Wed., 30 Jan 13

We decided to cancel a trip we planned for today due to the weather. It will be 15 degrees above normal - in the high 80's F with really strong winds. This is the weather average temperature for May! Tomorrow will see a 20 degree drop as a cold front comes in. There was a tornado last night just north of Atlanta, GA. This season has started already. With the planned activity requiring us to be outside for most of the day we thought it was wiser to wait for cooler weather.

Charlotte use the blender we purchased at Walmart yesterday to make smoothies. We forgot our "Ninja" blender at home. $12 for an Oster blender with several speeds was to good to resist.

Bananas, OJ (orange juice), Frozen Strawberries, (yes, we are still eating some daily from the flat we purchased over a week ago for $10) and ice cubes. They were great! We had to drink slowly to keep from getting "stomach freeze".

Charlotte relaxed by crocheting at different times throughout the day.

Being near the end of the month several RV's came into the park this morning. We also saw a few leaving. "G" street has 4 more RV's than previously. Yes - we are on "G" street and No - they didn't name it after us (grin).

The Wi-Fi was off most of the morning. When it came back on it was verrry slooow.

Charlotte made sandwiches for lunch using the fresh bread, ultra thin turkey slices, cheese slices w/pickles and chips on the side. A perfect follow-up to the mornings smoothie.

We also did our medicine (pills) for they next 3 weeks. This usually takes about an hour to count out all the pills into the daily container slots. Somehow we have a shortage. We do have enough to last until we return at the end of February. Figuring out what we will need for the next 62 days after we return home took all afternoon because we had to count all the pills for the 20 different medications we must take.

We have to return and stay in our home province for 24 hours as our available "Out-of-Country" medical coverage is only good for a maximum of 62 continuous days. Coverage extension is available; however, with each of us now pass the magic medical insurance age number (65) coverage is extremely expensive - if it can be gotten, at all. We do not qualify for "normal" coverage which would run about $30 a day. We would have be accessed by a medical underwriter. I am guessing that coverage, if available, might run as high as $100 a day which would be ridiculous.

It is a nuisance; however, 24 hours at home will renew our coverage for another 62 days. The cost of going home is still much cheaper than even the basic - no exam required - coverage.

This is why we decided to come to Florida this year rather than Arizona. It was a lucky decision as the rest of the country has had terrible weather. Florida has been way better than usual with 10 degree above normal temperatures most of the time. We still have to decide if we are driving, flying or taking the train or bus home. We have to be back by Feb 25.

Charlotte made Salmon and Peas for supper. Another treat that we haven't had since leaving home. We had been fairly busy most days with little time for home cooking. Today was an RV day - we didn't didn't even change out of our PJ's.

We watched the Atlas 5 rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, FL on the NASA TV channel until twenty seconds before the launch. We then went outside and stood in front of the RV which faces directly towards the cape. We could watch the rocket (flames) for a minute or more as it rose into the night sky.
The last launch we watched was many years ago while we were in DisneyWorld. The near perfect viewing conditions tonight made this launch quite impressive - even from this distance. We then returned inside and watched the simulations showing its progress for another 15 minutes.

I then took the following press release from the Internet:

NASA launches communication satellite

     

MARCIA DUNN | January 30, 2013 08:55 PM EST | Associated Press

---

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — NASA has launched a new communication satellite.
An unmanned Atlas rocket blasted off Wednesday night from Cape Canaveral. NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite was on board.

This is the 11th TDRS (T-driss) satellite to be launched by NASA. The space agency uses the orbiting network to communicate with the astronauts living on the International Space Station. The satellites also relay all the images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope.

The first TDRS spacecraft was launched in 1983. The second was lost aboard space shuttle Challenger in 1986.

This newest third-generation TDRS carries the letter K (Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, TDRS-K) designation. Once it begins working full time, it will become TDRS-11.

It costs between $350 million and $400 million.

--------------------------

If the space agency only used ground-based antennas to keep watch on the satellites, it would be impossible to constantly monitor spacecraft, and that creates problems. The most recent TDRS launch before now was in 2002. Five TDRS satellites are still functioning in orbit today. According to a NASA mission description, the TDRS-K satellite is expected to last at least 15 years in orbit.

It was a good day to relax. After the launch we settled in to watch TV as usual. We will "hit the sack" early. We have to be up early tomorrow for the parks trip to the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Tampa, FL. It leaves at 7:30 a.m.

Tue., 29 Jan 13

It was another one of those RV days.

Since it felt like Sunday (I don't know why - maybe because we slept in until a little after 9 am?) Charlotte made brunch rather than our usual cereal. Bacon and eggs w/toast, hashbrowns and strawberries. It held us until supper.

Charlotte finished the quilt. Looks great. It is not for the bed. It is a personal quilt for using on the sofa to snuggle and kept warm with while watching TV.

In the early afternoon new neighbours moved onto the lot next to our RV. They are also from Ontario (near Orangeville - Northwest of Toronto). This is their 7th year here. They come and golf for 2 months. They are here with a group of 4 other RVers. One is from Kingston, Ontario a few hours from where we live.

We went shoppin in the late afternoon to pick up headlight bulbs for the Del Sol. We aren't out often after dark; however, coming home in the early evening the other day I noticed the low beams didn't appear quite as bright as usual. Checking it out at the RV we found the driver's side low beam was out.

I checked on-line and found several parts stores and walmart had the Sylvania Silver Star Ultra headlight bulbs that I wanted in stock. They were all with a dollar or two of  $50 for a pair. We decided on trying walmart as we needed a few groceries, as well. While there I picked up a pair of
new Michelin Wiper blades for the Del Sol. The two cost about half of the price of one back home.

Back at the RV I just had enough time to change the bulbs and the wiper blades before it got too dark to work.

Charlotte made Salmon sandwiches with the really fresh bread. This is always a treat for me.

The usual evening TV: Jeopardy and Family Feud (a nightly staple) followed by NCIS and NCIS: Los Angeles followed by an interesting Dateline murder case story. Charlotte did some crocheting (a break from quilting) while I looked up possible area attractions to visit on the internet. I found a few we might do in the near future.

As usual we headed for bed to watch the news then Jay's (Leno) monologue (on timer). This is our version of a bedtime lullaby.

Mon.,  28 Jan 13

Today was mostly cloudy despite being above 80 F. We are back to running temps that are 10 degrees above the norm.  The wind was from the East compared to the normal Westerly direction.

This was an RV day.

Charlotte worked on here quilt. It will be close to being finished by this evening.

I upgraded the computer to Windows 8 previously; however. uninstalled and went back to the original Windows 7 because it did not work with a few older programs. I also did not like the new interface. Many users do not.

I re-installed today because I had to register a freebie from Microsoft by Jan. 31 (or in the future possibly have to pay for the program). This was a day long chore due to the slow Wi-Fi (compared to high speed cable at home). It took more than 12 hours to install and download the updates. What a pain!

While waiting for the downloads I went down to "The Hearth" (the closest clubhouse to the RV) to sign up for the trip to the Seminole Hard Rock Casino (Tampa, FL). The $20 fee (each) gets a bus ride with $25 in casino play credits and a $5 food voucher. It should be fun.

Charlotte made popcorn for a TV watching treat using her Christmas Present - the Wabash Valley Whirley-Pop. Liz and Kat each got one too - we like the traditional style. Instead of having to continuously shake a pot on the stove you just hold the handle and turn the crank. The microwave is quicker - this traditional method is tastier.

The Whirley-Pop also makes it easier. We had a pot full in no time. Using the prescribed measurements of popcorn and oil it only slightly lifted the lid when done. The crank stirs the bottom allowing the kernels to stay on the bottom and pop while keeping the popped kernels from burning.  It worked really well. Perfect popcorn in just a few minutes.

It was an odds and ends TV night. We then watched Jay Leno's "Headlines" in bed with the sleep timer on.

Sun., 27 Jan 13

Even more fog this morning than yesterday.

It burnt off quicker.

I spent the morning doing more organizing so all the items we decided we didn't need in the RV the other day would have a place to stay in the storage bays.

Charlotte talked to her sister via Skype (internet). This is free and saves $$.

This is the weekend - brunch time. Charlotte made strawberry pancakes w/sausages - good, as usual.

It was such a lovely day we decided to go for an "Anywhere Ride". An "Anywhere Ride" is when we just drive. At an intersection we decide, on the spur of the moment, to turn right, left or go straight ahead. At "half-time" we set the GPS for home and return from wherever we happen to be. The second purpose was to test the new position of the GPS.

Well - that didn't last long! The car engine began to surge (rev up and down) on its own. A check of the gauges show the temperature was way above normal. I continued on to Clemmont, FL were I knew the location of an AutoZone (car parts) store.

I picked up a new Fail Safe thermostat w/necessary gaskets and clamps just in case this was the cause. I could change it anywhere easily with the tools I had in the trunk if I had to in an emergency. I had antifreeze in the trunk which I bought the other day to top up the motorhome. It was designed for aluminum engines/radiators so it was OK to use in the Del Sol. We headed back to the RV to continue the diagnosis.

Back at the RV I was able to let it cool enough to remove the rad cap and top it up completely. I determined that the electric cooling fan and switch were functioning properly. The water pump seemed to be functioning properly as well. It appears the rad was low on coolant. I will have to keep an eye on it to see if I have a slow rad leak or other coolant problem.

We headed out again for our "Anywhere Ride". The weather was perfect - mid-70's with sunshine and a light breeze. We went through Howey-in-the-Hills and Tavares again. This time we continued on towards Mt. Dora.

Along the way we pulled into a roadside stand to get some seedless eating oranges. As Charlotte checked the oranges I started talking with Charles about his Porsche. It was a 1984 in great condition. This was the last of the pre-computer Porsches which can be easily "adjusted". We talked about various things "Car" for several minutes.

Talk got around to Watkins Glen, NY - the birth place of sports car racing in the USA. Charles really likes Watkins Glen - as do we. He then entertained us with a "bang-on" impression of Jackie Stewart (Formula One Racing Legend) - Scottish accent and all. He also went to his car to retrieve a few of his poems which he gave me. Below is a poem about his first encounter with a Porsche - circa 1963.

My Dream

I first saw her when I was young
Too young to know
I stood staring
She was red
She was tan
She was cute
Sexy
I didn't know what sexy was
But she was

I stood listening
She sounded like nothing I had ever heard
Rough yet smooth
The sound of things mechanical
The sound of things German
The sound of speed.

Standing there looking
She infected me
She captured me
She would have me
For all of my life
Looking
Listening
Feeling

I wanted her
I would have her
Uncle what is she
I asked
He laughed and said
She is Porsche

                                         Charles C.

We passed the usual corner mall shopping areas that lined the main highway and continued on to Mt. Dora's Historic Downtown. This part is very pretty. I noticed several other older Porsches in this area - maybe it's a Mt. Dora thing?

There was a wedding (pictures at least) going on in the park by the water. All of the towns in "Lake Country" make excellent public use of their waterfront. It was now approaching supper time - the "Anywhere Trip" was over - it was time to set the GPS for the RV Resort and head back. Despite the starting glitches (hopefully solved) today was fun. The new GPS position is the Del Sol worked well. I think it will be a keeper.

Back at the RV Charlotte made hot dogs for supper. They were great with the flat-sliced toasted (and buttered) buns.

Sunday is often family contact day. Liz e-mails. Kat phones (and e-mails), Catherine Skypes and Charlotte phones our friends in Mexico on a regular basis.

Evening will be time for TV and resting (as usual).

Sat., 26 Jan 13

Up and on the road early (a little after 9 am - that's early for us). We are heading for the La Mesa RV Show being held at the "Big Daddy" Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum near Ocala, FL. We decided on taking the slower route to see the countryside and small towns on the way being it was such a nice day.
This was also the first road test of the Rand-McNally GPS.

Along the way we turned into the Brownwood Paddock Square. The huge crowd and styled buildings attracted our attention. Several folks were stopped taking pictures of the many sculptures at the entrance. We just had to see what was going on. I had seen "The Villages" on the map - no clue as to what it was other than - a village?

This part of Florida was once cattle country. The bronze cattle-driving scene is a tribute to these early Florida settlers.

Brownwood is the newest "Square" in The Villages. Hey, I saw a sign for Buena Vista Blvd. as we came near - very appropriate as this place looks straight out of DisneyWorld.

Saturday mornings are for the Farmers Market. The street was closed for several dozen vendors - all selling farm-fresh produce and baked goods - most made from scratch. Goats milk soap to honey. Florida olive oil is also a product as more and more citrus groves become olive groves. There are all kinds of products for sale; however, it is not a flea-market.

Any day in the villages means golf carts everywhere - outnumbering cars in the street parking spots 5 to 1. This is a surreal experience. This place is so new (Oct. 2012) not all of the buildings have stores yet; but I am sure they will shortly.

Word to the Wise: I think they drive golf carts by sailing rules - the smaller (less powered) vessel has the right of way. You really have to watch out - they zoom everywhere!

The Villages is an active retirement community located in central Florida. Conceived over 50 years ago, it has flourished under the guidance of the family who created it. They continue to redefine retirement living by offering the best in homes, lifestyle and amenities. The Villages bills itself as "Florida's Friendliest Hometown!"

"The Villages" is really a huge collection of master-planned, age restricted communities located mainly in Sumter County it spans into both Lake and Marion Counties (Pop. 65,000). The community is controlled by several Community Development Districts (CDD's), most of which are controlled by H. Gary Morse, the owner of the development company which created The Villages. It includes the census-designated place (CDP) located in Sumter County, which is also known as The Villages. This is the town that appears on roadmaps.

The Villages consistently ranks as a very high growth area. At times, during the past several years, The Villages has ranked as the No. 1 fastest growing micropolitan area in the United States, . It has also been ranked by Forbes magazine, in the past, as the No. 1 fastest growing small town.

With only three neighborhoods designated for residences by persons under age 19 (absent a granted exemption), the median age of the villages is above 65. Retirees, drawn to Florida's climate, find the active lifestyle and provided amenities at The Villages a terrific lifestyle bonus.

The ability to play "Free Golf for Life" is a key component of The Villages advertising campaigns (though technically the statement is inaccurate as the costs are covered by the mandatory monthly amenity fees assessed on each residential lot). The Villages operates 39 courses.

This is an RV Resort lifestyle - without the RV's. Adult only swimming pools (32); family pools (16); sports pools (8) are located throughout the communities as are bocce, horseshoe, shuffleboard, billiards, tennis, pickleball (something like a cross between ping-pong and tennis) and meeting centers and event kitchens.

Larger venues have theatres for theatrical and musical productions like the Barnstorm Theatre at Brownwood. In addition, The Villages operates 11 parks, dog parks, fitness trails, numerous softball fields.

There is also a polo stadium (The Villages Polo Stadium), a woodworking shop, plus the Lifelong Learning College.

The nightly activities that are held in the town squares include dances and entertainment. Today's schedule with venues is:


Farmers Market
BW Paddock Square | 9:00 am
Early Entertainment with Tony D
Katie Belle's | 12:30 pm
Robin Gallo Duo
LSL Market Square | 5:00 pm
Bobby Blackmon & the B3 Band
SS Town Square | 5:00 pm
Never Never Band
BW Paddock Square | 5:00 pm
Cactus Jack & the Cadillacs
Katie Belle's | 6:30 pm
Gene Ferrari and Friends ~ Salute to Legendary Singers ~ Reserved Seating
Church on the Square | 7:00 pm


Shopping and dining are part of your lifestyle there are hundreds of shops, boutiques, bistros and nationally known restaurants and stores to choose from - and you can get there by golf cart!

Of course, with so many seniors, state-of-the-art medical care is available for the residents.

They offer 4-7 day vacations ($150 per night) that includes a cabanad, golf cart and access to many of the activities as well as the trolley tour or boat ride.

The best way to get a quick idea of The Villages is to take their free 45 minute Trolley Tour. The lively tour is given by enthusiastic residents who will acquaint you with a broad sampling of the non-stop fun and resources available in this 5 by 12 mile community. (5 x 12 miles is twice the area of my hometown - Cornwall, ON). To get to the tour just go east from I-75 and follow the signs for the Sales & Information Center.

This place is totally amazing! Maybe will go back and take the tour?

We enjoyed the ride to the RV show, passing several signs (miles apart) that pointed to "The Villages" (sectors).

The La Mesa RV show was being held on the grass at the Don Garlits Museum. This was a lot more comfortable than walking on hot pavement. We just toured the Class "A" Motorhomes.

There was a nice 450 HP 43'6" Fleetwood Providence available (List Price: : $334,999.00). Sadly, I did not have the "pocket change" necessary to make the purchase. I guess I'll just have to keep buying lottery tickets and continue dreaming.

There were quite a few folks at the show. A few were "closed" as a "deal" was in progress. We saw a few going out or returning - as in test drive. A number of folks also took in the "Big Daddy" Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum.

"Big Daddy" is the "Grand Daddy" of dragster racing - the patriarch of Top Fuel Drag Racing. With 17 World Championships and numerous racing records and milestones he is a legend.

Opened in 1984, it chronicles the history of the sport of drag racing. Some 90 racing cars can be seen in the Drag Race building, while a further 50 vehicles are in the Antique Car building. Many of the Garlits "Swamp Rat" cars are here; but Swamp Rat XXX is not. It is in the Smithsonian Museum of National History in Washington, DC.  Don also turns out to be a pack rat and has accumulated cars and memorabilia from other top names in the sport. The museum is also home to the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame.

Unbelievably, in 2002, he resurrected Swamp Rat 34 (from the museum); gave it an equipment update and ran at the Gatornationals at 323.04 mph.

With a reasonable admission price ($13.00 for seniors) it is well worth a visit.

Bonus: virtually next door to the museum is a Cracker Barrel Restaurant. Guess where we ate? (Charlotte's favourite).


We drove under the "Golf Cart Overpass" over US-27/441 on the way back to the RV.

We stopped at Sam's Club in Lady Lake, FL. I filled up with gas then parked to adjusted the placement of the GPS. With the top off on the Del Sol it is still difficult to see the screen in direct sunlight. My light shirt and even my hand also reflected on the screen. On the good side I could at least hear the directions although the voice is a little "computer synthetic". It does have a nice feature that I can set (or not) to give voice and/or visual notification at the interval I can set (0.1 mile and up). Many notifications can be set. I was informed of the speed limit changes; if I went over the speed limit; construction sites (downloadable from the Rand-McNally website) and approaching points of interest (my POI's - also downloadable) along the route.

A short time later we were back at the RV. Charlotte went in while I went outside to "dump". The sewage holding tank was approaching full and I would rather do it sooner than later. Easier in the daylight compared to having it hit full at night.

I then took the Del Sol for a short trip to the "Veranda" (clubhouse) to try the GPS in another position in the car. I know it will work great in the RV - especially with being able to set the weight, length, width, propane tanks, etc. and be warned of low overpasses, restricted roads, bridges, tunnels, roads along the route. I hope the new position in the car will not be easier to view with reflections.

I still have a lot to learn to be able to operate the unit efficiently.

I think there are events in the park tonight in association with their Hospice Fund-raising; however, with such a busy day we will just take it easy and watch TV this evening.

Fri., 25 Jan 13

A cool night and a bit of fog in the early morning. It will be sunny once the fog burns off. I put the heat on to take the chill off. It will warm up to the low 70'sF today.

Today was a clean-up day.

After breakfast we cleaned all the kitchen drawers. Everything is now washed and "in order". Heaven knows how long that will last. Items that were duplicates or not used very much (if at all) were put aside for placement in the outside storage bays (if there is any room to be found). It doesn't seem like much work; but this part took all morning (between TV programs).

After lunch we tackled the large drawers under the dinette seats. They were also cleaned and organized between TV programs. There were many items left to put in the outside storage bays which will make finding room an even bigger problem. Some items may have to go back under until we can unload them at home.

Although we are getting better; we still take too much.

We had thought about going out for a drive; but we decided that we would save the adventure until tomorrow as it was now close to supper time.

After supper it was the usual TV thing. We also worked on a few crossword puzzles - then bed.

Thu., 24 Jan 13

Like most days after an adventure - today will be a day to rest and recover. Charlotte cut strawberries to top our Cheerios for breakfast. We are enjoying the flat of strawberries we bought at the flea market on Monday. They are holding up really well. We had to turn the heat on for a few minutes. It dropped to the low 3o's last night. Today will warm up to the high 6o's F with little wind and a few clouds. It will work its way up to above 8oF by the beginning of next week.

I spent time setting up the new GPS. So far I am impressed. Compared to the Garmin, the Rand-McNally RVND 7720 has about twice the information on the screen. If the description (internet, manufacturer, etc.) would have been more informative I would have got this unit before the Garmin. Until I downloaded and opened the manual I did not realize it has a line-out connection for a speaker/earphone and a connection for an exterior antenna. These are two features I desired. The line-out means I can use an earphone and hear the instructions even if the radio is on or the wind noise is high. I can also connect it to my radio (speakers) or CB Speaker in the RV. The antenna is something that may be beneficial in the motorhome where it is located over 2 feet from the windshield and may loose the satellite feed. It may not be needed as it seems very sensitive. It picked up the GPS satellites inside the RV with the curtains closed.

I installed the screen protector which is also anti-glare. I also installed the sunshade to help viewing. I downloaded the Rand-McNally Dock which connects the GPS to the computer. Using this I was able to update the computer and add additional POI's from the internet (e.g. Diners, Drive-ins and Dive sites) It features lifetime free map updates which is also a nice feature that will save $$.

I will pass on the traffic feature (antenna optional - $$) as I don't feel I will make use of this feature on a regular basis. Other neat features include being able to connect a backup camera and connect to Wi-Fi for weather reports. It also has an SD slot for added memory for future use. So far - so good - although there will be a lot to learn.

I also purchase the hard cover protective case. I will use it for storage when I remove it from the car when I park. A lot of things "disappear" in metropolitan Florida areas (people and things). The nightly news is full of shootings and robberies on a daily basis.

A park resident knocked on the RV door earlier this morning to collect a $ donation. This is hospice week in the park and there are a lot of fund raising events. While we were doing our laundry last week another resident explained this event was coming up. She mentioned that last year the park had raised $40,000 last year - Wow!

As she waited for me to get my $ she backed away from the door. She was concerned about our "Beware of Dog" sign. I told her we do not have a dog. The sign is there as a "Security Device". We are Canadian and don't carry guns. (Florida allows residents to arm themselves). I also explained that the two "Police" ball caps in the front windshield are also part of our security system. I figure if someone sees these they will assume there is a cop inside and will leave us alone. I also think, on occasion, it has gotten us through international customs or Border Patrol (illegal immigrant) checkpoints, a little quicker.

Charlotte made toasted cheese sandwiches for lunch. They were a treat as we hadn't had these since we departed home after Christmas.

Charlotte continued working on her quilt. I downloaded and printed out our "CSI Diplomas" from the CSI Experience that came in by e-­mail. We watched TV, off and on, as we did some organizing in the RV.

I did more compartment organizing. I moved some inside stuff into the outside storage bays. We always take more than we need. While outside some folks (Ron and Bobbie) stopped to chat. This is one of the wonderful things about RVing - people are not afraid to be friendly. Try talking to a complete strange in a big city and you would probably get a funny look as they hurried away. Besides, I wouldn't feel safe walking down many big city streets.

Charlotte made tuna sandwiches for supper - another tasty treat that we haven't had since departing home.

TV tonight didn't disappoint. "Person of Interest" had a new episode - part 2 of 2. Reese, et al , managed to free Harold from the clutches of a "mad" female computer whiz. She escaped so I'm betting we will see her again in future episodes.

It was a good day to relax.

Wed., 23 Jan 13

The mission today was to go to Camping World and pick up the Rand-McNally RVND 7720 GPS. I also had a few tour items on the agenda as well.

The plan was to go to the Camping World in Winter Garden, FL then on to Orlando. We decided to try the Florida Turnpike toll road just to check it out for future reference. The route exits near camping world. It saves time, distance and a lot of stops lights compared to our US-27 - SR-50 route we usually take. The cost = $1.50 and there was a toll both with a real live agent at the entrance a little more than a mile north of the RV park. This entrance only serves southbound traffic for entry and northbound for exit. The northbound entrance is 5 miles north of the park and only serves the southbound exit and northbound entrance - strange?

I tried out the demo unit to see if it may be suitable. It seemed worth a try. Unfortunately, this Camping World only had the GPS; but, it did not have all the accessories I wanted. They suggest the Kissimmee store as it was much larger and had a huge inventory.

My current GPS that I have had for several years is great and better than the Garmin I returned a few days ago to Best Buy. The problem is that it is no longer supported by Lowrance. They went back to concentrating on their fish finders and marine devices. The POI's (Points of Interest) on the device are now several years out of date. The last map update I could get is about 4 years from being current. This I can live with except now the touch screen has started to randomly malfunction.

As I tried to program in the Kissimmee Camping World it was now malfunctioning. This is why I need a new unit. I left it on to monitor my speed; however I had to ignore the continuous recalculations as it tried to bring me to what I had set as my next destination. I tried several times and eventually the touch screne began to function again and I was able to clear the trip.  Luckily, I knew how to get there and headed for SR-535. I then took I-4 to US-192 om which the store is located.

They had all the accessories I wanted. The parts counter clerk told me they can't keep them in stock. He had 8 at the beginning of the week. With my purchase there was only 1 left. Purchase made and we were on our way to my next location. I had planned two options for entertainment. Back to SR-535 then I-4 to the International Drive exit (74).

Word to the wise - SR-535 runs parallel to US-192 south of I-4 in Kissimmee. If you know where you are going on US-192 (south of I-4) take SR-535 then turn right at a connecting crossroad to US-192. It saves a lot of time, traffic and stoplights. This route is great in both directions.

Soon we were at the "Titanic Experience. Redesigned in January 2012 by RMS Titanic, Inc. for the 100th anniversary of the Titanic's maiden (and only) voyage "Titanic, The Experience" (7324 International Dr, Orlando, FL) allows you to become a passenger and travel back in time to 100 years ago using authentic artifacts and interactive storytellers in period costume. RMS Titanic, Inc. is the only company in the world that is authorized to display authentic artifacts adding to the re-creation of the experience. This 17 gallery tour includes full scale room re-creations where you visit Titanic's Grand Staircase, First Class Parlor Suite, Boilers, Captain's Bridge and Promenade Deck.

In addition, now available for viewing are more than 400 unique pieces of memorabilia and 100 artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic - 21 of which have recently completed conservation and are on display for the first time. These celebrated pieces include a 3-ton portion of the Ship's hull, the Captain's wheel and personal belongings from passengers and crew. A display of jewelry is currently on display for a limited engagement.

We have attended a similar Titanic exhibit in Branson, MO. Our interest today was the "Dinner Event". The website said this was being offered on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights. We thought; being Wednesday, we would easily get a spot. Unfortunately, they were not offering it tonight. (This is the "subject to change" small print which allows them to cancel if there is low demand).

Option #2 - virtually next door - was The CSI Experience: Orlando. This is identical to the one in Las Vegas. It features 3 crime scenes that you, as a "newbie", investigate. They offer a combo ticket which includes "The Body Experience" which displays real human bodies with dissected "under the skin" views. We had done this a few times previously (Boston and Las Vegas) and passed on the combo. We also decided to "investigate" only 1 of the crime scenes. We could add the others; if desired, for an additional $5 charge.

• Briefing Room
• Crime Scene 1 – A House collided
• Crime Scene 2 – Who got served?
• Crime Scene 3 – No bones about it
• Lab 1
• Lab 2 & Authopsy
• Report to Grissom

We decided on investigating Crime Scene #2 (Who Got Served?). After donning our CSI (simulated) bulletproof vests we headed for the "Briefing Room" where we watched an introductory video explaining the process.

Warning: –  If you plan on doing this attraction - skip below as it while give away the results of  investigating Crime Scene #2. OK if you plan to do either Crime Scene #1 or #3.

After the briefing we proceeded, clipboard in hand,  to the crime scene where we found the dead body of "Penny" in an alley behind the "Sun Dancer Motel". Our 2-sided form for notes had 3 sections. Section "A" had the main elements of the crime scene outlined on a graph. Here we wrote what we observed at the scene.

Section "B" on the form had several areas where we could write the analysis of the items we noted in "A". We then proceeded to "Lab" areas to do our analysis of the items retrieved from the crime scene. Each of these areas had info describing the process involved and equipment and/or information to use in our case. Some of the displayed videos featured cast members of CSI: Las Vegas. Others featured real CSI experts. Some labs required computer use and/or input.

Digital Evidence: –  Info retrieved from the cell phone included the last incoming and outgoing text messages from "Penny". They were to her boyfriend (John) and BFF (Diana).

Latent Prints: –  Latent prints were lifted from an 8 x 10 promo photo of "Penny Golden" found at the scene. It had been torn in half.  After matching several samples we found the fingerprints matched "Diana Reiley"

Impressive Evidence: –  At the crime scene it was evident that the body had been run over by a car as tire marks were on the pavement and crossed the body. We found the tire tracks matched an impounded "stolen car" that was in the CSI garage.

Toxicology/Drug Chemistry: –  "Tox" results identified the substance found in a small "Drug Bag" found next to the body contained Fentanyl  which is extremely toxic.

Forensic Entomology: – The body was found on May 8th. Blow Fly evidence on the body determined the amount of time that had elapsed since death.

Forensic Biology DNA: – The DNA evidence from the body had a "hit" using CODIS  (Combined DNA Index System). We were able to compare several samples (mother's and father's DNA) and found that "Penny Golden" was really Lucy Cannelli who had run away from home at age 14. Cigarette butts at the scene were of 2 types (filter/non-filter) and DNA would also place Diana at the scene with Penny. 

Section "C" was the autopsy evidence. Lack of internal bleeding around the areas of injury caused by being run over by the car indicated "Penny" was dead when this occurred.

Report to Grissom: – The last section involved reporting to Gilbert "Gil" Grissom, the former night shift supervisor at the Las Vegas Crime Lab. Here we gained access by fingerprint ID to the lab computer on which we made our report. Charlotte and I entered our analysis independently. Both of us were correct in our conclusion: The stolen car tire tracks were after the fact. Penny (Lucy) was murdered by her friend (...some friend) Diana who was jealous of here (Penny) getting a "part" she had also auditioned for. She offered to share drugs (e-mail) to celebrate Penny's good-luck and they agreed to meet. The drugs Diana provided were designed to be fatal.

This was a fun experience. It takes about an hour; however, you can take all the time you need. The staff was extremely friendly and very helpful. Perhaps we will do this again if we go to Las Vegas.

Although there are many various restaurants near this attraction, we were not hungry and decided to jump on I-4 just around the corner. Getting there required a turn at the traffic light. Volume meant this took 15 minutes. We took I-4 back to US-192 heading for US-27 which would bring us back to the RV.

On US-192 we spotted a Texas Roadhouse - my favourite place for steak. Naturally, we turned in. I had my usual - an 8 oz Dallas Filet w/loaded baked potato and caesar salad. Charlotte had the Filet Salad. The only real difference between the two was that I had my salad first, then had to cut my filet (perfectly done, Medium -rare).

Charlotte had her filet, already cut into slices, on the salad. She really enjoyed her selection, as well.

After our meal we continued on US-192 and connected to US-27 in about a mile. This would bring us right back to the RV. We were at Clermont in less that 15 minutes. We decided to pick up milk when we spotted a Publix (grocery store) at a stop light.

Another 10 minutes and we were back at the RV. We think this RV Park is an ideal choice. It is close to the major attractions in the Orlando area with the added bonus of accessibility on major roads - most of which are 2 or 3 lanes wide. In fact, the roads to Clermont have a lot less congestion than those to the east/north east of Kissimmee and Orlando.

It was a busy, fun day.

Tues., 22 Jan 13

A cold front came in last night. Dropped the temperature to the low 40's F during the night and it only reached the mid-60's F today. It was totally overcast all day long. This was a good day to relax and recover in the RV.

After the morning TV programs Charlotte caught a few sewing programs on PBS and continued to work on her quilt.

For future references I worked on finding a few attractions to visit in the area once the Wi-Fi connection came back on. I also did some business and some e-mailing.

I then went outside to work as the temperature warmed up in the early afternoon.  l organizing the rear compartment of the RV after taking out the cordless drill for re-charging.

Next on the agenda was fluid checks. I filled the windshield washer containers in both the car and RV. While topping up the RV oil I noticed  the coolant was on the verge of being low. I also sprayed the RV and car tires with a tire shine while I was in the "touch up" mood.

While working outside I had short conversations with a few of my neighbours as they passed by. RVers are a friendly lot.

Charlotte accompanied me as I took a short ride down US-27 to pick up coolant for the RV at Advanced Auto Parts. A quick U-turn brought us to the store. I found the proper type for GM motors (Dex-Cool) and added a container of hand cleaner which was on special for $1.

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Our next stop was Dollar General a little further up the road (US-27) and on the way back to the RV. We had come for T.P. (toilet paper). I added a roll of electrical tape and black "rust" spray paint for future use. At the counter I noticed "Woman's World" which I always try to buy on a weekly basis (for Charlotte).

Charlotte made burgers for supper. Mine was perfect - matching the burger I had at Five Guys last week (which is the highest compliment).....mmmm good! Actually, ....mmmm Great!

The TV night started out as usual with Jeopardy and Family Feud. Unfortunately, NCIS was a repeat so we watched the debut of :The Taste" - the jury is still out on this one.

After a busy day yesterday, the rest did us good.