it has about 300 small islets around the shore, very tropical with a big central island of active volcanoes. We took a little boat tour in and around the islets, seeing some primitive homes and some really nice ones. We saw beautiful flowers, birds, and monkeys, and how some of the islet people fished and lived.
Everyone seems to have a close eye on the next election, at least our guide does, and hopes the “Ortegan’s” do not regain power. We didn’t run into any Contra’s or Sandinistas this time, but they are out there I guess. After the boat tour we traveled into a little town called Granada. This is the oldest town established on the western hemisphere, North or South America, and was started exactly Dec 8, 1522. That’s where we had lunch, and then started the long and bumpy bus ride back to the ship. We did have a good guide, lots of great discussions, and scenery is beautiful. After we got back we cleaned up, and came back into the American 21st century. We had signed up for a wine-pairing special dinner that night, and it was even more spectacular that what we’ve had thus far. The Cruise Director joined us, we had about 6 courses, each accompanied by a special wine. What a treat.
Today we got up early, found ourselves in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, and had another fun day. We had to travel 3 hours in a bus on little, narrow, twisting mountain roads, through jungles, deep into the country in the mountains, crossing a couple of mountain ranges. The area is punctuated by several volcanoes, still active. There is a resort "way up there" that has diverted a naturally hot little stream into a series of waterfalls and pools and it is an amazing place. We had our swim suits and in we all went! Beautiful flowers, hot flowing mountain/volcano water, etc. Had a nice lunch up there, just got back, and we are ready to go “out”. What a wonderful couple of days, and can’t wait to show the pictures and hope we get the opportunity in near future. Tomorrow we will wake up entering the Panama Canal, take the day to travel that into the Caribean, then head for Cartegena and Mark! What fun!!! Now it’s off to eat Escargot, Cornish hen/pheasant breast/duck combo. It just seems to go on and on. Tomorrow I diet….Love to all, UR/DAD
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Saturday, day 6
Well, I'm pretty sure this is day 6; starting to run together!
Today we are in a beautiful little cove in Huatuclco, still Mexico. It's a far cry from busy Alcupulco (never spelled the same way twice..)We get off the ship and can walk to a little town and nice beach.
The food on this ship is crazy good, with wide variations. I'm porking out. The last couple of days I've been feeling well enough to hit the gym/work out room and so it's been better. Speaking of feeling well enough, getting a good lesson in epidemiology INGER. I started getting the scratchy throat on Sunday in San Diego, INGER, then went into full blown upper respir infection. Took about 36 hours to get better, then Judy Montalto went down, same stuff, now it's Susan. Word has it one of our favorite waiters is down and hiding in his cabin. There are some other people coughing and hacking and sneezing and I'd love to trace this virus!! Wonder how UK is doing.
Yesterday afternoon when everyone got back on the ship from wherever they went, the staff put on a neat Mexican "ballet" in the afternoon, followed by a Mexican buffet by the pool, followed by music, etc. Was real nice, and the performers did a great job. Montalto's and Susan and I walked off the boat and across the street to check out a small star shaped early fort and museum, kind of a Saint Augustine in Fla smaller version, but really interesting. Didn't know there was so much trade between Spanish Mexico and China via the Phillipines even 400 years ago!
We are enjoying each other's company, getting some weight lifting done not only in the gym but also at every ice cream station and dining table. The weather is starting to get warmer and the humidity is definitely rising! The sea in the port is crystal clear. I'm taking pics but don't really know how to post them on this thing so we'll have to wait to share.
Hope all is well in AZ and around the country! Rumor has it from here that the temp dropped to 17 below zero in Nutrioso! True??
We see where U of A beat Stanford, that kind of news always good. Today it's Cal I guess.
Well, got to go: Love to All, and I know we have a birthday girl coming up...few days. Mom and Dad will have to give her a hug for us, this time.
Thinking of you all, Love, DAD, UR.
Today we are in a beautiful little cove in Huatuclco, still Mexico. It's a far cry from busy Alcupulco (never spelled the same way twice..)We get off the ship and can walk to a little town and nice beach.
The food on this ship is crazy good, with wide variations. I'm porking out. The last couple of days I've been feeling well enough to hit the gym/work out room and so it's been better. Speaking of feeling well enough, getting a good lesson in epidemiology INGER. I started getting the scratchy throat on Sunday in San Diego, INGER, then went into full blown upper respir infection. Took about 36 hours to get better, then Judy Montalto went down, same stuff, now it's Susan. Word has it one of our favorite waiters is down and hiding in his cabin. There are some other people coughing and hacking and sneezing and I'd love to trace this virus!! Wonder how UK is doing.
Yesterday afternoon when everyone got back on the ship from wherever they went, the staff put on a neat Mexican "ballet" in the afternoon, followed by a Mexican buffet by the pool, followed by music, etc. Was real nice, and the performers did a great job. Montalto's and Susan and I walked off the boat and across the street to check out a small star shaped early fort and museum, kind of a Saint Augustine in Fla smaller version, but really interesting. Didn't know there was so much trade between Spanish Mexico and China via the Phillipines even 400 years ago!
We are enjoying each other's company, getting some weight lifting done not only in the gym but also at every ice cream station and dining table. The weather is starting to get warmer and the humidity is definitely rising! The sea in the port is crystal clear. I'm taking pics but don't really know how to post them on this thing so we'll have to wait to share.
Hope all is well in AZ and around the country! Rumor has it from here that the temp dropped to 17 below zero in Nutrioso! True??
We see where U of A beat Stanford, that kind of news always good. Today it's Cal I guess.
Well, got to go: Love to All, and I know we have a birthday girl coming up...few days. Mom and Dad will have to give her a hug for us, this time.
Thinking of you all, Love, DAD, UR.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Day 4, Mazatlan
Good; yesterday we Did see whale or two spouting, way off in the distance. Was still a cool thing to see. The porpoises were much closer!
For dinner last night we had the usual sumptuous fare, that of a small filet with lobster tail, etc etc. This is a Really Nice ship...!
Sailed into Mazatlan this morning. The dock area is rather dreary actually, and the 6 of us took a taxi to the old town, had a nice lunch, a short walk around some real pretty neighborhoods and an old square dating back to 1841, and then taxi'd it back to the ship. We had lunch where the Richard Burton's and the E. Taylor's and the J Wayne's used to back in the days..time marches on. The little bay is pretty, reminds me of the bay in Rocky Point. We didn't get to go up to the "new" area where the big hotels are.
Came back to the room and found a notice where they had changed the itinerary so that now we get to Cartegena on Fri afternoon, leaving about Mid-night. Wer'e hoping that won't preclude a nice visit with Mark! Wish they'd just skip Aculpuerco (sp??);
Having a nice trip, relaxing, good food and company. Thinking of you all,hope all is well. Love, Dad/UR
For dinner last night we had the usual sumptuous fare, that of a small filet with lobster tail, etc etc. This is a Really Nice ship...!
Sailed into Mazatlan this morning. The dock area is rather dreary actually, and the 6 of us took a taxi to the old town, had a nice lunch, a short walk around some real pretty neighborhoods and an old square dating back to 1841, and then taxi'd it back to the ship. We had lunch where the Richard Burton's and the E. Taylor's and the J Wayne's used to back in the days..time marches on. The little bay is pretty, reminds me of the bay in Rocky Point. We didn't get to go up to the "new" area where the big hotels are.
Came back to the room and found a notice where they had changed the itinerary so that now we get to Cartegena on Fri afternoon, leaving about Mid-night. Wer'e hoping that won't preclude a nice visit with Mark! Wish they'd just skip Aculpuerco (sp??);
Having a nice trip, relaxing, good food and company. Thinking of you all,hope all is well. Love, Dad/UR
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Travel, Panama Cruise..
Hello Everyone,
We are now in Day 3, still at sea, rounding Cabo San Lucas that is clearly visible in the distance to the left. The seas are wonderfully quiet and the skies are clear, though it's a little cool outside. Have by now explored the ship and it is very nice and I think we like the smallness. The food is great.
We don't land until tomorrow sometime, in Matzatlan; we've seen a couple hundred of dolphins but no whales yet. We have our hopes up though since they saw lots of them on their recent trip back up the coast to San Diego.
OOPS; now just got a notice we DO have whales off the starboard side! Got to go.....Love to all, Dad/UR
Sunday, January 30, 2011
San Diego
Good-bye USA! See you in 4000 miles or so! The little ship is wood
paneled, kind of old-fashioned, and lovely. Here we go!
paneled, kind of old-fashioned, and lovely. Here we go!
Panama Canal Cruse, Day 1
OK : we are still in Tucson, but I'm pretty sure this is the day we leave. horses are trailered, dog outsourced,lights are shut down, we're a little overdue for headin' out of town. My apologies to Foster and Lloyd.
First stop San Diego, and Ken is supposed to meet us if he can get over the giddiness of KU finally winning a home basket ball game...over KSU. At least the fighting U of A Wildcats took care of business vs the LA Basin schools: sorry Kristin but not really too awful sorry.
I'll be in touch; meeting the Chipman's and Montalto's and away we go for a big adventure to Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Columbia, Miami, then home.
ps: Cell phone is suppposed to work via some magic on ship; But it's outrageously expensive so just use email unless emergency. Use the gmail address, I'll get it sooner. The ship is Azamara Journey and I should be able to check emails in case of emerg..I even think you can get a ship phone # if you go to the web site, www.azamaracruises.com. I just don' have it now.
Love to All, Dad/UR. See you soon Mark!
First stop San Diego, and Ken is supposed to meet us if he can get over the giddiness of KU finally winning a home basket ball game...over KSU. At least the fighting U of A Wildcats took care of business vs the LA Basin schools: sorry Kristin but not really too awful sorry.
I'll be in touch; meeting the Chipman's and Montalto's and away we go for a big adventure to Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Columbia, Miami, then home.
ps: Cell phone is suppposed to work via some magic on ship; But it's outrageously expensive so just use email unless emergency. Use the gmail address, I'll get it sooner. The ship is Azamara Journey and I should be able to check emails in case of emerg..I even think you can get a ship phone # if you go to the web site, www.azamaracruises.com. I just don' have it now.
Love to All, Dad/UR. See you soon Mark!
Friday, January 28, 2011
Life at Elk Ridge
Back in Tucson; a real nice but always kind of poignant trip back to Mom. Her memory is getting shorter and shorter, really poor at night. Still, had some nice drives with her, lunch out (at Annie's), and breakfasts together at B.P. Was so fun to have Inger with; thanks for all your help with her. We got to see the Symmonds and spent a couple of nights with Jim and Mary Shepherd. Augusta looks great and Judy came up from Wichita.
That Allegiant Air sure does nickel and dime a person but all in all it's a good way to travel...now we are packing for our biggie: The Canal!
So, stay tuned...Love to all, Dad
ps: Kristin & Doug; I only have 10 addresses I can use on the auto send for the blog. Your dad, Jayhawker that he is, did not make the cut. Feel free to send these along however. Mark : *** See you Soon *** Hey, can we see a real drug lord?
That Allegiant Air sure does nickel and dime a person but all in all it's a good way to travel...now we are packing for our biggie: The Canal!
So, stay tuned...Love to all, Dad
ps: Kristin & Doug; I only have 10 addresses I can use on the auto send for the blog. Your dad, Jayhawker that he is, did not make the cut. Feel free to send these along however. Mark : *** See you Soon *** Hey, can we see a real drug lord?
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Kansas visit
OK! Up @ 4 am, met a coughing and sneezing Inger @ airport in Mesa,
and up and away. Not much snow over the Rockies it seems; remembering
the flights I used to make with the Bonanza! Looks different from way
up here and here's hoping someday I can re-visit that. It's 22 degrees
here we a 25 knot wind. Roads are clear though!
and up and away. Not much snow over the Rockies it seems; remembering
the flights I used to make with the Bonanza! Looks different from way
up here and here's hoping someday I can re-visit that. It's 22 degrees
here we a 25 knot wind. Roads are clear though!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Mark M
Howdy: Everyone welcome Mark to the blog stream. Be nice to him; I'm hoping he will find time to show us around Cartegena next month!
Hope all is well around the country! Love DAD/UR
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Home from the ranch
Now back in Tucson from just a couple days @ the ranch. Weather was
freezing the first day and Both nights, and w a nice (as opposed to
frank blizzard) snow fall of only a couple of inches. Was introduced
to the latest little addition to our cattle empire, cute little Active
bull calf. Pictures on request..Barn cat is fine, All seems to be good
in the mountains. home safe. Love, Dad
freezing the first day and Both nights, and w a nice (as opposed to
frank blizzard) snow fall of only a couple of inches. Was introduced
to the latest little addition to our cattle empire, cute little Active
bull calf. Pictures on request..Barn cat is fine, All seems to be good
in the mountains. home safe. Love, Dad
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Ranch
Good morning! What a beautiful dawn in Tucson!
Heading up to the ranch, taking Bill Derrick with me, to check out
the new calf, pay some bills, re-stock the barn with "stuff", and just
to see some country! Horses are fed and scooped, dog in the back of
the pick-up, and away we go! Hope all is well around the country!
Heading up to the ranch, taking Bill Derrick with me, to check out
the new calf, pay some bills, re-stock the barn with "stuff", and just
to see some country! Horses are fed and scooped, dog in the back of
the pick-up, and away we go! Hope all is well around the country!
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