Friday, August 31, 2007

Morning folks. Not much to natter about this morning, except to say that all is well. I did take a drive over to Kamloops yesterday (approx 150 miles return), did a little shopping, and learned that in the short time I've been here in Clinton I've come to appreciate the small-town quality of this place. Hell, we don't even have a traffic light!

Hard to believe that I used to make my way around places like LA, Chicago, etc, with no problems, yet yesterday the traffic in that small city bothered me to the point that I got out of there before I finished what I set out to do. Guess my summer in the Yukon, and now here, has sensitized me to that nonsense, and now I just want peace and quiet.

Not sure what to expect when I head for Quartzsite in about 6 weeks, but if there is too much hustle and bustle, I'll just go park out in the desert. Me and my pet vulture.

When I opened e-mail accounts at both gmail and hotmail I tried to import the address book from IncrediMail, but somehow messed up because everything is gone. I know that there is a transfer wizard in here, and I'll keep putzing with things until I figure it out. Slowly I'll get my new addy to you, and your info back in here.

Have a good weekend. Might try to resurrect Saturday Chuckles, and L'il Bear Sundays, no promises though because the connection is still acting up. See ya later.

Trucker Bob blogged at 4:34 AM

|

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Morning folks. I think I'm going to be able to handle this place plumb fine. First my new bud Chris brought me some delicious smoked trout for dinner last week, then last night Michael, the owner here, invited me down for a big Mexican feed.

I'm used to eating Tex-Mex on the road, and really like it, and the spread he put on last night was as good as any I've eaten. He was actually born in Guadalajara Mexico, and boy can he cook! He loaded up one dish with habanjero peppers and was watching me to see if I could handle them, while I was determined not to let him see how close to tears I was. Of course the only way I could put the fire out was drown it in Corona Extra, but he was impressed. Now that he knows I like the food he said that one day a week he'll cook up a dinner for us. Yup, I can handle this.

Other than that pleasant surprise I didn't do much yesterday except wash the car. In a town full of dusty ol' pick-em-ups I get teased a bit about how clean I keep the car, and the Bear, but I also get a lot of compliments. One fellow offered to buy the car, but that's not going to happen. In the 53 years since I bought my first car, a '33 Dodge, this one is by far the best I've ever owned or driven. 10,032 miles in 29 days last summer, and not a whimper out of it. And although it's got a strong 4.5 litre V-8, that goes like a raped ape, by driving it sensibly I consistently get 28-30 mpg on the highway. Nope, she ain't for sale, at any price.

Another good thing that is happening is that I'm able to sleep more. Whereas before 4 hours was the norm, now 6 or 7 is no problem. Don't think I need to be a nuclear physicist to figure this one out. At this rate I'll soon be almost fit for human consumption, with the key word there being almost. Seriously though, people don't realize that they are trapped in unhealthy situations until they make the move to change said situations. I was always happiest on the road, and I've made the move to return there.

I've typed this drivel out at 3:30 am Thursday, but the connection is broken again so I'm not sure when I can post it. (Oops, almost said when I can get it up.) I'll just leave this window open and publish when I can, because this is too much one-fingered hunt-and-pecking to do over. As well as I'm getting along here in this park this Wi-Fi problem might drive me out. There is another RV park here that has it's own wireless network, that I've talked to, and if I wasn't paid up here until Sept 30th I'd probably move. Since I'll be heading south soon after that anyway I'll stay here, but when I come back in April it will be to the other park.

Of course I might run into a situation that is even better yet somewhere along the trail to cause me to change my plans yet again, but that's the beauty of being completely self-sufficient and independent. At any rate, take care guys, and I'll see ya when I can.

Trucker Bob blogged at 5:52 AM

|

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Morning folks. Although it seems like a lot of work for nothing, I finally got everything put away, and now will start the culling process. I found a Thrift store here run by the Anglican church, and was told that they are in real need of men's clothing etc. Well have I got a treat for you!

I threw a lot of stuff out, but am glad now I saved the clothing, footware and such, because I was told that anything I donate will be put to good use. The furniture and large items went to family members, and now with this, I feel good that nothing was wasted.

I finally got rid of the last trace of Dixie yesterday, and I DO NOT mean that in a bad way. Because the poor little dear shed so much I was worn out from brushing carpets, mats, furniture, etc so I brought the big vacuum back and went completely through the Bear. Even after all the brushing I did, I couldn't believe the hair in the bag.

As for Dixie, I was told by a fellow that was out there that she is truly the Lady of the Manor. It's her place now, and her new owner(?) is quite proud of her. Justly so, she's a great dog, and deserved a better life than I could give her, but in a way I did.

One of my new buds here, Chris Kind, is a renowned horseman, cowboy, and best-selling author. In the small world department, my bud down in White Rock, Bill the Barber, has read some of Chris's books and is looking forward to meeting him. Since Bill is coming up this way this weekend he'll stop here on the way back on Monday and the three of us can have a big ol' chat.

Chris stops by every morning, and on one of his visits last week he brought me 3 good-sized smoked trout. With Bill being an avid fisherman I can't wait to listen to them talk shop. Where else could a crusty ol' dude like me find such a welcoming home? This whole thing was meant to be!

From the day I bought the Bear, through the fussin' with it getting things ready, finding the peace I've long sought in the Yukon, and now here in a place I feel that I belong, it's been quite an experience. And in a short while I'll be heading south for the next chapter. At times I'm in awe of all that's happened, and how well it's gone.

An added bonus has been that you guys have rode along with me, and for that this happy camper thanks you! Guess it's time to cut back on the natterin' and get the camera out. Now that I have wheels I'll get busy on that and hope this connection stays open. I'll also try some DVs, because they were fun.

Take care guys, see ya later.

P.S. Sure hope you clicked open the link to my new bud. Click on About the Author, that's the guy that stops by every day. Also the main link shows the country I'm in. Pass the link along to your friends, because he's a good guy that has just started on here and who could use some hits. Thanks!

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:54 AM

|

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Morning folks. Well, unbelieveably, I managed to get everything done and am back safe and sound in the Bear. Of course I didn't do it all by myself, Boop was in charge of cleaning, son Mike was the needed muscle, and even my bud, Bill the Barber, pitched in. I've still got a few boxes to bring in from the car, but basically I'm moved.

Speaking of Mike, he took me out for a wonderful lunch on Sunday, and what a great chat we had. After learning how everyone feels about what I've done, I'm more convinced than ever I've done the right thing at the right time. As I sit here in this peaceful place watching the sun rise over the mountains, I know I'm where I belong.

Because the Bear doesn't have a so-called "Arctic Package" I was a bit concerned, with fall approaching, how warm it would be in here. No more concerns, it is 0 degrees Celcius here this morning, with frost on the ground, and with just my little space heater running I'm quite comfortable in here. I'm going to put this heater in the bedroom, buy one just a bit bigger for the living area, and if it gets real cold some nights I've always got the furnace as a back-up.

Well, I've had my brekky, so I guess it's time to start putting things away that I brought in last night, and finish bringing the rest in. Luckily the Bear has lots of storage space, cupboards, closets etc, so with a little planning it won't look like a 7-eleven store that just blew up in here.

Just wanted to let you know that all is well. Off now to reply to yesterday's comments, then to work. Take care guys, and as long as this connection stays up I'll be here happily nattering away.

Trucker Bob blogged at 6:11 AM

|

Monday, August 27, 2007

Morning folks. I'm back down in White Rock, having got here yesterday. But first, where the heck have I been. I've been trying to get online but the unsecured wireless network I've been poaching up there went down, so I've been drilling a dry hole. Just to ensure that it was not my laptop at fault, I brought it down and am using it now. I have an idea what happened, too many loose lips, so I'm not sure what to expect when I go back.

Got a lot done yesterday, and if all goes well I'll finish what I have left to do today, then Boop and the boys have the rest of the week to remove all the big items. Just as I felt last trip, I am so ready for this, in fact when I got back up to the Bear I felt I was home.

Since I will be shutting off all services effective Aug 31, my e-mail addy will change. I've opened accounts at both hotmail and gmail, and will give them by mail.

We've been trying to get Boop to slow down, but with her sister Marg in the final stages in a private palliative care home, I suppose staying busy is helpful for her. She's stubborn, but we're concerned about her own health. The boys assured me they'd watch her.

Yes Audrey, I sent the mail when I said I did. I now have the second failure notice, using ma......

Just noticed that my gmail addy is showing at the top of the Blogger page, so I guess I did it right. Must remember to start using it here. Sorry I'm not more talkative, or nattery, but the truth is I'm dragging butt. Hopefully when I get back "home" the network is back up and running and I can get caught up. I can handle the physical, but the stress of it all is wearing.

Hope you're all well. See you when I can.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:42 AM

|

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Morning folks. Made it down to White Rock and back safely, and also got so very much done that one more trip, this weekend, should finish everything. As comfortable as I am driving the Bear, what a treat it was to get back in my car. No more bumming rides, now I can get back to cruisin' the boulevard lookin' for chickarinos. Okay, settle down!

The 5 hour plus ride on the bus was about what you'd expect, and almost could have been avoided. On Friday I had called my bud, Bill the Barber, to ask if he could pick me up at the bus station in Langley. He was not in so I left a message. On Saturday I tried again twice, no luck, and figured that with him being an avid fisherman he was off doing his thing. I was right.

On Friday night he went through here at 11:30, saw the Bear, but thought that because of the time I would be in bed so he would stop on his way back Sunday morning. End result...as I was going down the road on the Hound, he was 3 hours behind me in his motorhome. Now there's a co-inky-dink for you.

I had a nice visit with him, and will be seeing him again Monday morning when he comes around to pick up some things I'm giving him. I've found homes for all my furniture, and it should be all gone when I get back down there. I brought a load of small things, clothing etc back in the car with me, and will get the rest this coming trip.

Bill will be back up here again actually. Since I don't have a hitch on the back of the car he is going to tow a car dolly I'm buying up here for me with his van, then I can hook it up to the Bear, run the Caddy up on it, strap it down, and I'm ready to head South. He can stay here with me for a couple of days, and you can be sure that he'll be amply fed and watered (hic) for his efforts.

I saw Dixie yesterday, from afar, and she looked as happy as I knew she'd be. I've also been told by a couple of guys that were out at the ranch that she has settled in wonderfully. Michael has also checked on her for me, and all is well.

This whole experience has happened so quickly that I was sure that I would start having feelings of "buyer's remorse". Just the opposite! I was so glad to get back here yesterday, and as I sit here in the Bear I realize that this is my home, and I've left the past in the past. I must have been ready for a change, because it feels right. It sure didn't hurt when a guy here said I'm glad to see you back. All of this in just over a week!

I'm off now to belatetedly answer comments from my last post, but first I've got to admit that it feels great to be starting a new life, but still have contact with the old one through this medium. I've also got to admit that having you guys along has made this transition that much easier. Thank you!

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

Trucker Bob blogged at 1:56 AM

|

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Morning folks. Sorry for being AWOL yesterday, but the transfer of Dixie to her new home affected me more than I thought it would. When the actual hand-over took place, I had already loaded her stuff in his vehicle, and when I opened the door to lift her up she jumped in and was on his lap with the little tail wagging as they pulled away. It almost seemed that she sensed what was happening, and was quite happy to start her new life.

Life with me at the end of a chain, or in the kennel, is not what I wanted for her, or what she deserved. Michael took me out to the fellow's place, unfortunately I didn't have the camera, and all I can say is I wish that he would adopt me. A beautiful log rancher-style home, log outbuildings, and nothing but space at the base of a mountain. What a wonderful spot. Oh, and she did not see me, he had her in the house.

I'll be leaving here in a couple of hours on the bus to go down and get my car, and get the process started to close up shop. In fact Boop has already begun some things that will help me with it. The further this goes along the better it feels, no qualms, or butterflies, about anything.

I went to a local music Jamboree here yesterday, and although I can't say that I enjoyed myself because of what took place in the morning, I was able to get a good sense of the community I've adopted. I feel that I fit right in here, my kind of people. Good ol' boys with the thumb hooked in the jeans, kickin' rocks, and sayin' s**t. heh heh

Hope to be back Wednesday, and then make a trip down every week or so until everything is finished. I guess I was ready for this, because I can't wait to get it done.

As always, hope you're all well, and thanks for stopping by.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:16 AM

|

Friday, August 17, 2007

Morning folks. After alluding to it in yesterday's replies I'm going to explain the hard choice I had to make, and what I am about to do.

When I took Dixie I realized the responsibility, and promised myself that I would do right by her. In the 5 weeks I've had her we've grown attached and her welfare is utmost in my mind. With what I have facing me in the next few weeks I simply can't put her through it.


I can say that I'll just leave her for 2 or 3 days, but realistically that is not the way it would go. Each trip would take 2 days of just travelling, plus 2 or 3 days there, multiplied by at least 2 or 3 trips, so that by the time everything was done the poor thing wouldn't know where she belonged.


I spent some time yesterday with the older, retired, bachelor (hmm, who does that sound like?) who offered to help, and watched the interaction between he and Dixie. From what I was able to learn about him, and what I saw, I knew what I had to do.


So tomorrow morning I will fulfill my promise, because I have found her a permanent, loving home, not the semi-nomadic life she would have with me. He just lost a Jack Russell, and almost had tears in his eyes when she jumped up on his lap. So did I.


I mentioned how much she likes having the grass around here to run on, well her new home, 8 miles out of town, has 35 fenced acres where she can run freely. I made sure he understood that she was not to be left out at night, and he assured me that she would have the run of the house, including sleeping on the bed if she chooses.


I have not seen the house or property yet, but when I do I'll take pictures and post them. Michael tells me that it is something special. I won't give the fellow's name, but he told me I could come around and check on her whenever I wanted. I don't think I'll do that, it would just further confuse her.


If I had had Dixie for 5 months instead of 5 weeks I wouldn't consider doing this. But Kate made a good point yesterday about dog's memories. I saw it happen with me, and considering the wonderful home she's going to, I'm positive it will happen again.


I'm going to be sorry to see her go, but glad for where she's going. She's a wonderful companion, but deserves a permanent home. Since he's not a traveller like me, the poor thing won't have to go through what she did getting her this far.


I have agonized over this but feel I'm doing the right thing for her. I have lived my life on the road, but it is not fair to drag a dog along that hates travelling just so that I can have a companion. What it is, is selfishness.

Hope you all understand that I truly feel it is the best thing for her.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:48 AM

|

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Morning folks. Well, already the small-town feeling of people helping people has begun for me. Michael, the owner here, brought a fellow around last evening who would be glad to look after Dixie for a few days while I run down to White Rock and start the process of moving.

Because Dix and I had already turned in for the night the fellow said he'd be back this morning and we'd set things up. He is very familiar with Jack Russells, having had one for years, and also has a big piece of property so that she won't be penned up.

My plan is to go down for 2 or 3 days, get things started, then come back with the car, pick Dix up, and the next couple of trips down she can come with me. All of this will be spread over several weeks, so that everything will be finished by the end of September. Then a month or so here and we're off to Arizona.

This place is sort of a gathering spot for the locals who stop by, have a coffee, play a little gin rummy, and just chat. In the short time I've been here I already feel like one of the boys. As for Dix, she has settled down so much. She is no longer hyper since she seems to realize that this is her home now. I can walk her to her heart's content on the grass and not leave the property.

I was going to say that slowly things are coming together, but they are anything but slow. No matter what I mention Michael seems to have a solution, or knows someone who does.

Short post today, but just wanted to let you know how well things are going. Amazing how all of this came about from simply pulling in to take a break from the road. I think in some ways it was meant to be.

Hope you're all well, and I'll see you tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:14 AM

|

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Morning folks. I've often said that once you stop looking for something, you'll find it. While I had been thinking about finding a home for the Bear, Dixie, and I, when I pulled in here Sunday morning it was simply to get off the road. But without looking I've found that home.

I'll be signing a lease here this morning and the plan is to spend 6 months a year here, and 6 months in Quartzsite AZ. The owner and I have hit it off, mainly because we're both cantankerous and ornery, but good-hearted, and I'll be meeting him in Arizona at his friend's RV park when he closes this one for the winter.

I trust what he has told me about the great times down there, and am so looking forward to it. In the meantime I've got a ton of things to do, starting with finding a spot for the hound while I go down and start closing up shop. I'll leave the Bear here, find a way down (bus?), get things started, then come back with the car. A couple of trips down should get everything done, then it's on with my new life.

Kind of scary how fast things have happened, but I've got a good feeling about it. If you think hard enough about anything you can always come up with negatives, but sometimes you just have to trust your gut. As I watch the morning and evening commutes on the news, then look out the window at the serenity here, I don't have to wonder if I'm doing the right thing. Besides this is the area I was planning on spending the summer in next year anyway.

I had supper last night with the owner in the restaurant here where he is the Chief Cook and bottlewasher. In fact he runs the whole place by himself. Not a bad spot to have baked salmon and an all you can eat buffet is it? It was a real hot day here yesterday but there was a gentle breeze blowing through the outdoor dining area. I know, it's rough, but I'll tough it out somehow.

This is the south view from the terrace. Hmm, doesn't that sound nice.

I'll have lots more to natter about in further posts but just wanted to let you know that, as Peter said, all's well with the world!!!!

Oh, I forgot to tell you, I was awakened this morning by a young lady in my bed. Dixie somehow opened the door on her kennel and was snuggled up to me on the pillow. Although she's not allowed in the bedroom, how could you possibly scold her for that? The only reason I've kept her out is her shedding, because the cover on the bed is like a hair magnet. Oh well.

Trucker Bob blogged at 3:18 AM

|

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Morning folks. Well, I'm still here in Clinton and may stay another day. Managed to get a bit done yesterday, and also decided to put the upgrading of the Bear on hold until the home front is settled. Besides, I like being debt-free and also because other than a bit of "bling", this motorhome is as good as one costing many thousands more.

This is a nice quiet little town, not that far upcountry, and although I certainly hadn't even thought of it, I may put an offer on a mobile home here set up in a nice park. While walking around yesterday I stopped at a real estate office, and was amazed at how very reasonable prices are here. It's definitely got me thinking.

This is just another shot of Dixie's playground. So very peaceful here.

Of course I've got Garf up there watching out for us. Other than that little "souvenir" on the windshield above the dash on my side, the Bear doesn't look too bad considering where it's been.


If you embiggen you'll see that Dix and I survived the hanging tree.

Today is Boop's birthday, and I'd tell you how old she is but you wouldn't believe that numbers can go that high. Oh boy, I'll pay for that one! We are in fact the same age, in my case, fortyish. I'll be talking to her in a few hours and getting a justified earful, because I've been a little slack about keeping in touch.

It's been just over 3 months since I left, and I wish the trip was just starting. I have thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it, even given the little blips, and can't wait to start the next one. Get the necessary chores done in the next little while and Dix and I are hitting the road again. I feel so very fortunate to have found a niche where I'm so comfortable. I've always enjoyed being on the road, and now with the Bear and all it's creature comforts, not to mention my travelling companion, I've got the best of both worlds.

Thanks for stopping by, and once again I've got to tell you how much I enjoy this venue to just chat about things. Who needs people when you've got a blog family like this?

Update...8:15 am

Just talked to Boop, and I'm happy to report that she's fine. I'm also happy to report that she didn't chew me a new one, because as she said, I know you. OUCH! She has actually kept track of me through a grandaughter's computer, or at least knew that all was well.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:21 AM

|

Monday, August 13, 2007

Morning folks. Well, so much for taking my time going home. Arrived here in Clinton B.C. yesterday morning at 8 am, which would have put me home about 1:30 pm. Now my problem is how to spend 2 weeks going 4 1/2 hours. What a dumbass! I guess old habits die hard.

I heard a couple of northbound RVs talking on the cowboy radio about this great deal they got on a full-hookup RV park here, so I pulled in, and they were right. The guy asked if I needed a receipt, nope, good...$15. YES! Not only that, it's downtown, so no bumming a ride.

In a lot of ways it's the best one I've been in yet. Even Dixie agreed as she was rolling around in the grass, lots of grass. The weather was perfect all day, so after Dixie took me for a walk, I got caught up on housework, showered, and just basically goofed off all day.

She's actually standing up here. Most of the grass in the park is mown, but I'm glad they left this patch because she had a ball playing in it.

I think I'll stay here for at least another day or two, and try to come up with a few camping spots between here and home. Shouldn't be a problem, just have to stay out of the driver's seat. Hey wait, I'm supposed to be In The Driver's Seat.


Anyhoo, all is well. I still haven't come up with a solution on what to do with the hound yet. I've got a couple of ideas, neither of them cheap, but it's too soon to worry about it. I'm going to check the market for dog hair, because the way she sheds I could have a money maker here.

In a way having Dixie is forcing me to do something I've thought of doing for some time, namely changing my lifestyle. Now that I've had a good taste of RVing, and with my dislike of what my "home" of 42 years has become, I think the time has come. In the next few weeks I think I'm going to find a permanent spot for the Bear, vacate my place, and using the spot as a base become semi-nomadic. Hell, I'm even thinking of upgrading the Bear, might as well be broke as badly bent.

This motorhome has turned out to be such a great vehicle, but I'm thinking of one at least this size, but with a washer/dryer, satellite, diesel engine, thermo-pane windows, etc etc. It's still in the dreaming stage, but could very well become a reality. Going to have to really sharpen my pencil, and probably do something I'm adverse to, take on some debt, but that's the way I'm thinking. Of course that might mean that I'll be showing up at your place with an extension cord, a hungry dog, and an empty bowl, but what the hey, that's what friends are for. Always there when they need you.

So there you have it guys, could be big changes coming, stay tuned for further announcements. Hope you're all well, and I'll probably see you tomorrow from this same place.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:31 AM

|

Friday, August 10, 2007

Morning folks. My plans to tour around town, and the waterfront, yesterday hit a snag, the same type I hit in Dawson City. I couldn't get a ride, and because this RV park is so far from anything, walking was not an option. If I could have caught at least a ride into town I could have hoofed it around, then maybe a cab back. But all I got were the same phoney excuses as before.

You can be sure I'll rectify this situation before I head off on another trip like this. If I go south this winter, almost certain, I'll tow the Cadillac, but for the planned trip to the Cariboo next summer I'll buy a Jeep-type beater so that I'll never get caught like this again.

The above has kind of soured me on this place, so I'm going to move on down the road today. Too bad really, because it is a real nice park. As for people, don't get me started.

These two shots I took from right beside the Bear. What a great view first thing in the morning.

And of course I had to sneak another one of Dixie in. You'll have to embiggen to see her.

Not sure how far I'll go today, but it probably won't be too far. Also not sure when I'll be back online. If I put my mind to it I could be home in 2 days, but truthfully I'm not ready to go home, so who knows, just play it by ear.

Sorry things didn't work out, but I think it best to move on, before I get more ornery than I usually am. So far everyone still has all of their limbs intact, but I can't promise how long that will last with this bunch.

Take care guys, see ya on down the road.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:35 AM

|

Thursday, August 09, 2007

Morning folks. So, how y'all doin', eh? There, that should satisfy both sides of the border. If it seems that I'm in a good mood, it's because I am. The trip home has gone so well, even given some real tough stretches on the Stewart-Cassiar road, that Dix and I are just kickin' back. We're about half-way home and that is way too fast, so we're in an RV park (I know) that is what I wish the dump at Uggieville had been, and enjoying every minute. I paid for 2 days but am thinking I'll stay longer.

We left Bea's place Saturday afternoon and went down into Whitehorse and parked at Wally World, just to finally get some sleep. Sunday morning as soon as anything opened I filled the fuel tanks (gas and propane), dumped the holding tanks, took on about 35 gals of water, last minute shopping, and hauled ass.

Only went as far as Teslin that day and camped in a great government campsite. Sitting by the campfire that evening I broke another of my words by giving Dix half a weiner, for 2 reasons. One I couldn't stand the looks I was getting, and two it was because of a problem she solved for me.

Try as I might I couldn't find a spot for her, while driving, that she wasn't trembling. So I decided to let her find her "safe" place, and she did. As soon as I tell her we're goin' truckin' she heads under the driver's seat. The seat has a skirt around the bottom, and she lies under there pressing against my leg, and stays as calm as can be.

Monday we went as far as the Junction of highway 37, and camped there for the night. So Tuesday I thought I'd see how much driving she could take. 12 hours of real tough sloggin' later I had to wake her up to go to bed. heh heh Of course I stopped many times to take her out for potties, and food and water, but she's no longer a big problem.

We camped just 40 miles from here, Stewart B.C., and came in early yesterday morning. Went over to Hyder Alaska, and didn't even get out of the Bear. It never was much, but is looking pretty tough these days.

Checked into this place and am completely satisfied. Strong Wi-Fi signal, cablevision, power, water, sewer hook-up, and I'm parked on grass, not a #$% gravel pit. All of that for $19/day, with the senior's discount (I lied about my age).

This is such a beautiful area, with so much to see, that I think I'll grab the camera today and try to find some things that might interest you. If I can't I'll just get someone to take a picture of me naked.

Hope you're all well, and I'll see you tomorrow.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:46 AM

|

Wednesday, August 08, 2007

Howdy folks. Well, the Dynamic Duo is (are?) happy to report that 72 hrs after leaving Whitehorse we're alive and well, kickin' butt and taking names in Stewart B.C./Hyder AK. Yeehaw!!

Here's a shot of the Bear after 2 days of bad road, but I did run through enough rain the last couple of hundred miles to at least clean the sides off.



The mountains in the foreground are where we're heading.


This is Bear Glacier, on the way into Stewart. I'm hoping for better weather on the way out, because the magnificent blue isn't showing due to the fog and mist.



The road Dix and I just came down.


Another shot of the Glacier.

I just wanted to check in and let you know we're well. I've gone back on my word somewhat by checking into an RV park here in Stewart, because frankly we both needed a break. We hauled some industrial strength butt the last couple of days. I'll bring you up to date in the morning, but first it's shower time, for both of us. I'm going to toss her little heinie into the tub first, then probably just basically rinse myself off after that wrestling match.

See ya in the morning.

Trucker Bob blogged at 10:25 AM

|

Saturday, August 04, 2007

Morning folks. Little slow on the draw today, made even later by Her Highness taking her sweet time checking out possible dump sites. All this of course before I even had the first cup of plasma. I made the mistake of letting her out of the kennel before I tended to my own needs, and she let's you know in no uncertain terms to 'open the damn door, I've gotta go'. By the time she picked a spot I was just about ready to join her.

I turned the coffee machine on before we left, and now that I'm trying to get enough in me to focus my eyes, she's sitting here looking at me as if to say ' aren't we forgetting things, FEED ME!'. I've created a monster.

Another reason for being a bit behind is that because I'm parked at a 24 hour a day convenience store/hang-out for young people, the nights are a bit noisy. I really don't want to sound unappreciative, but this place is a gong show. Thumping music, trail bikes, ATVs, skateboards, and Dixie trying to keep order, makes sleeping somewhat of a joke. But still, I'm enjoying visiting with Bea and being able to see some of the places from the past.

Other than the above, it's another slow news day. I'm doing fine, and starting to make plans to hit the road, probably tomorrow, but no later than Monday. Since Dixie has sniffed or fertilized every grain of sand in a 2 mile area, I guess it's time to find her a new playground. Me too!

Once underway getting online will be extremely spotty at best, but since all I do is talk about you-know-who, maybe it's time for a break for both of us. At any rate, I'll probably see you in the morning. Hope you're all well, and enjoy your week-end.

Trucker Bob blogged at 5:45 AM

|

Friday, August 03, 2007

Morning folks. Well, another no news is good news day. I'm sitting here with an IV coffee drip going, with a pack of smoky-butts at the ready, and the lady of the manor is over there in her kennel admiring her nails.

Speaking of the boss, I think I'll go to Wally-World this morning and buy her one of those pet beds. She loves sitting in the passenger seat, with the curtains on her side open, watching the world go by. I'm thinking that this would give her another 'comfort zone' for when we're travelling.

Not sure when we'll leave here, probably no later than Monday, then start the slow trip home. Plan to do a lot of camping, and maybe a side-trip into Prince Rupert B.C. That part will depend on the condition of Highway 37, the Stewart-Cassiar Road. If it's not too bad I'll take the Bear over it, otherwise it will be back down the Alaska Highway and basically re-trace my steps.

The weather, while still nice during the day, is starting to cool quite a bit at night. In fact I've got the space heater running at the moment, and soon will let Killer out of her kennel. She'll come bounding over here for some lovins, then sit in front of the heater with a contented look on her face. Can you tell who's running this place? Sheesh!

Hope you're all doing well, and thanks for stopping by.

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:41 AM

|

Thursday, August 02, 2007

Howdy folks. Little late showing up today due to the power going out last night, and of course taking the server with it. No biggie really because everything is fine up here on the Alaska Highway, including little Miss Fancy Nails lying out there on her blanket taking some sun.

Dixie did well at the groomer's. She wasn't too fussy about going on the table, plus it was too awkward for me to keep a death-lock on her, so we sat on the couch and did it. She handled the clipping like a trooper, but was determined to get at some yappy dogs in their kennels. Also, as a sign of how well she's been cared for, her nails were definitely not overdue for attention.

Anyhoo, got that done, paid the lady, carried Dixie outside, set her down, and she looked up at me as though to say..Alright Bozo, where's my treat? Well, now that you mention it, I just happen to have something here for you. Sheesh, women!

I've taken the appreciated advice re: the kennel. I put her in there this morning, went downtown for a couple of hours, and when I came back she looked at me as if to say...oh, are you back already? I may be a slow learner at times, but hang with me, I'll get it.

As you can tell, all's well here at Chez Bear. So on that note I'll bid you all a Good Day. See ya in the morn.

Trucker Bob blogged at 12:13 PM

|

Wednesday, August 01, 2007

Morning folks. You'd almost think that at my age I would learn, but after yesterday's post, put up in frustration, and subsequent comments, especially Audrey's, apparently I haven't.

One of my faults has always been that when something bothers me I blow off steam. Once done I move on, usually somewhat sheepishly. Such is the case concerning Dixie. But first the parking situation.

As I was preparing to leave yesterday the manager of the store came out and asked me to stay, not only stay but move around to the front and set up, awnings and all. Sort of an 'in your face' to the petty bureaucracy. If I was downtown that would be one thing, but I'm actually in Porter Creek, a suburb at best, along the Alaska Highway. So here I sit, hooked up, online, use of a car, and watching the trucks roll by.

Now to my little darling. I was nowhere near giving up on Dixie, simply blowing off steam. She has far more good points than bad, and even those are not all that bad given the situation. She is so well-behaved, and intelligent, that I am proud to have her with me, but simply have to understand what she's going through. Audrey's comment made that clear to me.

I've had her into town twice now in the Bear, and each time she's getting better. She sits in the passenger seat, still somewhat fearful when we're moving, but when I get out to do my business, she doesn't move. She'll watch me walk away, then sit down and won't stir until she hears me calling her name. Then the stubby little tail gets to wagging, and when I get in she's all over me. I love it!

She has also captured the hearts of everyone here. There is a steady stream of workers and customers coming over to pet her. The manager, and Bea, have hinted they'd like to have her but that is not going to happen. I'm not certain what the future holds for us, but if it doesn't work out it won't be for a lack of trying, on both our parts.

As with her sister Daisy she was not eating well, so I would sit and feed her by hand, piece by piece. She's finally coming around because yesterday's second feeding she ate like a champion, without any prompting. With the amount of walking we do, when she seems happiest, I was concerned about her losing weight, but so far everythings fine.

So there you have it guys, sort of a mea culpa, or much ado about nothing. We're both doing well, and next time I get frustrated (when am I never) I'll keep it to myself.

Once again I have to thank you for your comments, because as always, they have helped. As I've said so many times, although I'm alone, I don't feel alone. You really don't have to be with people physically to feel part of a family, and I'm proud to be part of this 'blog family'.

Not sure how long we'll be staying here, but for now at least everything is plumb fine. Take care of yourselves, and once again....Thank You!

Trucker Bob blogged at 2:01 AM

|