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