Wednesday, May 30, 2007

The get-together at the old Tompkins Truck Stop, at Mile 293 on the Akaska Highway, with some of my ol' buds went very well yesterday. I brought along my camera, but they passed on pictures once they learned that I was going to share them. Actually I don't blame them, what a motley looking crew. Kidding!

It was about 32 years I hauled logs up here, and as always happens, the years just vanished. Of course we were all a lot younger, and a lot more foolish, but oh my, some of the things we talked about.

Things like hauling 18 hours a day all week, servicing the trucks on Saturday, then heading into town for a little R&R. Hit the bar, get into at least 2 fights, get kicked out, go for Chinese food, then back to the bunkhouse. Sunday morning was spent "healing", surveying the damage, and remarking how much we all looked like raccoons. Then 3 am Monday, do it all over again. Ah, the good ol' days, but truthfully sometimes I wonder how I survived.

Spent another night behind my favoritest hotel in the whole wide woild, hint hint, and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the name. Here is their website, and although I'm sure that they don't need a plug from me, I just wanted to share with you how great they treated me. In reading their brochure I noticed they have a Romance Suite, and when I asked about their Romance Package, I was told not to push my luck. Hey, you can't blame me for trying!

While walking around town yesterday I found this little toy that I think would look great on a small trailer behind the Bear. So if any of you have some loose change kicking around your stamp drawer, I'd be happy to help you get rid of it. How much loose change you ask, oh, with the trailer and taxes, about $21,000. Of course being made by pull-your-ass (Polaris) it's quality, as can be seen by the wheels and honkin' dual exhaust.

Speaking of honkin', I had a chance to weigh the Bear at the Government Weigh Scale before I left the Ft. St. John area. YIKES! With holding tanks empty, water tank 1/3, gas tank 7/8, and propane tank 7/8, this beast weighs 15,216 lbs. No wonder that 454 Heavy Chevy is thirsty! Of course I'm packing enough stuff to last me the summer, other than fresh, but still that's a lot of weight for a gas engine on some of these hills.

I'm going to top everything up this morning, pick up some fresh fruit etc, and head out about 9 am. I'm only going to go about 40 miles today, and camp on top of Steamboat Mountain. Hopefully I'll get some great pictures up there to post next time I'm online, which could be on Thursday at Toad River, Mi 422. That's the place I locked the keys in the trunk 2 years ago when I came up in the car. If not there, for sure when I get to the Yukon, which might not be until Saturday.

Thanks for listening, wish me luck,

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:17 AM

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Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Boy, you've got to be made of pretty hearty stock to RV up in this country at this time of the year. Not that many hours ago it got up to over 80F in here, and I had both A/Cs running because I'm plugged in, to now sitting here with the furnace blasting because it's barely above freezing outside (35F). They're predicting nice weather for the next few days, so once I get past the morning frost things will be fine.

I made a couple of calls yesterday and located some drivers I know, so we're going to meet at the local truck-em-up this morning and grind some gears. The stories should flow today, never missed a shift, always had a big payload on, and was never late. Yeah right!

Had a little excitement here late last night. 2 of the young local native lads decided they were going to steal the bike off the back of the Bear. They were so busy trying to get it off (not going to happen) that they didn't hear me slip out the driver's door, sneak down the side, and come around the back with a 1,000,000 candle-power light in one hand, and a 3-foot wooden attitude-adjuster, with added enhancements embedded in the tip, in the other. The light froze them, and when I took a swipe at them with the stick, they decided that was enough and high-tailed it. Just as well, because I didn't want to tussle with them, but the element of surprise was on my side.

Well, the sun is up, but there's nobody up yet to play with, so I guess I'll put another pot on and maybe make a little brekky. Those late-night escapades build up an appetite. heh heh

Take care of yourselves, and I'll see ya later.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:32 AM

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Monday, May 28, 2007

Just a quick note to let you know all is well. I'm parked on the street in front of a tres fancy (at least for here) hotel in Fort Nelson B.C., and sort of poaching their Wi-Fi. I've looked at 2 RV parks here and passed on them, so if they don't come out and chase me off with a big stick, I'll fire up the generator and post a bit more later.

For now though, here are some shots of Bear Flats where I stayed for 5 days. If the weather hadn't turned nasty I would have stayed longer, but decided this morning to head North. I could easily have spent the summer there, what a peaceful place.





Sorry for being a bit dis-jointed, but I'll talk more later.

UPDATE:

I didn't feel real good about sneaking on to their wireless, so after posting the above I went in and told the desk manager what I had done, and jokingly begged forgiveness, or at least another chance. The guy actually had a sense of ha-ha, and for my punishment he told me to get the h*ll off the street, park around back on their lot, and plug in!

So here I sit, almost in shock. I guess it's true, a little honesty truly does go a long way. Hear that Cdee, all those prayers have paid off! heh heh

Okay, lets get into some serious natterin'. I'm 2 1/2 weeks out, approx 1000 miles up the road, and things couldn't be going better. The Bear is running like a champion, I'm feeling like a new man, (don't take that literally, I still like girls) and I've still got the whole summer ahead of me.

Ralph and Eleanor came out to Bear Flats on Saturday to visit, and said that I looked like I had settled in for the summer. That was awfully close to being the truth, because the owner and I had talked about my staying on as caretaker. She said that I could use a pick-up one day a week to go to town for groceries etc, but as tempting as that was, the trip to Dawson, and the sharing of it, was more important to me. I was also offered a job at Happy Trails in Prince George (furnace) delivering RVs, but heck I had just started out. With the thirst of the Bear, and the price of gas, I might have to take one of those jobs, but so far I'm managing to keep the needle off E.

When I started out this morning it was windy, raining, and +1C. Right now, 3:45 pm, it's sunny, calm, and +27C. In fact it's so warm in here I'm sitting in my ahems, now aren't you glad I shared that?

I'm glad I dumped my holding tanks this morning, because I'm about to get into one of my favorite foods, fresh cherries. I've got 2 lbs of them chilling in the fridge, and in a few minutes I'm going into that bag elbow deep. Just be glad that you're not here for that performance, the ol' dude sitting in his shorts scarfin' cherries. heh heh Damn, I'm havin' a blast!

Hope you're all well. Not sure of tomorrow, might hang around town for a day or so, there are a lot of memories for me here. At any rate, I'll stick something up before I leave, if I don't flush myself down the "facility" from these cherries.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:18 PM

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Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Well, in a few hours I'll have my final cup o' joe with Ralphy and Eleanor, at least for this visit. While I'm looking forward to the next stage of my trip, I'm almost sad to leave, because the 6 days I've spent here have been so restful and therapeutic for me. But, not only have I re-charged my batteries so to speak, the road ahead is crystal clear. All of this simply from being with true friends who have re-affirmed to me who I was, who I am, and who I'm going to be.

As soon as they leave for work I'm going to batten down the hatches, fill my water tank, go and dump my holding tanks, hit Safeway for some fresh foods, top up the propane tank, and head for the Bear Flats campground. The weather is supposed to be good through the weekend, so I'll probably stay there at least that long. It didn't look too promising yesterday, we got another dump of snow with high winds, but other than being cold, it's looking okay for today.

Now for those pictures. None of us really care for the camera, but since we're not auditioning for anything, what you see is what you get. The one picture I did want to get, of my little helper, I couldn't because they were out last evening.

Here is Ralph and Eleanor.


Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.


The Beauty and the Beast.


Their dog Brew, who I'm going to miss lying by my feet.


And just another one of moi, dressed for the occasion, sweat-pants and slippers.

Not only have I enjoyed my time here, I've also enjoyed being able to share. I'm guessing that the next time I'll be able to get online will be when I hit Fort Nelson, not that far in miles, but it could be a week or more in time. Until then, know that I appreciate the camaraderie here, and look forward to being able to share my time at Bear Flats with pictures, and some good ol' natterin'.

Since I won't be around to keep an eye on Pretzelnut Retard McStupitude, I've asked the Big Fella to slap him when He feels the need. Seems I was right, the boy do need a slappin'.

Take care guys, and I'll see ya when I can.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:02 AM

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Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Hard to believe that I've been here 5 days already, with only one more to go before I move on. I guess it's true that time flies when you're having fun, because I've been places where 5 hours seemed like forever. I really haven't been doing any "fun" things, whatever they are, but basically just re-connecting.

I sometimes sit here in the Bear, taking in my surroundings, and marvel that I made it, and that my dream has just begun. It was a long, and sometimes rocky road, but none of that matters now, it's truly onward and upward. That might seem a bit hammy, but believe me, when you've been down so low that you are basically written off, the sentiment barely covers how I feel.

Today I'm going to call the folks over at Happy Trails RV in Prince George, where I had the furnace repaired, and get their opinion on my installing a solar panel. I was looking at one yesterday, and almost bought it, but just want to check with people who proved to me that they have my best interest at heart.

Although I have new deep-cycle coach batteries, and a 5KW generator, I am determined that no matter the situation, I'll be so self-sufficient that I'll be able to "rough it smoothly". If I get caught in a freak storm for a few days, and it does happen up here, I want to be so well-equipped that I can ride it out without worry. Also, because I have so much storage space underneath, and even though it's more weight for the Bear to pack, I'm going to carry along a good supply of firewood. So, with the amount of food, water, and fuel I carry (both gas and propane), I should be in good shape.

Another thing I'm "carrying" along on this odyssey, that makes it so special for me, is you guys. Last summer you proved to me that, just like the folks at Happy Trails, you have my best interests at heart. I might be travelling alone, but I'm far from being alone, and that, dear friends, warms the cockles o' me heart.

I don't know when the transition from being an extremely hard-assed individual to one that gets the warm fuzzies began, but one thing I do know is that you guys are a big part of it. Okay, lets move along, but first a big ol' group hug.

I'll get some pictures of myself and my hosts, Ralph and Eleanor, today, and post them tomorrow before I leave. Sadly, once underway, it will probably be a week or more before I get back online. Since Judles, bless her heart, has volunteered to be a surrogate poster for me, I'll try to keep in touch that way.

Take care of yourselves guys, and I'll see ya tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:31 AM

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Monday, May 21, 2007

After the great day I had yesterday touring around with Ralphy I might have a slight change of plans because of something he showed me. I'm still leaving where I'm parked now on Wednesday morning, but instead of heading north I might head just a few miles west.

What happened was that as we headed towards Hudson Hope, talking about all the loads we had hauled in on that road, we got to Bear Flats and he said I want to show you a campground I think you'll like. Like?, hell, I fell in love with it.

The place is laid out like a park in the trees overlooking the Peace River, is very big, and is run on the honor system. In other words, go in, and either drive or walk around, find the spot you like, set yourself up, then go to the little unmanned "office", fill out the registration card, put it and your money ($12/day) in the slot, and you're home.

I've already got my spot picked out, found the firewood ($3/wheelbarrow load), found the phone, laundromat, etc., so everything now depends upon the weather. If it is anywhere near sensible I'm going out there for at least a few days, and maybe as much as a week. If it happens I'll take lots of pictures, and post them when I can.

Truth is I wasn't ready to go driving yet, I'm just now getting into the camping mood. Besides, I've got all summer so what's the rush? I know it's far too early to get serious about it, but in the short time I've been out here I'm already thinking about doing this full-time. If my health holds up, and Bear doesn't blow up, stranger things could happen.

As for my health, there has been a marked improvement already, in fact I can't believe how much I can get done in a day now compared to just a few short months ago. I haven't taken the bike off the back yet, but if I go out to the campground, you can bet it's going to get used.

There is one other thing to report that I hope you haremettes will understand. I have met a young lady that has captured my heart, and I have fallen completely in love. With her being 3 years old there is a slight age difference, but it's real. I think I'd better explain, fast! heh heh

I was outside fussin' with the Bear when the neighbor's little girl came over with a dandelion and a 5-cent coupon from a local retail store for me. The look on her face, and her little voice, was just the sweetest thing. Of course I thanked her, and as we were talking I shortened the stem on the dandelion, put it behind her ear, and told her to go show her Mommy the pretty flower. She told me that her Mommy was sleeping and asked if she could help me, so I gave her a little rag with some polish on it, and we sat on the grass happily "working" away.

I should point out that I have met the parents, they are quite comfortable with me, and in fact she was being watched by her Dad the whole time. But again, it was just so sweet.

So there you have it, another positive post from a man who is where he belongs, and is able to share his feelings with people he cares for. In the final analysis, isn't that what it's all about?

As always, take care of yourselves, and I'll see you tomorrow. Oh, and behave! Or not.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:38 AM

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Sunday, May 20, 2007

Truckers from all over would jockey for loads there just to catch her act, especially the finale, Dudettes Dance of the Seven Veils. Ah the mammeries, er, memories.

Besides that little bit of frivolity, damn little!, I'm happy to report that another great day was had by me here at my bud's, although I thought that I was going to have company in the Bear last night after his little faux pas.

Since Ralphy and Eleanor both work, I decided that I would busy myself with the few chores I wanted to get done here in the Bear, and let them sleep in and get some much-needed rest. At about 10:30 I was nicely finishing up when Ralphy came out and asked me in for coffee. After a relaxing visit, we made our plans for the day. Eleanor had a few things to do, including getting her hair done, so he and I went and did a little shopping and just goofed around.

We met up later in the day at Wal-Mart where I was picking up a few things for the Bear, and Eleanor, looking mighty fine in her new do, asked if we were ready to go for lunch. Just as I was about to say, good idea, Ralphy, bless his heart, came out with, did you get your hair done yet? OUCH!

Have you ever wished you were somewhere else? heh heh She just laughed, in fact we all had a good laugh, but Ralphy, how could you?

But then later I goofed up too. After spending a couple of hours with him going over the Bear, and because she had been cooking dinner every night, I decided to give her a break and have dinner in the Bear by myself. Problem was I didn't tell them, all I said was, well Ralphy, I'm going "home", I'll see you later. You bet Robert!

So in I go, clean up, make a little dinner, and was just relaxing when Ralphy came out and said, "dinner is ready". OOPS!

When I went in and told her what I'd done, she just laughed and said, sit down and eat. Let's just say I went to bed well fed last night! She had set out roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, etc., and I had just eaten!

What else could I do but try and be a good guest and show my appreciation by cleaning my plate. Even the second one. Damn that was good! Almost needed help getting out of the chair.

So all in all, another great day with my buds. Everyone should have friends like this that absolutely make you feel at home, and I'm sure that a lot of you do.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and I'll see you tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:53 AM

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Saturday, May 19, 2007

Well, the sleep gods must have got tired of my whining, because boy!, did I put a shift in last night. After another wonderful dinner and visit with Ralphy and Eleanor, I turned in at 9:30 and didn't stir until 5 this morning. Even then I probably would have stayed under the covers but I was afraid the dam was going to burst. Sure didn't have any trouble getting things started, but was afraid I'd never get it shut off. Damn, that performance would have done a camel proud!

Yesterday I mentioned that we had a bit of snow, and lest you think I was maybe exaggerating, here is what it looked like at daybreak. Keep in mind that when I turned in there was nothing but green grass out there.

These are the steps on the Bear. I had to be careful getting out so that I didn't fall and go boom.

Underneath this is Eleanor's car. By the time I swept this, Ralphy's come-and-pick-me-up truck, the Jeep, and the Bear, you bet I was ready for a big ol' bowl of gruel (oatmeal). Felt great!




Oops, how did that get in here? Close your mouth you ol' fool, or at least put your teeth in. And you could have cleaned the snow off your shoulders before you came in, sheesh! With that plate in the background behind my head it looks like Im wearing one of those Yamahas, heh heh. That's Ralphy's Winnebago Vectra in the back yard through the window. Beautiful machine!


This morning the snow is pretty well all gone, and it's raining like a cow peeing on a flat rock. Now there's a turn of phrase for you, damn I'm in a goofy mood today. The temperature is sitting at 38F, so no more worries about frozen water lines. It's supposed to rain hard all day, turn to cloudy tomorrow, then get real nice beginning on Monday. I've got enough things planned to get me through until Wednesday, then I'll probably head on up the Alaska Highway. Slowly! I probably won't hit Dawson City until the end of next month.

The inability to do much outside today doesn't bother me, because I have lots to do in here. Things like install a fluorescent light over the kitchen sinks, a venetian blind over the main door window, a Purex water filter for the drinking water thingy by the sink, and I'm sure I'll find more things to fuss with in here.

As soon as it dries up outside, I'm going under the beast and change the O2 sensor in the exhaust system in an effort to improve the gas mileage. The engine runs great, but boy!, it sure do suck up the gas. At $5.81 a gallon up here, and going higher, 8 miles to the gallon is just not cutting it. I'm probably packing too much weight, but still....

There you have it guys, another chapter in, as Big Dave puts it, Where in the Northwest is Trucker Bob, what's he doing, and who cares.

Take care, and I'll see ya tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 5:24 AM

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Friday, May 18, 2007

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Here I am on what should be a most relaxing trip, and I'm up at 2 AM looking around for something to do. I didn't think that it would happen instantly, but I had hoped that my internal clock would re-set to a more normal schedule. Oh well, I did get my usual 4 hours of sleep last night, and I do feel fine.

Had a wonderful dinner and visit with Ralph and Eleanor last evening, and am looking forward to spending more time with them on the weekend. I think I wore them out with questions about the RV lifestyle because, like anything else, it is a learning experience. She was able to give me lot's of pointers on looking after things on the inside, while he and I discussed the mechanical end of things. Since they have had motor-homes for years, you can bet I listen to, and appreciate, their advice.

I'm sure glad I got the furnace fixed when I did because I'm sitting here looking out at about 3 inches of snow so far last night, and it's still snowing. As soon as daylight breaks I'll take a few pics and post them later. The outside temp is not all that bad, 0C, but inside it's nice and warm. I mention the temp because if it drops much further I'll have to keep an eye on my water hose hooked up to their house. I'm also plugged in electrically and am on their wireless network. I'm spoiled I tell you, spoiled!

Holy smokes, look at the size of those snowflakes! This is so neat, sitting here in the Bear as snug as a bug in a rug, nattering away with my blog family. Although it's awfully early, you might as well hand me a Bud Lite, because it ain't going to get any better than this.

Here's a couple more pics of the great wood carvings in Chetwynd B.C. It was almost 2 years ago when I put the last ones up on my way to Alaska in the car. What a wonderful feeling it is to have kept Timmy at bay and be back here in the Bear. I give thanks everyday.

Ralph is letting me use his neat little Jeep TJ today, and for while I am here, so I've got lot's of visiting with my ol' log haulin' buddies lined up. Sat out at the truck stop yesterday with a couple of them and all the years vanished. Although it's been 22 years, it was like we had just stopped to fill our mugs, shoot the breeze a bit, and head out to the bush for another load. The wonderful thing is my trip is just beginning. All the way up the Alaska Highway I've got similar visits with ol' truckin' buddies to look forward to. Are you starting to get what I meant about the peace and serenity I feel up in this country?

Since I'm online while I'm here you can look forward(?) to lot's more nattering. What a treat it is for me to be here, yet still able to connect with you all. Take care of yourselves, and I'll see you later.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:48 AM

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Thursday, May 17, 2007

Hi guys. Well, here I am, safe and sound at the home of my bud Ralphy in Ft. St. John B.C. I was just thinking that I used to make it up here with a load in 16 hours, but it took me 7 days in the Bear. Think I'm getting the hang of this RVing.

The drive up was great, weatherwise, although a bit cool at night. I mention that because on the second night the furnace quit, at -3C, but no biggie really because I still had the propane stove, plus a little electric space heater I bought for such an occurence. Since I was firing up the generator to make a pot of coffee anyway, it was easy to warm it up enough in here to get comfortable.

Had the entire furnace removed in Prince George, found the problem, burnt out motor, waited for parts, and on the 5th day we had heat. It was not a problem for me at all since I have nothing but time, and when you think of it, better to go where help is available than up in the boonies. The absolute silver lining in that little cloud was that everything was done on warranty, not a penny from me. I've told you how great the dealer treated me, well, the people who did the work, Happy Trails RV, were equally as great. Thanks Paul and John!

Here's just a couple of shots of the Bear getting ready to run up through the Fraser Canyon. As you can tell the by the color of the water, spring run-off of the snow in the mountains has started.




Well guys, I just wanted to check in and let you know that all is well. Ralphy and his wife Eleanor just got home from work, and since I'm parked at their place I'd better be a good guest and visit a while. I plan to stay here for at least a few days, so I'll get caught up on comments, some pictures, etc.

See you tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:47 PM

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Friday, May 11, 2007

Well guys, the big day is finally here. There are so many thoughts going through my head right now, all of them good, but I won't bore you with them. Ah hell, you're used to my nattering.

When I trucked the Alaska Highway years ago I dreamt of one day being able to go back up there and re-connect with the feeling of peace and serenity I get in that country. When I made the trip in '05 to Alaska in the car I knew I had to go back and fulfill my dream. After a few set-backs, lots of encouragement from family and friends like you, it's finally happening.

Now to the important stuff. You all know the lady I refer to as my Little Babushka, Jude, and like the friend she is, she has volunteered to be my contact with you when I can't get online. In fact she has already started by putting up the map below. Just to give you some proportion , the distance between the green peg and the red peg is approx 2000 miles.

Our plan is to keep in touch by phone, and she'll pass on where I am and how it's going. Her sister even came up with a way for her to post DVs from me on her site, or mine. In this day and age, when we all have to be careful, for her to do this for me is an example of what I mean about being proud to belong to this blog family.

Don't go to her place just to check on me, because her site is absolutely worth the visit, but until we sort things out, that's where you'll find me.

Excuse me for not replying to yesterday's comments, but I'm busier than a one-armed paper hanger with the (don't you dare say that!)

Wish me luck guys, and please take care of each other, because you're all important to me.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:43 AM

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Thursday, May 10, 2007

Hey folks, Bob's latest post is below this, just ignore mine as it's only a test.



Hippie Chick Jude

Trucker Bob blogged at 1:41 PM

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While I suppose that I'm going to fade to black for a while, I don't think it should be taken literally. Where the heck is the normal background color on here? I could mess around with the template, but would probably only make it worse. Oh well, can you hear me now? heh heh

I'll stick up a final wish me luck post tomorrow, but today I just want to say, without getting too maudlin, how much I appreciate being a part of this blog family. I can't count the times when I've felt like chucking it all, but time and again you've made me feel, by your comments, that I would be the loser.

The support and encouragement I get here has been so helpful that I hope to never lose it. The good-natured back and forth teasing with some of you is just icing on the cake. I'm sure that we all, at one time or another, think of what we'd do if we won the lottery. Well, with me it would be a no-brainer, I'd have the biggest damn get-together you could imagine. Hmmm, I wonder if I should buy a ticket.

Because of the way you treated me last summer on my trip to Newfoundland, I so much want to post pictures, DVs, and talk about my experiences on this trip, and promise you that one way or another I'll get online every chance I get. I realize that as someone said to me, this trip is for me, but you know how I like to share. Especially with people I care about.

Other than picking up my prescription, a final load of laundry, and a few little things, I'm set to go. My bud Sarge, the RCMP officer, is going to drive me over to the Bear early tomorrow morning so I guess everything is finally done.

See ya in the morning with a final farewell.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:05 AM

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Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Well, in a little more than 48 hours, the Good Lord willing and the harness holds, I'll be just a bad memory. It seemed that I had forever to get the Bear ready but the last couple of days have been hectic with last minute items. I'm pretty well going to have to leave, because other than furniture, just about every thing I own is in the darn thing. I've always over-packed but this is ridiculous, still I will have most of the comforts of home with me.

Today I'll pay all my utilities, cable, internet, etc. well ahead so that Boop doesn't have to worry about any bills coming in. Although the car is reasonably safe in the underground parking, I'll remove the plates, the registration, and a battery cable so that it will be less attractive to anyone noticing it hasn't moved in a while. Also my bud the retired RCMP sergeant that parks beside me is going to keep an eye on it.

Although I'm looking forward to, and hoping for, a good summer, it's funny how what I sometimes felt was a rut is really a comfort zone. Familiar surroundings, the ability to get on here and natter a bit, wander over to the mall, and things of that nature. But because I am comfortable on the road it won't be long and I'll be back in a zone that I'm familiar with.

The only thing left to do health-wise is to pick up my "head-med" prescription at the Cancer Clinic tomorrow. Since they give it to me in 12-week increments, I asked and they agreed, for 2 refills in case I'm not back by the time the first ran out. Not really connected, but I put together a pretty good first-aid kit to take along with me.

Before this nattering goes any further, I'll bid you all a good day, and will see you tomorrow with some final thoughts. Take care of yourselves.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:32 AM

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Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Since this will be one of the last regular posts I make for a while with my leaving in a few days, I thought it time for a little farewell Bush-Whackin'.

It's often said that a picture is worth a thousand words, but only two come to mind when I see the look on The Queen's face while she's forced to look at Darth Vader.





While it's easy to slap Chimpy around, and Lord knows he needs it, the truth is that he's nothing but a sock-puppet for this evil, corrupt, sack of dung. And what was the Deciderator doing on the very day this picture was taken?..why, out riding his bike as usual.


By the way Commander Codpiece, where's the package? Or is it that like the rest of your miserable failure of a life, you're hung like a light switch.

When I think of the hundreds of thousands of lives lost, the billions of dollars spent, with no end in sight, it seems that a little bit of juvenile humor is the only thing that keeps me from screaming. A box of rocks would be more qualified to be the leader of the free world, but Cheney et al knew that with him in place, thanks to two stolen elections, they would be able to bring their plans for a New World Order to bear.

History will tell us of how corrupt this whole period has been, but in the meantime the slaughter continues. With the "war" being basically financed with the massive trade deficit with China, the alienation from the rest of the world, and the stubborn reluctance of Chimpy to admit that once again he's failed, I'm not sure of how long it will take for America, and the rest of us, to recover from this. But one thing I am sure of, someone, anyone, has got to step up and somehow put an end to the insanity.

Okay, let's lighten the hell up. What do you think of my new coat hanger? Hey, c'mon, it is a bear.



Well, there you have it guys, little soap-boxing, little truth, and a little humor (damn little!). At least my heart is in the right place.

See ya tomorrow, and yes it's looking like a Friday blast-off.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:20 AM

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Monday, May 07, 2007

Well, let's try this again. Saturday I licensed and insured the Bear for a year, and was pleasantly surprised at the cost. In fact it was just a bit more than I pay for the car for full coverage. Also, since my BCAA Plus was up for renewal on the car I added the Bear with an RV Plus policy, so now with that and the road assistance policy the dealer gave me I'm well covered for any emergency.

Of course with the new plates I had to take it out for a run, mainly to see how things were going to ride the way I had them in there. Other than re-arranging the cupboards a bit, the only thing I had to do was adjust the latch on the bathroom door because I had too many heavy towels hanging on it. The only other thing I have to do is distribute the weight evenly in the storage compartments because I have a poop-load of gear, tools, spare parts, bottled water, canned food, etc.

I'm still on for leaving next Monday, but if the weather is as nice as they're predicting for the weekend, I might leave a couple of days early. Conversely if the weather is lousy I'll hang back a day or two. At any rate it's just a matter of days until I saddle up and ride.

Since I still don't have a L'il Bear, Boop bought me this little bear.


I think I've finally figured out how to get stuff, tell them you're leaving and they're so glad to see you go they buy you things. Hmmm, I wonder if this will work.....hey guys I'm leaving soon.

Hope you all have a good week, and I'll probably see ya tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:36 AM

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Sunday, May 06, 2007

L'il Bear and I banged out a post, using the time-honored one-fingered hunt and peck method, only to have it disappear just as I was about to hit Publish. We had a momentary power outage that has caused the server to act up for the past few hours, and me to get into some industrial strength cussin'. A shame really, because it was definitely Pulitzer Prize material. As if!

I'm hesitant to type it out again, but I did want to check in, so I'll just wish you all a good day.

Trucker Bob blogged at 6:53 AM

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Saturday, May 05, 2007

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:35 AM

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Friday, May 04, 2007

Suspicions confirmed. Our weather turned for the better here yesterday, and sure enough, the arm and shoulder are almost normal this morning. Whoulda thunk! Plus, the butt-whuppin' from the "head meds" wasn't all that bad. I did go over to the Bear's lair yesterday but after a couple of hours I gave up and came home to let it run it's course. With the weekend looking good I should be able to finish up all the little things so that next week I can start planning an itinerary.

Here are a few just goofing around pictures. This first one is of the nice kitchen waste basket that Boop bought for the Bear. Sorry about the reflection of the flash on the wall, guess I shined it up too much. An example of Boop's humor came when she told me that every time I took the garbage out I could think of her. Good one Boop!


This one of course is Garf dressed for the occassion. Since I ran out of pillow cases I should have just taken that center one out, but an interior designer I'm not.


Don't ask why I put this one of the shower up, just chalk it up to more goofing around.


Well, there you have it, today's version of what I've been spending some of my time on. If you made it this far I thank you for stopping by, and wish you a good weekend. It will be the usual here, Chuckles tomorrow, and L'il Bear on Sunday. Later guys.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:21 AM

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Thursday, May 03, 2007

Having once been a co-owner of a boat I can attest that the old saying about it being a hole in the water, surrounded by fibreglass, into which you pour money, is true. I think I can now amend that to include RVs. Although I'm doing it willingly, I'm amazed at the things I can find to spend money on. $45K later and I'm still going, and if I soon don't get out of Dodge, I won't be able to afford to. But it's fun!

I'm glad that I paid my storage site ahead for a year, because with the price of gas here yesterday, $5.80/gal, I might have to spend the summer over there. Sheesh! I'm going to budget for 10 MPG, expect 11, and hope for 12. But at any rate, it's not cheap.

But to be truthful, and put things in perspective, I spent more on motels last summer in 1 month than I'll spend on gas this summer in 4 months. With an 80 gallon tank on the Bear it will be costly to fill up, but depending on what I'm doing, that fill could last a week or two. Whereas last trip it was anywhere from $100 to a high of $279 (only once thankfully) every night. With the Bear being pretty well stocked up with food, except for fresh, it won't be all that bad, but still there is a bit of sticker shock.

Well, there you have it, my whine for the day. Not really, but I didn't have anything else to natter about. Being Thursday it's time for my head pills, so here's hoping they don't kick my butt too hard. Hope not because Bill and I have a little project for today, and I don't want to get too growly. At least not until we get it done (heh heh).

Take care guys, see ya later.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:04 AM

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Wednesday, May 02, 2007

Just like clockwork the rains returned yesterday, so I didn't even bother going over to fuss some more with the Bear. Instead I spent the day getting my clothes ready, an eye exam (no problems), a haircut (a scalping), and a bit of shopping. Since I plan to do a lot of reading on the trip I also picked out enough books to last the summer, nothing heavy, just your basic trashy pocket novels.

One good thing about the rains returning, if there is such a thing, is I've finally realized the correlation between the weather and my shoulder/arm. After the few nice days we had I was ready to go a couple of rounds with Mike Tyson, but this morning I can barely use it. So my plans to head south this winter to a warmer, drier, clime, make more sense than ever. I've always pooh-poohed the idea that people could predict the weather by how their joints felt (don't even go there!), but now I'm not so sure.

They're predicting a nice weekend so I'll just putz around here with the endless little things that need to be done, like, ugh!, housecleaning. Since Boop is going to be keeping an eye on my place while I'm gone, and also spending some quiet time here, I don't want her to think her ex is a slob. It's funny, but no matter what I do in life, Boop is always a part of it, and I wouldn't have it any other way. She is the one person that I completely trust, and it gives me such comfort. Needless to say, but I try to be her shoulder too, and usually succeed.

Take care of yourselves guys.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:44 AM

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Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Although it's awfully early in the day for some bubbly, I think it fitting to toast this, my 500th post on this site. Now if I just had something to say to justify the celebration, but alas it's simply more of the same ol' nattering. Besides, the coffee I'm sipping is more my style.

Got a few more things done yesterday, one of which came close to being disastrous. I was up on a ladder cleaning the ridiculous amount of silicone that the maniac had put around the top marker lights at the front, when I reached too far and the ladder went over. It was more good luck than good management, because there was nothing to grab onto, but I landed on my feet, so no harm done. Dumbass!

My bud Bill, you know, the grouchy one, built me a real nice little cabinet for the cowboy radio (CB) to sit in up on the dash. We gave it 4 coats of varnish, including a process called "floating" (new to me) and it looks great. I'll stick a picture up, if I ever remember to take the camera with me. Double dumbass!

Anyhoo, as I was wiring it up I managed to blow a fuse, which I replaced, but now the AM/FM doesn't work. Triple dumbass!

So today I'll trace that little problem down, no biggie. At least I hope so, because I'm damned if I want to go quadruple.

Things had been going so well I was due for one of those days, besides if not for those little boo-boos, I wouldn't have anything to natter about, which is the point of this whole blog thingy. So there, I do have something to celebrate.

Now, answer a few comments, make a little brekky, clean up, and off to see what kind of trouble I can get into today. Thanks for stopping by.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:32 AM

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