TIPS OF THE WEEK (No Promos for Issue 52+1)(

TIPS OF THE WEEK (No Promos Issue 52+1)

The wonderful cards and CHRISTMAS GREETINGS keep highlighting my inbox each day. Many thanks to everyone who shared these wishes. Unfortunate there have been too many names to mention, but we sure do appreciate them.

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Agathe sent me this link a few weeks ago about a Huge CROSS – 19 STORIES HIGH on Highway 40 in Groom Texas (near Pampa)

Shortly after that post, John sent me this link referring to A SIMILAR GIANT CROSS (198') at the crossroads of I-70 and I-57 in Effingham, IL. It too is also lit each night & visible for several miles which provides a truly an awesome sight!

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EXCERPT FROM MY 'RV PACKING TIPS E-BOOK'

TRAVEL SECURITY – CRIMES AGAINST TRAVELLERS

I recently attended a personal security seminar presented by a humorous Cop’ from Georgia. He relayed the following tips – some may be repeats but I share them to stress the importance of each of them.

1. Only carry ONE CREDIT CARD on your person at any one time.

2. Always LOCK RV DOORS in a campground when you are not at home. You never know who is watching.

3. If stopping in a mall or truck stop, etc. ALWAYS park with your RV DOOR FACING THE CAMERAS AND/OR THE PEOPLE – not towards the spacious outside grassy area – it gives not-so-nice people too much privacy to make your life difficult.

4. It is preferable to stop at a TRUCK STOP RATHER THAN AT A REST AREA during evening or overnight hours.

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411 NUMBERS – Compliments Of Fulltimer Chapter Newsletter

If you call 411 there is a charge for the call and since most of us do not carry a phone book in our RV, it can at times be a challenge to find a phone number for a business. GOOGLE to the rescue! Simply add 1800-GOOG-411 (1-800-4664-411) to your memory. Dial it and the number you are looking for is available at no cost to you.

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RV FRIENDLY SIGNS – Also from the Fulltimer Chapter Newsletter

Fourteen States now sport the ROUND YELLOW REFLECTOR SIGN WITH ‘RV’ featured prominently in the center. Gas, restaurants, campgrounds, and motel/hotels, etc display these sign to indicate RV’s are welcome. States now participating in this program include California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas & Washington.

2007 IS ALMOST OVER!!!!

2007 IS ALMOST OVER!!!! Newsy Portion - Issue 52+1

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read a different version of the Diary HERE

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HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL!!! May 2008 be a super year for everyone. (Forgive the Issue number but I lost weekly count somewhere the last part of the year). It is sad to see 2007 fade away for John and I because this has been a super busy year for us – but it has been so enjoyable as well. Last summer we ventured west via the USA to BC and returned through Canada; south to Michigan for a family reunion and then east to Ottawa for a Navy Reunion. Although we added considerable enjoyable miles to the LUXOR, it too received several upgrades in 2007. In a word – RV life has been good for us McDonalds.

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OUR BUSY WEEK IN REVIEW

I am happy to say I FINALLY completed posting ALL my FALL pictures as well as 6-albums relaying to CHRISTMAS events – many photos relaying to activities mentioned below are also featured. Sorry it took me so long to post them. Go HERE to see the complete selection.http://picasaweb.google.com/rv.lifetstyle.consultantsBest to view these as a Slideshow – just hit the ‘X’ at end of each show/gallery and click on the next one.

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CELEBRATIONS LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS CONTINUE…

Monday our Nova Scotia friends Dave and Betty hosted 20-Valley Snowbird Canucks for a LUNCHEON at their site in nearby Casa del Valle RV Park. Daughter Debbie created and cooked this entire feast - she is spending time with Mom and Dad this winter. So much tasty gourmet style food was on the table. Even Mother Nature smiled because the cool morning warmed up beautifully. Debbie loves to cook and create high-class meals – we sure enjoyed eating it – many thanks. Debbie has a lot of practice because she owns and operates DEAR COUNTRY HIDEAWAY in Upper Stewiacke, Nova Scotia.

John and I had to run to another commitment a few hours later – I had volunteered to provide TABLE DECORATIONS for the Park Christmas Dinner. Although I was not sure how the decorations would unfold – I grabbed a bunch of Christmas ribbon, flowers etc. from my collection – (some of it was on display in my motorhome) and headed to the Club House. I’m happy to say I, along with our tablemates, were pleased with the results.

John and I managed fit in a traditional Christmas Eve Church Service at the nearby Zion Lutheran Church. What a wonderful way to lead up to Christmas Day.

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25TH ARRIVED & EVEN SANTA FOUND US -

CHRISTMAS DINNER FOLLOWED

I am a kid at heart and simply love it when Santa visits. Although John and I need very little (when we want something we usually buy it) but both of us found a selection of things to help SANTA out. It’s so exciting to see the pretty gift wrap parcels, plus opening these surprises Christmas morning is awesome. After breakfast, John, Katie and I had a ball. At 11:30, many park residents met at the well-decorated Rec Hall for a TYPICAL CHRISTMAS FEAST – In the USA, Ham is the choice meat for Christmas although many Cdn’s are more familiar with holiday Turkey. At 6-PM our table mates gathered at our hosts house to continue socializing for tasty ‘leftovers’ but eating one meal of appetizing (higher calorie) food I shouldn’t have had in the first place was enough for me – so John and I begged off that commitment, From all reports the evening was a huge success and a fun way to close to the day.

Of course I had to get up early to shop on the 26th, but I didn’t find much in the after Christmas sales. Not because the choice was not there – simply because I didn’t need much, (The 26th is not as big a Sale Day in the USA as Boxing Day is in Canada).

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DECEMBER EXPLORER RV CLUB LUNCHEON IN MEXICO

The DECEMBER LUNCHEON on the 27th was another huge success. Although we did have 14 more people than had indicated that they were coming (total that attended was 50 when we expected only 36 - it is so important we know a number of who is joining us). Our unexpected attendees did strain the waiter staff but Garcia’s crew ran off their feet to accommodate us. I was pleased to see that our members went with the flow and seemed to be happy just to be together. Service was slower than we had expected but when we looked around the room, attendees seemed to be having a super time. Conversation was animated and vibrant - when all was done it also seemed that no one wanted to leave. We send a big thanks to everyone who joined us. Those that participated, we hope you will return to Garcia’s next time you are across the border - it really is a classy restaurant with excellent service that is second to none,

Our next luncheon will be the last Thursday in Jan (31st). John and I are in the process of searching for a restaurant where we will have a separate room. (We prefer a local restaurant rather than an RV park venue) Attendance numbers in January could reach upwards of 100+ (all Club Members and their guests will always be Welcome) so our choice restaurant hopefully will be a Buffet establishment. This way there will be no need for waiters to write individual orders. Stay tuned – we should know where January’s event will be held by next week. Flyers to the parks should follow soon after.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

I cannot believe another year has passed. The last winter that John and I were in the Rio Grande Valley was 2003/2004 – so much has changed; yet everything has stayed the same. The Rio Grande Valley is much more modern these days – on both sides of the border, than it was on our first visit in 1986, but it still oozes incredible hospitality in every aspect. It remains one of the most economical places to winter. We loved our last 3-years in Florida (climate over the winter may be a bit warmer there than here) but this place grows on you big time. Right now we are thinking of a rare return visit to Alamo Palms next winter. We generally do not repeat destinations, but it feels good to be back in familiar territory. Enjoy your New Years Celebrations everyone – stay safe. John and I send warm wishes to ALL. Have an extremely prosperous 2008. Those heading south in January please travel safe – may the storms stay away from your path. Take care P&J

COMBINED TIPS & PROMOS

TIPS & PROMOS ARE ALSO VARIED - Issue 52

Many thanks to everyone who sent us wonderful email CHRISTMAS GREETINGS. There were too many names to mention but we sure appreciate them. One included a link to a different and heart-warming rendition of what Christmas was about was sent by Margaret Worth a read!!!

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Agathe sent me this link a few weeks ago but the Diary was always full. It highlights the site of an impressive CROSS – 19 STORIES HIGH on Highway 40 in Groom Texas (near Pampa). It was built through the efforts of Steve Thomas and his family - Steve is an All-Pro middle linebacker for the Miami Dolphins. Read the full story Here.

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Jack shared these HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS …

***Be sure your Christmas lights are all working properly and don't overload the outlets.
***Check all propane appliance flames - they should be blue. It would be a good idea to have a professional take a look annually.
***If you start your car to warm it up on cold mornings pull it into the driveway rather than under cover so fumes don't get in your home.
***Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires. During the holidays, when friends and relatives are around, it is easy to leave the stove unattended - make a point to remember to keep your eyes on the range as you entertain.
***Be sure to add CO detection devices and smoke alarms – change the batteries (if required) every 6 months.

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PASSPORTS RULES/CHANGES

Signs were posted all over Mexico stating Passports for those walking across the bridge or driving in cars are not required until at least summer 2008. Canadian TV news Saturday morning stated that those driving across the border might not require passports till summer 2009 - passports are required now for all air and sea travellers. Crossing the border from Mexico – those with passports will enjoy a more smooth and faster crossing – although a birth certificate plus a driver’s license will suffice.

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NEW BOOK VENUE

RV LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY is now available for sale in the Rio Grande Valley In the Don West Flea Market at the HAPPY KAMPER RV Store (in the main building) and at RON HOOVER RV & MARINE CENTER, (Frontage Road – between Alamo and Donna. I will also have copies at the Explorer RV Club Luncheon.

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Worth a repeat because of a big holiday travel period….

Bill shared this Video about how easy it is to BREAK INTO ZIPPERED LUGGAGE - without leaving a trace or evidence the case had been opened. I checked it out on Snopes.com and it appears legit. Watch this video FYI before your next trip

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RV Travel.com Weekly newsletter shares a continuous flow of the the most recent RV RECALLS: November - October -- September -- August.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS - Issue 52

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read a different version of this Diary on line HERE

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Hi Guys!!!! I just can’t believe that Monday is Christmas Eve. Some how this holiday has crept up on both of us. On Christmas morning I just need gifts to open and a stocking filled with ‘stuff’ to treasure – guess I will never let go of the kid in me. Soooooo right now both John and I are scrambling to find the things we are looking for. John is doing better than me but he may just receive some pretty wrapped packages with an 'IOU' note inside. We even spent a few hours at the Don West Flea Market for a few trinkets this morning. (If I work fast I will still get the Diary out today). Our problem is whenever we want something we buy it. So this makes it very difficult for Santa to find other things we think we need. Oh well we will be ready but hopefully this will be a busy, yet enjoyable fun time for everyone.

I think I may have screwed up my week #’s a bit over the past few months. But since this is the last full week of the year I decided I am not going to change them. Reference my title of this weeks post. To us and to many of our readers 'JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON' and ‘Merry Christmas’ is our standard greeting when I know your ethnic background. But our Diary Recipients and website visitors live in over 120 countries. Those in North America as well as many in far away places celebrate this season with a variety of alternate cherished RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS. To those supporters of RV Living.net – John and I wish everyone a very ‘Happy Holiday’.

Last of my bantering for this week – My DISH is still working after it fell over – it is fairly durable, but the bolts on the Dish skin (back of the actual Dish)' will not lock into place so over the next few days a new actual Dish will be on the way to Alamo. It is still functional but Alamo Palms RV Park does include WiFi (although my signal strength is not super strong it is a functional back-up) - cable too is part of park services. By the way both the BBQ and my fireplace are working beautifully – the local Wal*Mart even has similar fireplaces in stock right now but they are by a different manufacturer.

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MISCELLANEOUS HIGHPOINTS OF THE WEEK

This park offers a huge boost to ALAMO’s WORKING POOR at this time of year. Last Saturday at the parks Christmas service, residents brought numerous ‘GIFTS FOR THE NEEDY’. Requirements for age and sex were on tags hanging on the wish tree. Last Monday I participated in a gift-wrap bonanza transferring these donations into presents for 385 moms, dads and kids of all ages – it was a fun time. On Tuesday many volunteers added staples to a variety of packing boxes and this continued on Wed morning. A family of 5 ended up with 7-8 boxes of food plus a bag of gifts, oranges and grapefruit. When the packing was done, numerous cars, trucks and vans lined up around the park, waiting to be loaded up with boxes for each family before they followed the police Escorts to make the deliveries. Names were submitted by each of the 6-school districts - none of the recipients were on welfare. Participants of each vehicle also had several stuffed animals to present to other kids in the neighbourhood so no one would feel neglected. It was a moving experience.

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INTRODUCING OUR FRIENDS TO PROGRESSO, MEXICO

To many Valley Snowbirds, the short walk across the border is almost a weekly event. But to those new in the Rio Grande, it can be a bit intimidating. So last Thursday, we introduced Doug and Bonnie to the experience. John and Doug explored the area while Bonnie and I treated ourselves to classy $5.00 haircuts plus a $10.00 facial for Bonnie and an $8.00 pedicure for me. We closed our day off with shopping in the Canada store followed with a 10-Star lunch at GARCIA’S. While there we confirmed the EXPLORER RV CLUB (Cda Club) Dec Luncheon for the 27th Dec at this fancy restaurant – 12 noon. Everyone is welcome – but please let us know if you are joining us please email me . Hope to see many of you there – non-members welcome.

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MCDONALD’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BBQ

Every Dec John and I try to host a special happy hour/meal close to Christmas. This year Dave, Betty, Debbie, (Nova Scotia) Marilyn, Keith, (Prince Edward Island) Doug and Bonnie (Ontario) helped us celebrate this year. (2006 we were stuck in the motel in Ontario during Dec, so this was a pleasant change). Main feature for our 2007 deal was decadent Chicago’s famous Portillo’s Baby Back Ribs – a Christmas gift from John’s sister Marilyn and hubby Arnold, plus an abundance of finger food highlighted by creations from our visitors. Good friends, a perfect warm sunny day (only a bit windy) – what more could anyone ask for?

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FINAL THOUGHTS

My email may have been screwed up this week. Last weekend I was being inundated with 100 Spam email every few hours. I reluctantly added a Spam Blocking system to ‘peggiandjohn’ email address. Sorry for all those who had to qualify to be accepted, I do not like those programs and I have since removed all the Spam blocking from my email addresses. If you ever have problems getting through, just add ‘info’ or ‘webmaster’ in front of ‘@rvliving.net’ and your email should go through without hassle. Please let me know if you continue to have problems.

One more time I send a special thanks to Matthew, chief tech at my very accommodating webserver ‘SUPERWEBHOST’ for walking me through this and other links problems that needed tweaking since they updated their customers websites. Are you looking for someone to host your website? Take a look at these guys – you will not go wrong - low prices and super service.

If you receive this a bit late it is because ALAMO PALMS RV PARK IS HOSTED A HAPPY HOUR/KARIOKE NIGHT this evening – it was a fun night but combine the jaunt to the Flea Market Sat morning and socializing tonight, I am still a bit behind. Have a very ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ and ‘Enjoy the Holidays’ everyone. P&J

TIPS & PROMOS week 51

TIPS THIS WEEK Issue 51

We appreciated JACK’S MOBILE RV SERVICE coming to our rescue with the Washer-Dryer. The majority of these mobile techs offer great service but MANY DO NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS. It is always wise to ask before they reach your place for an estimate/repair so you have the cash on hand.

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Barry shared this tip about how to RECOGNIZE A STROKE – '3' steps, STR. It bears repeating. Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster for the patient. Help is required immediately.Three simple Q’s determine if the patient had a weak moment or they are having a stroke.

S * Ask the individual to SMILE.
T * Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. It is sunny out today)
R * Ask them to RAISE BOTH ARMS. If the patient has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call 911/999 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. According to Snopes.com looking for other signs such as a crooked tongue etc. may confuse things. Answers to the three above will determine if you must call for help.

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Bill shared this Video about how easy it is to BREAK INTO ZIPPERED LUGGAGE without leaving a trace. I checked it out on Snopes.com and it appears legit. Watch this video here.

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PROMOS OF THIS WEEK Issue 51

This week in the RV Travel.com newsletter, Editor Chuck Woodbury included RV RECALLS FOR NOVEMBER Each month the latest recalls of RVs are included. Here are the most recent ones: October -- September -- August -- July -- June

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Blogger Jim Twambly from RV Travel.com came up with a procedure to check connections for 50 Amp service using a multi meter (with pictures) Details Here

Also in this weeks Newsletter.... Read all about the near future of RV’s and new RV Designs that showcased at the Industry wide show at Louisville. Kentucky

ITS BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

IT IS BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS Newsy part Issue 51

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read a different version HERE

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Hey All! I finally have most of my Christmas décor in place. One more day and it will be complete. Those who know me are aware that adding many decorations both inside and out are very important to me. Our unit was memorable enough to be featured on the RV Times.com front cover Dec 2007 and on CBC Newsnet in 2005. But following my Christmas Decorating Junky whims was definitely most challenging this week. Sunday to Tuesday the winds were so strong that trying to do anything required a major effort. Eventually the gusts quieted down but then it turned cold and a day of wet drizzle – I could not win but I am almost done for this year.

Again today (Sat) it is sooooo windy; by 3 PM I have had to take some of it down. Plus my Dish completely fell over shortly after. Not sure if it is damaged or not – can’t tell till the wind goes away. Park has WiFi although my signal strength is minimal so this Diary may and may not go out tonight. My Dish will not be set up again today so only time will tell. This wind is so horrendous I have never seen anything like it. But my woes did not stop there – my tree also fell down this morning. I did not have my steering wheel table anchored properly. Oh well it is all just time trying to get it up again.

I know I have no right to complain of uncomfortable weather because of the storms those in the north are dealing with but this is just such a change from the perfect pleasant month of sunny warm temps we had just enjoyed. Oh well we will get some cold days this winter so we may as well get use to it. At any rate our LUXOR looked beautiful and will again tomorrow – Pictures will be up next week.

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OUR WEEK IN REVIEW

MONDAY while sitting on the patio enjoying the lights we noticed our washer/dryer had developed a leak. So Tuesday we pulled it out of its hole and sure enough we discovered the motor showed signs of stress. We called SPLENDIDE – they are another GOOD GUYS COMPANY to order a new gasket at 3-day delivery. But on closer inspection we needed an entire new pump. Our WD sat in the bathroom hall from Tuesday till today, Saturday, partly waiting for the floor to dry. Splendide recommended JACKS RV MOBILE SERVICE in nearby Mission (956 802 7159 or 956 802 7179). We concur with his expertise as well – he specializes in all RV Service. Although the gasket arrived on Thursday we decided to call Jack for an appointment to install a new motor early Saturday morning. He didn’t have a new one on hand but he did have a 50% discount reconditioned motor ($65. + $40 service call and $50 labour) in stock that will work wonders in our super reliable 8-year old model. These machines are nothing less than spectacular – ours goes through a washing or drying cycle just about every day. Maintenance has been minimal.

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On MONDAY we bought our NEW BBQ - Wal*Mart assembled it for pick up THURSDAY. We decided on a unit designed for backyard use ($107.00) that sits on a stand – we’ll use it this way for our 3-months while in Texas. It too came with the warning NOT to attach it to a motorhome or camper. However this unit also included a 20lb propane tank, so although we already have all the safety connections from Marshall Brass on our MH tank, we will use this one with the portable tank while in Texas – have it purged before packing it for the drive home. Next summer we will mainly be in Braemer Valley RV Park at Woodstock, Ontario. When we depart in the fall we’ll store the legs and 20lb propane tank in the shed that is already on our site and take the cooking part to connect using our Marshal Brass attachments over next winter.

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Just as the weather turned cool my fantastic ELECTRALOG FIREPLACE arrived ($98.00). No assembly required – plug in right out of the box. Unless you already have one in your late model high-end RV, THIS ACCESSORY IS A PERFECT ADDITION FOR ANY UNIT. We can enjoy the image of a fireplace with or without the heat turned on. We may not ever use our furnace again, because this unit has two heat levels - those pictures too will be posted next week. I bought my fireplace through the Wal*Mart banner on my website and had it shipped ‘site to store’ to Wal*Mart in Alamo. No shipping costs - plus anyone who orders on-line through that banner, RV Living receives a small affiliate fee – even me.

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This park at ALAMO PALMS has made us feel welcome in so many ways. On TUESDAY the residents of our street gathered together for a dinner at the nearby Rio Grill for a ‘Block Party’. Food was OK but the fellowship was superior. What a fantastic way to get to know our neighbours. WEDNESDAY morning I filled in for a last minute spot at the Park Craft sale. I did not get super rich but one more time I was made to feel so welcome. THURSDAY John played in an in-park pool tournament and came first in his group and FRIDAY he was part of the Alamo Team that played against Victoria Palms RV Park. They have had better tournaments but he’s having fun joining the other pool players. Between times we ran errands and I decorated, and decorated and decorated. My place does look good even if I do say so myself. Hope the wind does not completely destroy it. I love the look of lots of lights and Christmas things.

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We will be visiting local parks on Monday to post the signs for the upcoming EXPLORER RV CLUB DEC LUNCHEON. (Canada’s answer to Good Sam). PLACE Garcia’s Restaurant over the Canada Store in Nuevo Progresso. TIME: Noon, 27 Dec – until anyone wants to leave. MENU: Varied – most decadent luncheon features are $8.45 plus tax. One corner of the room will be reserved for us but I would like to know an approximate number of attendees to help with the planning. Everyone is welcome including non RV Club members – please send me an email if you plan to attend. I will be happy to send you a flyer to post in your park. Alamo Palms even put ours on the Park cable news channel. Getting the word out is our biggest problem so please pass it along and invite a friend. The luncheons will always be the last Thursday of the month but the place will vary each month.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

Before we know it Christmas will be here. We wish each of you a very happy and fun fill celebration with a lot of things going on that keep life interesting. Visitors from over 120 countries stop by RV Living.net each month – everyone celebrates different holidays, so I also wish everyone a ‘Happy Holidays’ and a MERRY CHRISTMAS .If you have to drive in the snow and ice please travel safe. P&J

PS I send a special thanks to Matthew, chief tech at my webserver SUPERWEBHOST for finding solutions for my mailing LIST problems the past two weeks. Looking for a Web Hosts? Why not check these buy out – they offer a great program for less than $10.00 per month.

TIPS & PROMOS Week 50

P&J's Weekely Diary - published since 2001

TIPS OF WEEK - Issue 50

Even though many of us are wintering in the sunny south we all must deal with a fair amount of DAMPNESS IN AN RV or in our homes from excess humidity. This also happens when furnaces are running. One very great solution to control this moisture, condensation, mold and mildew is to place containers of ‘DAMP RID’ in several locations. Hangers for closets are also available as are pouches for places with little air movement such as under a sink or in a vehicle where we RVers transport damp or wet rugs that we carry from place to place. This same product is called ‘NO-DAMP’ in Canada. If you cannot find it in your local grocery store, most RV Dealers carry it. Damp Rid is placed in a container that looks like a large yogurt tub – the crystals sit in a basket and collect the moisture in a reservoir below. If you wish to leave it sitting on a table, a company called ‘DRI-Z-AIR’ offers the same moisture absorbent desiccant but it is in a fancy black or white container that looks good. Final Tip – dump the residue in a ZIP Lock bag – not down your sink. It pits the drain.

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Do you have CLOGGED DRAINS? Simply pour a cup of VINEGAR followed with a cup of BAKING SODA down each drain, it will bubble and spew a bit but it cleans everything in its path. I even did this to our toilet seal – if paper gets caught between the flush ball or scissor style closure it will force these items open a bit so water no longer stays in the bowl – The seal will dry out and need replacing. Frequently you can get under the seal and clean it but after several attempts the water in our bowl was still slowly draining. I added some white vinegar and baking soda this morning and almost instantly the problem was solved. About once a month we treat the sink and shower drains.

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Christmas will be here before we know it and Sunday I will begin to HANG CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AND LIGHTS all over the coach. Not done yet but it is a start. In the warm climate they stay in place with the help of LARGE SUCTION CUPS. To see a picture of all my lights go to www.rvtimes.com Our décor of 2005 (we were in Canada last year) is featured front and centre on the cover – story is also on line on page 24. Hopefully this year the LUXOR will be equally impressive. Although we choose not to use the awning in windy south Texas because adding mega tie-downs and the awning stays is more extreme than suits us. So that means I will add more décor to the coach and patio. Inside on valences etc I use the ‘S’ SHAPED DRAPERY HOOKS – they simplify inside décor.

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PROMOS OF WEEK - Issue 50

In the past I have mentioned several monthly newsletters that are worth reading. Today I received Decembers issue from RV EDUCATION 101. Mark and Dawn have outdone themselves one more time. Read this months post Here… To see RV Education 101’s complete product lineup, including their Christmas specials go Here RV Living is an affiliate and we receive a commission for any product orders through this link.

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LOWER YOUR HEALTH CARE COSTS with GOOD SAM'S new TOTAL CARE DISCOUNT PROGRAM – a member exclusive. Rates are low for individual or family, and although it is not a complex coverage it does includes ample supplementary payments for doctor and hospital visits, dental vision, hearing, diabetic management supplies, Rx, 24 hour nurses line etc. This special offer is available for a limited time only, so enroll today or to ask Questions call (866) 222-2558 or Visit Here. (Remember to mention the promo code ‘GSCLUB’.) Check it out to see if it will help in your families care. May be worth joining GS.

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Marilyn and Arnold sent this video on how to SAFEGUARD YOUR POSSESSIONS WHILE YOU ARE PUMPING GAS. A new scam has surfaced in Florida where crooks drive past cars where the owners are pumping gas – main target is women. They reach into the driver’s side of the vehicle and take the lady’s purse that is frequently sitting on the passenger seat before they quickly drive off. Click Here to read a very informative video

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Last but not least. Bill sent this link reference 92,000 RECALLS OF GE, KENMORE MICROWAVE OVENS from January 2000 to December 2003 – Check to see if yours is OK.

Highs And Lows Of This Freedom Lifestyle

RV LIFE IS NEVER BORING Newsy portion of Issue 50

Diary published weekly since 2001
Read a different version of this Diary on line
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Hi All: One thing about RVing is no matter how long we are on the road life is not usually boring. This week we have had a wide variety of experiences both good and bad but once the dust settled everything usually turns out 100% on the positive side of things.

One positive that did not have a negative attached to it was good friends Dave and Betty from Nova Scotia and their friends Marilyn and Keith (Prince Edward Island) arrived at Casa del Valle before we left – we didn’t expect to see them until after we had changed parks. Great to touch base again guys. It has been a year or two since our last visit so it was fun to briefly catch up. They are here for a month so our paths will cross again before long.
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POSITIVE PLUSES – NEGATIVE CHALLENGES

POSITIVE 1– We have received a 'SUPERIOR WELCOME' at our new park Alamo Palms, Rio Grande Valley, south Texas including an invite to a ‘Block Party’ this coming Wed. Everyone we have run into has extended us a huge “Glad you are here” greeting from the security gate to the office to our neighbours.

NEGATIVE 1: We chose our site a few weeks ago because it had 2 pretty orange fruit trees and two giant cacti bordering our patio. However these obstacles presented a 'COLOSSAL CHALLENGE WHEN IT CAME TIME TO GET THE DISH SIGNAL IN'. I had moved it about 6 times trying to get around the trees and then John came up with a brainwave that the signal would come in if we set it up at the front end of the patio. Hey, Guess what? It worked.

DETAILS: The sites are narrow but since the park offers so much more in amenities we decided to we would be comfortable with our long patio and limited grassy area – at this point we do not have immediate neighbours so that too is a positive extra. The park rent also includes 'FREE WiFi' that is highly regarded by residents who use the ‘Net occasionally. I had considered using the park system and cancelling my Internet service for three months with my Galaxy server but 'Net access on our arrival was down undergoing maintenance and I cannot take the chance of a system that periodically is out of service. With my wonderful 'DISH', it is always on plus it is secure and only I am using my bandwidth. I can send images to my editors etc. when I need to and I do not feel I am ‘stealing’ access that others may need. Sooooo we decided to keep paying for our Sat Service and set our Dish up.

NEGATVE 2: When we arrived at Alamo Palms, John realized he had left our only awning stick on the grass.

POSITIVE 2: Since the park was only 2 miles away we returned to retrieve that.

NEGATIVE 3: Before we left Casa del Valle, our electric step would not retract and for John to see close up to study fuses he has to take his glasses off. He put them on the trunk of the car while he checked the fuses etc. (He then put his sunglasses on to drive the MH). Somehow the step magically began to work as it should, so he took off in the MH with me driving the car behind him. An hour later John discovered he could not find his glasses – only then realizing where he put them. We called the park and they checked our site but we have no idea as to where they fell off the trunk of the Grand Am.

POSITIVE 3: We always buy our glasses at 'Lenscrafters' in London, ON so early this morning we visited the local store in the McAllen mall and 1.5 hours later John again has new glasses. He was due for a pair last summer covered by our insurance, but since there was no change in his Rx, he had decided to wait until his Retina operation was over next May. One more plus, the frames he chose were on sale, which further saved us some cash.
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POSITIVE IN MEXICO: On Wednesday we spent the morning across the border, checking out the various restaurants for a place to hold the 'DECEMBER EXPLORER RV CLUB DEC LUNCHEON' (Canada’s answer to Good Sam). After careful perusal we decided to book the more spacious Garcia’s.

FYI – DETAILS OF DEC LUNCHEON: Garcia’s Restaurant in Nuevo Progresso, above the Canada House; Dec 27th; TIME 12 Noon until party time is over. They offer 8 decadent meal choices, complete with salad or soup and dessert for $8.45. Other menu options are also available. Drinks too are most reasonable and we will have a corner of the room reserved for us. PLEASE let us know if you plan to join us, so we can have an attendance estimate – email me at info@rvliving.net. Everyone is Welcome but the event is directed towards Cdn RVers. Feel FREE to bring a friend. I will be happy to send you a flyer to post in your park as well. Club T-Shirt will be the door prize. Getting the word out is still our biggest challenge.

NEGATIVE TO OUR MEXICAN VISIT: I LOST MY WALLET in the restaurant – it must have fallen out of my purse and landing under the table. By the time we walked across the border we were so tired after all our walking. However I did not realize until we were almost home that my wallet was not in my purse. Since I had the contact phone number of the restaurant, I called them and sure enough, our waiter had found it and my wallet was locked in the drawer at the cashiers desk. So we again returned to the border a second time, walked across the bridge and the 4 blocks to Garcia’s to retrieve it. The best part is this NEGATIVE is it quickly became another POSITIVE because my cash and cards were still exactly where I had left them.
NOTE: John and I each only carry one Cr Cd in our individual wallets to protect us for times like this. So the loss would not have been a complete disaster.
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POSITIVE REF COACH MAINTENANCE: On Monday all working parts of a new FANTASTIC VENT will be here, at no cost to us. These parts are easy to install but a ¼ hour of labour (if needed) is also included in the exchange.

NEGATIVE DETAILS: The motor in our bathroom 'FANTASTIC VENT' would not completely stop – it sounded like it was constantly cycling on and off. After I called the company I am happy to report their service is still second to none.

POSITIVE ENDING - FANTASTIC VENTS are one of the 'RV GOOD GUYS'. If you have a vent in your RV this company will do anything to keep it working. Simply call them and they will work you through a repair OR send you new parts to make it right. 800-521-0298/ 810-724-3818 or click HERE
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FINAL THOUGHTS:

‘S*** Happens’ in life and the older we become the more stupid things we seem to do. So I relay all the above to advise everyone NOT to panic. When the dust settles most things have a positive ending.

I am closing this week with a quote from…
John – “Live you life in such a way that you'll never be afraid to sell you parrot to the town gossip”. Dennis signs off this way “We started with nothing and have most of it left” Travel safe all P&J

TIPS, HINTS AND GENERAL INFO FOR THIS WEEK

TIPS, HINTS AND GENERAL INFO
Issue 49

***This week I verified the majority of all the links on my RV WEBLINK PAGE – it will be finished early next week and then I have a ton more to add. Slow but sure RV Living.net is receiving a facelift. Some stories have also been updated – more soon.

***We visited the LOCAL FREIGHTLINER SHOP this week and they accepted a $25.00 gift card we received last March from the Florida rally. So Santa came early to John by donating several Freightliner parts and solutions for the LUXOR. Be sure to take advantage.

***Besides my Birthday dinner during the Explorer RV Club luncheon I (we) got a nifty new (big inside) black GE Toaster Oven. I do not need a lot of personal stuff and our roast chicken dinner sure tasted good last night. Thanks John! We do not use our convection oven very often and this provides a simple alternative because we can move the heat oudoors.

***I often write about the pluses of being a VERIZON customer – another plus, last Wednesday I received my new every two years FREE PHONE (value $199.00). John gets my neat old one. FYI Their Canada plan now has a new name – same plan costs but it is now called – ‘Nationwide Canada’. Story is on my site but send me an email for more details.

***FYI – PROPANE cost us $2.50 per gallon (park delivery). GAS at Wal*Mart today was $2.81 (or $.76 per litre).

***On the IMPORTANT THINGS WE ALL SHOULD KNOW FORUM I added several beneficial posts.

Tips include -
#1 GAS/FUEL FILLING TIPS to save money from an expert –
#2 Lead Warnings in the FOREVER LASTING LIPSTICKS –
#3 A World Map of REAL TIME WORLD EVENTS highlights disasters & events we should be aware of, around the world and in your own backyard.

***With all the problems we Snowbird/Cdns have had with Exp Vu users must go through when we are in the south – one bright spot this Dec is they are playing 24/7 a neat Christmas fireplace video with continual music on Ch #279 called HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM EXPRESS VU.

***I keep receiving email from different companies asking me for vital secure info. If I am getting these, then others are too. They are all false – no legitimate company will ever ask for sensitive info by email. NEVER OPEN THESE OR PROVIDE ANY INFO. If you do you should change ALL your passwords and banking info. USER BEWARE!

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SORRY DUE TO LENGTH THERE ARE NO SEPARATE PROMOS. Have a great week everyone.
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ONE MORE ENJOYABLE WEEK IN SOUTH TEXAS

ONE MORE ENJOYABLE WEEK IN SOUTH TEXAS

Newsy Portion Issue 49

Diary published weekly since 2001

Read alternate version of P&J's Weekly Diary Here

Hi All: What a difference a week makes. Climate is again typical perfect south Texas style November warm days. This has been one more eventful week to say the least. I even celebrated my 66th birthday last Thursday in grand style at the Club Luncheon – more on that event later. I never felt better. So all in all we continue to be very happy to be back in the Rio Grande Valley. There are over 500 wonderful parks in the ‘Valle’ (approximately 50 miles from Mission in the west to southern easterly point of South Padre Island). Resort prices vary from very low (some under $100. per month to a high of $600-$700 per month in Feb). Three main city hubs are McAllen to the west and Harlingen to the east and Brownsville to the south. We are in Alamo near McAllen.

We are loving this area - our closest access to Mexico is to drive to the border and park on the American side at the end of highway 1015 (near Weslaco) – we pay our 25 cents (30 cents to return) and walk across a ¼ mile bridge to a barrage of stores, shops, hair dressers, dentists, health professionals of all types plus numerous more stopping spots. An unending supply of quality bars and restaurants designed to appeal to the American public await to serve you value packed tasty meals at 5-Star level in taste and service – all for discount amounts. Domestic drinks are also a bargain.
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OUR WEEK IN REVIEW

MY BOTOX TREATMENT – This time in Mexico

This week’s high was another trip to Mexico so an ophthalmologist could administer my regular dose of BOTOX. Those new to the Diary may not be aware that I suffer from Benign Essential Blepharospasm (BEB) - this means my eyes blink in spasms if I do not receive Botox injections every 3-months. I carry my costly Botox vial in the freezer – thank God our medical insurance pays for it – cost is about $400. Unfortunately my appointment in Canada was suddenly cancelled just before we left. I am fortunate that I only get eye spasms – some people have them all over their face. If I do not receive my 3-month remedy, my eyes begin to hurt – first in overcast skies and then it worsens in bright sunlight.

I am happy to relay that I found a very qualified Ophthalmologist in Progresso. He performs eye surgery for the entire northern area of eastern Mexico – before he moved to his hometown near the border, he was head of surgery in a major Mexico City hospital. The good part is I only need about 12-14 injection sites to stop the blinking but these kind doctors each include extra shots for the cosmetic procedure. This time he injected in 20 points. Not sure it makes much difference in my image but it feels good to know that I receive value plus treatment for minimal price. His fee – from my pocket was $100. Because I have my own Rx, I may not pay the big bucks for this treatment but it definitely stops my blinking. In February I’ll be back again to see Dr Gonzales for more.

Of course we shopped a bit – I had my eyebrows plucked at Gloria’s ($5.) so they were groomed before my appointment, we topped the day off with another tasty economical gourmet lunch at Garcia’s.
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EXPLORER RV CLUB LUNCHEON

Our first monthly luncheon at Rudy’s BBQ was a most enjoyable success, but unfortunately only 20 of us Club members could make this one – many did not even know about it because some parks did not post our signs as promised. The BBQ choices were tasty, plus socializing with new-found friends from Ontario to Newfoundland added to the enjoyable event. Congratulations Dean on winning the Club T-Shirt. Hopefully I’ll post the pictures on Picassa soon. Sorry we missed those not aware of the event.

We have decided to try to host these events on the last Thursday of each month to simplify things – in a different venue for each one. Next event will be at one of the quality restaurants in Progresso Mx – more on the exact location later. We have to check things out. All Club members and non-members in the Rio Grande are invited to join us.

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THANKS TO ALL THE READERS WHO OFFERED FIREPLACE/BBQ ADVICE

I FINALLY FOUND MY FIREPLACE - FYI on-line prices usually cost less as well and mine will be here on the 11 Dec. RV Living.net is an affiliate with Wal*Mart and if I order through their banners on my site and ship it to the store (to save shipping costs) I receive a 7% discount - I also receive a similar affiliate fee on any of Your purchases if you buy by clicking on one of the banners on RVLiving. Cdn credit cards do not work – nor do sales in CDA but Canadians in the USA. BUT I can buy a gift card at any store and order that way.

Why I couldn' t find any on line was because I was searching for ‘Electrical Fireplaces’ not ‘Fireplaces’. When I put in the right word, a slew of them surfaced. Entering errors in spelling (or not using the correct search words) on the Internet is very unforgiving.

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We also send a BIG THANKS FOR THE BBQ ADVICE. Even the propane guy said the warnings are mainly there for liability purposes but although he could see no problem he also said he would not connect to the big tank.

BUT when I logged onto www.marshallbrass.com/outdoor.htm. 269 781 3901/800 447 9513, their website relays that it is safe to use their attachments to regulate flow – which we have been doing all along. If a problem occurs, the adapters reduce the flow of the propane. That is exactly what happened when our hose severed from the BBQ a year ago. What was upsetting us in our search was the info in the brochures of all the new BBQ’s we looked at - it said do NOT connect to motorhomes. I will phone Marshall Brass on Monday to verify – but from our research there should be no problem adding a new portable BBQ of our choice - just another learning curve.
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FINAL THOUGHTS

For most of us life treats us well the majority of the time. But when we hit a bump in the road it sometimes is telling us it is time to slow down a bit – or maybe to change directions. After the dust settles if we take a step back, we can sometimes realize that our forced change of plans are not anywhere as bad as they first seemed. Those who are travelling this winter now or in the next few weeks/months, please travel safe and those staying in the north, we hope the winter is much more mild than is forecasted. May those of us in the south, enjoy a warm winter. As my sister Nancy says, “Do not drive any faster than your Guardian Angel can fly”. Travel safe and take care all P&J