Saturday, June 30, 2007

Issue 26 HAPPY CANADA DAY AND A GREAT JULY 4TH

Diary published weekly since 2001

I have posted all my impressive pictures to albums under ‘Trip West’ - more to come, please check back often. (BE SURE TO VIEW THEM AS A SLIDESHOW) at http://picasaweb.google.com/rv.lifetstyle.consultants

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Hi All: We hope each of you will find neat places to CELEBRATE CANADA’S 140TH B’DAY and the same wishes are extended to our American friends for your upcoming 4th JULY CELEBRATIONS. John and I are enjoying Canada Day at the one of the most beautiful parks we have ever stayed at – VACATION RESORT IN RADIUM HOT SPRINGS, BC. It’s just across the Rockies from Banff through the Kooteney National Park. A beautiful gentle memorable drive that we’ll take en route to Calgary on Tuesday. Cool


Each extremely spacious site in Vacation Resort has a 25-foot wooden deck including a 12’ by 12’ roofed-covered cabana style structure. It includes many storage cupboards, a huge picnic table plus a barbeque with free propane on each site (see pictures link above) What an outstanding place! Everywhere you look impressive mountains surround us on all sides. We love Radium Hot Springs and although this park has two huge swimming pools and a hot tub, exercise rooms and more, on Sunday we plan to take a swim in the huge mineral pool in the town centre. Cool

Yesterday all three of us drove to Cranbrook for a Wally-world fix and some catch-up shopping. We were on our way to the German community of Kimberly but because it was getting late we decided to save that for another day. Spectacular mountain panoramas are everywhere in this region, the return trip towards Radium was totally impressive because the mountains were nearer and the afternoon sun was brighter. However by the time we arrived at the LUXOR the sky turned black and hail and rain became intense. It lasted all evening, however this morning the sky is bright and it is a perfect day. Just an info note, gas in this are is $1.19.9 Cdn$ per litre ($4.03.00 US$ per gallon). It is beautiful but just a tad costly Cool

For a bit of excitement - last evening, a driver of a brand new large motorhome backed into one of the cabanas while trying to get into his site – he did quite a bit of damage to the cabana and do not know what he did to the motorhome. So this morning right outside my window I am watched the restructuring as I write today’s Diary. Cool ________________________________________

THE PAST 12 DAYS IN REVIEW

Our trip from Calgary to Canmore was dicey, mainly because the ongoing rain was almost snow. The scenery in Canmore was awesome even though the clouds were real low – it was cold too. En route driving was slow due to mega construction through Kicking Horse Pass – John had to drive most of the way in second and third gear. We are happy to announce they are building an extra high bridge over all the ups and downs of this challenging pass – for sure it will make this route much more enjoyable to drive. A pleasant lunch break at Denny’s in Revelstoke helped revive us – since RV parking was at a premium, we asked and were granted permission to park in the hotel/restaurant lot. Our journey continued through the tunnels of the gentler Rogers Pass and by the time we reached Kelowna, the sun was shining bright, what difference sunshine makes to the terrain. Everything jumps 10 points towards perfection Cool
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KELOWNA

We had reserved at the beautiful HOLIDAY PARK IN KELOWNA for 4-days. Our site included a paved patio, plus attached parking pad – manicured trees surrounded it. It definitely is one of ‘Canada’s Top 5-parks’. Because we reserved as RPI, we only paid $8.00 a night (regular nightly rates are $50.00+) – but this park also offers discounts to members of other groups as well. Cool

During our 4-day pre-school stay at Holiday Park, we took time for an afternoon visit to the picture perfect waterfront at Kelowna. We strolled the boardwalk, lunched at the classy Earl’s Restaurant and found time to relax and enjoy the wondrous scenery. What a delight to see so many people relaxing in the water and on the spacious parkland. The tour boats were also very active. All in all, it was a great day. Cool

En route to the school we stopped for an oil change w/filters and coolant flush w/filters at the local full-service WESTERN STAR/FREIGHTLINER DEALER. Whenever we are in Kelowna (about a dozen times) we go to WS for service- always outstanding. We appreciated the fact that they made space for us on short notice – plus our service and pricing was extraordinaire. Thanks for the fantastic service call guys. Cool
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BIT ABOUT THE SCHOOL

By 1:15, we arrived at OKANAGAN COLLEGE - many RV’s were already parked. See details on the school at http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/misc/rvlife Entry was not suppose to be until 1RazzM, but early arrivals provided ample opportunity for everyone to meet their neighbours, to register and to get ready to enjoy the Wine and Cheese party, A musical trio entertained us at the ‘Memory Pond’ on Saturday night and the Culinary students cooked a decadent buffet meal on the Sunday, In a word, the RV Owners Lifestyle school was a rousing success. Cool

All RVers should consider attending a program such as this – especially early in their travels. 21 seasoned RVers presented 50 informative 1.5-hour seminars - they simply shared their expertise and their love of RVing – none were product sales pitches. The majority of the students were new to this lifestyle – some attendees did not even have their RV as yet. 188 students reaped the benefits of the school (maximum capacity is 200) – for sure their RV experiences will be much more fulfilling as time goes on. They will also make many less mistakes. This year students called Alberta and British Columbia home but the instructors hailed as far away as Texas, California and us from Ontario. Cool

SPECIAL NOTE: During this trip we touched base with many ‘fans’ from P&J’s Weekly Diary, the RV Times and the RV gazette. Thanks to everyone for your praise and warm wonderful comments. However I send a special thanks to June B (I never use last names) for your unexpected gift and the heartfelt note. Tokens like this make my day Cool
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OUR TRIP TO RADIUM HOT SPRINGS

Monday night we relaxed from the busy week and when we set out Tuesday morning the sunshine was brilliant. Our drive to Radium was nothing short of breath taking. Each bend was more beautiful than the one we just past. To ride along with us, take a look at our ‘Trip West’ pictures in a slideshow format http://picasaweb.google.com/rv.lifetstyle.consultants Cool
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OUR ADVANCE SCHEDULE FOR THE REST OF JULY

Symon Valley for the Stampede 3rd -9th (we get there two days early) – Lethbridge (RPI) 9th –13th – then to Bucar’s U (Balzac, Alberta) 13th to 15th – and The Great Canadian Barn Dance (west of Lethbridge) 15th to 17th – we then we begin to move east. A stop is planned for Regina, but Buffalo Look-off is drive up only so dates are not confirmed. Not sure where we will be from there, Cool
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FINAL THOUGHTS

Hope your summers are shaping up to be everything you hope they will be. Do not forget to celebrate either (or both) July 1st and July 4th. Summer in the north is a special time for RVers to get out an explore North America – either close to home or distant places. I close with an email thought from friend Jean – “LIFE IS A JOURNEY, ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS AND ENJOY THE RIDE,” Happy Safe Travels Everyone. P&J Cool Cool Cool

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TIP THIS WEEK COME FROM EMAIL

#1 HAND SANITISERS

Many of us are routinely using hand sanitizers to keep our family safe. I received an email stressing that this product must be controlled when around kids. The email relays that a 4-year old kindergarten student ended up at the ER appearing as if she was intoxicated – the possibility of alcohol poisoning is also a real fact – all because she licked the hand sanitizer off her hands. These products contain 6% alcohol and although a warning on the label says ‘keep out of reach of children’, not everyone heeds these warnings. The full story is featured on Snopes.com here - www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/sanitizer.asp
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#2 CREDIT CARD SCAM

I have received this email several times, but it is worth repeating. An anonymous caller phones a credit card holder supposedly from the Fraud Department of the credit card company under the guise of verifying if a credit card has not been stolen. The person on the other end of the phone does all the talking as well as verifies your number, address, etc – You do not speak until they ask you to provide the three security numbers on the back of the card. They say they want to determine you have the card in your possession. IF THE CALLER HAS THESE NUMBERS ALONG WITH THE CREDIT CARD NUMBER THEY CAN PURCHASE ANYTHING. Never share these numbers with anyone unless you are buying something over the phone or on line. Phone your card company to report the fraud

#3 HOW TO CONTROL MOSQUITOS

Add some water in a white dinner plate with a few drops of Lemon Fresh Joy dish detergent. Set the dish on your porch, patio, or other outdoor area away from your festivities. Not sure what attracts them, the lemon smell, the white plate, or what, but mosquitoes flock to it, and drop dead shortly after drinking the mixture – within about a few feet of the plate.

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PROMOS THIS WEEK ARE FROM CONTACTS WITHIN AREA OF THE SCHOOL

1. WESTERN STAR/FREIGHTLINER DEALER IN KELOWNA offers outstanding service along with very reasonable pricing – they even made room for us in their busy schedule. Need RV Service in Kelowna, check these guys out-(250) 868-3202

2. SANI DUMP.COM – now includes 19000 worldwide listings and growing – the information is all free. You simply punch in the country, area plus region and locations will come up, GPS locations are now available, www.sanidumps.com/

3. HOLIDAY PARK - One of Canada’s Top 5 RV Parks with aesthetic sites in an outstanding location. This park offers specials to members of several membership parks. Many people buy their campsite. In BC RV Parks can be considered a year round home base. www.sweetlife.com

4. We stopped at the HUSKY DEALER AT EDWARDS AVE in Kelowna – we expected to pay $5.00, but because we filled up they gave us a complimentary dump & free coffee.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Issue 25 PLAYING CATCH-UP

Diary published weekly since 2001
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Hi All: Here it is Tuesday evening and I am only now trying to write last Saturday’s Diary. There was simply no time to get that issue out over the weekend. Most days I got up in the middle of the night for final preparations of my 8:30 AM seminars – the informative school did not end till late on Monday, so I simply ran out of time. The 50 seminars presented by a talented group of 21 experienced, seasoned RVers made for an outstanding three days & four nights at the RV Owners Lifestyle School, Okanogan College in Kelowna, BC. Evening events contributed to wonderful social relationships and making new-found friends. Being surrounded by awesome mountains and beautiful days for the most part considerably enhanced our stay. Cool

Late this afternoon (Tuesday) we arrived for a weeks stay at the scenic wonder of Radium Hot Springs – another of Canada’s Top Five RV Parks. This has been an outstanding week and a half; but I am so far behind in cleaning up my email – over 200 in my inbox – of course most are Spam; posting blogs to RVing Canada; and adding pictures to Picasa albums of this superior destination; that I have decided to not post a full diary this week. Cool

So in a word, I am asking your forgiveness for the short blurb this week and I will try to provide a full concise Diary of our past two weeks of travels next week. Items such as driving from Calgary through the Rockies in an almost snow condition to all about our wonderful 4-days in Kelowna at the Holiday Park - one of Canada’s top-5 RV Parks. I will also include the ins and outs of the informative RV Owners Lifestyle School in Kelowna at the Okanogan College - an event every RVers should attend. It was definitely a ‘one-of-a-kind’ experience for the 188 students who took part (many attendees were brand new RVers – some did not even have an RV as yet). The instructors also learned from the many participants. Overall it is an event no one should miss – it always takes place late June. Cool

So in a word I am asking your forgiveness in not providing a full Diary this week. I have so much to share but I simply ran out of time – I do not seem to be able to gain any ground because playing catch-up is taking way too much time. Bottom line is we are both well and we are thoroughly enjoying our trip in the west. Scenery and climate for the most part has been so very, very, very memorable. Till next Saturday, we hope each of you are doing well and enjoying a fantastic summer of RVing. Take care P&J Cool Cool Cool

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Issue 24 Happy Fathers Day Guys

Diary published weekly since 2001
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Hi All: To all the Dads out there, we wish you a day of pampering, where you will be able to be your own boss, have the last word and do your own thing. I too will give Sunday to John and he will not even have to cook dinner that night (FYI, I am spoiled because John does 90% of the cooking in our Household). Cool

Have a very "Happy"


OUR MEMORABLE TRIP WEST

This trip has been one of our most enjoyable adventures. Border crossing a week ago was intense – and he had our passports for about 3-minutes before he came into the coach. By the way the beef ban is on again, but he let us go with our 2-pounds of beef that I cook for Katie. No further searches and as he said have a good trip, we were off. Interesting – on our return to Alberta tonight our very pleasant young border guard again had our passport at the computer for another 3- minutes. Guess they are really checking who we are. It is possible that border crossing comings and goings may have been moved from the previous second or third page to the first one. I don’t know, but since everyone can only legally visit another country for 6-months per year without a special visa. Maybe??? the officials are checking this bit of info more closely. Who knows? Cool



We travelled this route in 1998, but I don’t remember the scenery to have been as awesome, especially when we entered South Dakota. The hilly terrain resembled many large ‘bubbles’ of land – I relate to it as a rapidly bubbling pot of water that had solidified into terrain. There were trees – mostly 20-30 feet high – but in the distance. Unfortunately my camera does not take good panorama shots so the awesome beauty my eyes saw is not translated into my photos. When we entered Wyoming the area beside the highway seemed to flatten out with gentle foothills in the distance. Now that we are in Montana I know why they call it Big Sky country. On today’s (Sat) drive we begin near the mountains north of Yellowstone. That section of highway snakes in and around some awesome hills. None of the climbs were intense – just an incredible picturesque drive. Cool



The route we took each day was more beautiful than the last. I wrote this diary as we travelled. We have been on the move since 7AM because it is bright out at 5AM – by 8AM as the sun broke through the clouds we’ve left the curvy road that twisted among gentle peaks. A wide-open area greeted us in Bozeman, MT (Hwy 90). We must have been on a tabletop area – however I do not know what our elevation was. A ridge of snow-covered mountains surrounded us in the distance. Cool



At Three Forks where Hwy 287 turned north, we stopped for a muffin and coffee plus some specialty breads at the famous WHEAT MONTANA – a neat bakery. From there the spectacular hilly scenery changed once again to expansive flat land that stretched for miles before it reached more mountains. Three hours later we again climbed and descended more hills – some of them steep and long. On this portion, the highway has been cut through massive rocks. An hour later we were back to high grass covered pointy hills. A hypnotic river meandered from side to side on the highway to add to the vista. That section looked like another tabletop but this time with no visible ridge of mountains. This terrain resembles cattle country of southern Ontario. No more mountains till we reached Canada Cool

Such changeable beauty makes you stop and think about this wonderful world we live in. Our journey through the central states alongside rivers and forest was equally impressive, but driving the mountains is not something we do every day and that is main reason we are finding it so breathtaking. Cool
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WEATHER AND COST

We have been blessed with fantastic driving days of 3-400 miles – clear and sunny (Passport America or Happy Camper – 50% discount clubs) – the regular rate in one park was a low $17.00 – w/Good Sam discount thabut not too hot – for the most part the roads have been good as well. However day two in Mitchell it rained overnight and a light drizzle continued till noon the next day. The parks we’ve stayed at have all been in the $15.00 range (as members of t equaled $15.53. Fuel is still under $3.00 per gallon but it is slowly rising as we head west and gas is approximately $3.10. Our main ‘eating out’ has been breakfasts at the Flying J’s and with our fuel and senior discounts they have cost approximately $12.00 for the two of us. Soooo in a word – it is enjoyable trips like this that is the reason we chose to follow the RV Lifestyle. Even with the increases in gas/fuel it has been an inexpensive getaway. So all in all – after a week into our trip, it has been a fantastic adventure. Cool
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THE ENCHANTED WORLD DOLL HOUSE MUSEUM AND A FEW MORE STOPS

Most of our stops were for one night, but John planned a two-day rest in Rapid City, SD – just so the LUXOR, John, Katie and I could enjoy a break. What a fascinating time we had in that unique town – it has so much to offer. We toured the ENCHANTED WORLD DOLL MUSEUM [/color]that featured 4800 dolls from 127 countries in 345 lifelike settings. Miniature furniture displays and a complete Doll House Room added to the mix. Although the museum opened in 1982, many of the dolls date back to the 1800’s. As a avid doll collector – I have 120 dolls that I collected from the markets round the world during my military days have been in storage for the past 22 years, so I was in heaven in this Doll Museum from the moment I entered the castle shaped building – what an awesome adventure down memory lane. My pictures are not great so please go to www.enchantedeworlddollmuseum.com for details. Cool






If you are in the area, why not take time to visit the courtyard of shops next door to the Doll Museum – we had one of the best ice cream cones we‘ve tasted in a long time. Across the street is the [color=blue]CORN PALACE Auditorium[/color] – another ‘don’t miss’ tour. I didn’t know there was so many ways to use corn. www.cornpalace.com Cool



On previous trips we toured, Wall Drugs, 1800 Boomtown, Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and on the Needles Highway our tour bus drove through the narrow eye of a needle (a natural hole through a giant skinny rock). So we did not stop at these places this excursion. We did however drive up to Deadwood when we were at Black Hawk, SD but although the drive was spectacular climb of a few thousand feet we didn’t stop because we are not into the Wild West or Gold Panning experiences. There were also many casinos in the area but I spent my gambling allowance in Sarnia, Ont. Nearby Sturgis is the motorcycle capital early August; so all campground sites in this area will be booked.
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CAMPING SPOTS

On this trip we saw red earth, jet-black earth, oil wells, giant windmills and an abundant amount of campgrounds. All along highway 90 there are numerous tourist attractions or a groupings of eateries or unique campgrounds offering level sites with good full hook-ups – frequently they offered cable and free WiFi. The parks we stayed at were members of the Discount camping clubs, which helps to stretch camping costs. Cool

Sunday we stopped at HICKORY HOLLOW RV PARK IN UTICA, IL – this brand new full amenity park is designed for futuristic Big Rig RVs. It was built from scratch 6-years ago and an absolute perfect stop, complete with camping cabins and apartments.
On Monday we moved to PARKWAY CAMPGROUND IN AVOCA, IA, again with all amenities – plus super Internet reception on my valuable Dish. Guess the storm in London did no permanent damage. Tuesday we stopped at RONDEES RV PARK (PART OF DAYS INN) IN MITCHELL, SD (near Sioux City); it was so windy I chose to connect using the free WiFi from the Days Inn rather than set up the Dish – it was not as secure as my Dish but it made it easier for an early start. Wednesday & Thursday we were at THREE FLAGS IN BLACK HAWK, SD (NEAR RAPID CITY) again free WiFi was included in our price – low signal but again good reception; and on Friday we pulled into the aesthetic and



quaint OLD WEST RV PARK AT REED POINT MT (west of Billings – WiFi $1.00 p/day). Since we left at 7AM each morning, it was easier to limit extras we had to disassemble no matter ho simple they are. Today Saturday we are en route to Alberta, Canada. Stop tonight is at 8 FLAGS RV PARK AT MILK RIVER, AB (12 miles north of the border - $7.00 per night, for a pretty pull-thru site without hook-usp) – a pretty stop within walking distance to town. Our Dish reception was great on both TV & Internet. Tomorrow we have one more overnight in Canmore before we settle into Kelowna for a week.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

So all in all, if John and I ever had any doubt why we chose to travel by RV – after a week like this one, we know why – the magnificent scenery has been our destination. Happy travels everyone. Take care P&J Cool Cool Cool

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TIP OF THE WEEK

KEEP IT SIMPLE – When you are on a trek with many overnights, long days and early getaways, life is more enjoyable and easier if you limit equipment set-ups.

OUTSIDE– if we are on level ground, John chooses not to use the jacks, nor do we unhook the car (we asked for pull-thrus when possible). If free WiFi is offered, the Dish stays in its travelling mode in the car – after all, each stop covers about 12-14 hour period and 6-8 of those we were sleeping.[/i]

INSIDE – I limit displaying ‘extras’ such as photographs and niceties that make our RV a special home. We treat it like a mobile motel room. I don’t set up the steering wheel table or turn the chairs around either. Since we eat breakfast around 10AM; we eat dinner at home. John pre-cooked and froze many meals and he serves them on fancy disposable plates – less wash-up. We only hook-up the sewer every second stop to do the laundry. A shower anytime is not a problem. We can get dressed, feed Katie, make the bed and be on the move within 45 minutes from the time we rise. When we’re fully set-up we allow 1.5 hrs from living mode to on the road.

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BE AWARE OF POSSIBLE DANGERS

Recently good friend Rodney observed that if an ‘add-a-room’ was set-up to keep the cold out with plastic sides and lower vinyl walls – it could spell danger for RVers when furnace vents, water heaters, fridges and other appendages were vented thru their patio wall. Due to various floor plans, your unit may and may not have these items on the patio side. If yours does, think before you add an airtight ‘add-a-room’ – the enclosed space can easily fill with carbon monoxide fumes.

When Rod heard that a fellow camper had passed out in his enclosed ‘add-a-room’ while smoking a cigarette, he decided to share the info with me so I could add it to my ‘Diary’. This camper’s wife had the furnace going to keep warm inside – he felt comfy in his ‘add-a-room’, unfortunately it was filled with carbon monoxide.

I sent the info to LES DOLL, working RV Tech and webhost of www.rverscorner.com and to MARK POLK, President of the comprehensive RV Info site at http://rveducation101.com/cart/shopaff.asp?affid=12

Both of these techs agree with Rod and all three of us have decided that although the chance was small, this could happen to an RVers who was unaware of the danger. It was definitely worth getting the word out.

MARK RELAYED that any fuel burned, such as propane creates high levels of carbon monoxide, and of course is much worse in smaller areas, like an add-a-room. He feels there are probably warnings on the add-a-room literature but not everyone reads or heeds such warnings. Mark suggested that manufacturers should be asked to add permanent eye level warnings to the ‘add-a-rooms’

LES RELAYED the same dangers for unsuspecting RVers - Maybe only 1 in 50 RV's have ‘add-a-rooms’ and maybe only 1 in 5 have appliance vents on the awning side and maybe only 1 in 10 can be closed up tight .... that still leaves many unsuspecting people in potential danger.

LES goes on to explain that any un-vented propane appliance (the RV stove/oven, for example) should also be used with caution and never as a space-heating device. These appliances use inside air for combustion and the exhaust gasses are vented into the interior of the RV. This also is true of catalytic type heaters.

So ADD-A-ROOM USERS beware – if you have vents on the patio side of your unit, PLEASE do not make your ‘add-a-room air tight.


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PROMOS THIS WEEK

RV TRAVEL TO CANADA 2007 E-BOOK WENT ‘LIVE’ 6 JUNE
John spent the week running all the ‘get-ready’ errands, so I could catch up with stuff on the computer. Finally after a frustrating week of ‘if it could go wrong it did’ plus dealing with one screw-up after another, this updated e-book is finally ready for orders
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BONUS OFFER

I am offering a complimentary 2007 copy to anyone who has bought this ebook since October 2006. The offer will run until the 20 June. All I ask is that buyers send me an email with proof of purchase (email or invoice #) from any website. The 2007 issue includes the latest passport info, how to find sanidumps.com; new insurance benefits for FMCA and Good Sam plus an updated list of websites and phone numbers. Order your copy today.

Saturday, June 9, 2007

Issue 23, OUR TRIP WEST BEGINS

Diary published weekly since 2001

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Hi All: Somehow, even after 22 years enjoying life on the move, when it is time to set off on a long trip. the adrenalin increases and excitement settles in. All week John and I have been tying up ends in preparation for our departure. In our house, John does all the trip planning and he has found some fascinating places to roost each night. We do dry camp at truck stops occasionally (Wal*Marts are not our favourite stopping spots) but staying in campgrounds is our main choice. I can then put up my Dish and if we have sewer connections, we can keep on top of the laundry. Now that we have a TV LNB on our Internet Dish it is no longer super important for our roof mount unit to be free of trees that may block the signal. Cool

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RV TRAVEL TO CANADA 2007 E-BOOK IS NOW ‘LIVE’

http://www.rvliving.net/traveltocanada-ebook.htm

John spent the week running all the ‘get-ready’ errands, so I could catch up with stuff on the computer. Finally after a frustrating week of ‘if it could go wrong it did’ plus dealing with one screw-up after another, even to the point of downloading Adobe trial software but my problems converting my Word file to a PDF continued so I finally asked Mark Polk of RVEduction101 for his help – he ended up converting it for me. Thanks Mark this ebook is finally current - enough of my woes, let’s move on. Cool

Note: ANYONE who has not been on the RV Education 101 site recently should definitely check it out http://rveducation101.com/cart/shopaff.asp?affid=12 . Over 80,000 RVers had purchased one or more of their comprehensive publications - their list continues to grow. Cool

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BONUS OFFER

I am offering a complimentary 2007 copy to anyone who has bought this ebook since October 2006. The offer will run until the 20 June. All I ask is that buyers send me an email with proof of purchase (email or invoice #) from any website. The 2007 issue includes the latest passport info, how to find sanidumps.com; new insurance benefits for FMCA and Good Sam plus an updated list of websites and phone numbers. Order your copy today. Cool

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SO GREAT TO TOUCH BASE WITH WEBSITE READERS

Last Wednesday, unexpected Fulltime visitors from the area around Barrie checked into our park for a few days. Over the years we have been in contact with Sue and Verne by numerous email but it was so great to finally meet face to face. Thanks so much for stopping by and exploring our fair city while you were here. Hope your tiny travelling companion enjoyed her time in the city as well. (Sorry we missed you Friday morning guys, thought you were leaving Saturday – we will mail your news article to you). Cool

We have heard from so many website visitors who call western Canada home – hopefully we will be able to visit with each of you. All of us RVers are only strangers till we meet. This week Pat and Dianna asked us to stop at their park near Lethbridge – it is doable so we will stop in and several friends from BC are hoping to touch base with us while we are in Kelowna. The RV Lifestyle overflows with so many wonderful friends (some new and some from a lifetime ago) we meet along the way. It is no wonder that most of us are addicted to it. Cool

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OUR TRIP

We were so thrilled about departing for the west that we did not spend much time searching for exciting activities this week - for the most part it was a quiet week. Tonight we are staying at the Slots/Casino in Sarnia. Big race night so the restaurant and Buffet are open - parking lot is full. From here we have a quick exit across the border. Cool

When we booked our reservations I was surprised that John found so many places we have never been to before. In most of them we should get in early enough to tour if the mood hits. Our next 7 days – 10th we will be in Utica, IL; The 11th it will be Avoca, IA; 12th is Mitchell, SD (near Sioux City); 13th-14th Black Hawk, SD (near Rapid City)); 15th Reed Point MT (near Billings) and then into Alberta for the rest of the trip. Cool

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FINAL THOUGHTS

Our summer is shaping up to be everything we could want it to be. Hope yours is doing the same. Even if it is only for a weekend, try to get out and enjoy. Summer, for those of us in the north who love the great outdoors, can be the best time of our lives. Travel safe everyone, stay away from those orange barrels and road gaiters. P&J Cool

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RV PROMOS/NEWS

RVEDUCATION 101.COM NEWSLETTER - This week I received a monthly newsletter from RV Education 101 and it is so jam packed with info, videos and articles that instead of recommending one part of it I am suggesting you read the entire publication http://rveducation101.com/newsletter/june-2007.htm?siteID=0. Mark and Dawn continue to add mega new items to their line-up of comprehensive publications. Many DVD’s plus Mark’s “The RV Book” are sold in Wal*Mart & Camping World.

Check out their informative website http://rveducation101.com/cart/shopaff.asp?affid=12 RV living is an affiliate, so if you access this site using this link and decide to buy a product we receive an affiliate fee.
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RV TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES IS AVAILABLE FOR DIALYSIS PATIENTS. Last January, a newly registered Canadian non-profit organization became a corporation so they could raise money to offer freedom for dialysis patients, Travelaire in Red Deer, Alberta donated a 20’ Westwind trailer (value of $25,000.00) – $35,000.00 of Dialysis equipment was added in the space of the tub and shower. Dialysis patients literally spend much of each day several times per week undergoing lengthy hospital treatments. This trailer offers an opportunity to get out and enjoy an RV adventure.

Since this special RV is located in Red Deer Alberta, it will mainly serve the northwest, but plans are underway to add more fully equipped RV’s to the fleet. A fund raising program is underway. Go here http://www.travelingdialysisrvassociation.com/ to participate/more details. Phone (403)-346-1706. Phone (403)-343-7458 – rental info.

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COAST TO COAST (C2C) & RESORTS PARK INTERNATIONAL (RPI) PLUS. If you would like info about these inexpensive membership camping options, send me an email. These are two of the most popular membership park systems that offer deep overnight discounts – there are others (the ‘Plus’ includes a complimentary membership to RPI’s 50% Discount Camping Club called ‘Enjoy America’)!

John and I bought into Shiloh RV Park, Monroe LA a year ago. Park price was low with first year dues at $69.00 – $99.00 in future years. Our total cost was $514 including RPI and C2C annual rate. However we can walk away from this plan at any time for a small fee. SEND ME AN EMAIL FOR MORE DETAILS.

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MY INCREDABLE INTERNET SATELLITE DISH IS STILL MY LIFELINE. Now that it also includes the TV LNB it is even more of a joy to use. (But a bad storm did cut the signal last night). We no longer chase campgrounds offering WiFi or try to find a place to log onto dial-up locations or even the need to add a landline. If you do not have WiFi available you NEED this Dish. No matter where you live – USA or Canada; in a stationary house or on the move - it is worthwhile to call our supplier. If they cannot help you they will find someone that will. Don’t forget that their fantastic tech support has no time limit

‘3iCommunications’ has changed its name to ‘Tech Mobile Communications and Wireless’ http://techmcw.com (site is under construction at this point). Call (705) 878-9252 or Toll Free: (866) 494-4801. However they still offer the same great service. Read the whole story of my Dish at www.rvliving.net/EarlyObserationsDirecWay.htm

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TIPS THIS WEEK is an excerpt from RV PACKING TIPS E-BOOK www.rvliving.net/PackingTipsEbookSalePage.htm

RVers ‘on the move’ constantly shop at a variety of grocery stores. IT PAYS TO APPLY AND USE THE FOOD STORE CARD – SOME FIT ON YOUR KEY CHAIN. During a steak sale in one store we saved $17.00 on a $29.00 order because of the store card.

The INTERNATIONAL ‘CALL FOR HELP’ in any country is to honk your horn three times in quick succession, take a short break and honk three more times followed by another break. Continue till help arrives. Turn on headlights and flashing lights. Even if others have never heard of this signal – most people will come to investigate.

Norm and Linda from www.seeya-downtheroad.com submitted the tip that ERS SERVICES HAVE A LIST OF DOCTORS,[/b] hospitals, tire shops, etc on hand to share with their members who ask for it. RVers who need to locate these specialty services should call their ERS and ask for the names and phone numbers in your area.

[b]OBTAINING MEDS AWAY FROM HOME. Every RVer should carry sufficient drugs for their time away. If Americans visiting Canada need Rx updates, A CANADIAN DOCTOR CAN WRITE AN RX to be filled in a Canadian Pharmacy – usually at a big savings. It helps to carry a copy of the original Rx and/or pill container from your doctor.

Our friends Trudy and Rod submitted this tip. They discovered that while they were in the Maritimes for a summer visit, ZEHRS PHARMACY IN CAMBRIDGE, ONTARIO FORWARDED HIS PRESCRIPTION to the Atlantic Super Store so that pharmacy could fill it. This was more convenient than having a script shipped from Cambridge. It is worthwhile to ask the local pharmacy for similar service.
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Good friend Patti sent me this tip about KEEPING SHOWER DOORS CLEAN – She put cream rinse on the scrubby thing and did a once over the shower doors. To my amazement the doors were clear. a quick rinse with the shower head and all the residue, like magic was gone. Sure could have saved frustration and cost of cleaning supplies.

Saturday, June 2, 2007

Issue 22, FINALLY WE ARE 'EMPTY NESTERS'

Diary published weekly since 2001

Hi All: As most of you know John and I do not have any kids, but this week we are ‘empty nesters’ anyway. The day we moved into this site Mrs. Robin began to build her nest at our eye level in a small tree right beside our side front window. We learned so much about the day-to-day events from the point of view of a bird. It was surprising to see that ‘mommy’ left her nest and eggs vacant for long periods while she and hubby were out someplace. We frequently saw her chase big birds away, but surprising they did not seem to bother the nest when she was not there. Her four-eggs hatched two weeks ago. In the beginning they were so tiny, but last Tuesday after our walk, one bird was standing on the edge of the nest – ‘home’ was becoming very small for the four of them. Ten minutes later we saw the baby robin on my bike stand. When mom came back with a worm in her mouth she looked stressed because she could not find where her one baby had gone. However by noon all four babies had flown away. So in a word although we have no kids, John and I are now officially empty nesters. I have added a few pictures of our temporary ‘kids’ to the forum copy. Wink


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BIG NEWS – WE HAVE EXPRESS VU BACK

As I have said in the past – when the trees grew leaves, we lost signal to our roof mounted TV Dish. As a result we had to revert to local channels off our Batwing antenna - boring. Diary readers and friends Roy and Wilma from Alberta wrote to us that they were in the same position and that our Internet Dish supplier from Tech Mobile Communications and Wireless (formerly 3i Communications) sell TV LNB attachments that connect to the Internet Dish. I cannot believe that the little ‘gismo’ we received last Tuesday works so well (picture of the set-up is on my website at the bottom and in the on-line Diary version – see link above). Smile



Also I took a photo of KATIE this morning and she is really our ‘energizer bunny’. She was diagnosed with a growth on her spleen over two years ago and although at times it seems to grow so she looks pregnant - other times it is right down. She is still going strong with no hint of distress in any way. She just keeps "trucking on". So guess she too will be making the western trip. Cool



A SPECIAL THANKS to all the Diary readers from the west who have invited us to touch base, to enjoy a meal or coffee, and/or to stop in their driveway during this summers odyssey. Thanks guys, we will make every effort to at least make time for the coffee break and/or a visit of course. Many, many thanks. Surprised
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WORK WEEK – FOR PEGGI

I have been glued to this computer again for much of this week. My e-book with its many links is finally finished, but I continue to have mega problems trying to convert it to a PDF file (smaller and easier to share) that includes active internal links within the e-book. The main Adobe program to convert is costly and since I only update this e-book one time each spring, it is not cost effective to buy that program. However I am working with several PDF techs at various websites and hopefully it will be ready early this week. Wink

SPECIAL GIFT – to everyone who has bought the RV Travel to Canada 2006 ebook since last October –IF YOU SEND ME AN EMAIL WITH SOME KIND OF PROOF YOU PURCHASED THIS E-BOOK, I WILL SEND YOU THE UPDATED 2007 COPY AT NO COST TO YOU – NO MATTER who you bought it from. This Gift/Promo is only available until 15 JUNE. Send me an email to info@rvliving.net and even if it is not yet converted I will send you the updated copy in ‘Word’ – however because it is a 1.42MB file (the PDF will be smaller), it may take a lengthy time to come through on dial-up – but my offer still stands. Cool

My seminar called ‘CANADA HOTSPOTS” is coming along, but as with many projects I undertake, it is taking me longer than expected to complete. However I am learning so much about this wonderful country we call home – what an interesting place to live. At times I wonder if I will ever make deadlines that I promise, but somehow everything always comes together. To find out some of the great places I’ve discovered take a look at my posts on the ‘RVing Canada’ Blogs at http://rvtravel.com/blog/canada/index.shtml Very Happy
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JOHN’S WORK WEEK

Because I would not take time away from my computer, John started to empty his ‘job jar’. This week he REFINIOSHED ALL KITCHEN CABINETS – the rest of the cabinets look great but the kitchen showed a quite a bit of wear just from day to day use. The local Home Hardware suggested he use steel wool rather than sandpaper to clean the finish. That way he would not get down to bare wood and as a result the surface would not need re-staining. However he was warned to be extra careful to remove every trace of the steel wool before adding several coats of ‘Min-Wax Polycrlyic (water-based) Clear Coat’. It would be wise to wait for it to dry and then rough it up with fine sand paper before adding another coat. His efforts were worth it - the finish looks fantastic. Smile

I sure appreciate all the little things John does in this house on wheels. He does the laundry, cooks most meals, washes the dishes and so much more. This way he allows me mega time to ‘work’ at the computer. (TIP: The small wood doweling with the rubber ends on them go through the handles to assist in keeping the cupboard doors closed while our coach is underway (see picture in the on-line version) Cool

Since we found the electric lawn mower for sale for $25.00 on the side of the road coming back from storage a week ago, he is now able to cut the grass every 5 days. It grows like weeds this time of year. Wink
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PLAY TIME

Even I need to take a periodic break, so Thursday we visited good friends from London, Marlene and Frank, at their beautiful new house. Marlene loves to decorate and their new home is so cozy and yet spacious at the same time. This homemaker also enjoys having kids around and since hers are all grown up, in their new house they provide temporary homes for up to four college and university students studying in London – they arrive from around the world. The students may be with them for a few days to a few months, but while they are in their home the students are treated as part of the family. Marlene enjoys cooking, so to do so for he extended family is no big deal. She also does their laundry and assists them if they have to go someplace where or when the local bus is not available. In a word she has an ongoing temporary family – to her and Frank it is a perfect way to spend their retirement. Thanks for the strawberry shortcake, smoothies and a great visit guys. We have to do this again soon. Cool


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FINAL THOUGHTS

Somehow these Saturdays come round very fast. A week from now, we will again be on another adventure to the west. John looks after all trip planning in this house (one more chore I appreciate him doing) and we just made reservations during the last two days. What a trip he has planned through the USA to Montana and then north to Alberta, BC and back to Calgary for the Explorer RV Club Rally at the Stampede – that leg is completely booked. 98% of our camping nights will be under Happy Camper or Passport (50% discounts) or RPI/C2C (membership parks), send me an email to info@rvliving.net if you would like info on discount camping or how to join an economical membership program - I will be very happy to share the details with you. Laughing

Total cost for camping on this leg of the trip from London to BC and back to Calgary (35 day trip, but we only pay for camp fees for 23 nights at 14 stops – cost will be approximately $380.00. (Nights at the RV Owners Lifestyle School and at the Explorer Club Rally and for my seminar at Bucars U are not included in the camp fee total). Not bad for camping rates - hopefully gas/fuel will not be through the roof – 2599 miles to Kelowna – mileage and stops for the return trip from Calgary on the 16th July are still in the planning stage. I’ll provide our total costs for camping and fuel at the end of the trip. Surprised

So our plans are looking up for this summer, hope yours are too. We look forward to meeting many of you along the way. Should be a good trip if our guardian angels continue to ride with us. Hope the weatherman is kind in your area – he is in ours. As my sister Nancy says, “Remember not to drive faster than your guardian angels can fly”. Happy travels P&J Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

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RV PROMOS/NEWS

We have had a number of requests about our new acquisition of COAST TO COAST (C2C) AND RESORTS PARK INTERNATIONAL (RPI) PLUS (the ‘Plus’ includes a complimentary membership to RPI’s 50% Discount Camping Club called ‘Enjoy America’). These are two of the most popular membership park systems that offer deep overnight discounts – there are others! RVers buy into a membership park for a purchase price from a few hundred to many thousands of dollars – plus annual dues. Packages range from a ‘3-lifetime’ plans - usage can be passed onto the kids, or a ‘one lifetime’ for your use only. To use C2C and RPI members also pay a small annual fee to each club. BUT then camping fees are only $8.00 p/n ($10-$11.00 Cdn) – stay up to a week, twice p/yr at each park.

John and I bought into Shiloh RV Park, Monroe LA a year ago. Park price was low with first year dues at $69.00 – $99.00 in future years. However we can walk away from this plan at any time for a small fee. SEND ME AN EMAIL FOR MORE DETAILS._________________________________

MY INCREDABLE INTERNET SATELLITE DISH IS STILL #1. Now it even includes a TV LNB. It is so wonderful to be on line 24/7 wherever we go and to have Exp Vu TV. We no longer chase campgrounds offering WiFi or try to find a place to log onto dial-up locations or even the need to add a landline. Now it is no longer necessary to be out of the tree range for our roof mount TV Dish.



The ease of set-up, fantastic unrestricted tech support with no cut off time frame, reasonable monthly rates, and superior quality equipment are only a few of the numerous reasons why I simply LOVE my Hughes.net Satellite Dish from Tech Mobile C&W. Even those who do not live in Canada – give my supplier a call. These Dishes can also be mounted as stationary on any house or structure etc wherever you live. FYI – ‘3iCommunications’ has changed its name to ‘Tech Mobile Communications and Wireless’ http://techmcw.c om (site is under construction at this point). Call (705) 878-9252 or Toll Free: (866) 494-4801. However they still offer the same great service. Read the whole story at www.rvliving.net/EarlyObserationsDirecWay.htm

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TIPS THIS WEEK is an excerpt from RV PACKING TIPS E-BOOK www.rvliving.net/PackingTipsEbookSalePage.htm

UNUSED AREAS TO STORE THINGS – many more are in this comprehensive e-book.

Unless you design and build your own ‘Dream Machine’, most RVs have many areas of wasted space. With a little effort it’s easy to transform these out-of-the-way places into creative storage spots. BUT do not overload – if an item goes unused for a year get rid of it. Try to make as many areas as possible operate as Double Duty. Each RV is different; check out all area in yours – you may find even more spaces.

INSIDE

***Always look above and below closets – sometimes ’hidden’ space is waiting behind a panel.

***About 4”- 6” of space, designed to cover hoses and wires is available below cabinets. On Kastle #2 we discovered two long 8” high spaces under the bottom drawers of our night tables. By removing the front decorative panel we found a perfect place for shoes.

***There is considerable space beneath most kitchen drawers. This is a super place for cookie sheets, baking pans, etc – simply remove the drawers for full access.

***In Kastle#2, we found two large hollow areas under each step of our motorhome. We fabricated ‘lids’ using the carpet as a hinge (adding a piano hinge would also work). Perfect spot outside for muddy wet shoes, etc.

Del and Bob Bullen from an Explorer RV Club rally submitted this tip.
***We use our hidden space under drawers in the bedroom for items that need to stay dry or cool such as prescription meds, important papers, etc.