Mon - Jan 30/12

I made a big breakfast with fried eggs topped with cheese slices and fried bologna that kept us going all day.

I had to take print out,  sign, scan and return by email a form for the new A/C rebate to my contractor.

Charlotte went to Pen & Ink in the afternoon. I went later to do the laundry a little later. This is our first laundry visits since we arrived. The hospital week delayed the inevitable.

I went to check out Charlotte's Pen & Ink to take a picture of the class between the wash and the dry cycles. Too late! She was just leaving when I arrived. She had just finished her first project.

                                                                  What a Great Picture!

I checked our park mail box while she went to the activity room to sign up for the next Pen & Ink class. Like home - it was all junk mail except for the Activity Calendar for February.

We met again in the laundry. We loaded everything into the dryers and sat outside on a bench while that cycle completed. We talked to different park residents. One was walking his "mutt". It was really cute - a miniature "Murf" ( our late dog).

Another resident recognized us. She asked if we had sat together at an event. (Yes - this year and last year as well). She then remembered they had talked about Charlotte's sewing machine had quit working properly and asked if it was fixed. She laughed when Charlotte said she had got a new (Brother) sewing machine with a quilting extension. She had said, "Maybe you'll get a new one!" and she was right!

This year they are sending the monthly utility bills by email. The charges were:
- Sewer                  $28.58
- Garbage Pick-up  $15.00
- Electricity             $28.94
- Other Chg.           $15.00
- Electricity Tax      $  3.38
                             ======
                    Total:  $90.90

I will have to go to Guest Services and pay the bill tomorrow. They accept only cash or cheques for monthly  rentals and monthly service fees.

The busy day exhausted Charlotte. She had a nap on the sofa after we returned to the RV.  I was quite  tired as well but did not nap.

Our planned grocery shopping trip would wait until tomorrow.

Sun - Jan 29/12

Still needed to rest today.

Charlotte rested outside for part of the afternoon. Our first day at 80 F.

Nice to see the blue sky and sun against the Superstition Mountains.

Life is starting to get back to normal. We rested all day in preparation for Monday which will be busy.

Sat - Jan 28/12

Rested in the RV in the morning before leaving for the Phoenix Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival at the Arizona State Fairgrounds just off I-17. We took the Loop 202 which is an easy (50 Mile) ride when it is not rush hour.

The show has dozens of exhibitors. There are also dozens of free seminars as well as special classes (for a small fee). This is not a "Quilt Only" show like Tucson (great show) but more a merchandise show. Charlotte picked up a special foot for her new Brother Sewing Machine that has a guide for 1/4 inch seams.

It took a few hours to do the 2 exhibit buildings. We didn't go to the third building which was for $$Seminars.

After the show we returned on US-60 instead of the Loop 202 as we would be exiting on Stapley Road to have supper at Romano's Macaroni Grill.  Charlotte had a chicken salad and I had a "Make-Your-Own" Pasta. I filled out an order slip choosing my type of pasta (Penne), type of sauce (Arrabiata), toppings (Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Asparagus) and Meat (Sausage).

Again, an enjoyable ride (top off) along Baseline Road back to Canyon Vistas.

Fri - Jan 27/12

I spent an hour yesterday trying to get through to Tri-City Cardiology. I had to make a follow-up appointment and get the 4th. prescription for Charlotte. I first had to talk to appointments (10 minute wait) but, being a first time patient I was transferred to new appointments (another 10 minute wait). Then 10 minutes giving information before I was transferred to Billing (Only a 5 minute wait). They would call back giving the appointment info. They didn't.

Maybe they tried to call back? Our phone is on roam and calls to the area code (613) from here routes through Telus back home before ringing here. I discovered they had put me back an Voice Mail (I did not want this). It would probably ring on their phone several times before tracking me down and ringing on mine. We answer a few calls on the second ring but they had hung up. The voice mail would tell them we are unavailable. I called Telus to have voice mail removed (again).

Calls we make from here or calls from back home (613 area code) work. It is only someone calling us from down here (AZ) that were not working. I hope cancelling the Voice Mail will work.

We were actually on US-60 heading to Tri-City's office when they tried calling again. I pulled off the road at an exit and returned their call. I was only second in line and got through quickly. The follow-up appointment was made and we headed to Walgreens where we picked up the initial prescriptions to pick up the final required medication for Charlotte.

I dropped Charlotte off at Jo-Ann Fabrics (in the same plaza) while I picked up her prescription. She needed a larger cutting board for her quilt project squares.

We then went to Carraba's for supper. Charlotte had Talapia and I had Steak Marsala. Two excellent choices that we have had here previously.

The "Top Off" ride in the Del Sol along Baseline Road was relaxing in the late afternoon sunshine.

We rested in the RV until it was time for the Dance featuring The Brookharts. They are a husband and wife team. They both sing and play keyboards. They announced that they had just been signed for the upcoming New Year's Eve at Canyon Vistas.

The 3 ladies at our table were all "Char's". Charlotte (never called Char) and 2 Charlene's (who were called Char). Char #1 was a past park activity director and still our favourite. Wish she was still doing it. Her bubbly personality is infectious.

The usual popcorn (free) and soft drinks (BYOB). Charlotte had enough energy (still recuperating) for a few slow dances when they played our favourites (like Waltz Across Texas and Unchained Melody).

Dance ended at 10 pm as usual for any park evening activity. Watched Jay Leno (and Headlines) in bed then right to sleep. We still need the extra rest.

Thu - Jan 26/12

Great to sleep in our own bed last night.

Charlotte rested again today in the RV.  She spent some time organizing her material for her quilt. We watched TV and took it easy.

I spent most of the day getting caught up on the computer. Still have to take care of routine business when away from home. We both needed the rest.

We did not even get dressed today!

Fri - Jan 20/12

A number of days will be summarized on this one page.

Charlotte woke with a sensation of pressure on her chest. She was not in pain but was concerned. We drove to the local Deseret Family Medical Center on King's Ranch Road in Gold Canyon, AZ about a mile from the RV Park. After the fee was paid she was seen by one of the staff doctors who advised a visit to the hospital.

We proceeded to Banner Baywood Emergency in Mesa, AZ. This was a 15 minute drive west along US-60 to the Power Road Exit and then to Baywood Avenue. She went to the head of the line and was seen immediately as soon as she mentioned a heart problem.

The main emergency rooms in major hospitals in the USA (at least the one's we have seen) are self-contained rooms with every normal medical monitoring device. Each has its own computer monitor and keyboard as well. I gave the nurse a list of Charlotte's meds and Dr. Hyde's medical history (several pages). She was quite impressed with the info and entered all pertinent info in the computer.

Of course, a Case Worker arrived. "Case Worker" really means "Bill Collector". I submitted our Out-of Country Medical and the required $500.00 deposit. Luckily, I took money out of our RV safe for this purpose when we departed this morning.

Charlotte was transferred to the Banner Heart Hospital (part of the same complex) after a few hours in emergency. The time was probably required to clear medical coverage.

Banner Heart is in the Top 100 of over 4500 accredited hospitals in the USA. She was in good hands (for the next 5 days).

Each patient has there own room. There is a neat info board that shows the patient pertinent details including the name of the Doctor(s), RN (Nurse), the RNA (Nurse's Aide), scheduled events with all updated each shift. The room has a phone for local and 800/collect calls. The call button also includes controls for the TV and room lights. One of the room chairs is a recliner. I was able to stay overnight only leaving the room when procedures were done or to go to the cafeteria which is about 2 blocks away  (in the hospital) past the Emergency room area. This is a huge complex.

There is a computer station in the hall between each room and a rolling monitor station moves with the nurse. Each procedure is scanned (patient name band) including meds. It would not allow one med to be given. It was a slow release and the prescribed was not. This is a great safety monitor (and ass-covering) tool. There are also overhead Monitor Screen Banks in the hallway about four rooms apart that show patient vitals.

Patients pick daily from a printed (full colour) menu which is better than the average restaurant. The food, like the care, was excellent. Everyone was extremely friendly and helpful.

When Charlotte received nitro and oxygen the chest pressure went away. They felt that the back wall of the heart may not be getting enough oxygen. I returned to the RV to print out Charlotte's last EKG (Nov. 2011) that I had on the computer. They compared and determined that she did not have a heart attack (good news) as there were no EKG changes.

When at the RV I also gave neighbours event tickets. We missed the Comedian (Monday) and the Dance (Tuesday) that were part of the cancer fund-raising week.

The tests ended with an Angiogram. The doctor that performed the operation, like the hospital, is rated as one of the best (voted Best Doctor award 2003-2012). They were able to determine that although there was some minor artery blockage there was nothing that required an intervention. The past triple bypass was still clear. They felt that medication would be all that is required to control the problem.

Charlotte was released after supper on Tuesday (Jan 24). We could only get 3 of the 4 prescription as one was a controlled medication that required a doctor's signature. We would call the doctor to get it faxed to the pharmacy.

We also missed the fund-raising auction on Wednesday as Charlotte rested in the RV. I heard that Charlotte's Mohair Teddy Bear (Pinky) that she donated went for around $100 in the auction.

Now we will have to wait for the follow-up appointment in February. We then have to notify our Medical Insurance company of the results. Hopefully they will continue coverage and we will not be required to return home (before May).

Thu - Jan 19/12

Our first mission today, after putting the garbage can to the road for collection. was to locate someone to take Charlotte's donation for Cancer Fund auction that will be part of the several fundraising activities being held next week in the park. We had 2 lot numbers of organizers and found someone at home on the first stop.

Charlotte donated one of her handmade (by her) Mohair Teddy Bears, appropriately outfitted with pink accessories, to the auction.

Next stop was dropping off a box of paper to the recycling bin. Proceeds from the recycling bins are also used for charitable work.

With those chores done we were on our way to The Country Market at Valle del Oro, a sister Cal-Am park, just off US-60 at the Ellsworth Rd exit a little more than 10 miles west of Canyon Vistas. We had a bit of a hard time turning the corner due to the ambulance and fire truck that were attending an accident at the corner.

"Country Market" like "Swap Meet" is the Arizona version of what we call "Flea Markets" back home. Here  there is virtually no "junk" or used items. Most of the offerings are craft items or commercial products. The market is a combination of outdoor and indoor vendors. I was disappointed that the lady from whom Charlotte purchased several embroidered shirts in past years was few years was not there today. Perhaps she will appear at a later session.

I made a stop at Guest Services to purchase tickets for tonight's show featuring Jim Curry. Since this market only runs in the early part of the day we returned to the RV for the afternoon. We were back in time to pick up the great Taco Salad ($5.50) that is featured on the lunch menu at the park on Thursday. It is there most popular offering. We returned to the RV to share.

We returned to Valle del Oro for the Jim Curry show. Jim is a tribute artist who looks and sounds like John Denver. It was an excellent show that featured an replication of an actual John Denver show. It also featured a great simultaneous picture/video show on a large stage screen. An original Denver band member and previous New Kingston Trio member joined them for several songs including the Kingston Trio hit "MTA". This was a bonus as "MTA" is one of Charlotte's "oldie" favourites. It was an excellent show that started at
7 p.m. and ended at 8:30 p.m.

Our last stop for the evening was Old Chicago, a restaurant that features Chicago style pizza, just off Power Rd a few exits west on US-60. We ordered the 16 inch thin crust "Original Seven" (topping) pizza with added Anchovies. We really enjoyed the pizza (eaten here before). \

It was a 15 minute ride back to the park on US-60. It was a busy and fun day!

Wed - Jan 18/12

Up early to head out to the Casino.

When setting the TV "On" Timer last night I forget to set it to Channel 4. This is required for the TV Converter (we use Channel 3 for DVD's). It turned on at the correct time but without any sound or picture. Luckily, I woke up about 20 minutes after our planned "get up" time and we still made it to the on time (9:00 a.m.) for the bus.

The turnout was larger than last year's Casino trips. Instead of the regular Casino Transit Bus we had a full sized Coach for our trip. We were heading off to Wild Horse Pass Casino situated west of I-10 in Chandler, AZ. We arrive about an hour after departure following a short stop at Lone Butte Casino, a Gila River (Indian Reservation) "sister" Casino where the Bingo Players got off.

My first stop when we arrived at the Wild Horse Pass Casino was the Box Office. I purchased upcoming Ovations Live! (Casino Theatre) show tickets for Neil Sedaka (Feb 11) and Rodney Carrington (Mar 16).

After playing the slots for about 2 hours we had lunch at "Fatburger" in the Casino Food Court. This is as close to an old fashioned "home cooked" burger we have had in ages. No wonder they were voted #1 in L.A. and Las Vegas. They would certainly get our vote!

A few more hours at the slot machines before it was time to leave. I went to the Players Club as I had enough points and was eligible (Sun-Thu only) to pick up the "Gift of the Month". It was a nice Teflon Pan for grilling meat.

We boarded the bus and left sharply at 3:30 p.m. The driver realized we did not have the same number of the passengers that had originally boarded. There is a Casino Shuttle that runs between Wild Horse Pass and Lone Butte. The hope was that they had taken the shuttle and would be at Lone Butte when we arrived to pick up the Bingo Players. They were not there so the driver returned to Wild Horse Pass to check there again. No Luck!. The driver phoned (HQ?) for permission to leave without them. This "back and forth" had us arriving at our park about a half hour later then scheduled. On the return trip several folks received calls from concerned family/friends wondering why the had not arrived on time.

Before heading back to the RV Charlotte checked the Sewing Room for details of the next class. We also checked our mailbox and the activities schedule in the postings room. The two pool tables there were stripped to the slate as they were being refurbished by techs.

It was a short walk along the pathway back to the RV. We passed a small flock of birds feeding along the path.

This route is a touch longer than the main road but feels shorter as it is more scenic and varied. 

We decided to skip the "Card Bingo" tonight - perhaps next week?

TV and bed after Jay Leno's monologue. Tomorrow morning will be a visit to the "Country (Flea) Market" Day at Valle del Oro, a sister RV Park about 10 miles west of here just off US-60.

Tue - Jan 17/12

Another easy day around the RV.

Charlotte walked up to the (once a week) Green Bee Produce Market that is set up in front of the Main Office. She replenished our fresh fruit and vegetable supply.

She was busy the remainder of  the day working on squares for one of her quilt projects.

I re-arranged the TV Switcher/DVD/TV Amp/Converter (again) from the bottom to the top shelf (above and in front the passenger seat). I had changed it to the bottom shelf last week to free up more storage space. We soon discovered that just being a few inches lower made it difficult to use the Converter Remote to change channels.

We went to bed after Jay Leno's "Headlines". We have to be up early for the Casino Trip tomorrow.

Mon - Jan 16/12

We could hear rain on the roof occasionally through the night. It was even heavy at times.

The road was still wet with a few puddles when we got up in the morning. The flow pattern of the Northern Jet Stream that was keeping us warmer than usual also pulled up moisture from the Southern Jet Stream that runs through Mexico bringing us some rain from the Pacific.

Still overcast, it was a good day to relax. Charlotte had another enjoyable session at Pen and Ink. The chicken/rice/cream of mushroom soup supper with veggies we bought at the Green Bee produce market last week was really tasty.

Surprise. We thought we had tickets for the Six Feet Up show for tonight. Somehow we missed buying these tickets when we bought a bunch for this month's events. We went early to buy tickets at the door and had our choice of tables. We were joined by folks from B.C (Vancouver Island) and Alberta (Calgary). One of the band members came over to talk to us. Like one of the folks at our table they were also from Alberta (Edmonton). Not only are there a lot of Canadians in the park - they are the most active group.

Six Feet Up is a 3 member brass/woodwind band from Edmonton (AB, Canada) that is booked all over Arizona for the snowbird months (Jan-Mar). About a third of their bookings are listed as Private with the remainder being dances, shows, supper shows or a combination of these.

Our event was the "Top of the Charts" show that consists of 2 one hour show segments with a 15 minute intermission (mostly spent circulating/talking to the crowd).  They played period music in 3 to 4 songs medleys that covered the chart topping music featuring genre eras from the 1900's to the 1980's.

Their instruments ranged from alto/baritone/tenor/soprano sax, to the flute, clarinet and trombone. Mixed with vocals (Male/Female) their sound verged on the fullness of a "Big Band". The 50 plus songs covered musical styles from Ragtime to Broadway, Motown to Funk, Disco to Jazz, Rock and Roll to Latin, Crooners to the Beatles and, of course, Big Band.

This was a most enjoyable evening that ended, as usual, at 10 p.m. sharp.

Sun - Jan 15/12

Today was a carbon copy of yesterday except for the dance.

Liz sent pictures of Marty (our grandson) and Buddy (the dog) playing in the recent snowfall back home. Snow is fun when you are young. At our age it is better being in Arizona this time of year.

We relaxed - didn't even get out of our PJ's today.

Charlotte continued crochetting her afghan. I worked on updating the computer travel program I am writing.

We alternated between NFL football finals and DVD's.

Charlotte is looking forward to her pen and ink classes tomorrow.

Sat - Jan 14/12

Not a lot to report today.

Bacon and Egg brunch mid-morning.

We watched the NFL San Francisco/New Orleans Football game. Average game until the last 4 minutes. It went back and forth with each team scoring to change the lead several times with San Francisco pulling out the win in the last 13 seconds.

Then it was DVD time. I brought almost 700 movies to watch. Our choice - L.A. Confidential.

Charlotte made sandwiches and dip for supper. We wanted to try the dip we bought at the Swap Meet. It was a treat with Fritos Scoops.

We got ready for the dance featuring Larry Charon. He played a nice varied selection almost continuously from 7 - 10 p.m. We sat with 3 couples - all from Ontario. A couple from Florida joined us later. One of the folks from Sarnia, when he found out we were from Cornwall, asked if a new a few individuals. One I didn't, but the other was a childhood neighbour. We also discovered we also had a few other individuals in common, as well. Small world.

I could see the score of the much hyped NFL New England/Denver game on the TV in the activity room from where we sat. I didn't miss much. It was a blowout with Brady throwing a record number of TD passes in the game.

So far there were a few less folks at the dances when compared to last year. Counterbalancing this is the fact there are more taking western line dancing classes this year which kept the floor full.

Except for the New Year's Eve Dance everything ends by 10 p.m. Sometimes we will catch the Jay Leno monologue at 10:30 p.m. here due to Arizona being on Mountain Standard Time all year. This has become our new bedtime.

Fri - Jan 13/12

Hooray! Clear blue skies have returned!

Took it easy in the RV before heading out to the Mesa Swap Meet after lunch. Our mission had 3 objectives.

1.  To get more Cinnamon Raisin Bread for breakfast and a Carrot Cake for dessert.
     - Success - 50% - they were out of Carrot Cake so we got an extra loaf of bread instead.

2.  To get a rolling suitcase for the new sewing machine.
     - Success - 100% (Maybe? - I think the sewing machine will fit)

3.  To get a yard or two of huck toweling (for embroidery - another camper wants Charlotte to show her how it is done.)
     - Success - 0% - the booth that had the huck toweling the past few years was no longer there?

Change of plans - instead of shopping at the Wal-Mart on Signal Butte near the Swap Meet we headed to the closest Michael's address I had on the GPS on Gilbert Road (about 10 miles away). Wrong address. So I continued on Gilbert to the Michaels further out (another 5 miles) on Gilbert (just over the Loop 202). No luck. The kit with huck towelling fabric was not satisfactory. They do not sell material by the yard.

Change of plans again. To avoid the rush hour traffic we decided to have supper at Chili's. They were remodelling which wasn't a problem. Charlotte really enjoyed the Mediterranean Salad. I had "loaded" baked potato skins - mmmm.

We then shopped at the Target SuperStore (same one as a few days ago) at this mall instead of the Wal-Mart as planned. We then took the Loop 202 East (two exits) to the Jo-Ann Fabrics where Charlotte was able to get the material and embroidery thread she required.

With rush hour over it was an easy ride back along Loop 202 (East) to US-60 and then to our RV Park.

Unpacked the groceries (mostly cleaning supplies) then checked out the rolling luggage case.

Hooray! The Sewing Machine and extension arm fit perfectly. It even has straps to secure it and a velcro bag for accessories. Now Charlotte can wheel it to the sewing room with ease.

Eventually all three mission objectives (except for the Carrot Cake) were accomplished and we settled in for an evening of TV before bed.

Chalk up another nice day in the Valley of the Sun!

Thu - Jan 12/12

My goodness - another cloudy day.

Charlotte was off at 9 a.m. to the Sewing Room. She was anxious to try out her new sewing machine. Surprise - it starts at 9 a.m. She got there at 9 a.m. - and was almost the last one there. As they say down here - if your 15 minutes early you're a half hour late. She found the quilting extension on the new sewing machine really helps in handling the material.

I finally got the postal code issue straightened out with Good Sam so my application for the Petro/Flying J RV Plus card could be processed. A perennial problem for Canadians - our 6 digit postal code has trouble fitting into the America 5 digit postal code computer programming.

A side note: The 6 digit postal code is way more accurate. It will tell you not only the city - it will tell what block and what side of the street on that block in the city the address is located, that is,  unless it is a rural Post Office where the mail is picked up from P.O. Boxes.

A front row seat for garbage day. I was able to watch from inside the RV as the truck pick up the can with  its "grabber arm", dump it, then place it back at the curb.

I made Black Forest Ham sandwiches for lunch when Charlotte got back at noon. Then she was off again to the sewing room.

Charlotte was back earlier than I expected with here "Table Runner" project complete except for a few finishing touches. I was still working on loading our daily medicine containers for the next three weeks. That process is an hour long job (we take a lot of medicine).

Supper in the RV. I cooked the pork chops and made the scalloped potatoes while Charlotte put together a spinach salad from the veggies we picked up at the "Green Bee" market earlier in the week. Dessert was the last of the Carrot Cake that we picked up at Mesa Swap Meet.

After supper Charlotte used the sewing machine to put the finishing touches on her table runner.
TV tonight included "Person of Interest". This program won for Best New TV Show on the People's Choice Awards. It was one of the few award winners I recognized.

Wed - Jan11/12

My goodness - cloudy today! Still mid-60's and no rain - just overcast.

Cleaned all the overhead cupboards and put away the remainder of yesterday's grocery shopping. All is organized once again. We usually buy 2 of each item in standard size cans and then stack them with 2 of the same on the bottom and 2 of another type on top. This way we can see all the items easily.

Took it easy in the afternoon until supper time. We had tickets for the steak dinner at the main hall. We sat with two couples that were here last year. We met them last year. They are all avid hikers that go on 8 mile or more hikes in the area. We remember them from last year because when we first met one of the ladies had just fallen hiking and had a broken hip.

The steak dinner was run by a new team. They did not start the BBQ's early enough so we waited an hour past the 5 pm starting time. No matter - the conversation was good and the food was likewise once we were served.

After supper we headed to the large Sears at the Superstition Springs Mall. Charlotte's computerized Kenmore sewing machine jammed when she was using it at the last quilting session. Unlike at home, the Sears did not have a service department that would send out items for repair. We would have to take it to the service depot elsewhere in Mesa that was only open during usual daytime hours.

We were going to buy a cheapy just to get by at the quilting sessions. Instead, I convinced Charlotte to get a Brother computerized sewing/quilting machine that has an extension arm for quilting. I think it was a good decision. We will look into getting the other machine repaired at a later time.

Charlotte set up the new machine and watched the instructional video while I took care of the online registration and downloaded manuals and sewing guides.

I watched the People's Choice Awards on the front TV while she viewed the video in the bedroom. I soon realized I only knew a few of the nominees and shows that were honoured. I guess, at our age, we are out of the mainstream.

Tue - Jan 10/12

A "take it easy" morning in the RV.

We went to check out the Green Bee produce market set up at Guest Services at 1 p.m.

We bought a variety of the usual veggies and went to check out the pay phone in the laundry. That was a false lead. There was no pay phone - just a phone for in-park calls.

Wow! All new washers and dryers and a note: The credit cards from last year that were needed to operate the washers and dryers will not work in the new machines. I had to go to the office where they converted the previous card credits to a new card.

I also checked on the woodshop card - previous cost $5.00 per season.  Now it is free!

I also spoke to the wood shop manager and would not have to repeat the safety course.

Our next destination, after unloading the veggies at the RV, was the closest Post Office in A.J. (Apache Junction). Mailed a letter to Canada. Then we headed out to Jo-ann Fabrics in Gilbert so Charlotte could buy some material for the next sewing class project. I fueled up the Del Sol at the Sam's club nearby while she was in Jo-Anne's.

We decided to go a few exits down the Loop 202 (SanTan Freeway) to the Texas Steakhouse for our traditional "we have arrived steak" celebration meal. This is our treat when we arrive at any distant destination.

Ooops! Except on the Fri/Sat/Sun they don't open before 4 p.m.

To kill some time we went to the nearby SuperTarget to grocery shop. We had planned on doing that at the Sam's Club or Costco that are both near Jo-Ann's. Target had competitive prices and good produce. They are a viable Wal-Mart competitor with the bonus of being neater, cleaner, better organized and less crowded.

After a great meal we ended up in the tail end of the rush hour as we returned to Canyon Vistas. The big problem, as usual, is not the Freeway itself - it is the first stoplight off the exit ramps. The exit ramps were backed up about 2 miles, moving only several cars at a time every time the light changed. The outside lanes were moving at near the 65 mph speed limit.

We unloaded the car and put the perishables in the refrigerator or freezer. The remainder will be put away tomorrow morning - it was time for NCIS on TV.

Oooops! A problem. The Blogger allotment is full and would not allow pictures to be uploaded for this post.

It took 3 hours with the slow park Wi-Fi connection to delete previous year's posts to allow pictures to be once again uploaded. Now I can go to bed.

Mon - Jan 9/12

Up and off to the Main Hall by 8 a.m.

Cool today - down to mid-60's - low 40's last night.

Each Monday is coffee and donut day in the main hall. The donuts are huge - twice the size of the usual Tim Horton fare back home. This is the biggest turnout we have seen to date at the announcements - at least double. The line for donuts went half way around the hall.

The usual announcements - welcome to newcomers, happy birthdays and anniversaries and info about upcoming events plus a request for those with pets to not walk them in the non-pet part of the park. (Probably the same people that complained about visiting children playing on the pickle ball court last year?)

We signed up for the Wild Horse Pass Casino bus trip and Charlotte took her name off the list for the painting sessions. She decided doing a painting of the midwest landscape wouldn't be practical - no place to put the picture - it would look out of place back home.

We stopped at the Activities Desk in Guest Services. Our neighbour (workamper) from across the road run's this desk. We picked up tickets for the month's events we wanted to attend. We usually have three times as many tickets lined up above the kitchen cabinets. Unlike last year, they will not put out next month's activity calendar until the end of the month. We usually buy the tickets all at once for the three months of activities that we wish to attend.  Now we will have to get them a month at a time.

Charlotte worked on shortening my new blue jeans before going to the pen and ink class. While she was at class I continued the final steps in re-arranging the storage compartments. I also plugged in the rechargeables (spotlights, drills, etc.) to bring them up to full charge in case we need them during our stay.

When Charlotte returned we spent an hour "dymo" labelling all of her sewing equipment. There are over 60 quilters in the Quilter's Guild. They all have similar rotary cutters, scissors, cutting squares, rulers and other items. To avoid confusion it was suggested that they label all the items they bring to class. Done!

We actually turned on the heat in the evening (first time since we arrived) to take the chill out of the air.

It was a "snack" supper this evening as we watched TV. Ritz crackers topped with hamburg pickles, cheese chunks and pepperoni slices....mmmmm - a treat.

The only scheduled event tomorrow is the return, after a week off, of the  "Green Bee" produce company. They set up a mini-market near Guest Services weekly on Tuesday that runs from 1 until 3 p.m.

It was another nice, if cooler, day in the Valley of the Sun.

Sun - Jan 8/12

Slept in until 9 a.m. All that walking yesterday caught up with us.

Breakfast was Cranberry Whole Wheat Toast. We will try to make the loaf last until next weeks Swap Meet.

I took the recycling (plastic and paper) up to the dumpsters and the soft drink cans over to the Wood Shop bin. The Wood Shop uses the proceeds from the cans to buy additional equipment.

As I was approaching our mailbox at the resort post office a couple (from Calgary) asked for assistance. Guest Services were closed and they asked if I wouldn't mind giving them information about the park. They asked for monthly rates and park amenities which I explained to them. They thought the additional park charges for sewer and trash pickup was a "nickle & dime" tactic making the rates higher than where they were currently staying.  They asked for a nearby place to eat, thanked me for my help and mentioned that they would continue to stay at their current park as they returned to their car.

My next stop was to refill our water dispenser at the water dispenser near the Park Office parking area. It dispenses water purified by reverse osmosis for $0.25 a gallon. Two gallons later and $0.50 lighter I was on my way back to the RV.

Today was - re-arrange the storage compartment day - all day. When we left we had just packed it all in anywhere it would fit easily. Now it is reorganized for southern living.

Charlotte put the shoes away in the shoe holder pockets attached around the base of the bed. Then she placed the extra blankets we used coming south into Space Bag storage bags. She then used the vacuum to compact their size making more room for them in the storage area under the bed.

We still have to put away the winter coats and boots we were wearing when we left the cold north. I also have one more bin to sort and store. Probably tomorrow.

The Carrot Cake we bought at the Swap Meet was an evening treat.

As usual - TV then bed.

Sat - Jan 7/12

Wow! We slept in until 9 a.m. I guess yesterday's busy schedule caught up with us.

Breakfast and then a little more arranging around the RV. I set up the steering wheel table complete with tablecloth and our RV picture frame.

We decided to visit the Mesa Swap Meet which is open on the weekend. It is not really a flea market with a variety of vendors with outside tables like back home. This is a permanent indoor (tented) venue with over 1.25 miles of two sided aisles. It took us over 2 hours to completely walk the 4 covered aisles. As usual we found items to buy that we didn't know we needed. We were happy to see the bakery outlet with still there. We bought two of our usual items. A loaf of Cranberry Bread and luckily, the last available Carrot Cake.

We then headed out to Joe's Farm Grill. This has been featured on Diner's, Drive-ins and Dives. It is a favourite of ours. I think this is the first time we went on a Saturday. When we arrived there the line went out the door. I counted 60 ahead of us. Soon there were a dozen behind us.

Charlotte order the Ahi Tuna Sandwich which is one of her favourites here. It was hard for me not to order the Peanut Butter Banana Split Sandwich. In the end I decided on Tailpipes - two hot dogs deep fried in a Taco shell with a melted cheese topping -  a  sinful, artery clogging treat. There are inside seats but most folks eat outside at the picnic tables that are set under huge shade trees. This is a relaxing place to eat.

Even the immaculate washrooms are a treat. Inside you can watch an animated classic on a TV (e.g. The Thunderbirds) while being surrounded by classic G.I. Joe / Barbie type dolls in wall displays.  Neat!

An enjoyable convertible ride back to the RV Park using the quieter secondary roads.

A quiet TV evening again before having a piece of Carrot Cake before bed.

Fri - Jan 6/12

A usual morning with cereal for breakfast and a few arranging chores around the RV. We decided on dedicating a trash can to recycle bottle and cans and another just for paper.

Met out neighbour from across the street. They are workkampers at the park.

We were going to go to the Main Hall for sandwiches for lunch but decided instead to go to the Opening Ceremony at the new addition to the park - Superstition Views at Canyon Vistas - which was being held at noon.

My guess is that there were well over a thousand visitors at the opening with many being from outside of the park. The streets were packed with cars. Charlotte thought they should have used short term RV area at the entrance to park the cars. I made this suggestion to the District Sales Manager and by the time we returned to the RV I noticed that they implimented Cal-Am vehicles as well as sales staff golf carts as shuttles.
This section is an upscale resort featuring homes done in the Southwest architectural style. Today they were showcasing the first designs even though a few were not yet completed. Their are 6 different modular (manufactured) home styles from 14 to 18 feet wide and 45 feet in length. Some models offer RV ports with full hookups. One design has an RV garage. Other models offer carports or 2 car garages.

Some of the models have Margarita Decks on top of the garage/carport area. Each Cassita has over 800 Sq. Ft. of living area providing a Kitchen/Living/Dining area with a single bath, laundry area and bedroom. The cost is in the $125,000 + range with the park fee currently running at $600.00 per month + Sewer and Garbage fees. All utilities are up to the owner.

Beer, wine and water were provided as well as a lunch. I think they had many more visitors than expected. They ran out of hot food while we were almost at the serving table. It was cheese, crackers, veggies, dip and cookies for the remaining 80% who were in line. There were still at least a hundred in line when we left the open house about an hour later.

We returned to the RV about 1:30 p.m. after visiting the show models. No - we didn't buy!

Charlotte relaxed watching TV outside until about 3 pm. then came inside to crochet (afghan).

A typical evening - supper, TV and bed by 10 p.m. Our body clock is still on home time which means going to bed 2 hours earlier and getting up earlier in real (Arizona) time.

Thu – Jan 5/12

Up at 7:30 a.m.

After breakfast Charlotte went for a walk to return the library books.

I unloaded the bikes from the rack on the motorhome. That job took a half hour. A lot of bungee cords to unhook!

Today was garbage day. The trash cans were all lined up along the curb like soldiers at attention.This year instead of placing your garbage in bags at the curb each lot has a special large wheeled trash can. A garbage truck equipped with a “grabber arm” picks up the can, dumps it into the truck and returns the can to the curb. This is a much better arrangement. You don’t accumulate garbage bags inside the RV during the week.

I then looked up area activities on the computer using the park Wi-Fi. The system has improved since last year with an additional tower and more bandwidth. It still requires more of both to be really suitable but it’s a start! Today I searched for the dates of some of our usual events (Barrett-Jackson Car Auction, Fiesta Dog Show and the Gourd Festival) as well as a for few new ones, such as, The Quilt, Craft and Sewing Festival, The Monster Truck Jam and Roller Derby. Not saying we will go to all – but at least we know when they occur.

After the library Charlotte stopped in to check out the sewing room and returned to the RV about 11:30 a.m. We then rode our bikes up to the Activity Center for lunch. They had run short of spaghetti yesterday (Italian Day) so we went early. Today was Taco Thursday – a favourite of ours!

The tacos are huge – especially for only $5.50 - which is the price for all lunchtime meals that are available Monday to Friday in the Main Hall. After paying you fill out a form that has a checklist of all the toppings available. The choices to you may have added to the basic taco (meat, lettuce and shell) are:

- Salsa - Olives  -Cheese (shredded) - Onions - Jalapenos - Guacamole -Tomatoes - Sour Cream - Soda ($ 0.50 extra) - Cookie - Brownie. There is also a line to write your name. Your order is then custom assembled using the checked off preference list. They call you when it is ready. Next time we will get one Taco and two plates so we can share. Ice water, cheese cubes and pimento olives were also available.

We ate outside on the patio next to the pool area. We couldn’t believe how many people were not eating their Taco Shell. Maybe they are extremely diet conscious? They are missing out on a great treat!

Check out the picture! Charlotte had a visitor – a Humming Bird! Look close! It's the blur to the right of Charlotte's shoulder.

After the meal we picked up a Doggie Bag from the kitchen to make it easier to take the leftovers back to the RV while riding our bikes.

We then immediately took the car to Wal-Mart. We went to the one on Apache Trail as the Signal Butte Wal-Mart, even though it is larger, doesn’t carry yard goods. Charlotte looked up the measurements for today’s project when she stopped in at the Sewing Room during her morning walk.

Today, with the top off, the ride in the Del Sol was quite warm. We thoroughly enjoyed it!

On returning to the RV I put the sewing machine in the car. Charlotte drove to the Activity Center and I followed on my bike. I carried the sewing machine to the room, put the top on the car, locked it then returned to the RV on my bike to do a few odds and ends.

To my surprise Charlotte arrived around 3:30 p.m. – on foot. She couldn’t start the car! Every once in a while the steering wheel lock gets in a position that it makes the ignition key difficult to turn. A little extra strength is required to twist and hold the steering wheel while turning the key. I walked up to the center (about 10 minutes away) and drove the car back.

Charlotte was tired, as was I. She had a nap before supper. I think I would have napped too if I had lain down.

After supper it was another quiet TV evening in the RV.

Wed - Jan 4/12

Still getting up around 7 a.m.

Charlotte went for a morning walk to the library to exchange books. There are probably over a thousand paperbacks available for exchange. Folks donate/exchange their paperbacks. Others just borrow. Charlotte has already finsihed three VC Andrews since Monday.

She stopped at the Stained Glass Room and talked with a few folks she recognized from last year's classes. She then stopped in next door at the Quilting Room and signed up for a few different project classes.

Today I returned the Flat Screen HDTV to the outside compartment. Facing north will make it easier to watch the TV outside in the afternoon and early evening as the sun will not be shining directly on the screen. It took quite a bit longer than usual. The cable had lost its connector. I also discovered the poor TV reception was not only based on the antenna direction - the secondary amplifier had failed.

A quick trip to Radio Shack in A.J. (Apache Junction, AZ) and the problem was solved. I quick re-scan and I was showing almost 80 channels on the antenna. The change to digital allows each channel to have extra programs. Some have five or six. An example: Channel 3-1, 3-2, 3-3 - each with different programming.

Another digital advantage is that many of the stations show an EPG (Elecronic Program Schedule) displaying the upcoming programs over the next few hours.

The weather here, since we arrived, has been better "convertible" weather than we enjoyed all summer back home. The top will be off on the Del Sol at every opportunity. Winter here is my summer.

We went to the Activity Center just before it closed at 4:30 p.m. We bought tickets for the steak dinner next week. These were popular last year and usually sold out early. The prices has increased from $10 to $12 dollars. Still a good deal!

We also picked up information on tickets for the Pheonix Coyotes (Hockey) and Suns (Basketball) games. They have RV Resort discounts for select games. The only problem is that all of the venues, including spring training games when they begin, are on the west side of Phoenix, AZ - a 40 to 50 mile drive from here.

We also may check out a few casino trips. They usually provide the transportation, free of charge, to and from the Casino.

There are also two upcoming Quilt Shows in Tucson and Phoenix. Some folks car pool to these events. We may or may not go. We have visited these shows on our own in the past.

Maybe tomorrow I will take the bikes off the rack. We almost have enough energy to go for a ride. It appears that the rear gates may remain open allowing us to ride in the back section that has several blocks of paved roads but no development, as yet. The highway has bike lanes in places; but is too busy for us.

Gradually, everything is getting settled in, a little each day.